4-Day Family Friendly Trip to Ooty, Coimbatore, and Kodaikanal

Saturday, November 11, 2023: Bangalore to Ooty

Start your trip from Bangalore to Ooty, a beautiful hill station famous for its tea gardens and picturesque landscapes. In the morning, visit the Government Botanical Gardens, spread over 55 acres and housing over a thousand species of plants. Explore the lush greenery and enjoy a leisurely walk. Afterward, head to the Ooty Lake for a serene boating experience amidst the tranquil surroundings. In the evening, visit the charming Ooty Rose Garden known for its variety of roses and other exotic flowers.

• Government Botanical Gardens: INR 30 per person, 2 hours
• Ooty Lake: INR 10 per person for boating, 2 hours
• Ooty Rose Garden: INR 30 per person, 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Culinary Cafe, located near the Government Botanical Gardens. This cozy cafe offers a wide variety of breakfast options including freshly baked pastries and hearty sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Sidewalk Cafe, a popular eatery near Ooty Lake. This cafe serves delicious continental and Indian cuisines in a casual outdoor setting. Don't miss their mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit The Earl's Secret, an elegant restaurant nestled in the heart of Ooty. Indulge in a fine dining experience with a range of international and Indian delicacies. Their signature dishes like lamb chops and chocolate lava cake are highly recommended. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Sunday, November 12, 2023: Ooty

Embark on a scenic journey to the famous Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri Mountains. Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Afterward, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea production process and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea. In the afternoon, explore the Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, where you can take a boat ride and witness the cascading waterfalls. In the evening, relax and enjoy the pleasant weather at the scenic Ooty Botanical Gardens.

• Doddabetta Peak: INR 10 per person, 2 hours
• Tea Museum: INR 10 per person, 1 hour
• Pykara Lake and Waterfalls: INR 30 per person for boat ride, 3 hours
• Ooty Botanical Gardens: INR 30 per person, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Start your day at Café Delight, a charming breakfast spot known for its freshly baked pastries and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For a delicious lunch, head to Curry House, a local favorite serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Try their flavorful biryani or dosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• In the evening, dine at The Spice Box, a cozy restaurant offering a wide range of Indian and international dishes. Enjoy their flavorful curries or grilled seafood. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Monday, November 13, 2023: Ooty to Coimbatore

Leave Ooty and travel to Coimbatore, a vibrant city known as the "Manchester of South India" for its textile industry. Start your day by visiting the Marudamalai Temple, a sacred hill temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take in the panoramic views of the surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Gedee Car Museum, showcasing a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles. As the evening approaches, visit the vibrant RS Puram Market for shopping and tasting local snacks.

• Marudamalai Temple: No entrance fee, 2 hours
• Gedee Car Museum: INR 50 per person, 1 hour
• RS Puram Market: Cost varies, 2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Diem, known for its freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to Hotel Annapoorna, a local favorite known for its authentic South Indian thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• In the evening, indulge in a flavorful dinner at Barbeque Nation, offering a wide variety of grilled delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Tuesday, November 14, 2023: Coimbatore to Kodaikanal

Leave Coimbatore and make your way to Kodaikanal, a charming hill station known for its pristine lakes and dense forests. Begin your day by visiting the beautiful Kodaikanal Lake, where you can enjoy a boat ride amidst the tranquil surroundings. Explore the Coaker's Walk, a picturesque pathway offering stunning views of the valleys. In the afternoon, visit the Bryant Park, known for its colorful flowers and horticultural exhibits. As the evening sets in, witness the mesmerizing view of the Silver Cascade Falls.

• Kodaikanal Lake: INR 30 per person for boating, 2 hours
• Coaker's Walk: INR 10 per person, 1 hour
• Bryant Park: INR 30 per person, 1 hour
• Silver Cascade Falls: No entrance fee, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel Annapoorna. Known for its idlis and vadas, a meal here costs an average of ₹100 per person.
• For lunch, head to the famous Cloud Street Cafe. Enjoy a variety of continental and Indian dishes and expect to spend around ₹300 per person for a satisfying meal.
• Indulge in a hearty dinner at Ovenfresh. This restaurant offers a range of options including pizzas, pastas, and desserts. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹400 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Ooty, make sure to visit the charming Avalanche Lake surrounded by lush green landscapes. It offers a peaceful environment and is perfect for a picnic with family. In Coimbatore, visit the serene Dhyanalinga Temple, known for its meditative ambiance and beautiful architecture. It's a perfect place to relax and find inner peace. In Kodaikanal, don't miss the Pillar Rocks, a stunning viewpoint that offers majestic views of three giant pillar-like rocks standing tall amidst the verdant valleys.