A Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary: Mysore & Ooty

Friday, October 27: Arrival in Mysore

Welcome to Mysore! Start your trip by visiting the magnificent Mysore Palace in the morning. Explore the stunning architecture and learn about the city's royal heritage. In the afternoon, head to the Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, housing a variety of animals. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Brindavan Gardens, where you can enjoy musical fountains and scenic landscapes.

• Mysore Palace: Entrance fee - INR 75 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mysore Zoo: Entrance fee - INR 50 per adult, INR 20 per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Brindavan Gardens: Entrance fee - INR 30 per adult, INR 15 per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Avari Restaurant: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Avari Restaurant, known for its wide range of South Indian delicacies. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 INR per person.
• Royal Orchid Metropole: For lunch, head to Royal Orchid Metropole, a historic hotel that offers a multi-cuisine dining experience. Indulge in their mouthwatering dishes, with an average cost of 500 INR per person.
• Paakashala: End your day with a fantastic dinner experience at Paakashala, a local favorite for authentic Karnataka cuisine. The average cost for a meal at this restaurant is around 300 INR per person.

Saturday, October 28: Exploring Mysore

Start your day with a visit to the Chamundi Hills, where you can see the impressive Chamundeshwari Temple and enjoy panoramic views of Mysore. In the afternoon, head to the Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery, which houses a remarkable collection of paintings and artifacts. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing boat ride on the Karanji Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and home to various bird species.

• Chamundi Hills: No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery: Entrance fee - INR 40 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Karanji Lake: Entrance fee - INR 10 per adult, INR 5 per child, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 29: Journey to Ooty

Today, depart from Mysore and embark on a scenic drive to Ooty. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you make your way to the "Queen of Hill Stations." In the afternoon, visit the Government Botanical Garden, known for its extensive collection of plants and flowers. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Ooty Lake and indulge in boating activities.

• Scenic Drive to Ooty: Time spent: 5-6 hours
• Government Botanical Garden: Entrance fee - INR 30 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ooty Lake: Boating fee - INR 200 per person (approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, October 30: Discovering Ooty

Start your day by visiting Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri Mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. In the afternoon, explore the charming Ooty Rose Garden, showcasing a variety of roses and other floral delights. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Thread Garden, a unique attraction featuring exquisite artwork made entirely of thread.

• Doddabetta Peak: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ooty Rose Garden: Entrance fee - INR 30 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Thread Garden: Entrance fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 31: Ooty Sightseeing

Begin your day with a visit to the scenic Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery. Take a boat ride on the lake and admire the cascading waterfalls. In the afternoon, explore the Tribal Research Center Museum, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the local tribes. As the day winds down, visit the enchanting Emerald Lake, offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

• Pykara Lake and Waterfalls: Boat ride fee - INR 250 per person (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Tribal Research Center Museum: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Emerald Lake: No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, November 1: Departure

On your last day, bid farewell to Ooty and begin your journey back home with beautiful memories of Mysore and Ooty.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the picturesque Avalanche Lake, located about 25 km from Ooty. This serene lake offers breathtaking views and tranquility away from the usual tourist spots. Also, don't miss the beautiful tea gardens in and around Ooty, such as the Glenmorgan Tea Estate, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy scenic views of the lush green tea plantations.

For booking hotels and flights, you can check the prices on Kayak.