Welcome to Ooty! Start your day by checking into your hotel and freshening up. After breakfast, head to the Ooty Lake for a peaceful morning boat ride and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Government Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and admire its beauty. As the evening approaches, make your way to the Doddabetta Peak to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Nilgiri Mountains.
Ooty Lake: INR 100 per person, 1-2 hours
Government Botanical Garden: INR 30 per person, 1-2 hours
Doddabetta Peak: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Ooty is the Willy's Coffee Pub, known for its delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Nahar Restaurant, offering a wide variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Their popular biryanis and thalis are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
To enjoy a lovely dinner, visit the Ascot Multi Cuisine Restaurant, famous for its North Indian and Continental delicacies. Indulge in their delectable kebabs and pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 22: Exploring Ooty
Start your day with a visit to the Rose Garden, where you can marvel at the vibrant colors and fragrances of numerous rose varieties. Afterward, make your way to the Ooty Tea Museum to learn about the regional tea production process and sample some delicious tea. In the afternoon, take an adventurous ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the scenic views along the route. In the evening, explore the bustling commercial street of Charing Cross and indulge in some local shopping.
Rose Garden: INR 30 per person, 1-2 hours
Ooty Tea Museum: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: INR 205 per person (toy train ticket from Ooty to Coonoor), 3-4 hours
Charing Cross: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Earl's Secret, a charming cafe known for its delicious baked goods and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Nahar's Sidewalk Cafe, a popular eatery offering a variety of Indian and international cuisines. Don't miss their mouthwatering pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Shinkow's Chinese Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Chinese dishes and cozy ambiance. Make sure to try their specialty, the Kung Pao Chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 23: Travel to Kodaikanal
After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Ooty and embark on a scenic drive to Kodaikanal. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest for a while. In the afternoon, visit the serene Kodaikanal Lake and enjoy boating amidst the picturesque surroundings. Spend the evening exploring the lively Coaker's Walk, a scenic promenade offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
Kodaikanal Lake: INR 20 per person (boating fee), 1-2 hours
Coaker's Walk: INR 30 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Royal Cafe, a popular local spot known for its delicious South Indian breakfast dishes like idli, vada, and dosa. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a great place for lunch, try Cloud Street Cafe, a charming restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Their mouthwatering dishes and cozy ambiance make it a perfect choice. The average cost for a meal at Cloud Street Cafe is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in the flavors of South India at Muncheez, a restaurant known for its authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine. From crispy dosas to flavorful biryanis, Muncheez offers a wide range of dishes that will satisfy your taste buds. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Discovering Kodaikanal
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Bryant Park, known for its variety of flowers, flora, and a serene atmosphere. Afterward, head to the Pillar Rocks viewpoint, where you can marvel at the stunning rock formations and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. In the afternoon, explore the tranquil Bear Shola Falls, a scenic waterfall nestled amidst dense forests. As you bid farewell to Kodaikanal, end your trip with a visit to the enchanting Silver Cascade Falls.
Bryant Park: INR 30 per person, 1-2 hours
Pillar Rocks: Free, 1-2 hours
Bear Shola Falls: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
Silver Cascade Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you have some extra time, consider exploring the Berijam Lake, located around 20 km from Kodaikanal. Known for its crystal clear waters and peaceful surroundings, it's a favorite spot among locals for picnics and nature walks. Another hidden gem is the Guna Caves, located near Pillar Rocks. These caves have a fascinating history and offer a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. Don't forget to try the delicious local street food, such as hot pakoras and filter coffee, while exploring these beautiful destinations.