3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Karnataka (May 2023)

  1. Day 1: Bangalore
    Arrive at Kempegowda International Airport
    30 minutes (25 km) from airport to Lalbagh Botanical Garden

    Start your trip with a visit to the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, which boasts a vast collection of exotic plants and flowers, and is an excellent spot for a morning walk. Next, head to the Bangalore Palace, a beautiful Tudor-style palace with sprawling grounds. For lunch, try some local cuisine at MTR or Vidyarthi Bhavan. In the afternoon, visit the Cubbon Park, a lush green oasis in the heart of the city, where you can rent bicycles or take a stroll. End the day at the ISKCON Temple Bangalore, which is a center for spiritual learning and cultural activities.

  2. Day 2: Mysore
    3 hours (150 km) from Bangalore

    Begin the day with a visit to the Mysore Palace, a grand structure that is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Explore the palace's halls and galleries, and admire the intricate artwork and carvings. Next, head to the Chamundeshwari Temple, located on top of a hill and offering stunning views of the city. For lunch, try the local delicacy of Mysore Masala Dosa at one of the city's many eateries. Spend the afternoon at the Brindavan Gardens, a beautiful park with fountains and colorful flower beds. End the day with a visit to the Mysore Zoo, home to a variety of exotic animals and birds.

  3. Day 3: Hampi
    7 hours (350 km) from Mysore

    Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, which was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Start the day with a visit to the Vittala Temple, which is known for its intricate carvings and musical pillars. Next, head to the Hampi Bazaar, a lively street lined with shops and cafes. For lunch, try some local snacks like masala peanuts or mirchi bajji. Spend the afternoon exploring the Hampi Archaeological Museum, which showcases artifacts from the region's rich history. End the day with a visit to the Matanga Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Lalbagh Botanical Garden (1-2 hours, INR 20)
  • Bangalore Palace (1-2 hours, INR 230)
  • MTR or Vidyarthi Bhavan (1 hour, INR 200)
  • Cubbon Park (2-3 hours, free)
  • ISKCON Temple Bangalore (1-2 hours, free)
  • Mysore Palace (2-3 hours, INR 200)
  • Chamundeshwari Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Brindavan Gardens (1-2 hours, INR 50)
  • Mysore Zoo (2-3 hours, INR 80)
  • Vittala Temple (1-2 hours, INR 40)
  • Hampi Bazaar (1-2 hours, free)
  • Hampi Archaeological Museum (1-2 hours, INR 10)
  • Matanga Hill (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 850

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Coorg region, which is known for its coffee plantations and scenic beauty. You can also spend more time exploring Hampi, as there are many ancient temples and ruins to discover. If you have less time, you can skip Hampi and spend an extra day in Bangalore or Mysore. Note that some attractions may have different opening and closing times during weekends and public holidays, so it's best to check ahead of time and plan accordingly. Additionally, make sure to carry bottled water and wear comfortable shoes, as there can be a lot of walking involved.

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