Begin your family vacation by immersing yourself in the royal history of Bangalore at the Bangalore Palace. Take a guided tour of the palace, which was constructed in the Tudor-style architecture with exquisite woodcarvings, floral motifs, and Gothic windows. Marvel at the fully furnished rooms with vintage photographs, hunting trophies, and oil paintings. End the day with a picnic in the sprawling gardens around the palace.
Head to Coorg, the Scotland of India, and explore the scenic natural beauty of the Western Ghats. Start with a visit to Abbey Falls - a magnificent waterfall surrounded by lush green vegetation. Take a short hike to reach the falls, which cascades down from a height of 70 feet. Enjoy the cool mist on your face and the sound of the rushing water. You can also go for a refreshing swim in the natural pool below the falls.
Today, visit the Dubare Elephant Camp for a unique and exciting experience. Witness the magnificent jumbos in their natural habitat, watch them being bathed and fed by their mahouts, and interact with them in a playful mood. Learn about their lifestyle and habits from the trained naturalists. You can also take a coracle ride across the river Cauvery and visit the nearby Nisargadhama island.
On your last day, visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Talakadu and Somnathpura. Talakadu is a small town on the banks of river Kaveri, with an abundance of temples, sand dunes, and a museum. Somnathpura is a 13th-century temple complex renowned for its intricate architecture and beautiful sculptures. You can also enjoy a camel ride and taste the local delicacy - holige.
If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Mysore Palace, Ranganathittu bird sanctuary, and the Golden temple. If you have only a few days, you can skip Talakadu and visit the Bylakuppe Tibetan settlement, Dubare forest, or the Iruppu falls. Don't forget to carry an umbrella, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, as the weather can be unpredictable and the terrain can be uneven.