Family-Friendly Itinerary: Coorg and Mysuru

Thursday August 10: Coorg Arrival

Welcome to Coorg, known for its lush green landscapes and coffee plantations. Start your morning by exploring the breathtaking Abbey Falls, a picturesque waterfall amidst the dense forest. Take a refreshing dip in the pool and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit Dubare Elephant Camp where you can interact with elephants, feed them, and even go for an elephant ride. In the evening, take a leisurely walk at Raja's Seat, a scenic garden offering panoramic views of the sunset over the hills.

• Abbey Falls: Entrance fee: INR 15 per person. Time spent: 2 hours.
• Dubare Elephant Camp: Entrance fee: INR 30 per person. Time spent: 3 hours.
• Raja's Seat: Entrance fee: INR 5 per person. Time spent: 1 hour.

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Fort Mercara Restaurant located in Coorg. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options, including traditional South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, try the East End Hotel in Coorg. This popular restaurant serves delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with a focus on local Coorg cuisine. Enjoy their flavorful biryanis and fish curries. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit the Heritage Restaurant in Coorg. This charming restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international cuisines, with a wide range of options including Chinese, Continental, and North Indian dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering tandoori kebabs. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.

Friday August 11: Coorg Exploration

Start your day by visiting Talakaveri, the birthplace of the river Kaveri. Enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of the surrounding hills. Afterward, head to the Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple. Marvel at the intricate Tibetan architecture and witness the monks' religious ceremonies. In the afternoon, visit Nagarhole National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife. Embark on a thrilling jungle safari and spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the evening, relax by the serene backwaters of Harangi Dam.

• Talakaveri: Entrance fee: None. Time spent: 2 hours.
• Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple): Entrance fee: None. Time spent: 2 hours.
• Nagarhole National Park: Safari cost: INR 2000 per jeep (6 people). Time spent: 4 hours.
• Harangi Dam: Entrance fee: None. Time spent: 1 hour.

Saturday August 12: Coorg to Mysuru

Leave Coorg and proceed to Mysuru, the cultural capital of Karnataka. Start your day by visiting the famous Mysore Palace, a magnificent architectural marvel. Explore the opulent interiors and admire the intricate craftsmanship. In the afternoon, head to the Mysore Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals and birds. Watch the playful antics of elephants, tigers, and giraffes. In the evening, take a stroll at Brindavan Gardens, famous for its musical fountains and beautifully landscaped gardens.

• Mysore Palace: Entrance fee: INR 70 per person. Time spent: 2 hours.
• Mysore Zoo: Entrance fee: INR 60 per person. Time spent: 3 hours.
• Brindavan Gardens: Entrance fee: INR 20 per person. Time spent: 2 hours.

Sunday August 13: Mysuru Exploration

Start your day by visiting the Chamundeshwari Temple, located atop the Chamundi Hills. Seek blessings and enjoy panoramic views of Mysuru from the hilltop. In the afternoon, explore the historic Mysuru Fort, which houses the Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery and the Mysuru Palace Museum. Admire the royal artifacts and artworks. In the evening, visit the vibrant Devaraja Market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, spices, and silk sarees.

• Chamundeshwari Temple: Entrance fee: None. Time spent: 2 hours.
• Mysuru Fort: Entrance fee: INR 40 per person. Time spent: 3 hours.
• Devaraja Market: Entrance fee: None. Time spent: 2 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Coorg and Mysuru, don't miss out on the local favorites. In Coorg, visit the Dubare Elephant Camp for an up-close interaction with elephants. You can also explore the coffee plantations and indulge in a coffee tasting session. In Mysuru, take a short trip to the nearby town of Srirangapatna, which is famous for its historical sites and the Ranganathaswamy Temple. Another hidden gem is the St. Philomena's Cathedral, a beautiful church with Gothic architecture. These offbeat attractions will provide a unique and enriching experience for the whole family.