Start your trip by exploring the vibrant city of Bangalore. In the morning, visit the iconic Bangalore Palace, a magnificent architectural marvel. Spend the afternoon at Cubbon Park, a sprawling green oasis in the heart of the city. In the evening, head to MG Road for shopping and enjoying local street food.
Bangalore Palace: Cost estimate - INR 230 per adult, Time spent - 2 hours
Cubbon Park: Free entry, Time spent - 3 hours
MG Road: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - Evening
Monday, October 9: Shravanbelagola
Embark on a spiritual journey to Shravanbelagola, a sacred Jain pilgrimage site. Morning is the best time to climb the 614 steps to reach the Gomateshwara Statue, a 57-foot monolithic statue carved out of a single granite rock. Afternoon can be spent exploring the beautiful Jain temples and learning about Jainism. In the evening, witness the enchanting Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony, held once every 12 years.
Gomateshwara Statue: Free entry, Time spent - 4 hours
Jain Temples: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony (if available): Free entry, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Shree Ratna Sagar to enjoy a variety of South Indian delicacies like dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try MTR Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Karnataka cuisine. Don't miss their masala dosas and filter coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, Sattvam is a great option for vegetarian fine dining with a menu that includes a mix of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Tuesday, October 10: Coorg
Head to Coorg, also known as the "Scotland of India." Start your day with a visit to Abbey Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the coffee plantations and learn about the coffee-making process. End the day with a visit to Raja's Seat, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the sunset.
Abbey Falls: Cost estimate - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Raja's Seat: Cost estimate - INR 5 per person, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Coorg Cuisine, known for their traditional Coorgi dishes, such as kadambuttu and pandi curry. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a fulfilling lunch, head to The Fort Mercara. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Coorg Mandarin, a fine dining restaurant known for its authentic Chinese and Thai dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 11: Mysuru
Travel to Mysuru and start your day with a visit to the majestic Mysuru Palace, a blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Brindavan Gardens, famous for its musical fountains. Witness the grandeur of the illuminated palace in the evening during the Sound and Light Show.
Mysuru Palace: Cost estimate - INR 70 per adult, Time spent - 3 hours
Brindavan Gardens: Cost estimate - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Sound and Light Show: Cost estimate - INR 25 per person, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Vasudev Adiga's. This popular restaurant offers a variety of dosas and idlis. Average cost for breakfast is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Green Hotel's Annapurna Restaurant. Known for its vegetarian thali, this restaurant offers a wide range of dishes. Average cost for lunch is about 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Copper Chimney. This restaurant serves a delectable blend of Indian and Mughlai cuisine. Average cost for dinner is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, October 12: Ooty
Embark on a scenic drive to Ooty, a charming hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Mountains. Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Gardens, showcasing a variety of exotic plants and flowers. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride on Ooty Lake. End the day with a visit to the famous Doddabetta Peak, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Botanical Gardens: Cost estimate - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Ooty Lake: Cost estimate - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Doddabetta Peak: Cost estimate - INR 10 per person, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast in Ooty, head to Sidewalk Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and homemade sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
Looking for a satisfying lunch option? Visit Shinkow's Chinese Restaurant, known for its delectable Chinese cuisine. From noodles to dumplings, you'll find a wide range of dishes here. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Ascot Multi Cuisine Restaurant. This elegant restaurant serves a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes, making it the perfect place for a diverse meal. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Friday, October 13: Coimbatore
Travel to Coimbatore, a bustling city known for its textile industry. Start your day with a visit to the serene Dhyanalinga Temple, known for its unique meditation spaces. In the afternoon, explore the quaint streets of the old town and visit the ancient Marudhamalai Temple. End the day with a relaxing stroll along the tranquil Singanallur Lake.
Dhyanalinga Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
Marudhamalai Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
Singanallur Lake: Free entry, Time spent - Evening
Saturday, October 14: Coimbatore
Spend your last day in Coimbatore exploring some hidden gems. Start with a visit to the Kovai Kutralam Falls, a lesser-known waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Gass Forest Museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of preserved animals and plants. End your trip with some shopping at the colorful RS Puram Market.
Kovai Kutralam Falls: Free entry, Time spent - 3 hours
Gass Forest Museum: Cost estimate - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Nandi Hills near Bangalore for stunning sunrise views. In Coorg, explore the Dubare Elephant Camp where you can interact with elephants in a natural setting. In Ooty, venture to the quaint village of Avalanche and enjoy the pristine beauty of the Avalanche Lake. These attractions offer unique experiences and are perfect for a family-friendly adventure.