Last-minute packing, collect printed tickets, carry medicines, prints of hotel vouchers and snorkel waiver forms; expect train departure evening so keep day free.
Arrive Mangalore Central/KSRTC station; hotels usually allow early luggage-drop. Standard hotel check-in time: 2:00pm — plan to rest first or store bags.
Try 'Ice Cream Parlour & Cafe' / 'Giri Manja' for vegetarian south Indian breakfast; non-veg: 'Machali' or 'Gajalee' (seafood) in Mangalore for coastal flavours.
Check-in at chosen mid-range scenic resort. Coorg check-in usually ~2:00pm; request early check-in or leave bags and have lunch in the property restaurant.
Mysore Palace open 10:00am–5:30pm (illumination in evenings on certain days). Tickets: INR70–INR200 per person depending on camera and foreigner rates; palace visit is a must-see for heritage and kids.
Drive back toward the coast to Mangalore to break the longer Mysore→Udupi leg into ≤4-hour segments; stop for toilets and refreshments at planned rest areas.
Ferry to St. Mary's Island (fiery basalt rock formations) — boats run 10:00am–4:00pm; round-trip ferry approx INR200–500 per person depending on season.
Organised snorkel trips run 7:30am–12:00pm; expect 2–3 sessions with gear. Netrani (Pigeon Island) offers clear water, colourful fish and good beginner snorkel spots.
Fontainhas (old Latin Quarter) is perfect for photos; visit a historic bakery in Fontainhas for traditional Portuguese breads and pastries (most bakeries open 8:00am–7:00pm).
Anjuna Flea Market (Weds) and Mapusa Market (Fri) are the most popular; check day-of-week — otherwise try local shopping in Panaji for handicrafts. Great for souvenirs and photos.