Shooting Point Ooty: Where Bollywood Meets the Nilgiris

Tucked 15 km from Ooty’s bustling center, Shooting Point, also known as 9th Mile or Wenlock Downs, is a cinematic gem in the Nilgiri Hills. This sprawling meadowland has starred in Bollywood blockbusters like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Raja Hindustani, and The Archies. This Shooting Point Ooty guide dives into film shoot locations, scenic photography, and horse rides in a numbered format, packed with insider tips and a quick reference chart. With its rolling hills and serene vibe, it is where Bollywood’s magic meets the Nilgiris’ raw beauty. Step into Ooty’s silver screen paradise!

Why Visit Shooting Point in Ooty?

Shooting Point is a dreamy escape blending cinematic fame and natural splendor:

• Bollywood Legacy: Featured in iconic films like Dil Se, Maine Pyar Kiya, and Raaz, it’s a must for movie buffs.
• Photographic Paradise: Misty meadows, shola forests, and Nilgiri vistas make it ideal for Instagram and professional shoots.
• Adventure Options: Horse rides across the hills add thrill to the serene landscape.
• Tranquil Retreat: Far from Ooty’s crowds, it offers peace amidst biodiversity-rich grasslands.
• Picnic Spot: Perfect for family outings or romantic getaways with sweeping views.
• Tip: Follow @OotyTourism on X for road updates and film shoot alerts; visit early to beat crowds.

Film Shoot Locations at Shooting Point

1. Main Meadow (9th Mile)
   • Description: A vast, undulating grassland dotted with sheep and framed by rolling hills, featured in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’s romantic scenes and The Archies’ picnic sequences.
   • Film Highlights: Raja Hindustani’s emotional moments; Deewana’s vibrant songs.
   • Location: Central area, accessible from the entrance (~500 m walk).
   • Tip: Visit during golden hour (4:00–5:30 PM) for film-like lighting; check for ongoing shoots via local guides.
2. Shola Forest Edge
   • Description: Lush shola forests bordering the meadow, used for dramatic sequences in Raaz and Golmaal 4.
   • Film Highlights: Barfi’s dreamy chase scenes; Tezaab’s action shots.
   • Location: Western side, ~1 km from entrance; requires a short trek.
   • Tip: Hire a guide (~₹200) to navigate trails; avoid during monsoon (slippery).
3. Viewpoint Hilltop
   • Description: A steep 15-min hike to a peak overlooking Pykara Lake and Nilgiris, seen in Roja’s panoramic shots.
   • Film Highlights: Maine Pyar Kiya’s Dil Deewana song; The Archies’ cycling scenes.
   • Location: Northern end, ~1.5 km from entrance.
   • Tip: Carry a zoom lens (~₹500 rental) for distant lake shots; start early (8:00 AM) for clear views.
4. Pine Forest Nearby
   • Description: Dense pine groves 2 km from Shooting Point, featured in Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani’s romantic sequences.
   • Film Highlights: Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’s Pehla Nasha song; Golmaal 4’s comedic moments.
   • Location: Off Ooty-Gudalur Road, en route to Pykara Lake.
   • Tip: Combine with Shooting Point visit; beware of monkeys and slippery paths (~₹100 for snacks).
5. Tips for Film Buffs
   • Check local forums or @TamilNaduTourism on X for live shoot schedules; permission needed for restricted sets (~₹500).
   • Use Ooty Tourism’s film location map (~₹50) from Charing Cross for precise spots.
   • Tip: Book a private guide via Travel2Ooty (+91 9941 133 133, ~₹500) for Bollywood trivia and access.

Scenic Photography at Shooting Point

Shooting Point’s landscapes are a photographer’s dream, with diverse backdrops for every lens:

1. Rolling Meadows
   • Features: Endless grasslands with grazing sheep and misty hills, ideal for wide-angle shots.
   • Best Time: Morning (7:30–9:30 AM) for soft light; October–February for fog effects.
   • Settings: f/8–f/11, ISO 100–200, 16–35mm lens for depth.
   • Tip: Use a polarizing filter (~₹300) for vibrant greens; avoid weekends for fewer crowds.
2. Shola Forest Silhouettes
   • Features: Dense shola trees against misty skies, perfect for moody portraits or cinematic frames.
   • Best Time: Afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) for diffused light; March–June for clear skies.
   • Settings: f/5.6, ISO 400–800, 50mm lens for bokeh.
   • Tip: Rent a tripod (~₹200) for long exposures; carry bug spray (~₹100).
3. Viewpoint Panorama
   • Features: 360° views of Nilgiris, Pykara Lake, and Mukurthi Peak, ideal for drone or landscape shots.
   • Best Time: Sunset (5:00–6:00 PM) for golden hues; October–December for misty drama.
   • Settings: f/11, ISO 100, 24–70mm lens; drone permit required (~₹5,000, apply 7 days prior).
   • Tip: Hike early to secure a spot; use ND filter (~₹300) for smooth skies.
4. Pine Forest Frames
   • Features: Towering pines and a serene lake nearby, great for cinematic or pre-wedding shoots.
   • Best Time: Morning (8:00–10:00 AM) for misty effects; April–June for lush greenery.
   • Settings: f/2.8–f/5.6, ISO 200–400, 85mm lens for portraits.
   • Tip: Book AK Photography (+91 9941 133 133, ~₹5,000) for professional shoots; avoid littering (~₹500 fine).
5. Photography Tips
   • Fees: ₹30 entry, ₹50/camera, ₹100/video at gate (2025 rates).
   • Gear: DSLR/smartphone with wide-angle lens (~₹500 rental), extra batteries (~₹100).
   • Etiquette: Don’t trample grass; respect film crews if present.
   • Tip: Edit with Lightroom for vibrant meadows; visit weekdays for solitude.

