Kodaikanal Mysore Ooty Tours

Kodaikanal Mysore Ooty Tours

Kodaikanal is a place of ethereal beauty and paradisiac charm. Being centred on a beautiful man-made lake, the town gorgeously rambles up and down the hillsides. Nestled amidst the patches of Shola forest and evergreen broadleaved fauna, Kodaikanal overlooks the majestic Western Ghats. Every year millions of tourists from across the globe frequent this magnificent hill station of South India. It has also become very famous amongst the honeymooners and passionate bikers. Avoiding the heat-soaked plains, disembark into the misty chill of Kodaikanal. Get enchanted by the unadulterated beauty of the nature and unravel the grandeur of the erstwhile colonialism. Fulfil your shopping delights by strolling around the street and bagging a handful of different items from the colourful markets of the town. Embrace the traditional customs of the place. Savour a delectable spread of scrumptious grubs. Visit the places of unparalleled beauty such as Kodikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Pine Forest, Pillar Rocks, Bryant Park and many others. Spend a marvellous vacation amidst the majestic hills of Kodai.

Whenever the name ' Mysore' is mentioned, grand palaces with intricate and vibrant architecture come to mind. But Mysore is more than these majestic works in stone. Overlooking the city are the Chamundi Hills, Amidst the glory of the splendid blue-hued Nilgiri mountains in Tamil Nadu, lies the fascinating little town of Ooty. The quaint green paths, overshadowed by towering pine trees, reminds one of an English countryside. The charming colonial era bungalows take you back to the British era. In contrast, the bustling town centre consists of chaotic streets, busy markets and throngs of tourists.

Day 1 - Arrive in Bangalore | Sightseeing in Bangalore

Upon arrival at Bangalore airport/railway station, meet a Yatra representative who will assist you further. Thereafter, drive from the airport/railway station to the hotel. In the afternoon, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of Bangalore, which is also known as the 'Garden City of India'. Officially known as Bengaluru, the city owing to its varied culture has earned many sobriquets like 'Silicon Valley of India' and 'Pub City'. Dotted with several gardens and tall tree-lined streets, this city enjoys a salubrious climate throughout the year. Home to several heavy industries, aerospace, telecommunications and defence organisations, it is mainly known for its software companies and hence, called as the national hub of Information Technology (IT). The most popular attractions of Bangalore are Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Cubbon Park, Jawahar Lal Nehru Planetarium, Bull Temple and ISKCON Temple. To get a glimpse of city's rich culture and heritage, you may visit these places. After reaching the hotel, complete the check-in formalities and take rest. In the evening, spend your time in leisure activities. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2 - Drive from Bangalore to Mysore (143 km/approx. 3 hours) | Sightseeing in Mysore

After a scrumptious breakfast, embark on a journey to Mysore – the 'City of Palaces'. Mysore, among the largest cities in Karnataka, is a popular destination for people with eclectic tastes. It being reigned by many powerful dynasties, including the Wadiyars, the Sultans and the British, offers a blend of rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its various palaces and royal edifices. This lively city is also famous for sandalwood, exquisite artefacts, silk sarees and Dasara Festival. On your way to this charming city, visit Srirangapatnam, the erstwhile capital of Mysore State during the regime of Tipu Sultan. Some of the famous attractions of this place are Daria Daulat Palace and Masji-e-Ala or Juma Majid, both built by Tipu Sultan. By noon, reach Mysore and check-in at the hotel. After relaxing for a while, visit the splendid Mysore Palace, which is acclaimed for its adorned ceilings, jewelled corridors and open mandaps. Also known as Amba Vilas Palace, this palace has an excellent blend of Indo-Saracenic, Dravidian and Roman styles of architecture. Then, head towards Mysore Zoo, officially Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens. It was established in 1892 by Sri Chamarajendra Wadiyar Bahadur, the former ruler of Mysore. Spread across an area of 80.13 acres, the zoo has a picturesque landscape with luxuriant fauna, an artificial lake and Chamundi Hills as its backdrop. This place is abode to some rare wildlife species, including sun bear, binturong, chimpanzee, Indian rhinoceros, white peafowl, grey langurs, zebra, red ibis, baboons and kangaroos. In the evening, visit the world-famous Brindavan Gardens. Spread over an area of about 150 acres, this beautiful garden is laid out alongside the imposing Krishnaraja Sagar Dam, built across the Cauvery River. It is a terrace garden, set on Mughal patterns, which is popular for its illuminated musical fountains and light show that is held every evening. After this sightseeing trip, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 3 - Drive from Mysore to Ooty (160 km)

Post breakfast, check-out from the hotel and drive to Ooty – the 'Queen of Hill Stations'. On the way, get a glance of the Bandipur and Madumalai Forests. Also known as Udhagamandalam, Ooty is set amidst Nilgiris Hills and is the capital of the Niligiris district. Perched at a height of 2240 m above sea level, this hill resort offers a picturesque view of towering mountain peaks, dense forests, sprawling grasslands and expansive tea gardens. Set up as a weekend getaway during British colonial era, Ooty is now one of the most-visited hill resorts in the country. Besides its natural beauty, the hill station is known for offering an exciting mountain train journey from Kallar to Mettupalayam that passes hair-pin curves, gloomy tunnels, gurgling streams and beautiful tea gardens. Upon arrival in Ooty, check-in at the hotel. Spend the remaining day at wishful activities like shopping or exploring nearby attractions. Enjoy a comfortable stay in your hotel room overnight as the next day awaits with many wonderful surprises.

