Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Coorg, Mysore, Ooty

Sunday, September 24: Arrival in Coorg

Start your trip by arriving in Coorg. Enjoy the morning exploring the lush coffee plantations and picturesque landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, to witness the beautiful Tibetan architecture and serene ambiance. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk around Raja's Seat, a garden offering breathtaking views of the sunset over the valley.

• Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple): Free entry, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Raja's Seat: Entry fee: INR 5, Estimated time spent: 1 hour

Restaurants

• Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at Coorg Cuisine. Indulge in crispy dosas, fluffy idlis, and aromatic filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
• Lunch: Savor the flavors of Coorg at East End Family Restaurant. Try the mouthwatering pandi curry (pork curry) served with akki roti (rice bread) and a side of spicy chutney. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Dinner: Experience a cozy dining experience at Silver Oaks Family Restaurant. Delight in their signature Coorgi chicken curry accompanied by piping hot naan bread. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.

Monday, September 25: Coorg to Mysore

Begin the day with a visit to Abbey Falls, where you can witness the cascading beauty of the waterfall amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the historic Mysore Palace, a grand structure showcasing exquisite Indo-Saracenic architecture. As the evening sets in, take a stroll through the vibrant Devaraja Market, known for its spices, silk, and sandalwood products.

• Abbey Falls: Entry fee: INR 15, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Mysore Palace: Entry fee: INR 70, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Devaraja Market: Free entry, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, September 26: Mysore to Ooty

Embark on a scenic drive to Ooty, also known as the "Queen of Hill Stations." Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Botanical Gardens, showcasing a vast variety of plants and flowers. In the afternoon, take a ride on the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills. As the evening approaches, explore the bustling Ooty Lake and enjoy a boat ride.

• Botanical Gardens: Entry fee: INR 30, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Train ticket: INR 205 (toy train ride), Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ooty Lake: Entry fee: INR 15, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 27: Explore Ooty

Head to the serene Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and tea estates. In the afternoon, visit the Government Rose Garden, home to over 20,000 varieties of roses. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the scenic landscapes of the Pykara Lake and Waterfalls.

• Doddabetta Peak: Entry fee: INR 10, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Government Rose Garden: Entry fee: INR 30, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Pykara Lake and Waterfalls: Entry fee: INR 5, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, September 28: Departure from Ooty

On your last day, visit the charming tea estates of the Nilgiri region and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Ooty, offering a wide range of souvenirs. Bid farewell to Ooty and depart for your onward journey.

• Tea Estate Visit: Free entry, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Shopping in Ooty: Cost varies, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For shoestring budget travelers, Coorg offers several hidden gems and local favorites. Explore the lesser-known Tadiandamol Peak, a trekking paradise with stunning views. Visit the Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can interact with elephants and learn about their conservation. In Mysore, don't miss the opportunity to savor authentic local cuisine at the iconic Mysuru Food Street. In Ooty, take a walk through the quaint village of Upper Bhavani and immerse yourself in the untouched natural beauty.

Click here to check hotel and flight prices for your trip.