Holidays close to nature
Eco tourism means travelling to natural places in a way that does little harm and gives back to local people. On a practical level, it means walking more, using less plastic, staying on paths and respecting the forest and its animals. The trips on this page focus on hills, forests, lakes and waterfalls rather than malls and markets.
They suit families who want children to see nature, college groups, and older travellers who like cool weather and slow days.
Places on these trips
The Nilgiris: Ooty and Coonoor, with tea estates, shola forests and viewpoints. The route from Mysore passes the Bandipur and Mudumalai forests.
Kodaikanal: a lake town in the Palani hills with pine woods, cliffs and walking trails.
Jog Falls and Gokarna: one of India's highest waterfalls on the Sharavathi river, then quiet beaches on the Karnataka coast.
Nagarjuna Sagar: a large reservoir on the Krishna river with a Buddhist heritage park and a boat to an island museum.
Packages on this page
- Mysore and Ooty from Bangalore - 2 days, 1 night by bus
- Mysore and Ooty from Bangalore by car - 2 days, 1 night
- Ooty, Coonoor and Kodaikanal - 4 days, 3 nights by bus
- Jog Falls, Gokarna and Goa - 3 days, 2 nights by bus
- Nagarjuna Sagar from Hyderabad - 2 days, 1 night by bus
- Mysore, Ooty, Coonoor and Kodaikanal - 5 days, 4 nights by bus
How to travel green
Carry a steel or reusable water bottle and a cloth bag. The Nilgiris and Kodaikanal have strict rules on single-use plastic, and checks can happen at entry points. Take your waste back with you. Do not pluck plants or feed monkeys. Buy tea, spices, honey and crafts from local shops, as this helps hill families directly.
For the hills, October to May is pleasant. Jog Falls is fullest in the monsoon, from July to September, but mist can hide the view and paths get slippery. Carry warm layers, a rain jacket and walking shoes.
Frequently asked questions
Are these trips very active?
No. They include some walking at gardens, lakes and viewpoints, but most people manage easily.
How do I check the fare?
Open the package you like. The current fare and inclusions are shown there.
Do I need an e-pass for Ooty or Kodaikanal?
Visiting vehicles have needed an e-pass in recent seasons. On our tours, we will tell you if anything is needed from you.