Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary for Mandalpatti and Pilikula Nisargadamma in July 2023

1. Day 1: Mandalpatti
   30 minutes (11 miles) from Madikeri Town
   • Morning: Drive to Mandalpatti viewpoint for breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and lush greenery. Take a pleasant 2-hour trek through the hills and explore the nearby coffee plantations.
   • Afternoon: Visit the Abbey Falls, a stunning waterfall that is surrounded by greenery. It is a perfect spot for taking a refreshing dip in the cold waters of the falls.
   • Evening: Head back to Madikeri town and explore the local markets, and enjoy some delicious Coorgi cuisine.
2. Day 2: Pilikula Nisargadamma
   1 hour (17 miles) from Madikeri Town
   • Morning: Visit the Pilikula Nisargadamma Zoo, where you can see a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and more. The zoo also has a botanical garden, a lake, and a golf course.
   • Afternoon: Explore the Pilikula Heritage Village, where you can learn about the traditional practices, arts, and crafts of the region. You can also enjoy a bullock cart ride and visit the ancient temple and the Yakshagana Museum.
   • Evening: Head back to Madikeri town and relax in your hotel or enjoy some local cuisine.
3. Day 3: Madikeri Town
   20 minutes (6 miles) from Mandalpatti viewpoint
   • Morning: Explore the Madikeri Fort, which has a rich history and offers a stunning view of the town. Visit the Raja's Seat, a beautiful garden with a breathtaking view of the hills.
   • Afternoon: Visit the Omkareshwara Temple, a beautiful temple with a mix of Islamic and Gothic architecture. Enjoy some shopping in the local markets and try some local delicacies.
   • Evening: Take a relaxing walk in the Chelavara Falls, a scenic waterfall that is surrounded by lush greenery.
4. Day 4: Dubare Elephant Camp
   1.5 hours (34 miles) from Madikeri Town
   • Morning: Visit the Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can learn about the life of elephants, take a ride on their backs, and even give them a bath in the river.
   • Afternoon: Visit the Harangi Dam, a beautiful dam that is surrounded by hills and greenery. You can enjoy a boat ride or a picnic in the nearby park.
   • Evening: Head back to Madikeri town and relax in your hotel or enjoy some local cuisine.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, visit the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement, which is home to the largest Tibetan refugee settlement in South India. You can explore the beautiful monasteries, learn about Tibetan culture, and buy some beautiful Tibetan handicrafts. You can also take a day trip to the Nagarhole National Park, which is famous for its wildlife and scenic beauty.

To maximize your fun, make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Carry enough cash as ATMs and card payments are not widely accepted in some areas. Hire a local guide to get a better understanding of the local history and culture. Book your hotel and flights in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mandalpatti viewpoint (2 hours, free)
• Abbey Falls (1 hour, entry fee: INR 15)
• Pilikula Nisargadamma Zoo (3 hours, entry fee: INR 60)
• Pilikula Heritage Village (2 hours, entry fee: INR 50)
• Madikeri Fort (1 hour, entry fee: INR 5)
• Omkareshwara Temple (1 hour, entry fee: free)
• Chelavara Falls (1 hour, free)
• Dubare Elephant Camp (3 hours, entry fee: INR 890 for elephant interaction and ride)
• Harangi Dam (2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,080

To book your hotel and flights, click here.