3-Day Itinerary for Shimoga in June 2023

1. Day 1: Jog Falls
   1 hour 20 minutes (38.5 miles) from Shimoga

   Start your day early and drive to one of the highest waterfalls in India, Jog Falls. The stunning views of the cascading waterfalls amidst the lush greenery are sure to mesmerize you. Spend your morning exploring the various viewpoints and taking in the breathtaking scenery. Afternoon, visit the Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary, home to an array of flora and fauna. You can enjoy a safari ride here and spot animals like tigers, leopards, deer, and langurs. In the evening, return to Shimoga and savour the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the city.

2. Day 2: Kodachadri
   2 hours 30 minutes (60.7 miles) from Shimoga

   Embark on an early morning drive to Kodachadri, a mountain peak with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can trek up to the peak, which is about 4 km long and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. Afternoon, visit the Shivappanaika Palace Museum, a fine example of Indo-Sarcenic architecture, and learn about the history and culture of the region. In the evening, head to Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, a serene place to relax and observe exotic bird species like egrets, herons, and cormorants.

3. Day 3: Gajanur Dam
   30 minutes (9.5 miles) from Shimoga

   Spend your last day exploring the Gajanur Dam, a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. You can take a boat ride on the dam and enjoy the scenic views. Afternoon, visit the Kote Seetharamanjaneya temple, a 17th-century temple with intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere. In the evening, head to the Mandagadde Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, a perfect spot for nature lovers and bird watchers. Spot migratory birds like pelicans, storks, and ibis, and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on a visit to the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, which is a 2-hour drive from Shimoga. You can indulge in activities like trekking, bird watching, and exploring the rainforest. You can also consider a side trip to Udupi, which is about 3 hours from Shimoga and famous for its temples and beaches. To make the most of your trip, try to plan your itinerary in advance and book your activities and accommodations beforehand.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Jog Falls (3 hours, free)
• Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 250 per person)
• Shivappanaika Palace Museum (1-2 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary (1-2 hours, free)
• Kodachadri trek (3-4 hours, free)
• Gajanur Dam boat ride (1-2 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Kote Seetharamanjaneya temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Mandagadde Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (1-2 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 500 per person

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