Karnataka with Wayanad, Ooty & Kodaikanal

Overview

Eleven days that cross four hill ranges: the palaces of Bengaluru and Mysuru, the coffee estates of Coorg, the lakes and caves of Wayanad, the Nilgiri gardens of Ooty and the misty viewpoints of Kodaikanal, all in one private-car journey.

Highlights

• Mysuru Palace and Chamundi Hills
• Abbey Falls and coffee country in Coorg
• Edakkal Caves and Pookode Lake in Wayanad
• Doddabetta Peak and the Botanical Garden in Ooty
• Coaker's Walk and Pillar Rocks in Kodaikanal
• One private car for every transfer

1. Day 1A Warm Welcome to the Garden City

   Arrive in Bengaluru, where your driver meets you at the airport or railway station. After checking in and refreshing, explore selected city highlights depending on arrival time. Bengaluru Palace offers a glimpse of royal-era architecture, while Lalbagh Botanical Garden is known for its landscaped grounds and historic glasshouse. Vidhana Soudha is an impressive landmark viewed from the exterior, and ISKCON Bengaluru is a prominent spiritual complex. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

2. Day 2Bengaluru to Mysuru: Into the Land of Royal Heritage

   After breakfast, drive to Mysuru, a city associated with the Wadiyar dynasty, traditional crafts and palatial architecture. On arrival, visit Mysuru Palace, admired for its ornate interiors and Indo-Saracenic design. Depending on time, continue to the Chamundi Hills area or the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum. If the schedule and operating hours permit, visit Brindavan Gardens in the evening, known for its landscaped terraces and musical fountain presentations. Overnight stay in Mysuru.

3. Day 3Mysuru to Coorg: A Scenic Journey into the Coffee Hills

   After breakfast, depart for Coorg, also known as Kodagu, a green highland region famed for coffee estates, forested slopes and misty landscapes. En route, enjoy the changing countryside and take comfort breaks as required. After reaching your hotel, check in and relax. If time allows, visit Rajaʼs Seat in Madikeri for views across the surrounding hills, particularly attractive around sunset. Overnight stay in Coorg.

4. Day 4Coorg: Waterfalls, Heritage and Coffee Country

   Spend the day exploring Coorgʼs natural and cultural attractions. Abbey Falls is reached by a walk through lush vegetation and is especially atmospheric during and after the monsoon, subject to local access and conditions. Madikeri Fort provides a window into the areaʼs history, while Omkareshwara Temple is notable for its distinctive architecture. A coffee plantation visit can introduce guests to the regionʼs celebrated coffee-growing traditions. Dubare Elephant Camp may be considered if operating arrangements and access are available. Return to the hotel for the night.

5. Day 5Coorg to Wayanad: Through the Green Western Ghats

   After breakfast, travel towards Wayanad in Kerala, a region of forested hills, spice plantations, lakes and rural landscapes. The drive is scenic and may take several hours depending on the route and traffic. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Guests can relax amid the greenery or take a short local outing if time and daylight permit. Overnight stay in Wayanad.

6. Day 6Wayanad: Lakes, Viewpoints and Ancient Stories

   Explore selected sights across Wayanad. Pookode Lake is a forest-fringed freshwater lake where visitors may enjoy a peaceful walk and, where available, boating. Lakkidi View Point offers sweeping views over the winding mountain road and surrounding valleys. Edakkal Caves are known for prehistoric petroglyphs and require a climb; access and fitness requirements should be checked in advance. If time permits, add the Wayanad Heritage Museum for context on the regionʼs history and cultural traditions. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

7. Day 7Wayanad to Ooty: From Tropical Forests to Blue Mountains

   After breakfast, check out and proceed to Ooty, the celebrated hill station in the Nilgiri Hills. The journey passes through changing landscapes and can be affected by mountain-road conditions. On arrival, check in to the hotel and take time to settle in. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a relaxed visit to Ooty Lake or a stroll through the townʼs garden areas. Overnight stay in Ooty.

8. Day 8Ooty: Gardens, Peaks and Nilgiri Views

   Discover Ootyʼs classic hill-station attractions. The Government Botanical Garden features landscaped lawns, tree collections and seasonal floral displays. The Rose Garden showcases an extensive variety of roses, while Doddabetta Peak provides panoramic views when the weather is clear. A visit to the Pine Forest and Shooting Point can add cinematic forest scenery to the day. Return to the hotel and enjoy a restful evening in the cool mountain climate.

9. Day 9Ooty to Kodaikanal: Across the Southern Hill Country

   After breakfast, depart for Kodaikanal, another much-loved hill station, set amid wooded slopes and rocky viewpoints. This is a long inter-hill transfer, so plan for a substantial portion of the day on the road and confirm the practical route with the driver or supplier. On arrival, check in and relax. If time permits, enjoy a gentle walk around Kodaikanal Lake. Overnight stay in Kodaikanal.

10. Day 10Kodaikanal: Misty Walks and Dramatic Rock Formations

    Spend the day exploring Kodaikanalʼs scenic viewpoints and gardens. Coakerʼs Walk offers a pleasant elevated promenade with valley views when visibility is good. Bryant Park is known for its flower beds and landscaped setting. Pillar Rocks presents striking vertical rock formations, while Guna Caves are viewed from designated visitor areas subject to current access rules. Moir Point and Silver Cascade Falls can be added depending on route, weather and time. Return to the hotel for the final overnight stay.

11. Day 11Farewell to the Hills: Departure

    After breakfast, check out and transfer to Madurai or Coimbatore Airport / Railway Station as arranged. Departure transfer timing should be planned carefully because the drive from Kodaikanal can be lengthy. Your journey concludes with memories of royal Karnataka, coffee country and the mist-covered hills of South India.

Inclusions and exclusions

Important information