Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary for Mysore and Ooty in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Mysore Palace
    20 minutes (5.5 km) from Mysuru Junction Railway Station

    Begin your trip with a visit to the Mysore Palace, the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty and a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Marvel at the intricate carvings, colourful stained glass, and beautiful paintings that adorn the palace walls and ceilings. Afterwards, take a short walk to the Chamundeshwari Temple, located atop Chamundi Hill, for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.

  2. Day 2: Ooty Botanical Gardens
    3 hours (125 km) from Mysore Palace

    Head to the picturesque hill station of Ooty and spend some time wandering through the Ooty Botanical Gardens. The gardens are home to a vast array of plants and flowers, including rare species like the monkey puzzle tree and the paperbark tree. The highlight of the gardens is the fossil tree, estimated to be over 20 million years old. Afterwards, take a ride on the famous Ooty Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that winds its way through the Nilgiri Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  3. Day 3: Doddabetta Peak
    30 minutes (10 km) from Ooty Botanical Gardens

    Start your day with a visit to the Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri Mountains at an altitude of 2,637 metres. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and be sure to snap some photos of the stunning scenery. Next, head to the Ooty Lake for a peaceful boat ride or a leisurely stroll around the scenic lake. End your day with a visit to the St. Stephen's Church, a beautiful colonial-era church that is one of the oldest in the region.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Mysore Palace (2 hours, INR 200)
  • Chamundeshwari Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Ooty Botanical Gardens (2 hours, INR 30)
  • Ooty Toy Train (2 hours, INR 600)
  • Doddabetta Peak (2 hours, INR 100)
  • Ooty Lake (1 hour, INR 15)
  • St. Stephen's Church (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 945

Useful Tips

If you have more time in Mysore, consider visiting the Srirangapatna Fort, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, or the Brindavan Gardens. In Ooty, the Sims Park and the Lamb's Rock are also worth a visit. If you have less time, consider skipping the Ooty Toy Train ride or the Ooty Lake, and spend more time exploring Mysore or relaxing in Ooty.

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