Ooty weekend getaway from Bangalore

Nilgiri circuit

Bangalore - Mysore - Ooty

Nilgiri circuit tours

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The Nilgiri Circuit is a captivating travel route that connects the vibrant city of Bangalore, the culturally rich town of Mysore, and the serene hill station of Ooty, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills. This circuit offers a delightful mix of experiences, from exploring Bangalore's bustling markets and tech-savvy charm, to Mysore's royal heritage with its grand palace and Chamundi Hill, and finally, Ooty's lush tea gardens, tranquil lakes, and the iconic Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and leisure travelers alike, the Nilgiri Circuit promises a journey filled with scenic landscapes, cultural exploration, and unforgettable memories.

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Trip Highlights

Mysore Palace

Mysore Palace

A magnificent royal residence showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture, especially stunning during evening illuminations

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Lalbagh Botanical Garden

A sprawling garden with exotic plants and a famous glasshouse in Bangalore

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Brindavan Gardens

Famous for its symmetrical design and musical fountain show

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Nilgiri Mountain Railway

A UNESCO World Heritage toy train ride offering breathtaking views of the hills.

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Pykara Falls and Lake

Scenic spots perfect for nature lovers and photographers

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Srirangapatna (Near Mysore)

A historic town featuring the Ranganathaswamy Temple and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace.

7-Day Itinerary for the Nilgiri Circuit

Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore
  • Morning: Arrive in Bangalore and check into your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, and Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.
  • Evening: Explore Commercial Street and MG Road for shopping and dining.
  • Overnight Stay: Bangalore.

Day 2: Bangalore to Mysore (145 km | ~3 hours)
  • Morning: Depart for Mysore after breakfast. En route, visit Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangapatna.
  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel and visit Mysore Palace and St. Philomena’s Church.
  • Evening: Explore the illuminated Brindavan Gardens and enjoy the musical fountain show.
  • Overnight Stay: Mysore.

Day 3: Explore Mysore
  • Morning: Head to Chamundi Hill and visit the Chamundeshwari Temple. Stop by the Nandi Statue for views of the city.
  • Afternoon: Visit Mysore Zoo or shop for Mysore silk and sandalwood products at the local markets.
  • Evening: Relax at Karanji Lake or enjoy a cultural show.
  • Overnight Stay: Mysore.

Day 4: Mysore to Ooty (125 km | ~3.5–4 hours)
  • Morning: Depart for Ooty, driving through the scenic Bandipur National Park. Spot wildlife along the way.
  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Ooty and visit the Botanical Gardens and Ooty Lake for boating.
  • Evening: Stroll through the local market for souvenirs and fresh produce.
  • Overnight Stay: Ooty.

Day 5: Explore Ooty
  • Morning: Visit Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiris, for panoramic views.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Tea Museum and Factory and enjoy tea tasting. Later, visit Pykara Lake and Falls for a peaceful retreat.
  • Evening: Spend time at your leisure or enjoy a bonfire at your stay.
  • Overnight Stay: Ooty.

Day 6: Day Trip to Coonoor (21 km | ~1 hour)
  • Morning: Take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) from Ooty to Coonoor. Visit Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, and Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint.
  • Afternoon: Have lunch at a local eatery and shop for homemade chocolates and spices.
  • Evening: Return to Ooty by road.
  • Overnight Stay: Ooty.

Day 7: Ooty to Bangalore (275 km | ~6–7 hours)
  • Morning: Depart early for Bangalore. Optional stop at Channapatna to explore its famous wooden toy markets.
  • Afternoon: Arrive in Bangalore for shopping or sightseeing if time permits.
  • Evening: Drop-off at the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

Customizable Options
  • Add a wildlife safari at Bandipur National Park or Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary on Day 4 or 6.
  • Extend the itinerary with a stay in Coonoor or a visit to Avalanche Lake near Ooty.

This 7-day itinerary balances sightseeing with leisure and gives you ample time to explore the highlights of Bangalore, Mysore, and Ooty.

Inclusions

  • Accommodation in 3/4 star hotels
  • Private AC vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
  • Professional English-speaking tour guide
  • Toll tax and interstate permit fees

Exclusions

  • Entry ticket to attractions and Parking fee
  • Meals
  • Personal expenses and tips
  • Travel insurance

Cancellation Policy

Days before departureCancellation Charge
4+ hours before departureFree
Less than 4 hours before departure10% of cost
Refund Method
  • Refunds will be processed within 7-10 business days after cancellation approval
  • Amount will be refunded to the original payment method used during booking
  • Bank charges, if any, will be deducted from the refund amount

Note: Cancellation requests must be made in writing via email or through your account dashboard. The cancellation charge will be calculated based on the date of receipt of the cancellation request.

