6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary to Wayanad and Ooty
Friday, October 20: Arrival in Wayanad
Welcome to Wayanad! Start your trip by checking into a family-friendly hotel and getting settled. In the morning, visit the beautiful Soochipara Waterfalls and enjoy the refreshing cascade amidst lush green surroundings. Afterward, head to the Edakkal Caves, where you can explore ancient cave paintings and soak in the historical significance. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Pookode Lake, a serene spot perfect for boating and picnicking.
Edakkal Caves: Cost estimate - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Pookode Lake: Cost estimate - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Mysore Food Corner: Enjoy a delicious South Indian breakfast at Mysore Food Corner, known for its authentic flavors and wide variety of dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Clay Pot Restaurant: Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at Clay Pot Restaurant, offering a diverse menu of Indian and Chinese dishes. Don't miss their specialty clay pot biryani! Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Udupi Pure Veg Restaurant: For a delightful dinner, head to Udupi Pure Veg Restaurant, serving traditional vegetarian cuisine from Karnataka. Savor their dosas, thalis, and aromatic curries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Exploring Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary today. In the morning, take a safari through the sanctuary and spot fascinating wildlife such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. Afterward, visit the Tribal Heritage Museum to learn about the indigenous tribes of Wayanad and their rich cultural heritage. In the evening, enjoy a scenic drive to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, and admire the breathtaking views.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost estimate - INR 110 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Tribal Heritage Museum: Cost estimate - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day located in the heart of Wayanad town. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options including sandwiches, croissants, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs 200 per person.
For a flavorsome lunch, make your way to Claypot Restaurant situated near the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. This restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine and serves dishes like Malabar chicken curry and appam. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs 400 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Copper Chimney in Kalpetta. This restaurant offers a wide range of North Indian and Chinese dishes made with high-quality ingredients. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs 500 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Journey to Ooty
Today, bid farewell to Wayanad and make your way to Ooty, a picturesque hill station. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Nilgiri Mountains, known for its tea plantations and misty landscapes. In the morning, visit the Government Botanical Garden, home to a stunning array of flora and fauna. Afterward, head to Ooty Lake and indulge in boating activities amidst the serene surroundings. In the evening, explore the bustling commercial street, also known as the Charing Cross, where you can shop for local souvenirs and try street food.
Government Botanical Garden: Cost estimate - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Ooty Lake: Cost estimate - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
The Green Leaf Cafe offers a delicious breakfast spread with dishes like pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, head to The Culinary Hut, a charming restaurant known for its authentic regional cuisine. Try their mouthwatering biryani and flavorful curries. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
In the evening, dine at The Hilltop Restaurant for a memorable dinner experience. With its panoramic views of the hills and a diverse menu featuring Indian and continental dishes, this restaurant is sure to delight your taste buds. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Monday, October 23: Discovering Ooty's Gems
Explore the hidden gems of Ooty today. Start your morning with a visit to Doddabetta Peak, the highest peak in the Nilgiri Mountains, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. Afterward, head to the Ooty Rose Garden, a beautifully manicured garden boasting thousands of rose varieties. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the world of tea by visiting a tea estate and witnessing the tea-making process. In the evening, take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Nilgiri Hills.
Doddabetta Peak: Cost estimate - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Ooty Rose Garden: Cost estimate - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tea Estate Visit: Cost estimate - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Cost estimate - INR 205 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day for a quick and delicious start to your day. This popular chain offers a variety of hot and cold beverages, as well as a selection of breakfast items such as sandwiches and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out Hotel Junior Kuppanna, a well-known restaurant serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Enjoy a hearty meal of biryani, dosa, or delicious curries in a cozy and friendly atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, visit the Hilltop Pavilion Restaurant, located in a serene and picturesque setting. Indulge in a range of delectable dishes from Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines, while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding hills. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Exploring Pykara Lake and Waterfalls
Indulge in the natural beauty of Pykara today. Start your morning by visiting the Pykara Lake, a tranquil spot surrounded by pine trees. Enjoy boating on the lake and soak in the serene atmosphere. Afterward, head to the Pykara Waterfalls, where you can witness the cascading water amidst lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit the Pykara Dam, a scenic location perfect for a picnic. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the Pine Forest and revel in the tranquility.
Pykara Lake: Cost estimate - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Pykara Waterfalls: Cost estimate - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Pine Forest: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Café Malar: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this cozy café located near Pykara Lake. Enjoy their freshly brewed coffee and a variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Greenleaf Restaurant: For lunch, head to Greenleaf Restaurant and indulge in their mouthwatering Indian cuisine. From biryanis to curries, they offer a wide range of flavorful dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Silver Oak Restaurant: End your day with a delightful dinner at Silver Oak Restaurant, known for its serene ambiance and delectable multi-cuisine menu. Savor their flavorful dishes and enjoy a memorable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Departure from Ooty
Say goodbye to Ooty as you depart on your journey back home. Before leaving, visit the Thread Garden, a unique attraction featuring a variety of flowers and plants made entirely of thread. In the morning, explore the local markets for some last-minute shopping and indulge in the delectable local cuisine. Take time to relax and cherish the memories created during your family-friendly trip to Wayanad and Ooty.
Thread Garden: Cost estimate - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Shopping and Dining: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Savoy Hotel: Start your day with a delicious and filling breakfast at Savoy Hotel. This charming restaurant offers a wide range of breakfast options, from traditional South Indian dishes to continental classics. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Udupi Pure Veg: For lunch, head to Udupi Pure Veg, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Enjoy a wholesome meal of dosas, idlis, and a variety of curries. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
Wilsons Restaurant: In the evening, treat your taste buds to a delightful dinner at Wilsons Restaurant. This cozy eatery specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine, including mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions in Wayanad, consider visiting the Neelimala Viewpoint, offering stunning panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The Kanthanpara Waterfalls is another hidden gem, where you can enjoy a peaceful ambiance and take a dip in the crystal-clear pools. In Ooty, the Avalanche Lake is a serene and less crowded alternative to the popular Ooty Lake. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the Mukurthi National Park, a lesser-known wildlife sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna.
To check hotel and flight prices for your Wayanad-Ooty trip, click here.