Start your day by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Ooty, a charming hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Hills. In the morning, visit the Government Botanical Gardens, spread across 55 acres and home to a wide variety of exotic flora. Take a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained gardens, and don't miss the impressive fossilized tree trunk.
In the afternoon, head to Ooty Lake, a picturesque artificial lake surrounded by eucalyptus trees and lush greenery. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and soak in the serene atmosphere. As the evening sets in, make your way to the bustling Commercial Street, known for its shops and local markets. Explore the vibrant street, indulge in some shopping, and try local snacks from street food vendors.
Government Botanical Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 30, Estimated Time - 2 hours
Ooty Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 300 (boat ride for 30 minutes), Estimated Time - 2 hours
Commercial Street: Free, Estimated Time - 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the famous Sidewalk Café located near Pookode Lake. Enjoy a delicious spread of pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're in the mood for a traditional Kerala lunch, visit Green Leaf Restaurant in Wayanad. Indulge in authentic flavors of Malabari cuisine including fish curry, appam, and coconut rice. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, make a reservation at the elegant Savoy Restaurant in Ooty. Feast on a variety of international dishes ranging from pasta to tandoori delicacies, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
Cafe Diem: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Diem, located just a short distance from Pookode Lake. Indulge in their freshly brewed coffee, scrumptious sandwiches, and homemade pastries. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 INR per person.
Rasoi: For a satisfying lunch, head over to Rasoi, a popular restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Treat yourself to flavorful curries, crispy dosas, and fragrant biryanis. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
Curry Leaf: Experience a memorable dinner at Curry Leaf, a cozy restaurant nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Ooty. Enjoy their extensive menu which includes an array of mouthwatering Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the charming Cafe Diem, known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Indulge in a buttery croissant or a fluffy pancake while enjoying the cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, try the popular restaurant Curry House, known for its delectable South Indian cuisine. Feast on a traditional thali meal consisting of various curries, rice, and crispy papadums. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, visit the elegant Blue Olive Restaurant, offering a fusion of Indian and international flavors. Enjoy dishes like butter chicken and Moroccan lamb tagine while savoring the stunning views of the city. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Monday, August 14: Wayanad Adventure
Embark on an adventurous day exploring the scenic beauty of Wayanad. Start your morning by visiting the breathtaking Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the turquoise waters of the dam. You can even take a boat ride to explore the reservoir.
In the afternoon, head to the Edakkal Caves, a fascinating archaeological site known for its ancient rock carvings. Trek uphill to reach the caves and marvel at the prehistoric art. Spend some time exploring the caves and enjoying the stunning views of the Western Ghats.
As the evening approaches, make your way to Pookode Lake, a natural freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Take a serene boat ride on the lake, and if you're lucky, you might spot some wildlife. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings before heading back.
For those seeking off the beaten path attractions, a visit to the hidden gem of Pykara Falls is a must. Located near Ooty, this waterfall offers a serene and picturesque setting amidst lush greenery. Spend some time enjoying the tranquility and capturing stunning photographs.
Locals love the scenic beauty of Meenmutty Falls in Wayanad. It requires a short trek to reach the falls, but the breathtaking views make it worth the effort. The cascading waters surrounded by dense forests create a mesmerizing sight.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.