Explore Rural Charm and Temples in Mandya

1. Day 1: Visit ancient temples and taste delightful sweets
   Start your day with a 10-minute drive to the historic Temple of Basaralu. This Chola style temple boasts intricate carvings of gods and goddesses. Take a guide to understand the significance of each carving.
   Next, take a 45-minute drive to Melukote, a town known for its religious and historical significance. Here, visit the Cheluva Narayana Swamy Temple and the Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple. In between your visits, be sure to try the famous local sweet, "puliyogare", a rice-based dish with tamarind and hot spices.
   End your day with a relaxing 15-minute drive to the luxurious The Windflower Resort and Spa, where you can unwind and rejuvenate amidst lush greenery and serene surroundings.
2. Day 2: Explore Rural Charm and Cattle Farms
   Start early with a 30-minute drive to the Jalamangala Cattle Breeding Centre, where you can interact with the local farmers and learn about their traditional cattle-rearing practices.
   Travel 15-minutes to the pristine Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, where you can catch a glimpse of migratory birds. If you're lucky, you may even spot a crocodile or two.
   Wrap up your visit with a 20-minute drive to the Shivasamudram Falls, a picturesque waterfall located on the banks of the Kaveri River. Take a dip in the refreshing waters or enjoy a boat ride.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Basaralu Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
• Melukote Temples (2-3 hours, Free)
• The Windflower Resort and Spa (Price varies)
• Jalamangala Cattle Breeding Centre (2-3 hours, Free)
• Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Shivasamudram Falls (2-3 hours, INR 30 per person)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 80 per person

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider exploring the beautiful Tonnur Kere Lake or the unfinished temple complex of Govindanahalli. For those on a budget, consider touring the temples without a guide or spend time exploring the local markets and try the variety of traditional sweets and snacks. If you have less time, skip the Jalamangala Cattle Breeding Centre and spend more time at the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and Shivasamudram Falls.