Two-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Coonoor in June 2023

1. Day 1: Sims Park
   7 minutes (1.5 km) from Coonoor Bus Stand

   Start your morning with a visit to Sims Park, a botanical garden that boasts a collection of over 1,000 plant species. Take a leisurely stroll around the park and admire the beautiful flowers and trees. Kids can enjoy the play area with swings and slides or take a ride on the toy train that passes through the park. Don't forget to take a family picture at the park's entrance, which is adorned with a stunning fountain.

2. Day 1: Heritage Train Ride
   24 minutes (8 km) from Sims Park

   After exploring Sims Park, take a ride on the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Coonoor to Ooty. This train ride offers scenic views of the Nilgiri Mountains and tea plantations. Make sure to book your tickets in advance as this is a popular attraction. The train ride takes around two hours, and you'll reach Ooty by lunchtime.

3. Day 1: Ooty Lake and Boat House
   12 minutes (2.8 km) from Ooty Railway Station

   Once you reach Ooty, head over to Ooty Lake and Boat House for a fun-filled afternoon. You can rent a paddleboat or a rowing boat and explore the lake while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills. Kids will love the mini train ride around the lake and the amusement park. The Boat House also has a restaurant where you can grab a quick bite before heading back to Coonoor.

4. Day 2: Lamb's Rock
   41 minutes (14 km) from Coonoor Bus Stand

   On your second day, head to Lamb's Rock for breathtaking panoramic views of the Coimbatore Plains. The viewpoint is named after the British collector, Captain Lamb, who used this vantage point to survey the surrounding tea estates. You can also visit nearby Lady Canning's Seat, a small pavilion with a magnificent view, and take some stunning pictures with your family.

5. Day 2: Highfield Tea Factory and Tea Tasting
   15 minutes (5 km) from Lamb's Rock

   After enjoying the views at Lamb's Rock, head to the Highfield Tea Factory, where you can learn about the tea-making process and see how tea is graded and packaged. The factory also offers a tea-tasting session where you can try different varieties of tea. It's a great way to introduce your kids to the world of tea and learn more about the local tea culture.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sims Park (1-2 hours, Rs. 30 per person)
• Heritage Train Ride (2 hours, Rs. 205 per adult, Rs. 105 per child)
• Ooty Lake and Boat House (2-3 hours, Rs. 10 per person entry fee, Rs. 170 for a 30-minute boat ride)
• Lamb's Rock (1 hour, Rs. 10 per person entry fee)
• Highfield Tea Factory and Tea Tasting (1-2 hours, Rs. 100 per person for the tour and tasting)
Total Estimated Costs: Rs. 520 per adult, Rs. 310 per child

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit other attractions in Ooty, such as the Government Botanical Garden and the Doddabetta Peak. If you have less time, you can skip the tea factory and tasting session.