Coonoor Ooty Backpacking Trip from Bangalore
Starts From
₹ 5799/-
About The Trip
The Nilgiri Chronicles: Where the Hills Slow You Down
Imagine this: it is an ordinary day in Bangalore, and you wake up to another day of work. But your friend calls you up and says that they have a surprise for you. They are taking you to the Nilgiris this weekend. Imagine yourself slipping away from the ordinary as your journey ascends into the Nilgiris, where the air turns crisp and alive with the invigorating scent of eucalyptus groves swaying like old friends in welcome. The chaos of the lowlands dissolves into a symphony of tumbling greens, inviting you into a world of unhurried bliss, crafted just for you by Plan the Unplanned.
This is how Ooty and Coonoor welcome you, the two hill towns that are more about feeling moments than checking off sights - misty mornings, never-ending tea gardens and views that stop you in your tracks without even trying.
Ooty: Living Above the Clouds
They say that Ooty is the Queen of Hill Stations, and it still bears a charm of another era, which juxtaposes with nature’s beauty on offer in the Western Ghats. The weather holds kind, the hills remain shrouded in mist, and the pace of life seems reassuringly unfast.
Tea gardens and estates as far as the eye can see colour the slopes in pale greens. For a high-altitude window on the world, climb Doddabetta Peak. From above, the hills unfurl in an endless sprawl to the horizon, and you remember that sometimes it is best just to stand still, take a deep breath in and let the view do the talking.
Coonoor: The Silent Heart of The Hills
If Ooty is regal and bustling, Coonoor is quiet and introspective. Its quiet roads, soft gradients and rich tradition of tea bestow upon this town its spirit. Time does seem to slow here, especially when you wander through tea estates and hillside trails that appear unspoiled by the rush.
The loveliness of Coonoor is an unassuming one, the sort that makes itself known in layers with every passing cloud and repositioned glint of sunlight.
Trip highlights
Sometimes, a road trip is all you need to unwind and exhale – especially when what you are inhaling is the clean, fragrant air of the Nilgiris! When you choose to travel with Plan The Unplanned, all you need to do is come along! We will:
- Escape the city on an overnight trip through the 'Queen' of South India's hill stations.
- Kick off the morning with fresh mountain breezes and cooling green hills in Ooty
- Take a sip of fresh Nilgiri tea, sample local chocolates and slow down
- Catch stunning valley vistas from Dolphin’s Nose and look-out points
- Travel on the world-famous Toy Train through tunnels, over bridges and around hairpin curves
- Amble through pine forests, movie-star-admired vistas and silent lakeshores
- Conclude your days with campfires, music, conversation and the silence of mountains
- A journey plan to mix adventure, relaxation and one of those in-the-moment stories that you keep recounting long after the hills disappear from the rear-view mirror.
Unlike many traditional backpacking routes, this one has been designed to give you a little bit of everything – something offbeat and something conventional. What you can be assured of is a fun time, a chance to get away from the crazy chaos of the city and a bank of memories to cherish!
Price
Tickets
Starting From : INR 6999/-
INR 5799/-
per person
13
Tickets
Download PDF
Brief Itinerary
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
Exclusions
Detail Itinerary
Details
Your journey begins at Bengaluru when you are lost in the star-studded sky, with the city lights fading in the background. With excitement in the air, we begin with a few ice-breaking sessions - the best way to get to know your fellow trekkers and unwind from the long weekday stress. As the night lingers on, it’s best to settle down and fall into a short slumber - allowing your bodies and minds to get that much needed rest. Enjoy the calm and relax as we arrive at our start point for an exhilarating adventure ahead.
Breakfast
Multiple Modes
Homestay
Details
Drive through the night from Bengaluru until you wind into the Nilgiri hills, where the air is cooler, the flat fields transform into rolling green slopes, and mist begins to fringe the roads. Upon reaching the homestay at Ooty, relax amidst the serene ambience.
Please note: On weekends, check-in at Ooty is after 11:00 a.m. Facilities: There are washrooms at the stay.
Upon rising in the morning, having breakfast, and stretching, let our mountains wake you up. First, while you are still in the Ooty environs, head to a Tea & Chocolate Factory and soak in Nilgiri flavours – a freshly brewed cup of tea along with locally made dark chocolates that literally mark the beginning of your journey. From here, make your way to Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint in Coonoor. At the edge of this dramatic cliff, you are met with magnificent vistas of deep valleys, rocky gorges, and, in the far distance, waterfalls such as Catherine Falls. The expanse of the landscape and the quiet of the hills are worth slowing down for this moment.
