7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Bangalore, Mangalore, Shivamogga, Kumta, Sirsi, Hubli, Ponda

Tuesday, September 12: Bangalore

Start your trip in Bangalore, the vibrant capital city of Karnataka. In the morning, visit the historic Bangalore Palace and explore its stunning architecture. Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at Mavalli Tiffin Room. In the afternoon, take a stroll through Lalbagh Botanical Garden, known for its beautiful flower shows. End your day with a visit to the lively Commercial Street, a shopping hub offering a vast array of affordable products.

• Bangalore Palace: Estimated Cost - INR 230, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mavalli Tiffin Room: Estimated Cost - INR 150, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Lalbagh Botanical Garden: Estimated Cost - INR 50, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Commercial Street: Estimated Cost - Varies, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, September 13: Mangalore

Travel to Mangalore, a coastal city known for its beaches and delicious seafood. Start your day with a visit to Panambur Beach and enjoy the morning breeze. For lunch, savor the local cuisine at Giri Manja's or Diana Restaurant. Spend your afternoon exploring the Mangaladevi Temple, a sacred site dedicated to the goddess Mangaladevi. In the evening, take a peaceful walk along the scenic Tannirbhavi Beach.

• Panambur Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Giri Manja's or Diana Restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 200, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Mangaladevi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Tannirbhavi Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Thursday, September 14: Shivamogga

Head to Shivamogga, a city surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls. Start your morning by visiting the beautiful Jog Falls, one of the highest plunge waterfalls in India. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the historic Shivappa Nayaka Palace and learn about its rich history. Wrap up your day with a visit to Honnemaradu, a picturesque reservoir known for its water sports and scenic beauty.

• Jog Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 50, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
• Shivappa Nayaka Palace: Estimated Cost - INR 30, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Honnemaradu: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Friday, September 15: Kumta

Travel to Kumta, a coastal town offering pristine beaches and tranquility. Start your morning with a visit to Gokarna Beach and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy a simple lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Om Beach and take a dip in its clear waters. Witness a mesmerizing sunset at Paradise Beach before heading back to your accommodation.

• Gokarna Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Local Eatery: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Om Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Paradise Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Saturday, September 16: Sirsi

Proceed to Sirsi, a town surrounded by dense forests and waterfalls. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Unchalli Falls and admire its grandeur. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Marikamba Temple and experience its spiritual ambiance. End your day with a visit to Sathodi Falls, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats.

• Unchalli Falls: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
• Marikamba Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Sathodi Falls: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Sunday, September 17: Hubli

Travel to Hubli, a bustling city known for its historical sites and vibrant markets. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Nrupatunga Betta and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Treat yourself to a delicious vegetarian thali for lunch. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Chandramouleshwara Temple and marvel at its architectural beauty. End your day with shopping at the bustling Manjunath Market.

• Nrupatunga Betta: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Vegetarian Thali: Estimated Cost - INR 150, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Chandramouleshwara Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Manjunath Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, September 18: Ponda

Head to Ponda, a town known for its rich cultural heritage and temples. Start your morning by visiting the famous Shanta Durga Temple and seek blessings. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Mangueshi Temple and admire its architectural brilliance. End your day with a relaxing walk at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Shanta Durga Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 200, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Mangueshi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those on a shoestring budget, consider exploring Agumbe, a small village known as the "Cherrapunji of South India," where you can witness breathtaking sunsets and indulge in nature walks. Another budget-friendly option is to visit the vibrant Malpe Beach, located near Udupi, where you can enjoy beach activities and feast on delicious street food. Both these off-the-beaten-path attractions offer unique experiences without breaking the bank.