Drive east from Surathkal toward Chikmagalur via Mangaluru and the NH75 corridor — steady highway sections then ghats; plan for 5.5–6.5 hours of driving including short stops.
Quick South-Indian breakfast at a popular Udupi-style tiffin centre (e.g., Woodlands / local Udupi restaurant) — fresh idli, dosa, filter coffee; most open 7:00am–10:30am so good for a road break.
Arrive Chikmagalur, check into your stay. For lunch try Town Canteen (local favourite) or your hotel’s restaurant for a Malnad thali — Town Canteen generally operates 7:00am–10:00pm and serves homestyle meals.
Short drive to Hirekolale Lake for an easy walk and sunset views of the hills and Malnad landscape — accessible all day, great for photography and a relaxed first-evening outing.
Enjoy Malnad specialties and South-Indian coffee at your hotel or a well-known property like The Serai (hotel restaurants usually open till 10:00pm) — relax and sample local coffee beans.
Drive to Mullayanagiri, the highest point in Karnataka; short trek (~30–45 minutes) to the summit for sweeping views — open from sunrise to sunset (no strict gates). Wear comfortable shoes and carry water.
Return to town and try a Malnad thali or local restaurant (Town Canteen or hotel options) for a filling lunch; most restaurants serve lunch roughly 11:00am–3:00pm.
Visit a nearby coffee estate (many plantations offer guided tours and cupping sessions) to learn about bean processing and taste fresh-brewed single-origin coffee; plantation tours usually run 9:00am–5:00pm and are best-booked in advance.
Late-afternoon drive to Baba Budangiri plateau (Dattatreya shrine and cliffs) for golden-hour views — accessible daylight hours, excellent panorama and mild walks.
Try Malnad specialties such as akki rotti, curries and fresh coffee at a recommended local restaurant or your homestay — many places stay open until 9:30–10:00pm.
Scenic drive up to Kemmangundi for Z Point views, Raj Bhavan and the botanical gardens — gardens and viewpoints are typically open 6:00am–6:00pm; allow time for short walks and photos.
Take the authorised jeep ride to Hebbe Falls (the jeep + short trek route cuts through plantations) — jeeps usually operate roughly 9:00am–4:00pm; book in advance and expect dusty but scenic tracks.
Return to Chikmagalur and have a relaxed lunch (hotel or local restaurant) before starting the drive back — good time to buy roasted coffee beans for the return journey.
Begin the return drive to Surathkal; allow 5.5–7 hours depending on traffic and stops. Plan a tea break en route and expect to arrive in the late evening.