Proceed for lunch at a local restaurant before heading off to one of the most popular attractions in Nilgiris – the Toy Train. As the train meanders its way through tunnels and party waves, it quickly becomes about more than just the destination. Note: Tickets for the Toy Train are based on availability.
As the evening sets in, visit Ooty Lake – the lifeblood of this bustling town. Boating, cycling around the lake, riding, or simply walking by the water — no matter how you choose to explore your surroundings, the sunset behind the hills lends an orange glow for a warm ending. Return to the overnight site by dusk, freshen up, and all sit together for a comfortable campfire evening (depending on the weather conditions).
One such evening will wind down on its own, the night filled with delicious food, soft music, laughter, and long chats leading into a deep, peaceful sleep beneath the hills.
Breakfast
Multiple Modes
Homestay
Details
Wake up in a peaceful mountain morning, with cool and subtle sounds of nature. Have breakfast at the stay and post it, check out and head out to explore the tranquillity of Pine Forest as your first destination today. Walking through vast pine forests that rise above stacked slopes, filtered sunlight and a heavy pine soil scent make you feel like you’ve entered another world: quiet, grounding, unhurried.
After the walk in the forest, a visit to a restaurant for lunch.
Please note that there aren't many options in this area and meals will be from available local restaurants.
Later, proceed to a popular shooting location (a place adored by both Bollywood and Tollywood). With sweeping landscapes and mountains as far as the eye can see, it’s easy to understand why this place has played a role in so many films.
Along the way is a visit to Pykara Lake, one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Nilgiris. Chill by the waterside and appreciate the reflections of the hills, or indulge in a relaxed boat ride, if the option is available.
As it gets dark, say goodbye to the Blue Mountains and drive back to Bengaluru. Get up early morning on Monday, carrying back memories of fuzzy views, forest trails, campfire tales and the silent magic of the Nilgiri hills.
Details
At the crack of Monday morning you will arrive in Bengaluru, a bit drowsy but with a heart full of good memories; not only of the bags you will bring back, but also the misty hikes, the morning bonfires, the jokes, and the type of friends that only a weekend in the hills will allow you to make.
Things To Carry
Backpack / rucksack + small day pack
Reusable water bottle
Comfortable clothes (T-shirts, trek/cargo pants)
One warm layer (fleece / sweatshirt)
Rain jacket or poncho
Cap & sunglasses
Good trekking or sports shoes with grip
Flip-flops/sandals for the stay
Basic personal toiletries
Sunscreen (SPF 40+)
Personal medication (if any)
Snacks/energy bars/dry fruits
Power bank
Extra cash for meals not included
Polybags for wet or muddy clothes
Policy and Terms
In the event that YOU cancel your trek, this is the cancellation policy we follow:
| Intimation Period | Cancellation Fee |
| 7 Days or more | 10% of the total invoice value |
| 3-6 days before the trek date | 50% of the total invoice value |
| 0-2 days before the trek date | 100% of the total invoice value |
- *Intimation Period means the number of days before the tour is scheduled to start
- **Cancellation Fee is the amount of money that will be deducted from the total billing amount before offering the refund.
- Refund/Cancellation request are accepted only by email at info@plantheunplanned.com
and not via call or Whatsapp.
NOTE:
- There will be no consideration given to cancellations on the day of departure or the day before due to work/family emergencies, health issues, etc., and no refund or transfer to alternative dates will be permitted for the same.
- You would be required to pay an additional fee of RS 1500/person if you want to postpone your trek to a future date or cancel on the day of departure. This is only available for 3 months after the departure date of the actual trip.
- If you cancel the trek at any time (in addition to the scenario stated above), additional fees will be collected (depending on where you made your booking) as payment gateway/event listing fees.
The following is our cancellation policy in the unlikely event that we have to postpone your trek:
During and After the Trek: In the event of severe weather, taking the travellers' safety into consideration, a day may be shortened or the trek may be abandoned entirely. There will never be a refund of any kind.
Prior to the Departure: Make a plan in the event that a trek/trip is canceled due to a natural disaster (such as a rainstorm, flood, landslide, earthquake, or unanticipated political disturbance, curfews, local riots, government orders, or directives from the forest department). A VOUCHER for the full value of your ticket will be issued by The Unplanned.
The payment gateway fees will be deducted from any refunds that are granted.
