The Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a beautiful historical palace situated in the heart of the city. The palace is a blend of Indo-Saracenic style architecture and features intricate carvings, paintings, and artifacts. Visitors can enjoy a guided audio tour of the palace, watch a light and sound show in the evening, and witness the palace being lit up on Sundays and public holidays.
The Ooty Botanical Gardens, also known as the Government Botanical Garden, is spread over 55 acres and is home to a variety of exotic plants and trees. The gardens are divided into several sections, including a fern house, a conservatory, and a bonsai garden. Visitors can also enjoy a toy train ride within the gardens and explore the Toda Mund, showcasing the lifestyle and artifacts of the Toda tribe.
Dodda Betta Peak is the highest point in the district of Nilgiris and is a popular tourist spot in Ooty. The peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills, forests, and tea estates. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of tea and some snacks from the tea shops located at the peak. There is also a telescope house which provides a closer view of the surrounding valleys and areas, but might not be available in the rainy season.
If you have more time in Mysore, you can also visit the Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore Zoo and the Brindavan Gardens. In Ooty, you can explore the Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, and Elk Hill Murugan Temple. However, if you have less time in hand, you can consider visiting the Railway Museum or St. Philomena's Church in Mysore. In Ooty, you can skip the toy train ride in the Botanical Gardens or the tea shop at Dodda Betta Peak if you're in a hurry.