Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary: Ooty, Leh, Jammu, Goa

Saturday, January 6: Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Start your trip by exploring the beautiful hill station of Ooty. In the morning, visit the Botanical Gardens, home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride on Ooty Lake, surrounded by scenic landscapes. As the evening sets in, head to the bustling commercial street of Charring Cross to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

  • Botanical Gardens: INR 50, 2 hours
  • Ooty Lake: INR 150, 2 hours
  • Charring Cross: Free, 2 hours
Sunday, January 7: Leh, Ladakh

Embark on a breathtaking journey to Leh, a high-altitude desert in Ladakh. Start your day with a visit to the ancient Leh Palace, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, explore the serene Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist white-domed monument. As the evening approaches, wander through the vibrant Leh Market, known for its traditional jewelry and handicrafts.

  • Leh Palace: INR 250, 2 hours
  • Shanti Stupa: Free, 1 hour
  • Leh Market: Free, 2 hours
Monday, January 8: Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir

Discover the cultural city of Jammu in Jammu and Kashmir. Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Bahu Fort, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the Tawi River. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful gardens of Bagh-e-Bahu and enjoy a peaceful picnic. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the bustling Residency Road, lined with shops and local eateries.

  • Bahu Fort: INR 100, 2 hours
  • Bagh-e-Bahu: Free, 2 hours
  • Residency Road: Free, 2 hours
Tuesday, January 9: Goa

Indulge in the sun-kissed beaches and vibrant culture of Goa. In the morning, relax and soak up the sun at Baga Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and water sports activities. In the afternoon, visit the historic Aguada Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. As the evening approaches, explore the vibrant markets of Anjuna, known for their bohemian vibe and local handicrafts.

  • Baga Beach: Free, 4 hours
  • Aguada Fort: INR 25, 1 hour
  • Anjuna Market: Free, 2 hours
Wednesday, January 10: Goa

Continue your exploration of Goa by immersing yourself in its rich history and culture. In the morning, visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for housing the remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Latin Quarter of Fontainhas and admire its colorful Portuguese-style houses. As the evening sets in, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 1 hour
  • Fontainhas: Free, 2 hours
  • Sunset Cruise: INR 500, 2 hours
Thursday, January 11: Goa

Experience the natural beauty of Goa by exploring its lush landscapes. In the morning, visit the Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls, and enjoy a refreshing swim. In the afternoon, take a spice plantation tour and learn about Goa's aromatic spices. As the evening approaches, relax and unwind at Palolem Beach, known for its tranquil ambiance and picturesque sunset views.

  • Dudhsagar Falls: INR 400, 3 hours
  • Spice Plantation Tour: INR 500, 2 hours
  • Palolem Beach: Free, 2 hours
Friday, January 12: Goa

Conclude your trip to Goa by exploring its vibrant markets and cultural heritage. In the morning, visit the lively Mapusa Market, known for its fresh produce and traditional Goan spices. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Goan history at the Goa State Museum. As the evening sets in, enjoy a cruise along the Mandovi River and indulge in traditional Goan cuisine.

  • Mapusa Market: Free, 2 hours
  • Goa State Museum: INR 10, 2 hours
  • Mandovi River Cruise: INR 300, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Ooty, don't miss a visit to the Thread Garden, where beautiful artworks made of thread will mesmerize you. In Leh, take a day trip to the enchanting Nubra Valley, known for its sand dunes and double-humped camels. In Jammu, immerse yourself in spirituality at the Raghunath Bazaar, offering a unique shopping experience with its collection of religious items. In Goa, visit the peaceful Divar Island, known for its scenic beauty and laid-back charm, away from the bustling beaches.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit Kayak.com.

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