Start your trip by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Chikkamagaluru. In the morning, visit one of the many coffee plantations in the region. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the coffee-making process and take in the lush surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, for a breathtaking view of the Western Ghats. As the evening sets in, visit the Baba Budangiri shrine, a sacred site for both Hindus and Muslims, nestled amidst picturesque landscapes.
Coffee Plantation Tour: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Mullayanagiri: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Baba Budangiri: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day at The Grand Coffee House, a cozy cafe located near the coffee plantations. You can indulge in a delicious breakfast of freshly brewed coffee and crispy pastries. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 rupees per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Hidden Paradise, a restaurant known for its authentic local cuisine. Feast on traditional dishes like akki roti and freshly caught fish. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 rupees per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Spice Garden, a restaurant nestled in the heart of Chikkamagaluru. This restaurant offers a wide range of Indian and international dishes, including mouthwatering biryanis and sizzling tandoori platters. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 rupees per person.
Saturday October 21: Wildlife Safari and Temple Visit
Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure on day two. Start your morning with a visit to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. Take a jeep safari through the sanctuary and spot animals like tigers, elephants, and deer in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit Sringeri Sharada Peetham, an ancient temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Saraswati. Explore the temple complex and witness the religious rituals. In the evening, relax by the beautiful Bhadra Reservoir and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 1,000 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
For breakfast, head to The Vintage Cafe, a cozy eatery known for its delicious breakfast options. Enjoy a hearty meal of fluffy pancakes or eggs benedict. The average cost for a meal is about 150 rupees per person.
For lunch, try The Deck Restaurant, a popular spot offering a variety of cuisines. Indulge in their mouth-watering biryanis or tandoori specialties. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
For dinner, visit The Planters Court, a charming restaurant with a warm ambience. Feast on delectable Chikkamagaluru-style dishes like Pandi curry or Akki roti. The average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
Sunday October 22: Adventure and Waterfalls
On the final day of your trip, indulge in adventure activities and visit stunning waterfalls. Start your morning with a trek to Jhari Waterfalls, known for its picturesque beauty. Enjoy the refreshing cascades and take a dip in the natural pool. In the afternoon, head to Hirekolale Lake for boating and peaceful surroundings. As the evening approaches, visit the Ayyanakere Lake, a scenic spot perfect for a leisurely stroll and sunset views.
Jhari Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Hirekolale Lake: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at The Serai Chikmagalur. They offer a wide variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
For lunch, head to The Grand Krishna. They serve authentic North Indian cuisine including biryanis, curries, and naans. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For dinner, visit the Baba Budangiri Restaurant. This restaurant offers a range of Indian and Chinese dishes. Don't miss their biryanis and chilly chicken. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Chikkamagaluru, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Belavadi Veeranarayana Temple, a lesser-known architectural marvel. This temple displays exquisite Hoysala-style carvings and is a serene place away from the crowds. Another hidden gem is the Coffee Yatra Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of coffee in Chikkamagaluru. The museum showcases various coffee artifacts and offers interactive exhibits for an enriching experience. These off-the-beaten-path attractions provide a unique glimpse into the local heritage and culture of Chikkamagaluru.