3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Ooty, December 25-27, 2023
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Ooty is Cafe Diem, known for its delicious homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Shinkows Restaurant, a quaint eatery offering a variety of Chinese and Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Nahar Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Restaurants
For a delicious and hearty breakfast, head to Cafe Diem. This charming cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to eggs benedict. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
If you're looking for a tasty lunch option, try Nahar's Sidewalk Cafe. This popular cafe serves a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit The Ascot. This elegant restaurant offers a fine dining atmosphere and a menu that highlights the flavors of Indian and European cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, December 25: Arrival and Exploring the City
Start your trip by arriving in Ooty, a charming hill station in Tamil Nadu. In the morning, take a picturesque toy train ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding tea plantations and mountains. Afternoon can be spent visiting the beautiful Ooty Botanical Gardens, home to a vast collection of exotic plants and colorful flowers. In the evening, take a walk around Ooty Lake and enjoy boating with your family.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Approximately ₹300 for a round trip, 3-4 hours
Ooty Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee of ₹30 per adult, ₹15 per child, 1-2 hours
Ooty Lake: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children, optional boating charges extra, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Nature & Wildlife
Embark on a nature-filled adventure in Ooty. Start your day by visiting the picturesque Avalanche Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a serene atmosphere for a picnic. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Ooty Rose Garden, home to thousands of varieties of roses, making it a delightful place for nature enthusiasts. In the evening, head to the stunning Doddabetta Peak, the highest peak in the Nilgiri Mountains, and enjoy panoramic views of the entire hill station.
Avalanche Lake: No entry fee, 2-3 hours
Ooty Rose Garden: Entrance fee of ₹30 per adult and ₹15 per child, 1-2 hours
Doddabetta Peak: Entrance fee of ₹10 per adult and ₹5 per child, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Tea Plantations and Gardens
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ooty's tea plantations and gardens. Begin your day by visiting the scenic tea estates of the famous Doddabetta Tea Factory, where you can witness the tea-making process and savor different flavors. In the afternoon, head to the stunning Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery. Take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the mesmerizing waterfall views. End your trip with a visit to the Government Rose Garden, showcasing a wide variety of roses.
Pykara Lake and Waterfalls: ₹5 for adults, ₹3 for children, optional boat ride charges extra, 2-3 hours
Government Rose Garden: Entrance fee of ₹30 per adult and ₹15 per child, 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While in Ooty, make sure to visit the small village of Coonoor, located nearby. Experience the thrill of a toy train ride from Ooty to Coonoor, passing through breathtaking landscapes and verdant tea gardens. Once in Coonoor, explore Sim's Park, a botanical garden with rare flowering plants and trees. Don't forget to try the famous Ooty chocolates and freshly brewed tea from the local markets for a delightful treat.