Family Friendly Itinerary: Chikmagaluru, Coorg, Wayanad

Saturday, September 16: Chikmagaluru Exploration

Start your trip in the serene town of Chikmagaluru. In the morning, visit Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Afternoon can be spent exploring the coffee plantations of Baba Budangiri and tasting delicious local coffee. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Hebbe Falls.

• Mullayanagiri: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Baba Budangiri Coffee Plantations: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Hebbe Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A charming breakfast spot in Chikmagaluru is The Serai. Indulge in a scrumptious spread of South Indian delicacies and enjoy the cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to JHills Spice Valley, an authentic restaurant serving traditional Coorgi cuisine. Don't miss their signature dishes like pandi curry and bamboo shoot curry. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For a delightful dinner, visit Vintage Chikmagalur, a cozy restaurant offering a range of continental and Indian dishes. The warm and rustic ambiance adds to the dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, September 17: Coorg Adventure

Head to Coorg, known as the "Scotland of India," and start your day with a visit to the historic Madikeri Fort in the morning. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Abbey Falls and enjoy a peaceful walk through the coffee and spice plantations. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Omkareshwara Temple and its architectural beauty.

• Madikeri Fort: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Abbey Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Omkareshwara Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Monday, September 18: Coorg Nature Exploration

Immerse yourself in nature by visiting the stunning Dubare Elephant Camp in the morning. Interact with elephants, participate in their bathing sessions, and learn about their conservation. In the afternoon, visit the mesmerizing Raja's Seat, a beautiful garden with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. End the day with a visit to the Namdroling Monastery, the largest Tibetan settlement in India.

• Dubare Elephant Camp: Estimated cost - INR 700 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Raja's Seat: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Namdroling Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, September 19: Wayanad Highlights

Travel to Wayanad and start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient rock carvings. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Pookode Lake and enjoy boating amidst the serene surroundings. End the day with a visit to the majestic Soochipara Falls and experience the refreshing spray of the cascading waterfalls.

• Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Soochipara Falls: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 20: Wayanad Wildlife Adventure

Embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure in Wayanad by visiting the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary in the morning. Take a jeep safari and spot various wildlife species including elephants, deer, and monkeys. In the afternoon, visit the serene Banasura Sagar Dam and enjoy stunning views of the reservoir. End the day with a visit to the ancient Thirunelli Temple, known for its intricate architecture.

• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 110 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Thirunelli Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, September 21: Wayanad Cultural Experience

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Wayanad by visiting the Wayanad Heritage Museum in the morning. Explore the exhibits showcasing the history, art, and traditions of the region. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Karapuzha Dam and enjoy serene views of the surroundings. End the day with a visit to the serene Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Wayanad Heritage Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Karapuzha Dam: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 110 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Friday, September 22: Wayanad Culinary Delights

Indulge in the flavors of Wayanad by visiting the local markets in the morning. Explore the vibrant stalls and taste local delicacies such as bamboo rice, jackfruit chips, and traditional sweets. In the afternoon, visit the serene Meenmutty Waterfalls and enjoy the tranquility of nature. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Kuruva Island, a haven for birdwatching and leisurely walks.

• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Meenmutty Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kuruva Island: Estimated cost - INR 80 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit Thirunelli Temple during the annual festival held in September. Witness the grand processions and cultural performances that showcase the vibrant traditions of Kerala. Additionally, explore the lesser-known Irupu Falls, located on the border of Karnataka and Kerala, and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature.

Check hotel and flight prices for Chikmagaluru, Coorg, and Wayanad here.