3-Day Budget-Friendly Itinerary for Ooty, India: Nature, Culture & Local Cuisine

Day 1: Relaxed Nature Day

Ooty, India on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Garden Restaurant

Start your day with a budget-friendly South Indian breakfast consisting of idli and dosa at Garden Restaurant, known for its local flavors and affordable prices.
INR100, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Ooty Botanical Gardens

Explore the lush botanical gardens full of diverse plant species and beautifully manicured landscapes; open from 9am to 6pm, ideal for morning walks.
INR30, 1h30m

11:00am

Ooty Lake

Enjoy a peaceful stroll or a budget-friendly paddle boat ride at Ooty Lake, surrounded by nature and family-friendly activities.
INR40, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nahar Restaurant

Try simple and tasty local South Indian thali meals at affordable prices in this no-frills eatery popular among locals and tourists.
INR150, 1h

2:00pm

Check-in Budget Stay: Zostel Ooty

Stay at Zostel Ooty, a budget-friendly hostel that offers clean dorms and private rooms with a social atmosphere, centrally located for easy access to attractions.
INR600/night, N/A

3:00pm

Explore Local Market

Stroll through Ooty’s local market to shop for handmade chocolates, aromatic spices, and local handicrafts at budget-friendly prices.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Adyar Ananda Bhavan

Dine at this budget-friendly vegetarian chain restaurant offering tasty dosas, uttapams, and sweets ideal for a filling yet inexpensive dinner.
INR120, 1h
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Day 2: Scenic Views & Culture

Ooty, India on June 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy an economical breakfast included with your stay or opt for a quick local tea and bun in a nearby bakery.
INR50, 0h45m

8:30am

Doddabetta Peak

Visit Tamil Nadu’s highest peak offering panoramic views of the Nilgiris; open 9am to 5pm with a small entry fee.
INR30, 2h

11:00am

Government Rose Garden

Explore Asia’s largest rose garden showcasing thousands of varieties of roses; great spot for photos and leisurely walks.
INR30, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Dosa Plaza

Enjoy affordable and filling south Indian delicacies like masala dosa and vada at this clean, popular local eatery.
INR100, 1h

1:45pm

Tea Factory and Museum Visit

Take a guided tour to learn about tea processing and sample varieties; open 10am to 5pm and costs very little.
INR50, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit St. Stephen’s Church

Explore this 19th-century historical church known for its colonial architecture and serene atmosphere; free entry.
Free, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Shinkow’s Chinese Restaurant

Try affordable Indian-Chinese dishes like fried rice and noodles, a popular budget option in Ooty for dinner.
INR150, 1h
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Day 3: Toy Train & Departure

Ooty, India on June 29, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick and budget-friendly breakfast at your accommodation or grab tea and biscuits from a local café.
INR50, 0h30m

7:30am

Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train Ride to Coonoor

Experience the scenic UNESCO-listed toy train ride from Ooty to Coonoor, taking around 1 hour each way, with early morning departure for best views.
INR70 (second class return), 3h

11:00am

Explore Sim’s Park in Coonoor

Visit the botanical garden in Coonoor with diverse flora and peaceful walking paths; ideal for a budget-friendly nature outing.
INR20, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Culinarium

Enjoy a reasonably priced lunch offering simple continental and Indian fare right in Coonoor.
INR150, 1h

2:00pm

Return Toy Train to Ooty

Take the scenic ride back to Ooty in the afternoon, soaking in more mountain views before final departure.
Included in earlier ticket, 1h

3:30pm

Last-minute Shopping or Relaxation

Spend remaining time relaxing at a café or shopping for souvenirs near the Ooty bus stand before heading out.
Varies, 1h
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