Horse Rides at Shooting Point

Horse rides add adventure to Shooting Point’s serene charm, offering a unique way to explore:

1. Ride Overview
   • Options: Short (10 min, ~1 km), medium (20 min, ~3 km), or long (40 min, ~6 km, hilltop route).
   • Cost: ₹300–1,000/person (long route negotiable, ~₹800 after bargaining).
   • Availability: Near entrance, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; trained horses with guides.
   • Tip: Choose long route for hilltop views; negotiate firmly (~20% off).
2. Ride Routes
   • Short Route: Circles main meadow, ideal for kids or beginners.
   • Medium Route: Covers meadow and shola forest edge, with photo stops.
   • Long Route: Ascends to viewpoint, offering Pykara Lake vistas; rider-guided only.
   • Tip: Opt for medium/long routes for photos; wear sturdy shoes (~₹500).
3. Safety Guidelines
   • Guides mandatory; no solo rides allowed.
   • Avoid if prone to back pain; helmets provided (~₹50 extra).
   • Check horse condition; report issues to handlers (~₹100 tip).
   • Tip: Ride early (8:00–10:00 AM) for calm horses; carry water (~₹20).
4. Best Spots for Rides
   • Main Meadow: Flat terrain, great for beginners or group photos.
   • Viewpoint Trail: Steep but scenic, best for experienced riders.
   • Pine Forest: Nearby, offers shaded rides (~2 km away).
   • Tip: Combine meadow and viewpoint for variety; book via handlers at gate (~₹100 deposit).
5. Tips for Riders
   • Bargain for group discounts (~10–15% off for 4+ riders).
   • Carry cash (~₹2,000); no UPI/cards at stalls.
   • Avoid monsoon (Jul–Sep) for safer trails; October–February best.
   • Tip: Tip guides (~₹50) for extra photo stops; wear sunscreen (~₹200).

Quick Reference Chart

Activity/Spot	Details	Cost (₹)	Best Time	Tips
Main Meadow	Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, The Archies	30 entry	Oct–Feb, AM	Golden hour, wide-angle lens
Shola Forest Edge	Raaz, Golmaal 4	Free (post-entry)	Mar–Jun, PM	Guide, bug spray
Viewpoint Hilltop	Roja, Maine Pyar Kiya	Free (post-entry)	Oct–Dec, sunset	Zoom lens, drone permit
Pine Forest	Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar	30 entry	Apr–Jun, AM	Macro lens, watch for monkeys
Meadow Photography	Grasslands, sheep, hills	50/camera	Oct–Feb, 7:30 AM	Polarizer, weekdays
Shola Photography	Moody trees, mist	50/camera	Mar–Jun, 3:00 PM	Tripod, long exposure
Viewpoint Photos	Pykara Lake, Nilgiris	50/camera	Oct–Dec, 5:00 PM	ND filter, early hike
Horse Ride (Short)	10 min, 1 km, meadow	300–400	Year-round, AM	Kids, beginners
Horse Ride (Long)	40 min, 6 km, hilltop	800–1,000	Oct–Feb, 8:00 AM	Negotiate, sturdy shoes

Notes:

• Entry Fees: ₹30/adult, ₹50/camera, ₹100/video, ₹25/parking (2025 rates).
• Timings: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily (horse rides till 5:00 PM).
• Best Seasons: Oct–Feb (10–20°C, 70% humidity, misty); Mar–Jun (15–25°C, 60%, clear). Jul–Sep (90% humidity, slippery).
• Location: 15 km from Ooty bus stand; taxi ~₹500 round trip.

Your Perfect Frame Awaits at Shooting Point

More than just a film location, shooting Point Ooty is a canvas of natural beauty, offering stunning panoramic views that are a treat for both photographers and travelers. We hope this guide has inspired you to visit this iconic spot and create your own unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a Bollywood fan or simply a nature enthusiast, the serene landscapes are sure to leave a lasting impression.

To continue your journey through Ooty's most iconic attractions, be sure to explore our comprehensive Nilgiri Mountain Railway guide for tips on riding the legendary toy train. And for the perfect place to rest after a day of sightseeing, find and book your ideal stay at BidYourStay. Your adventure on this film set-like hill station, starting with shooting Point Ooty, is ready to begin.