Family-Friendly Itinerary for Ooty

Friday September 22: Arrival in Ooty

Start your family adventure in Ooty by exploring the beautiful Ooty Lake in the morning. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, head to the Government Botanical Gardens, where you can witness a variety of exotic plants and colorful flowers. In the afternoon, visit the Thread Garden, a unique attraction showcasing intricate artwork made entirely from thread. As the evening approaches, take a scenic ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also known as the Toy Train, and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills.

• Ooty Lake: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Government Botanical Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Thread Garden: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Estimated cost - INR 205 per person (Toy Train ticket), Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Blue Mountain Café: Enjoy a cozy breakfast at Blue Mountain Café, located near Ooty Lake. They serve a wide range of breakfast options, including delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Nahar Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Nahar Restaurant, situated near Government Botanical Gardens. This vegetarian restaurant offers a variety of South Indian dishes, such as dosas and thalis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• Nahar's Sidewalk Café: Experience a delightful dinner at Nahar's Sidewalk Café, a charming restaurant with a beautiful ambiance. They serve a mix of Indian and international cuisines, with options like pasta and biryani. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Saturday September 23: Nature and Wildlife Exploration

Embark on a nature-filled day by starting your morning with a visit to the Emerald Lake. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take a leisurely walk around the lake. In the afternoon, head to the Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills, and soak in the panoramic views of the mist-covered mountains. Afterward, visit the Government Rose Garden, home to thousands of beautiful rose varieties. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll through the Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, where you can witness the cascading waterfalls and spot some wildlife.

• Emerald Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Doddabetta Peak: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Government Rose Garden: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Pykara Lake and Waterfalls: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday September 24: Cultural Exploration and Tea Gardens

Immerse yourself in the local culture by starting your day with a visit to the Tribal Research Center Museum. Learn about the indigenous tribes of the Nilgiri region and their rich heritage. In the afternoon, explore the Tea Museum, where you can witness the tea-making process and indulge in some tea tasting. Afterward, visit the Avalanche Lake and enjoy a picnic amidst the tranquil surroundings. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the bustling streets of the Ooty Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

• Tribal Research Center Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Avalanche Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ooty Market: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the Kalhatty Waterfalls. Located amidst a dense forest, these waterfalls offer a picturesque setting for a family picnic. Another hidden gem is the Glenmorgan Trek, a moderate-level trek that takes you through tea estates and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Both of these attractions provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories with your family.

Check hotel and flight prices at kayak.com.