Day 4 - Sightseeing in Ooty

Following breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Ooty. Start the sightseeing tour with a visit to Doddabeta Peak (about 2634 m above sea level), which is the highest peak in the Nilgiris. The name itself means 'big mountain', and it offers beautiful vistas of the neighbouring landscapes. This peak lies at the amalgamation of splendid Western and Eastern Ghats and is surrounded by dense sholas. By noon, come back to Ooty and visit the world-famous Government Botanical Gardens. Spread over 22 hectares, this garden was founded in 1847 by the then Governor of Madras. Later, visit the placid Ooty Lake were you can enjoy a boat ride as well as horse ride. In the evening, visit Coonoor, which is a serene hill resort positioned at an elevation of 2000 feet above sea level. Some of the popular tourist attractions of this place are Sim's Park, Lambs Rock, Lady Canning's Seat, Dolphin's Nose, St. Catherine Falls, Law's Falls and Ralliah Dam. After this interesting jaunt, return to the hotel and stay overnight.

Day 5 - Drive from Ooty to Kodaikanal (260 km)

After a flavoursome breakfast, embark on a road journey to Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal, also known as Kodai, means 'Gift of the Forest' in local language. One of the sought-after tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu, it is located in the Palani Hills of the Western Ghats at a height of over 7200 feet above sea level. Owing to its divine beauty, rolling hills, dense forests, placid lakes and mesmerising waterfalls, this hill station is fondly referred as the 'Princess of Hill Stations'. On arrival in Kodaikanal, complete all check-in formalities at the hotel and spend the evening at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel and get a good night's sleep.

Day 6 - Sightseeing in Kodaikanal

After having a delicious breakfast, leave the hotel for a half-day tour of Kodaikanal. Visit some of the popular tourist attractions of this place, such as Bryant's Park, Coaker's Walk, Pillar Rocks and Suicide Point. Later, in the evening visit Kodai Lake that covers an area of over 24 hectares. An artificial lake, it was created in 1863 by Sir Vere Hendry Levinge, a former Collector of Madurai. Inaugurated for the public in the year 1932, this lake is popular for its boat rides. Thereafter, return to the hotel and enjoy a pleasant overnight stay in your room.

Day 7 - Depart from Madurai

After breakfast, check-out of the hotel and transfer to Madurai airport/railway station to continue your onward journey.

Tour Ends.

Payments policy

• 25% Amount at the time of booking. 100% Amount 15 days or earlier, before travel date. Payment by cheque or online payment facility available. Your booking confirmation number will be provided to you.

Tour Cancilation policy

• Strictly depends upon concerned hotel's cancellation policy
• Minimum Cancilation charges before 10days of Travel Date is 10% of package cost

• Package cost will change if opted for guide service, choice of transport vehicle, hotel type change
• Accommodation charges as mentioned in the package are with 2 persons staying together sharing the same room
• Extra persons in same room charges extra
• Altough we ensure you the best experience but unfortunate delays in travel and inefficient service of hotel is the responsibility of the respective parties.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Madurai Airport (Airport Code: IXM), located 120 km southeast of Kodaikanal (approximately 3 to 3.5 hours drive via Usilampatti, Batlagundu, and the Kodai Ghat Road). Madurai operates frequent non-stop flights to Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Colombo, and Dubai. Alternate air gateways include Coimbatore International Airport (CJB - 175 km / 4.5 hours drive) and Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ - 195 km / 4.5 hours drive).

By Train:

The primary railheads serving Kodaikanal are:

• Kodaikanal Road Railway Station (Station Code: KQN - 80 km / 2.5 hours): The main railway stop at the base of the Palani hills, connected by major express trains including the Pandian Superfast Express (Train 12637/12638 from Chennai Egmore) and Pearl City Express.
• Dindigul Junction (Station Code: DG - 65 km / 2.5 hours): Major railway junction handling long-distance superfast trains from Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi.
• Prepaid taxis and state transport buses run 24/7 from both KQN and Dindigul directly to Kodaikanal town.

