Southern India Rail Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Mountains & Tea Estates

Ooty, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sidewalk Café

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast of dosa and filter coffee amidst panoramic views of Ooty's tea estates.
Located in the heart of Ooty, easy to reach by foot from most accommodations.
INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Ooty Botanical Gardens

Stroll through the well-manicured gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants and trees, a perfect spot to unwind amidst nature.
A short walk from Sidewalk Café, entry tickets available at the gate.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shinkow's Chinese Restaurant

Savor delicious Indo-Chinese cuisine for an authentic culinary experience in Ooty.
Located in the city center, a quick rickshaw ride away from the Gardens.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Toy Train Ride to Coonor

Embark on a scenic toy train journey to Coonor through the Nilgiri Mountains, enjoying breathtaking views along the way.
Tickets can be purchased at the Ooty Railway Station, make sure to book in advance.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Darshan

Indulge in a traditional South Indian thali for a flavorful end to your day in Ooty.
Located in the heart of Ooty, a short walk from the train station.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 2: Historical & Cultural Delights

Ooty, India

9:00AM

Visit Doddabetta Peak

Start your day with a trip to Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiris, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Hire a local cab for a smooth journey to the peak.
INR 150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shri Velmurugan Hotel

Relish authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine at this local favorite known for its delicious and affordable meals.
A short drive from Doddabetta Peak, easily accessible by cab.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Tea Factory and Museum

Discover the art of tea-making and delve into the history of India's tea industry with a tour of the factory and museum.
Located in the outskirts of Ooty, cab services available for transportation.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Shinkow's Chinese Restaurant

Return to the city for another delightful meal at Shinkow's, sampling more of their delectable Chinese dishes.
Conveniently located in Ooty city center.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Palaces & Culture

Mysore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vinayaka Mylari

Begin your day with a traditional Mysorean breakfast of masala dosa and filter coffee at this famed eatery.
Located centrally, accessible by foot or rickshaw from most accommodations.
INR 150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Mysore Palace

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Mysore Palace, a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture and a symbol of the city's royal past.
Entrance tickets available at the palace gates, guided tours also offered.
INR 200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at RRR Restaurant

Relish a sumptuous South Indian thali at RRR, a popular spot known for its authentic flavors and affordable prices.
Located near Mysore Palace, a short walk from the main gate.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Chamundi Hill

Climb up Chamundi Hill to explore the Chamundeshwari Temple and enjoy panoramic views of Mysore city below.
Local buses and taxis available for a hassle-free journey to the hilltop.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mylari Dosa

End your day with dinner at Mylari Dosa, a beloved eatery serving delectable dosas with a variety of fillings.
Located in the heart of Mysore, a short distance from Chamundi Hill.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 4: Scenic Beauty & Serenity

Coonor, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Culinarium

Kick off your day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Culinarium, known for its fresh, organic fare and cozy ambiance.
Located in Coonor town center, easily accessible by foot.
INR 250, 1 hour

11:00AM

Sims Park

Spend the morning exploring Sims Park, a botanical garden featuring exotic plants, flowers, and trees, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Entrance tickets available at the park gates, walking distance from The Culinarium.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Culinarium

Head back to The Culinarium for a fresh and organic lunch, enjoying the serene surroundings and delicious food.
Conveniently located in Coonor town center.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Coonoor Tea Estate Visit

Embark on a guided tour of a local tea estate to learn about the tea production process and enjoy a tasting session.
Various tea estates offer tours, inquire at The Culinarium for recommendations.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Belle Vie

Indulge in a European-inspired dinner at La Belle Vie, a cozy restaurant known for its fusion cuisine and warm ambiance.
Located in Coonor town, a short walk from most accommodations.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 5: Historic Ruins & Hampi Wonders

Hampi, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mango Tree Restaurant

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Mango Tree, known for its delicious food and laid-back atmosphere.
Located conveniently in Hampi Bazaar area, popular among tourists.
INR 200, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Hampi's Virupaksha Temple

Visit the iconic Virupaksha Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to Hampi's rich history and architectural grandeur.
Entrance tickets available at the temple gates, guided tours can be arranged.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gouthami Guest House

Savor a traditional South Indian meal at Gouthami Guest House, offering authentic flavors and budget-friendly options.
Located near the temple complex, a short walk from Virupaksha Temple.
INR 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Hampi's Ancient Ruins

Spend the afternoon wandering through the captivating ruins of Hampi, including the Royal Enclosure, Lotus Palace, and Monkey Temple.
Local guides available near the temple complex for informative tours.
INR 50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mowgli Restaurant

End your day with a relaxed dinner at Mowgli Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and diverse menu options.
Situated in Hampi's main bazaar, a bustling area with plenty of dining choices.
INR 250, 1 hour
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