Discovering the Temples: 3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kukke Subramanya, Dharmasthala, and Belur Halebidu

1. Day 1: Kukke Subramanya Temple
   From Bangalore, it takes approximately 5 hours (278 km) to reach Kukke Subramanya, a sacred temple town located in the Western Ghats. According to Hindu mythology, the temple is dedicated to Lord Subramanya, the God of Snakes. You will witness a serene atmosphere surrounded by lush green forests where you and your family can relax and rejuvenate.

   The temple premises have a unique tradition that prohibits visitors from carrying any luggage or mobile phones inside. Make sure to reach the temple in the morning to beat the crowd and attend the Abhisheka Seva, a morning ritual of the Lord. After visiting the temple, take a nature trek in the nearby hills and head to the Bisle Ghat Viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of the mountain range.

2. Day 2: Dharmasthala Temple and Bahubali Statue
   From Kukke Subramanya, it takes approximately 2 hours (92 km) to reach Dharmasthala, a temple town known for its peaceful ambiance and cultural heritage. The Shri Manjunatha Temple, a popular Shiva temple, is the main attraction of Dharmasthala. You can also visit the Rathnagiri Hill, which is famous for its Jain Basadi and Bahubali Statue, a 39-feet iconic statue of Lord Badekila Basadi Bahubali.

   After visiting the temple town, head to the Kokkada Railway Station and take the Green Route Trek, an eco-tourism initiative that includes a train ride, a trek through the forest, and a visit to the waterfall.

3. Day 3: Belur Halebidu Temples
   From Dharmasthala, it takes approximately 3 hours (133 km) to reach Belur and Halebidu, the historical temple towns of Karnataka that are known for their spectacular Hoysala architecture. The Chennakesava Temple in Belur is a live example of exquisite craftsmanship and intricate stone carvings by the Hoysala dynasty. The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu is another marvel of architecture that has stood the test of time.

   After visiting the temple towns, you can take a drive to the Yagachi Dam, which is located in between the two towns. The dam offers a serene view of the river and is a popular destination for boating and picnicking.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kukke Subramanya Temple (2 hours, free)
• Bisle Ghat Viewpoint (1 hour, free)
• Dharmasthala Temple and Bahubali Statue (2 hours, free)
• Green Route Trek (4 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Belur and Halebidu Temples (4 hours, free)
• Yagachi Dam (1 hour, free)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 300 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Mookambika Temple, a popular Shakti Peetha temple located near Kukke Subramanya. You can also take a jeep ride to the Kukke Subramanya Forest Range, which is known for its wildlife such as deer, elephants, and tigers.

If you have less time, you can skip the Green Route Trek and Yagachi Dam and spend more time exploring the temple premises.