3-Day Scenic Mountain Escape in South India

Day 1: Ooty Exploration

Ooty, Tamil Nadu on May 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Earl's Secret

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast with freshly brewed Nilgiri tea at this charming colonial-era restaurant located within Hotel Savoy. It offers a serene ambiance perfect to start your day.
INR 400, 1h

9:30am

Botanical Gardens

Explore the Government Botanical Gardens, featuring exotic and indigenous plants over 22 hectares with a well-maintained layout. It's a great place to relax and take scenic photos.
INR 30, 2h

11:45am

Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ride

Experience a UNESCO Heritage toy train ride from Ooty to Coonoor, enjoying stunning views of the hills and tea estates. The train departs around noon, so advance booking is advisable.
INR 150, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Shinkows

Taste authentic Chinese and Tibetan cuisine in Ooty’s famous Shinkows where the momos and thukpa are highly recommended.
INR 500, 1h

3:00pm

Doddabetta Peak

Visit the highest peak in the Nilgiris, offering panoramic views of the hill ranges. The park is open until 6:00 pm and has a telescope for better sightseeing.
INR 20, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Earl's Secret

Return to this cozy restaurant to enjoy dinner in a garden setting with dishes like roasted chicken and vegetable stew, perfect after a day of sightseeing.
INR 700, 1.5h

Day 2: Coonoor Adventures

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a nourishing South Indian breakfast at your hotel, featuring dosas and filter coffee.
INR 350, 1h

9:30am

Sim’s Park

Visit this well-maintained botanical garden that showcases a variety of exotic plants and trees. It’s especially beautiful during the early morning with less crowd and fresh air.
INR 30, 1.5h

11:15am

Tea Estate Visit

Tour one of the famous tea plantations around Coonoor to see tea production and sample fresh Nilgiri tea. Many estates offer guided tours from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Free to INR 100 (depending on estate), 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Open Terraces Cafe

Enjoy a cozy meal with Indian and continental options featuring locally sourced produce, with views overlooking the hills.
INR 600, 1h

3:00pm

Dolphin's Nose Viewpoint

Take a short trek to this famous viewpoint known for its dramatic cliff and breathtaking valley vistas. Best visited in the afternoon for clear skies.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at La Belle Vie

Dine at this elegant French-style bistro offering a blend of Indian and European cuisine, perfect to unwind.
INR 800, 1.5h

Day 3: Kodaikanal Escape

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu on May 4, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast on the Way

Grab a quick breakfast of idli and chutney on the route to Kodaikanal, which takes about 3 hours from Coonoor by road.
INR 250, 30m

11:00am

Kodaikanal Lake Boating

Arrive at picturesque Kodaikanal Lake and enjoy pedal boating or rowing. The lake is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and provides a peaceful experience amidst the hills.
INR 150, 1.5h

12:45pm

Lunch at Cloud Street

Indulge in health-conscious meals and baked goods at this popular cafe near the lake, known for fresh ingredients and vibrant ambience.
INR 500, 1h

2:00pm

Coaker’s Walk

Walk along this scenic paved pathway offering stunning views of the valleys below. It’s a gentle walk perfect for the afternoon and open till sunset.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Bryant Park

Visit this botanical garden known for its impressive flower shows and well-manicured landscapes, open from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.
INR 30, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Tava Vegetarian Restaurant

Enjoy authentic vegetarian Indian cuisine with a variety of spicy and mild dishes made with fresh local produce to round off your mountain trip.
INR 600, 1.5h