If we have to cancel your trek/trip because there aren't enough reservations for that particular batch or we don't have enough participants, PLAN THE UNPLANNED will refund you 96% of the trek money ( Payment Gateway charges shall be deducted )
FAQ's
I’ve booked my trip. When will I hear from you next?
You’ll get an event heads-up email by Thursday of the trip week. It includes:
- Exact pickup points with timings
- Your Outdoor Leader’s name and phone number
- A quick list of do’s & don’ts
Will I be added to a WhatsApp Group once the trip is confirmed?
Yes. In the heads-up email, we will share a link to a dedicated WhatsApp group so you can chat with fellow travellers and your Outdoor Leader before departure.
What is the “Without Travel” option?
Choosing “Without Travel” all the travel arrangements for your entire itinerary must be self-managed From getting to the start point, local transfers, and the return journey. Please note that Plan the Unplanned crew will not be responsible for your travel, means of transport, and any transfers involved . We recommend driving your own car for the full duration of the trip for maximum flexibility.
I’m travelling solo. Can I still join?
Absolutely. Our trips are designed keeping solo travellers in mind. You’ll join an easy-going group and usually leave with new friends.
Are your trips safe for women?
On all of our trips, safety is non-negotiable and our priority. Female outdoor leaders accompany every group. We assure you that the homestays/tent accommodations are secure. In addition to this, we guarantee separate sleeping arrangements for men and women.
If I miss the departure, can I postpone my booking?
Yes. You can reschedule to any future date of the same trip for a ₹1,500 per-person change fee. Email info@plantheunplanned.com and our team will get in touch with you.
How do I get a discount on trips?
For more information on discounts, we request you to check out our Gypsy Membership here: plantheunplanned.com/membership
Can I leave my extra luggage at the accommodation?
Yes, you can store your main bags at the accommodation and carry only your essentials on the trip.
What kind of fitness is required for your treks?
Most of our treks are beginner-friendly and designed for people with moderate fitness levels. However, some treks may involve challenging terrains or long durations. Please check the difficulty level mentioned on each trip page and ensure you’re prepared accordingly.
What’s your cancellation and refund policy?
Please note:
✅ We accept and confirm cancellations only over email — not via phone or WhatsApp.
✅ Refer to the Cancellation Policy under the relevant trip page for trip-specific details before making any changes.
✅ You can also reschedule your booking for a future date by paying a small change fee.
For assistance, write to us at info@plantheunplanned.com — we’re happy to help!
Additional Information
In order to make this a smooth and enjoyable process for all involved we ask that you read and follow the below guidelines:
- Prohibited items: For the safety and comfort of all, the use of alcohol, intoxicants, or smoking is not allowed at any point during the journey and trek.
- Meals before departure: If you have opted for the “With Travel” option, we request you to complete your dinner before boarding the bus, as no dinner will be provided en route.
- Travel arrangements: Transport is arranged based on the group size but both options have push-back seats for your comfort. Non-AC tempo traveller for groups of up to 12 trekkers. And a non-AC minibus for groups of 13 and more.
- Pre-departure meals: In case you have chosen the “With Travel” option, we ask you to please complete your dinner before getting on the bus as no dinner will be served during the bus journey.
- Independent travel: If you prefer to arrange your own private transportation to the destination, be sure to choose the "Without Travel" option in the booking page. Important: In this case, please ensure you have access to a private car for the entire duration of the trip. Public transport is limited and unreliable given the remote locations. While your scheduled activities start at the homestay, you will need to have your own mode of private transport to move around and participate in the activities on day two.
- Accommodation standards: Our trips are nature-focused and often in remote locations. The accommodations provided are basic, clean and comfortable. We do not promise or organise luxury amenities.
- Meals provided: We offer simple vegetarian meals throughout the trip. Non-vegetarian food will not be provided.
- Environmental responsibility: We follow a strict Leave No Trace policy in accordance with the rules of the Forest Department. While plastic is not allowed, everyone is expected to carry any and all waste back to the base and carefully dispose of it. Together, let’s leave the hills better than we found them.
- Your personal belongings: You are solely responsible for your personal belongings, valuables, and jewelry. Plan The Unplanned is not liable for any lost or damaged items.
- Delays and unforeseen events: While we aim to be on schedule, delays may occur due to traffic or vehicular issues beyond our control. We request your cooperation in case of slight delays in reaching our destination.
Starting From : INR 6999/-
INR 5799/-
per person
13
( From 20th Dec 2025 to 2nd Jan 2026)
Tickets
Download PDF
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