Exploring Mysore, Bandipur and Ooty's Nature in 3 Days
Day 1: Mysore
2 hours 30 minutes (92.5 km) from Bangalore
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the stunning Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, a grand structure with a blend of Hindu, Islamic, Gothic and Rajput styles. Then head to the nearby Devaraja Market for a glimpse of local life and to shop for fresh produce, flowers and souvenirs.
Afternoon: Visit the Chamundeshwari Temple, located on top of the Chamundi Hills, for panoramic views of Mysore and its surroundings. Stop by the nearby Nandi Statue, a giant statue of the sacred bull, before heading to the Brindavan Gardens to admire the colourful fountains and floral arrangements.
Evening: End your day with a visit to the St. Philomena's Cathedral, a neo-gothic style church that is one of the largest in India. Afterwards, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Kukkarahalli Lake, a popular spot for birdwatching and nature walks.
Day 2: Bandipur
2 hours 50 minutes (88.7 km) from Mysore
Morning: Start your day with an early morning safari at the Bandipur National Park, a wildlife sanctuary that is home to tigers, elephants, deer and many other animals. Keep your camera ready for some great wildlife photography opportunities.
Afternoon: After lunch, visit the nearby Gopalaswamy Betta, a hill that offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and valleys. On the way back to your hotel, stop at the Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
Evening: Relax and unwind at your hotel or take a walk in the nearby forest to soak in the beauty of nature.
Day 3: Ooty
2 hours 15 minutes (85.6 km) from Bandipur
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the stunning Government Botanical Garden, a sprawling garden with thousands of species of plants, flowers and trees. Next, head to the nearby Ooty Lake for a boat ride and some quiet time by the water.
Afternoon: After lunch, visit the Doddabetta Peak, the highest mountain in the Nilgiri Hills, for panoramic views of Ooty and its surroundings. On the way back, stop at the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea in the region and enjoy a cup of fresh tea.
Evening: End your day with a visit to the St. Stephen's Church, a beautiful church built in the colonial style. Afterwards, take a stroll in the charming streets of Ooty and shop for some souvenirs.
Recommendations
If you have some extra time, consider visiting the nearby Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Mudumalai National Park or the Pykara Falls. You can also take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for some breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Don't forget to try some local delicacies such as Mysore Pak, Biryani and Masala Dosa during your trip.