Start your adventure with a visit to the Bandipur National Park, one of the most well-known reserves in India. Covering 874 square kms, it is home to various wild species including tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, sloth bears and many more. This lush forest offers a perfect opportunity for you to experience nature in its purest form by trekking, bird watching and safari rides. Make sure to carry a binocular and some camo wear to keep the excitement going.
Spend the day at Pykara Lake, situated amidst the beautiful hills of Ooty. This lake is known for its crystal-clear water, boathouse and a fascinating waterfall nearby. It's a perfect place for some water sports, boating and picnicking. Spend some time walking around the lake, admiring the stunning flora and fauna. You can also indulge in some food at the nearby stalls while enjoying a beautiful sunset.
Get up close with nature at the Ooty Botanical Gardens, a beautiful oasis spreading over 55 hectares. This garden is known for its vast variety of flora and is home to several rare species of plants, flowers and trees. The garden also houses a fossil tree trunk that is believed to be over 20 million years old. Walk through numerous sections like lower garden, French garden and Italian garden. This is great for photography sessions too.
On your last day, head over to the exciting Mudumalai National Park and spent the day in the lap of nature. Boasting an incredible variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, wolves, elephants and more, this national park is an absolute must-visit. Experience an early morning ride and spot wildlife or take up a nature walk in this rich forest. After a thrilling day, immerse yourself in local delicacies and head back to your stay with remarkable wildlife memories.
For those having an extra day, you can add Moyar Dam, Needle Rock Point and Madumalai Wildlife Sanctuary to your itinerary. For adrenaline junkies, experience activities like zip-lining and rock climbing at Kalhatti Falls. In case you have less time, skip Pykara Lake and add Gopalswamy Betta. Please note, the park timings of every location mentioned could vary seasonally, so check them before adding to your itinerary.