A Two-Day Itinerary for Ooty and Coonoor

1. Day 1: Ooty
   Starting Point: Coimbatore
   Distance from Coimbatore: 86.6 km (2h 43m)
   
   
   Doddabetta Peak
   Estimated Time Spent: 1 hour
   Distance from Starting Point: 9.9 km (25 mins)

   Doddabetta Peak, the highest peak in Ooty, offers breathtaking views of the Nilgiri mountain range and the surrounding lush green forests. The peak is easily accessible, and visitors can enjoy a hot cup of tea while taking in the views from the tea stalls at the summit.

   
   
   Botanical Garden
   Estimated Time Spent: 1 hour
   Distance from Doddabetta Peak: 9.9 km (20 mins)

   The Botanical Garden in Ooty is spread over 22 hectares and is home to a wide variety of flora including a fossil tree that is estimated to be over 20 million years old. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, and the highlight of the garden is the Toda Mund, a traditional Toda tribal dwelling.

   
   
   Ooty Lake
   Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
   Distance from Botanical Garden: 3.1 km (10 mins)

   The Ooty Lake is a must-visit attraction, especially if you are travelling with family or friends. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, or relax on the lakeside and enjoy the scenic views. The lake also has a mini train that children will love.

2. Day 2: Coonoor
   Starting Point: Ooty
   Distance from Ooty: 19.3 km (50 mins)
   
   
   Sims Park
   Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
   Distance from Starting Point: 19.7 km (40 mins)

   Sims Park is a beautiful park with well-manicured lawns, flower beds, and a variety of trees and shrubs. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park, or relax on the benches and enjoy the views. The park also has a small lake and a playground for children.

   
   
   Tea Estates
   Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
   Distance from Sims Park: 6.4 km (15 mins)

   A visit to Coonoor is incomplete without a visit to the tea estates. The rolling hills of Coonoor are covered with lush green tea plantations, and visitors can enjoy a tour of the estates and learn about the tea-making process. The estates also offer tea-tasting sessions, and visitors can purchase tea as souvenirs.

   
   
   Heritage Train Ride
   Estimated Time Spent: 1 hour
   Distance from Tea Estates: 8 km (20 mins)

   The heritage train ride from Coonoor to Ooty offers stunning views of the Nilgiri mountains and the tea plantations. The train ride is a fun experience for children and adults alike, and it is recommended to book tickets in advance.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Doddabetta Peak (1 hour, Free)
• Botanical Garden (1 hour, INR 30 per person)
• Ooty Lake (1-2 hours, Boat Ride INR 150 per person)
• Sims Park (1-2 hours, INR 30 per person)
• Tea Estates (1-2 hours, Free)
• Heritage Train Ride (1 hour, INR 205 per person)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 415 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Pykara Waterfalls in Ooty or the Lambs Rock in Coonoor to your itinerary. If you have less time, you can skip the boat ride at the Ooty Lake or the heritage train ride in Coonoor. It is advisable to carry warm clothing as the temperature in Ooty and Coonoor can drop suddenly. Also, carry sunscreen and sunglasses as it can get quite sunny during the day.