Start your adventure in Coorg by immersing yourself in the lush greenery and serene atmosphere of Abbey Falls. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the trail leading to the waterfall, enjoying the refreshing mist and the sound of cascading water. Afterward, visit Raja's Seat, a breathtaking viewpoint where you can witness the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling streets of Madikeri, the capital of Coorg, and indulge in some local delicacies.
The Coorg Breakfast Corner is a charming cafe known for its delicious breakfast options, such as fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Spice Garden Restaurant, a local favorite that serves mouthwatering Coorgi cuisine. Try their signature pork curry or bamboo shoot curry. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
To end your day with a memorable dinner, visit The Granary, a cozy restaurant that offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring a range of international dishes and local specialties. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Exploring Coorg
Embark on an exciting day of exploration by visiting the Dubare Elephant Camp in the morning. Get up close and personal with elephants as you participate in activities like elephant feeding and bathing. Afterward, head to the famous Golden Temple, also known as the Namdroling Monastery, which is a serene place of worship adorned with intricate Tibetan Buddhist artwork. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll through the coffee plantations and enjoy the scenic beauty of Coorg.
Dubare Elephant Camp: Estimated cost - INR 700 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Golden Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coorg Cuisine. This restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Coorgi dishes such as kadambuttu (rice dumplings) and pandi curry (pork curry). The average cost for a breakfast here is about 200 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a sumptuous lunch at Raintree Restaurant. Indulge in their mouthwatering buffet spread featuring a mix of Indian and international cuisines. The average cost for a lunch here is about 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Hotel Capitol. This restaurant offers a diverse menu with options ranging from North Indian delicacies to Chinese and Continental dishes. The average cost for a dinner here is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Wayanad Exploration
Today, venture into Wayanad and start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Enjoy a boat ride in the reservoir surrounded by mesmerizing hills. Afterward, head to the Edakkal Caves, a historic site with ancient cave paintings dating back thousands of years. In the evening, discover the beauty of Pookode Lake, a natural freshwater lake nestled amidst evergreen forests.
Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
A highly recommended breakfast spot in Wayanad is Coffee Grove. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly brewed coffee, tea, and delicious sandwiches. The average cost for a breakfast at Coffee Grove is around 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head over to The Willow Tree. This restaurant serves a range of delectable Indian and continental dishes in a serene atmosphere. The average cost for a meal at The Willow Tree is about 500 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Lantern Restaurant. Known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance, Lantern offers a wide selection of Indian and Chinese cuisines. The average cost for a dinner at Lantern Restaurant is around 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 2: Wayanad Wildlife and Departure
On your last day, explore the wildlife of Wayanad by visiting the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in the morning. Embark on a thrilling safari through the dense forests and spot various species of animals and birds in their natural habitat. Afterward, make your way to the beautiful Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Bid farewell to Wayanad and depart for your onward journey.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 110 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Soochipara Falls: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Coorg. This charming cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options, from traditional Coorgi dishes to international favorites. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Green Leaf Restaurant. Serving authentic South Indian cuisine, this restaurant is known for its flavorful curries and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try The Fort Cochin. Located in a historic fort, this restaurant offers a blend of Indian and continental dishes with a focus on seafood. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Coorg and Wayanad, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. In Coorg, visit the lesser-known Chelavara Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. For a unique experience, indulge in a traditional Coorg homestay and immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. In Wayanad, explore the lesser-explored Kuruvadweep, a group of small islands formed by the Kabini River, known for its serene beauty and abundant flora and fauna. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like Pandi Curry (pork curry) and Bamboo Rice for an authentic taste of the region.
For hotel and flight bookings, check out kayak.com to find the best deals and prices for your trip.