Start your trip by arriving in Mysore, known as the cultural capital of Karnataka. In the morning, visit the magnificent Mysore Palace, a grand structure that showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture. Afterward, explore the vibrant Devaraja Market, where you can find a variety of local produce, spices, and handicrafts. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through Brindavan Gardens, known for its musical fountains and beautiful landscaped gardens.
Mysore Palace: Entry fee - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Devaraja Market: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Brindavan Gardens: Entry fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, November 16: Mysore Exploration
Start your day by visiting Chamundi Hill, where you can find the Chamundeshwari Temple and enjoy scenic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Mysore Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and birds. In the evening, take a soothing walk at Karanji Lake, a beautiful lake surrounded by nature.
Chamundi Hill: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Mysore Zoo: Entry fee - INR 80 per adult, INR 40 per child, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Karanji Lake: Entry fee - INR 10 per adult, INR 5 per child, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, November 17: Journey to Ooty
Embark on a scenic drive from Mysore to Ooty, also known as the Queen of Hill Stations. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Mountains and lush tea estates along the way. In the afternoon, visit the Government Botanical Garden, housing a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers. In the evening, take a stroll along Ooty Lake and enjoy a boat ride.
Government Botanical Garden: Entry fee - INR 30 per adult, INR 15 per child, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Ooty Lake: Entry fee - INR 10 per person, Boating fee - INR 600 for a paddle boat, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 18: Exploring Ooty
Start your day by visiting Doddabetta Peak, the highest peak in the Nilgiri Mountains. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes from the observation tower. In the afternoon, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the process of tea production and taste different varieties. In the evening, take a leisurely walk in the charming Ooty Botanical Gardens.
Doddabetta Peak: Entry fee - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Tea Museum: Entry fee - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Ooty Botanical Gardens: Entry fee - INR 30 per adult, INR 15 per child, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, November 19: Ooty Sightseeing
In the morning, take a joyride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Nilgiri Hills. In the afternoon, explore the Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, visit Rose Garden, home to thousands of varieties of roses.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Train ticket - INR 205 per adult, INR 105 per child, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Pykara Lake and Waterfalls: Entry fee - INR 30 per adult, INR 15 per child, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Rose Garden: Entry fee - INR 30 per adult, INR 15 per child, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Ooty is Earl's Secret. This cozy café offers a variety of delicious breakfast options, including fluffy pancakes and crispy waffles. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
If you're looking for a tasty lunch option, head to Sidewalk Café. This charming restaurant serves a range of cuisine, from Indian to Continental dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering pasta dishes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
For a delectable dinner experience, try Shinkows Restaurant. Known for its flavorful Chinese and Thai dishes, this restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and friendly service. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, November 20: Back to Mysore
Head back to Mysore from Ooty. In the afternoon, visit the Regional Museum of Natural History, which showcases the rich biodiversity of South India. In the evening, explore the bustling markets of Mysore and indulge in shopping for silk sarees, sandalwood carvings, and handicrafts.
Regional Museum of Natural History: Entry fee - INR 20 per adult, INR 10 per child, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Aramane. This cozy cafe offers a variety of options including dosas, omelettes, and filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a hearty lunch, head to The Old House. This restaurant serves traditional South Indian thali meals with a wide selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Tiger Trail. This restaurant specializes in North Indian and Mughlai cuisine and offers a cozy ambience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 21: Departure from Mysore
On your last day, check out from your hotel and depart from Mysore. If time permits, visit the iconic St. Philomena's Church, known for its neo-Gothic architecture. Bid farewell to this mesmerizing journey filled with cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum, where you can witness impressive sand sculptures depicting various themes. Another hidden gem is the Wax Museum, featuring life-sized wax statues of famous personalities. These attractions are great for family-friendly exploration and provide a fun-filled experience.
You can check hotel and flight prices for your Mysore Ooty trip here.