A three-day trip from Bangalore to Ooty is one of the most refreshing getaways you can plan, whether you are a couple riding on a bike or a family driving in a car. Ooty—often called The Queen of Hill Stations—offers misty mountains, cool breezes, lush tea gardens, and breathtaking viewpoints that make the journey unforgettable.
If you love long drives, peaceful nature, and a balanced, well-paced itinerary, this 3-day plan will fit perfectly. You can also adjust the plan depending on how much time you want to spend at each place. If you feel like spending extra time somewhere, you can always skip the next location in the list.
Route Overview
Bangalore → Mysore → Theppakadu (Left Turn) → Ooty → Gudalur → Theppakadu → Mysore → Bangalore
This loop ensures you experience both scenic routes:
- 36 hairpin bends route (via Masinagudi) while going uphill
- Smooth and wider Gudalur route while returning
DAY 1: Bangalore → Mysore → Theppakadu → Ooty
Distance & Time
- Bangalore → Mysore: 143 km | ~3 hr 20 min
- Mysore → Theppakadu (Bandipur): 90 km | ~1 hr 55 min
- Theppakadu → Ooty (via 36 hairpin bends): 35.5 km | ~1 hr 10 min
Start Early from Bangalore
Leave Bangalore by 4:00–4:30 AM. This helps you:
- Beat the morning traffic
- Reach the forest area early
- Enjoy the cool breeze and sunrise
You should reach Mysore by 8:00–8:30 AM. Stop anywhere on the outskirts for a relaxed breakfast between 9:00–10:00 AM.
Ride Through Bandipur Forest
After Mysore, you will pass through the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, a stretch known for:
- Deer sightings
- Elephants (occasionally, so drive slow)
- Beautiful forest canopy
- Smooth, scenic roads
The entire stretch feels peaceful and refreshing—perfect for couples and families alike.
Left Turn at Theppakadu → The Beautiful 36 Hairpin Bend Route
At Theppakadu junction, take the left turn towards Masinagudi–Ooty road. This road is narrow, extremely scenic, and full of enjoyable curves. You will cross the iconic 36 hairpin bends, which is an amazing experience if your vehicle is in good condition and you are confident with hill driving.
Along the way, you will see:
- Hilltop viewpoints
- Mist-covered valleys
- Monkeys along the roadside
- Dense forests and open slopes
You should reach Ooty by 2:00–2:30 PM. Have lunch at any preferred restaurant and get ready to explore the first major attraction.
Visit Doddabetta Peak
Doddabetta, at 2637 meters, is the highest peak in South India. The panoramic views from this point are stunning—you can see rolling hills, dense forests, and distant peaks including parts of Bandipur.
You can easily spend 2–3 hours enjoying the views, taking photos, and relaxing.
Leave by 6:30 PM and head to your:
- Hotel
- Homestay
- Campsite
Rest for the night and get ready for a beautiful Day 2.
DAY 2: Toy Train → Coonoor → Rose Garden → Ooty Lake
Morning: Nilgiri Toy Train to Coonoor
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train is one of the highlights of any Ooty trip. Reach the station by 9:00 AM to catch the train.
The ride offers:
- Mountain views
- Tunnels & bridges
- Dense forests
- Rolling tea plantations
The journey takes around 1 hour 15 minutes and is a memorable experience for kids and adults alike. After spending some time in Coonoor, take the return toy train back to Ooty. You’ll be back by afternoon.
Afternoon: Visit Nearby Attractions
- Rose Garden
A colorful garden filled with hundreds of rose varieties. Great for photography and a peaceful walk. - Horse Riding
Available near many tourist spots, and fun for families with kids.
Evening: Boating at Ooty Lake
In the evening, head to Ooty Lake for boating.
This is a relaxing experience where you can enjoy slow-paced paddle boats, row boats, or motorboats depending on your preference.
Spend the night in Ooty and rest well.
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DAY 3: Elk Murugan Temple → Tea Factory → Gudalur → Bangalore
Morning Visit: Elk Murugan Temple
Start your day early and visit the Elk Hill Murugan Temple around 8:00 AM.
It’s a small but peaceful temple with a beautiful hilltop view of Ooty town.
Tea Factory & Ketti Valley Viewpoint
From the temple, drive toward the Ooty Tea Factory, which opens at 9:00 AM.
On the way, you will pass:
- Ketti Valley View Point: One of the widest valleys in the world
- Tea estates and greenery everywhere
- Grassy plains & small hillside flowers
Inside the Tea Factory, you can:
- Learn how tea is processed
- Taste different tea varieties
- Buy chocolates & local products
- Spend 1–2 hours exploring
You should finish by 11:30–12:00 PM, perfect time to leave Ooty.
Return Route: Ooty → Pykara → Gudalur → Theppakadu → Mysore → Bangalore
While returning, take the Gudalur route—this road is smoother and easier to drive downhill.
Stop at Pykara Lake & Waterfalls
Just 15–20 km from Ooty, you’ll see the famous:
- Pykara Lake (boating available)
- Pykara Waterfalls
Spend 1–2 hours here if time permits.
Drive Through Mudumalai + Bandipur Again
After Gudalur, you will enter Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and then reconnect to Bandipur.
If you’re interested, you can even go for a forest safari depending on the timings.
Dinner Stop
Once you cross the Karnataka border, continue toward Mysore and then Bangalore.
You can find good restaurants along the highway until Ramanagara. Reach Bangalore comfortably at night.
FAQs
1. Is the 36 hairpin bend route safe?
Yes, it is safe if your vehicle is in good condition and you drive carefully. Avoid overspeeding and use lower gears while climbing or descending.
2. What is the best time to visit Ooty?
October to June is ideal. Winters (Dec–Feb) are colder but extremely scenic.
3. Can families take the toy train?
Absolutely. It’s a comfortable and scenic train perfect for all age groups.
4. Is boating available every day at Ooty Lake?
Yes, except during heavy rainfall or maintenance days.
5. Is the return route via Gudalur better?
Yes, it’s wider, less steep, and more suitable for downhill driving.
6. Can I cover all these places in 3 days?
Yes, this itinerary is designed to be comfortable without rushing. You can also skip certain places if you want to spend more time elsewhere.
A 3-day Ooty trip gives you the right mix of adventure, relaxation, nature, and sightseeing. The combination of forests, hills, toy train rides, tea gardens, and boating makes it perfect for couples, families, and bikers alike. You can always adjust the pace depending on how long you want to spend in each location.
