Family-Friendly Itinerary for Ooty and Coorg

Tuesday, November 21: Arrive in Ooty

Morning: Start your trip by exploring the picturesque Botanical Gardens in Ooty. This well-maintained garden showcases a variety of exotic plants and flowers, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll.

Afternoon: Head to the Ooty Lake, where you can enjoy boating and paddleboarding activities. The serene lake surrounded by lush greenery provides a peaceful escape.

Evening: Visit the bustling Commercial Street in Ooty for some souvenir shopping. The street is lined with shops selling handicrafts, tea, and spices.

• Botanical Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Ooty Lake: Estimated cost - INR 250 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Commercial Street: No entrance fee, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• For a delightful breakfast, head to the renowned Sidewalk Café and indulge in their delicious continental spread. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a hearty lunch, make your way to South Indian Delights and savor their authentic dosas and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, visit Curry House and treat yourself to their flavorful Indian curries and tandoori dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.

Wednesday, November 22: Exploring Ooty

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Doddabetta Peak. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Nilgiri Mountains and the surrounding landscapes.

Afternoon: Head to the Government Rose Garden, known for its extensive collection of roses. Take a peaceful stroll amidst the fragrant flowers and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Evening: Unwind at the Ooty Tea Factory and Museum, where you can learn about the tea production process and taste different varieties of tea.

• Doddabetta Peak: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Government Rose Garden: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 1.5 hours
• Ooty Tea Factory and Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, November 23: Journey to Coorg

Morning: Check out from your hotel in Ooty and travel to Coorg. Enjoy the scenic drive through the winding roads and lush landscapes.

Afternoon: Upon arrival in Coorg, visit the Dubare Elephant Camp. Get up close and personal with elephants, participate in feeding and bathing them, and take a memorable elephant ride.

Evening: Visit the Raja's Seat, a beautiful garden with a breathtaking view of the sunset. Spend some peaceful time enjoying the panoramic vistas.

• Dubare Elephant Camp: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Raja's Seat: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 1.5 hours

Restaurants

• Mandel's Cafe & Patisserie: Start your day at this charming cafe known for its delectable pastries and freshly brewed coffee. A meal here would cost around INR 300 per person.
• East End Hotel: Enjoy a traditional South Indian thali or dosas at this iconic lunch spot. A meal here would cost around INR 200 per person.
• Coorg Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Coorg at this restaurant that specializes in local dishes like Pandi (pork) curry and Akki roti. A meal here would cost around INR 500 per person.

Friday, November 24: Coorg Adventures

Morning: Embark on an exciting trek to Abbey Falls. Enjoy the scenic trail surrounded by lush greenery and reach the stunning waterfalls, which cascade down from a height.

Afternoon: Visit the Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple. Explore the beautiful Tibetan architecture, witness the monks chanting, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Evening: Indulge in some coffee tasting at the coffee plantations in Coorg. Learn about the coffee-making process and savor the rich flavors.

• Abbey Falls: Estimated cost - INR 15 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Namdroling Monastery: No entrance fee, Estimated time spent - 1.5 hours
• Coffee Plantations: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, November 25: Departure from Coorg

Morning: Before leaving Coorg, visit the Talacauvery Temple, which is considered the source of the sacred river Cauvery. Enjoy the serene surroundings and seek blessings at the temple.

Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk through the Madikeri Fort, an ancient hilltop fort with historical significance. Explore the museum inside the fort and learn about the region's history.

Evening: Bid farewell to Coorg and start your journey back home.

• Talacauvery Temple: Estimated cost - No entrance fee, Estimated time spent - 1.5 hours
• Madikeri Fort: Estimated cost - INR 25 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Ooty and Coorg, make sure to visit the following off the beaten path attractions:

Glenmorgan Trek in Ooty: A scenic trek that takes you through dense forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations.

Kushalnagar Market in Coorg: A local market where you can buy spices, homemade chocolates, and traditional Coorg handicrafts.

Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement: The second-largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet, where you can visit the Namdroling Monastery and experience Tibetan culture and cuisine.

These hidden gems will provide unique experiences and allow you to connect with the local culture and traditions.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on Kayak.com.