Family-Friendly Itinerary: Bangalore to Madikeri to Sakaleshpura to Chikkamagaluru

1. Day 1: Madikeri
   4 hours (150 km) drive from Bangalore

   In the morning, visit the Namdroling Monastery, popularly known as the Golden Temple, which is a serene place with intricate Tibetan architecture. Next, head to the Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can enjoy activities like elephant feeding, bathing and elephant rides. In the afternoon, have lunch at the popular Taste of Coorg restaurant. In the evening, visit the Raja's Seat, a beautiful garden with a mesmerizing view of the sunset.

2. Day 2: Sakaleshpura
   3 hours (120 km) drive from Madikeri

   In the morning, visit the Manjarabad Fort, a star-shaped fort built in 1792 by Tipu Sultan. Next, head to the Bisle View Point, a stunning point that offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats. Have lunch at the Kadamane Estate, a charming plantation stay and restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Sakaleshpura Railway Station, which is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. In the evening, relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the plantation stay.

3. Day 3: Chikkamagaluru
   2.5 hours (100 km) drive from Sakaleshpura

   In the morning, visit the famous Mullayanagiri peak, which is the highest peak in Karnataka. Next, head to the Baba Budangiri, a mountain range known for its scenic beauty and religious significance. Have lunch at the Town Canteen, a popular local eatery. In the afternoon, visit the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, home to several endangered species. In the evening, enjoy a coffee plantation tour and tasting at the Coffee Barn Cafe.

4. Day 4: Chikkamagaluru
   30 minutes (20 km) drive from Chikkamagaluru

   In the morning, visit the famous Kudremukh National Park, known for its lush green forests and diverse wildlife. Next, head to the Hebbe Falls, a beautiful waterfall with medicinal properties. Have lunch at the Silver Palm restaurant, which serves delicious local cuisine. In the evening, visit the Hirekolale Lake, a serene lake with a beautiful view of the sunset.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Belur and Halebidu temples, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temples are known for their intricate carvings and architecture. You can also take a day trip to the Jog Falls, which is the second-highest plunge waterfall in India. To maximize your fun, try to explore different local cuisines and indulge in outdoor activities like trekking and camping.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Namdroling Monastery (2 hours, free)
• Dubare Elephant Camp (3 hours, INR 1200 per person)
• Taste of Coorg restaurant (1 hour, INR 500 per person)
• Raja's Seat (1 hour, INR 50 per person)
• Manjarabad Fort (2 hours, free)
• Bisle View Point (1.5 hours, free)
• Kadamane Estate (1 hour, INR 800 per person)
• Sakaleshpura Railway Station (1 hour, free)
• Mullayanagiri peak (2 hours, free)
• Baba Budangiri (2 hours, free)
• Town Canteen (1 hour, INR 200 per person)
• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Coffee Barn Cafe (1 hour, INR 300 per person)
• Kudremukh National Park (3 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Hebbe Falls (2 hours, free)
• Silver Palm restaurant (1 hour, INR 400 per person)
• Hirekolale Lake (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 5300 per person