Things to Pack for a Weekend Trip to Ooty from Bangalore

Clothing Essentials
  • Light and breathable clothes for the day (cotton shirts, t-shirts, trousers)
  • Warm layers (sweaters, jackets) for cooler evenings, especially during winter
  • Comfortable shoes for walking, trekking, or exploring plantations
  • Raincoat or umbrella, as Coorg often experiences sudden showers
Travel Gear
  • A small backpack for day trips and treks
  • Sunglasses, a hat/cap, and sunscreen to protect against the sun
  • A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
Toiletries and Personal Care
  • Travel-sized toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.)
  • Moisturizer and lip balm for colder weather
  • Insect repellent to ward off bugs, especially in plantations or forested areas
Electronics
  • Phone charger and power bank
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing beautiful moments
  • Optional: Bluetooth speakers for some light music during your stay
Miscellaneous
  • A lightweight scarf or shawl for sudden temperature changes
  • A small first-aid kit with basic medicines
  • ID proofs and necessary travel documents
  • Snacks and light refreshments for the road trip
Optional Items
  • Trekking pole if planning any hikes
  • A book or Kindle for downtime in nature
  • Binoculars for birdwatching enthusiasts

By packing these essentials, you'll be ready to enjoy scenic beauty, serene environment, and unique experiences comfortably!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Nilgiri Tourist Circuit?

The Nilgiri Circuit is a popular travel route that includes Bangalore (a bustling city known for its tech hubs and parks), Mysore (a city rich in royal heritage), and Ooty (a serene hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Hills). It offers a mix of urban, cultural, and natural experiences.

How far are Bangalore, Mysore, and Ooty from each other?

Bangalore to Mysore: ~145 km (~3 hours by road). Mysore to Ooty: ~125 km (~3.5–4 hours by road). Bangalore to Ooty: ~275 km (~6–7 hours by road).

What is the best time to visit the Nilgiri Circuit?

The ideal time to visit is between October and June when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season (July–September) for smoother travel, as roads to Ooty can be slippery.

How many days are required to explore this circuit?

A 5–7 day trip is ideal: Day 1-2: Explore Bangalore's attractions. Day 3-4: Visit Mysore's cultural sites. Day 5-7: Relax and explore Ooty's scenic spots.

What are the must-visit attractions in each city?

Bangalore: Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace, ISKCON Temple. Mysore: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, Brindavan Gardens, St. Philomena’s Church. Ooty: Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, Tea Museum, Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

What are the transport options for this circuit?

By Road: Private cars, buses, or cab services are the most convenient. By Train: Direct trains connect Bangalore to Mysore. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway operates between Mettupalayam and Ooty. By Air: Bangalore has the nearest major airport. Mysore has a smaller airport with limited connectivity.

Are there cab services available for the entire circuit?

Yes, cab services offer customizable packages for the Nilgiri Circuit. You can book a single cab for the entire route or hire individual cabs for each leg. Prices vary based on the vehicle type and duration of the trip.

What is the approximate cost of a cab for this trip?

Bangalore to Mysore: Starting at ₹3,500 (one way). Mysore to Ooty: Starting at ₹4,000 (one way). Full circuit: ₹10,000–₹15,000 for a round trip, depending on vehicle type and number of days.

What type of vehicles are available for the trip?

Options include hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and luxury cars. SUVs are recommended for larger groups or travelers heading to Ooty, as the hill roads require vehicles with good power.

Can I book a round trip?

Yes, round-trip packages are available for the entire circuit or specific segments. These packages often include options for sightseeing stops and multi-day travel.

Are stopovers allowed during the journey?

Yes, you can request stopovers at places like Srirangapatna (near Mysore), Bandipur National Park, and Coonoor (en route to Ooty). Inform your cab service provider in advance to plan accordingly.

What are some must-try local cuisines?

Bangalore: Masala dosa, filter coffee. Mysore: Mysore Pak (sweet), Mysore masala dosa. Ooty: Homemade chocolates, eucalyptus-flavored tea, and locally sourced vegetables.

Are accommodations readily available in all three cities?

Yes, there are accommodations to suit all budgets: Bangalore: Luxury hotels and business accommodations. Mysore: Heritage hotels and mid-range options. Ooty: Hill resorts, homestays, and cottages.

Are there any entry fees for major attractions?

Yes, most attractions charge nominal entry fees: Mysore Palace: ~₹70 for adults. Ooty Botanical Gardens: ~₹30 per person. Nilgiri Mountain Railway: ~₹100–₹500, depending on the class.

What precautions should I take for the trip?

Carry warm clothing for Ooty, as it can get chilly. Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons. Keep emergency supplies, such as medicines and snacks, for the hill journey to Ooty.

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₹7,999₹1,999 /-
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Weekend trip from Bangalore
4 People
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