Family Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Tiruvanamalai and Ooty

Day 1: Exploring Tiruvanamalai

Tiruvanamalai, India

8:00AM

Visit Arunachaleshwar Temple

Start your day with a visit to the ancient Arunachaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness the breathtaking architecture and spiritual ambiance.
The temple is located in the heart of Tiruvanamalai town, easily accessible by walking or a short rickshaw ride from most accommodations.
Free entry, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Experience peace and tranquility at the Ramana Maharshi Ashram, a spiritual center where you can meditate and learn about the teachings of the renowned sage.
The ashram is a short drive from the temple, easily reachable by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Donation based, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at A2B Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious South Indian vegetarian meal at the popular A2B Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors and variety of dishes.
The restaurant is centrally located, a convenient stop after visiting the ashram.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Tiruvanamalai Seshadri Swamigal Ashram

Unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere of the Seshadri Swamigal Ashram, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a peaceful retreat.
The ashram is a short walk or drive from the town center, providing a tranquil escape.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Manickam Mess

Indulge in a traditional Tamil Nadu dinner at Manickam Mess, a local favorite known for its authentic homemade dishes and warm hospitality.
The restaurant is a short distance from the ashram, offering a cozy dining experience.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 2: More of Tiruvanamalai

Tiruvanamalai, India

9:00AM

Hike to Skandashramam

Embark on a morning hike to Skandashramam, a sacred cave atop the Arunachala Hill, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.
The hike starts from the foothills of Arunachala and takes about 1-1.5 hours to reach the cave.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Ramakrishna

Enjoy a hearty meal at Hotel Ramakrishna, a cozy eatery serving delicious South Indian and North Indian cuisine, perfect for refueling after the hike.
The hotel is located near the Arunachaleshwar Temple, a short drive from the Skandashramam.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Virupaksha Cave

Explore the Virupaksha Cave, a spiritual site where Ramana Maharshi meditated, offering a tranquil setting for introspection and meditation.
The cave is located at the base of Arunachala Hill, accessible by a short drive or auto-rickshaw ride.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Tiruvanamalai Market

Stroll through the bustling Tiruvanamalai Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local handicrafts, perfect for picking up souvenirs and gifts.
The market is in the town center, ideal for a leisurely walk from the Virupaksha Cave.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Aakash Inn Rooftop Restaurant

Savor dinner with a view at Aakash Inn Rooftop Restaurant, offering delicious North Indian and Chinese dishes amidst a scenic backdrop of Tiruvanamalai town.
The restaurant is located near the market, providing a perfect evening dining spot.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Ooty

Ooty, India

9:00AM

Depart from Tiruvanamalai to Ooty

Bid farewell to Tiruvanamalai and embark on a scenic road trip to Ooty, known for its beautiful tea plantations and cool climate.
The journey from Tiruvanamalai to Ooty takes approximately 8 hours by car, offering picturesque views along the way.
Transportation cost varies, 8 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Pine View

Arrive in Ooty and check-in at Hotel Pine View, a comfortable accommodation nestled amidst the serene hills of Ooty, providing a relaxing stay for the next two days.
The hotel is located in a prime location in Ooty, easily accessible from the main road.
Cost per night, Flexible
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Day 4: Exploring Ooty

Ooty, India

9:00AM

Visit Botanical Gardens

Start your day with a visit to the lush Botanical Gardens in Ooty, showcasing a variety of exotic plants, flowers, and trees, perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst nature.
The gardens are located near the hotel, a short walk or drive away.
INR 60, 2 hours

11:00AM

Boat Ride at Ooty Lake

Enjoy a scenic boat ride at Ooty Lake, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offering a peaceful experience on the tranquil waters.
Ooty Lake is a popular attraction, easily accessible by a short drive or walk from the Botanical Gardens.
INR 250 per person, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Sidewalk Cafe

Relish a delightful meal at Sidewalk Cafe, a charming eatery known for its cozy ambiance and delicious Continental and Indian cuisine options.
The cafe is located near Ooty Lake, providing a perfect lunch spot after the boat ride.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Doddabetta Peak

Head to Doddabetta Peak, the highest vantage point in Ooty, offering panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills and lush greenery, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Doddabetta Peak is a short drive from the cafe, easily reachable by taxi or private car.
INR 30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Earl's Secret

Dine at Earl's Secret, a colonial-style restaurant known for its delectable Anglo-Indian cuisine and charming ambiance, providing a unique dining experience in Ooty.
Earl's Secret is located in a scenic area of Ooty, offering a cozy dinner setting.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxing in Ooty and Return to Tiruvanamalai

Ooty, India

9:00AM

Morning Tea at Tea Factory

Start your day with a visit to a local tea factory in Ooty, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup of freshly brewed tea.
The tea factory is a short distance from the hotel, providing insights into Ooty's tea culture.
INR 100, 1 hour

11:00AM

Leisure Time at Ooty Rose Garden

Spend leisure time exploring the vibrant Ooty Rose Garden, home to a stunning collection of roses and various floral species, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
The Rose Garden is nearby, offering a colorful and fragrant experience.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shinkows Chinese Restaurant

Enjoy a flavorful Chinese meal at Shinkows Restaurant, a popular dining spot in Ooty known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance.
Shinkows is located in the heart of Ooty, ideal for a convenient lunch break.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Charring Cross Market

Discover unique souvenirs and local handicrafts at Charring Cross Market, a bustling shopping area in Ooty where you can find a variety of items to take back home.
Charring Cross Market is a short walk from the restaurant, offering a vibrant shopping experience.
Variable, 1 hour

6:00PM

Departure to Tiruvanamalai

Bid adieu to the picturesque hill station of Ooty and begin your journey back to Tiruvanamalai, reminiscing about the memorable moments and experiences in this charming destination.
The return journey to Tiruvanamalai takes approximately 8 hours by car, providing one last opportunity to enjoy the scenic views.
Transportation cost varies, 8 hours
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