Exploring Bengaluru, Ooty, and Mysore: A 6-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary
Saturday, October 21, 2023: Arrival in Bengaluru
Welcome to Bengaluru, the Silicon Valley of India! Start your trip by exploring the beautiful Lalbagh Botanical Garden in the morning. This lush green oasis is perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst exotic trees and vibrant flowers. In the afternoon, head to the Vidhana Soudha, the seat of the state legislature, and marvel at its magnificent architecture. As the evening approaches, visit the bustling MG Road for shopping and delicious street food.
Vidhana Soudha: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
MG Road: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room). Known for its mouthwatering masala dosas and fluffy idlis, this iconic restaurant is a Bengaluru favorite. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Vidyarthi Bhavan. This heritage eatery is famous for its crispy butter masala dosas and delectable filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Karavalli, known for its authentic coastal Karnataka cuisine. From succulent seafood to flavorful curries, this restaurant offers a diverse menu that brings the flavors of the region to life. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, October 22, 2023: Exploring Bengaluru Continued
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Bangalore Palace, a stunning 19th-century mansion with beautiful gardens and regal interiors. In the afternoon, head to the Innovative Film City, a theme park filled with exciting rides, live performances, and a water park. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around Cubbon Park, a sprawling green space in the heart of the city.
Innovative Film City: Cost - INR 600 (approx.), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Cubbon Park: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at MTR - Mavalli Tiffin Room, a legendary restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Indulge in idlis, vadas, dosas, and filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, check out Vidyarthi Bhavan, famous for its crispy masala dosas and filter coffee. This iconic eatery has been serving delicious vegetarian meals since 1943. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 250 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Karavalli, an award-winning restaurant offering a diverse selection of coastal Indian cuisine. Don't miss their seafood specialties and traditional coastal curries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 1,200 per person.
Monday, October 23, 2023: Ooty Bound
Leave Bengaluru and embark on a scenic drive to Ooty, also known as the Queen of Hill Stations. Start your day with a visit to the lush botanical gardens of Government Rose Garden, housing over 20,000 varieties of roses. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride on the serene Ooty Lake, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Enjoy the evening exploring the vibrant markets of Ooty and savoring local delicacies.
Government Rose Garden: Cost - INR 30 (approx.), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Ooty Lake: Cost - INR 10 (approx.) for boat ride, Time Spent - 2 hours
Ooty Markets: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Ooty is Sidewalk Cafe, offering a variety of delicious breakfast dishes such as pancakes, croissants, and omelettes. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, head to Nahar Restaurant. It serves a wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes, including biryani, noodles, and curry. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try the famous King Star Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering North Indian and Mughlai cuisine. They offer a variety of kebabs, curries, and biryanis. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24, 2023: Discovering Ooty's Charms
Start your day with a visit to the fascinating thread garden, a unique attraction displaying intricate floral artworks made entirely from thread. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the Emerald Lake, surrounded by tea plantations and rolling hills. As the sun sets, take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Cost - INR 205 (approx.) for a toy train ride, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Earl's Secret, a charming restaurant located near Ooty's Botanical Gardens. Sample their mouthwatering pancakes and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Nahar's Sidewalk Café, a cozy eatery known for its excellent pasta and sandwiches. Situated in the heart of Ooty, this café offers a pleasant ambiance and friendly service. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Savoy Hotel's Earl's Secret Pavilion, an elegant restaurant serving delectable Indian and international cuisines. Enjoy their signature dishes while basking in the serene surroundings. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 25, 2023: Journey to Mysore
Leave Ooty and travel to the enchanting city of Mysore. Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Mysore Palace, an architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, explore the sprawling Brindavan Gardens, famous for its musical fountain show. As the evening sets in, witness the grandeur of the Chamundi Hill Temple and enjoy a panoramic view of Mysore from the top.
Chamundi Hill Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Mysore is Anima Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian dishes and quick service. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 150 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to Vinayaka Mylari, famous for its crispy and flavorful dosas. A meal here will cost you around INR 200 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try Olive Garden Restaurant, offering a variety of Indian and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 400 per person.
Thursday, October 26, 2023: Exploring Mysore's Treasures
Start your day with a visit to the St. Philomena's Church, an architectural marvel known for its Neo-Gothic style. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Mysore at the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum, displaying intricate sand sculptures. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk around the vibrant Devaraja Market, known for its spices, silk, and handicrafts.
St. Philomena's Church: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Devaraja Market: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Anima Madhva Bhavan, known for its authentic South Indian dishes like idli, vada, and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Nalpak Restaurant and try their mouthwatering thali, a traditional Indian meal served on a silver plate with a variety of dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Vinayaka Mylari, famous for its crispy and fluffy mysore masala dosa, a must-try local specialty. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you're looking for off-the-beaten-path attractions, don't miss the Bannerghatta Biological Park near Bengaluru. It offers a safari experience where you can spot wildlife up close. In Mysore, visit the Regional Museum of Natural History, a fascinating place for children to learn about the region's biodiversity. Another local favorite is the Government Silk Factory in Mysore, where you can witness the intricate process of silk production.