By Road:

Kodaikanal is connected by scenic, well-maintained mountain ghat roads via Batlagundu (SH-156) and Palani:

• From Madurai (~120 km / 3 hours): Smooth drive via Batlagundu and Silver Cascade Ghat Road.
• From Coimbatore (~175 km / 4.5 hours): Scenic drive via Pollachi, Udumalpet, and Palani.
• From Munnar (~165 km / 4.5 hours): Mountain drive connecting Kerala's high ranges with Tamil Nadu.
• From Ooty (~250 km / 6.5 hours): High-altitude hill-to-hill drive via Mettupalayam and Palani.
• From Bangalore (~460 km / 8.5 hours): Highway drive via Salem, Dindigul, and Batlagundu on NH-44.
• State Buses: TNSTC and KSRTC operate regular Super Fast, Deluxe, and AC sleeper buses to Kodaikanal Bus Stand from Chennai, Bangalore, Madurai, Coimbatore, and Trichy.

Kodaikanal offers a remarkable collection of star-shaped boating lakes, soaring granite pillars, cliffside walking paths, botanical gardens, and hidden forest caves:

1. Kodai Lake & 5-km Star-Shaped Boating Promenade (1863)

Created in 1863 by British collector Sir Vere Henry Levinge by damming three mountain streams, the 60-acre star-shaped Kodai Lake is the focal point of the hill station. Visitors can rent pedal boats and shikaras from the TTDC boat club, ride horses along the shore, or rent bicycles to ride along the scenic 5 km lake promenade.

Kodai Lake — Iconic 60-Acre Star-Shaped Mountain Lake Featuring Pedal Boating and Cycling

2. Pillar Rocks (400-Foot Vertical Granite Monoliths & Mist)

Located 8 km from the town center, Pillar Rocks consists of three colossal vertical granite boulders rising dramatically 400 feet (122 meters) into the sky. Maintained by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, the viewpoint features manicured flower gardens and offers breathtaking views when the dense mountain mist parts to reveal the deep forested chasm below.

Pillar Rocks — Dramatic 400-Foot Sheer Granite Monoliths Overlooking Deep Forest Chasms

3. Coaker's Walk & Telescopic Viewpoint (1872 Cliffside Walk)

Constructed in 1872 by Lieutenant Coaker, this narrow 1-kilometer paved pedestrian walkway winds along the steep southern cliff edge of the hill station. Offering sweeping panoramic views of the Dolphin's Nose, Pambar River valley, and the distant city of Madurai, the walk is famous for the rare *Brocken Spectre* optical phenomenon on misty mornings.

Coaker's Walk — 1-Kilometer Cliffside Paved Promenade Offering Valley and Plains Panoramas

4. Bryant Park & Glasshouse Botanical Gardens (1908)

Situated on the eastern side of Kodai Lake, Bryant Park is a 20.5-acre landscaped botanical wonderland established in 1908 by British forest officer Glenn Bryant. The park features 740 varieties of roses, an exotic glasshouse, a 170-year-old Bodhi tree, and hosts the grand Annual Horticultural Flower Show every May.

Bryant Park — 20-Acre Landscaped Botanical Garden and Annual Flower Show Venue in Kodaikanal

5. Silver Cascade 180-Foot Waterfall (Ghat Road Gateway)

Located 8 km before reaching Kodaikanal along the main ghat road, Silver Cascade Falls is formed by the overflow waters of Kodai Lake plunging 180 feet down a sheer cliff. The roaring spray of shimmering white water makes it the traditional welcoming sight for visitors driving up the hill.

Silver Cascade — 180-Foot Roaring Waterfall Welcoming Visitors on the Kodaikanal Ghat Road

6. Guna Caves (Devil's Kitchen Chasm & Pine Forest)

Originally discovered in 1821 by British officer B.S. Ward and called *Devil's Kitchen*, these mysterious deep rock fissures are surrounded by towering pine trees with exposed roots. The location gained fame after Kamal Haasan's iconic Tamil film *Guna* was filmed here.

7. Dolphin's Nose Rock & Vattakanal Echo Point (Trek)

A natural flat rock projecting over a dizzying 6,600-foot deep precipice, Dolphin's Nose is reached via a 1.5 km rugged forest trek from the bohemian village of Vattakanal. The viewpoint provides thrilling views of the Catherine Falls and Pambar Ravine.

8. Kurinji Andavar Temple (12-Year Neelakurinji Blossom Hill)

Dedicated to Lord Murugan (known here as *Kurinji Andavar* or God of the Hills), this hilltop shrine is surrounded by slopes where the sacred *Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana)* shrubs bloom in vibrant purples once every 12 years.

9. Berijam Lake Pristine Forest Eco-Reserve (21 km)

A protected freshwater lake located 21 km inside dense reserve forests. Managed by the Forest Department (entry permit required), Berijam is a pristine wilderness haven home to wild bison, elephants, Nilgiri langurs, and rare medicinal water lilies.