Important tips:

Before you embark on your South India tour, it is crucial to note a few key points to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. You will be traveling through a variety of climates, from the cool hill stations of Ooty and Coorg to the warmer plains of Mysore and Coimbatore. It is highly advisable to pack in layers, including a light jacket or sweater for the evenings and early mornings in the hills, along with comfortable walking shoes, as a lot of sightseeing involves walking.

Given the long road journeys on several days, it is recommended to carry light snacks and a water bottle to stay comfortable and hydrated. Always ensure you drink only bottled water to avoid any health issues. While exploring, be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly in religious places. When driving through the Bandipur and Mudumalai forests, remember to remain in your vehicle and avoid making loud noises to ensure the safety of yourself and the wildlife.

Day 1: Arrival in Ooty

Upon your arrival at Coimbatore Railway Station in the morning, you will be met by a driver for a scenic drive to Ooty. The journey covers approximately 85 kilometers and takes about 3 hours, winding through the lush Nilgiri hills. After checking into your hotel and freshening up, you will proceed with a short sightseeing tour in the evening, depending on the time available.

·       Ooty Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden is a horticultural paradise spread over 55 acres. It showcases a diverse collection of temperate plants, trees, and exotic species from around the world. Highlights include a fossil tree that is 20 million years old and a stunning Italian-style garden. The garden is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with no closing days.

·       Charing Cross: Located at the heart of Ooty, Charing Cross is a vibrant commercial area perfect for a leisurely walk and some local shopping. You can find a variety of items here, from warm woolen clothes and souvenirs to local Nilgiri tea and spices. This area provides a great opportunity to soak in the local atmosphere.

Day 2: Full Day Ooty Sightseeing

Today is dedicated to exploring the highlights of Ooty and its surrounding areas. You will begin your day with sightseeing before taking an afternoon drive to the nearby hill station of Coonoor.

·       Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train): You have the optional opportunity to ride this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers a memorable journey from Ooty to Coonoor. This iconic train winds through tunnels and lush forests, providing breathtaking views of the Nilgiri hills. Tickets must be booked well in advance.

·       Doddabetta Peak: Standing at 2,637 meters, this is the highest point in the Nilgiri Mountains. It offers panoramic views of the entire region, including the Ooty Valley, Mysore, and the Coimbatore plains. The peak is a popular spot for photography and is accessible by a short drive from the main road. The viewpoint is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

·       Ooty Lake: This beautiful artificial lake is a popular tourist spot. It offers a variety of boating options, including pedal boats, motorboats, and rowboats. The area around the lake is also great for cycling and horse riding. It is an ideal place for a relaxing and fun-filled time with family. Ooty Lake is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. 

·       Ooty Rose Garden: Spread across several acres, this garden is a true feast for the eyes, boasting over 3,000 varieties of roses. It has received an award from the World Federation of Rose Societies and is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. The best time to visit is during the blooming season. The garden is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

·       Lamb’s Rock, Coonoor: This viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Coimbatore plains and the lush green hills. Located on the way to Dolphin's Nose, it is a great spot to pause and appreciate the scenery. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 

·       Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint, Coonoor: Named for its unique rock formation that resembles a dolphin’s nose, this viewpoint provides a magnificent panoramic vista of the surrounding valleys, including the beautiful Catherine Falls in the distance. The journey to the viewpoint is scenic and picturesque. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

·       Tea Factory & Tea Garden Tour: Ooty is famous for its tea plantations. A visit to a local tea factory provides a fascinating insight into the process of tea making, from plucking the leaves to the final product. You can also enjoy a guided walk through the sprawling tea gardens and sample different varieties of tea.

Day 3: Ooty to Mysore

After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel in Ooty and begin your drive to Mysore. The journey is approximately 125 kilometers and will take around 4 hours. The route is scenic as it passes through the forested areas of Bandipur and Mudumalai, offering you a good chance to spot various types of wildlife, including elephants, deer, and monkeys, along the way. Upon arrival in Mysore, you will check into your hotel.

·       Mysore Palace: As one of the largest palaces in India, Mysore Palace is a grand architectural masterpiece. It is the official residence and a royal museum for the Wadiyar dynasty. The palace is an exquisite example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, featuring a blend of Hindu, Rajput, and Gothic styles. It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM and remains closed on Tuesdays.

·       Brindavan Gardens: These famous gardens are located below the Krishnarajasagar Dam and are known for their spectacular musical fountain show. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with a variety of terraced flowerbeds, fountains, and manicured lawns. The musical fountain show in the evening is a major highlight, where water jets dance to the rhythm of music and lights. The gardens are open daily from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with the musical fountain show running in the evening.

Day 4: Mysore to Coorg

This morning after breakfast, you will check out and proceed to Coorg (Madikeri), a journey of approximately 105 kilometers that takes about 3.5 hours. Coorg is affectionately known as the 'Scotland of India' for its misty hills and cool climate. En route, you may stop at a fascinating spot for a unique experience.

·       Dubare Elephant Camp: Located on the banks of the River Kaveri, this camp is home to a large number of elephants. Here, you have the opportunity to participate in activities like elephant bathing and feeding. The best time for these activities is in the morning, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM.

·       Raja’s Seat: Upon arrival in Coorg and after checking into your hotel, your evening will be dedicated to a visit to Raja's Seat. This is a beautiful garden with a mesmerizing view of the sunset amidst lush green hills and valleys. The garden is open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the evening to witness the spectacular sunset.

Day 5: Full Day Coorg Sightseeing

Today you will explore the full beauty of Coorg, from its cascading waterfalls and historical sites to its rich coffee plantations.

·       Abbey Falls: This breathtaking waterfall cascades down a rocky terrain and is surrounded by lush coffee and spice plantations. A walk down a path surrounded by verdant greenery and the sound of the falling water makes for a refreshing experience. The falls are open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

·       Omkareshwara Temple: This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva features a unique blend of Gothic and Islamic architectural styles, with a dome and minarets. It is also famous for a small pond within the temple premises, which has many fish. The temple is open from 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. 

·       Coffee Plantation Walk & Visit: Coorg is famous for its coffee. A walk through a coffee plantation provides a fascinating look into the process of growing coffee beans. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can learn about coffee cultivation and processing, and even enjoy a fresh cup of coffee.

·       Madikeri Fort: Originally built in the 17th century, this fort has been rebuilt and modified over time. It houses a palace, a church, and a museum, providing a glimpse into the region's history. The fort is open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, but is closed on Thursdays. 

·       Tala Kaveri: This is the origin of the sacred River Kaveri. Located on the slopes of Brahmagiri Hills, it is a serene and beautiful spot. While it is an optional visit, it is highly recommended for its spiritual significance and beautiful surroundings. The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The rest of the evening is free for shopping for local spices and coffee. You will stay overnight in Coorg.

Day 6: Coorg to Coimbatore Drop

After an early breakfast, you will check out from your hotel in Coorg and begin your return journey. The drive to Coimbatore Railway Station is approximately 275 kilometers and will take about 6.5 hours. You will be dropped off at the railway station for your return journey, marking the end of your memorable tour.