Exploring Coorg and Mysore: A Nature-Lover's 3-Day Itinerary

Saturday, September 30: Arrival in Coorg

Start your nature-filled adventure in Coorg, also known as the "Scotland of India." In the morning, visit the stunning Abbey Falls and marvel at the cascading water amidst lush greenery. Afterward, head to the Dubare Elephant Camp and enjoy a unique experience of interacting with elephants in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, explore the coffee plantations and learn about the region's coffee cultivation. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the Madikeri Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

• Abbey Falls: Entrance fee - INR 15, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dubare Elephant Camp: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Coffee Plantations: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Madikeri Fort: Entrance fee - INR 5, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 1: Coorg to Mysore

Embark on a scenic drive from Coorg to Mysore, a city known for its grand palaces and vibrant culture. Start your morning with a visit to the serene Brindavan Gardens, famous for its beautiful fountains and musical lights. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Mysore Palace, a captivating blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture. As the evening approaches, take a stroll through the colorful Devaraja Market and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere while shopping for spices, silk, and handicrafts.

• Brindavan Gardens: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mysore Palace: Entrance fee - INR 70, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Devaraja Market: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A cozy cafe called Coorg Coffee Corner is a great option for breakfast with its relaxing ambiance and delicious coffee. It offers a variety of breakfast dishes such as fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon. The average cost for a meal is about 200-300 INR per person.
• For a delightful lunch experience, head to Raintree Restaurant located in the heart of Mysore. This restaurant offers a diverse menu of Indian and Continental cuisine. Their mouthwatering biryanis and sizzlers are highly recommended. The average cost for a meal is about 300-400 INR per person.
• Indulge in a memorable dinner at Oyster Bay, a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh catch and coastal flavors. From grilled fish to spicy prawns, their menu has a wide selection of delicacies to satisfy seafood lovers. The average cost for a meal is about 500-700 INR per person.

Monday, October 2: Discovering Mysore's Natural Beauty

Begin your day by visiting the enchanting Chamundi Hills and climbing the 1,000 steps to reach the Chamundeshwari Temple. Take in the panoramic views of Mysore and its surroundings from the hilltop. In the afternoon, explore the sprawling Mysore Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals and birds. Wrap up your nature-filled adventure with a visit to the beautiful Karanji Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride and spot various migratory birds.

• Chamundi Hills: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Chamundeshwari Temple: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mysore Zoo: Entrance fee - INR 80, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Karanji Lake: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts looking for off the beaten path attractions, head to Mandalpatti in Coorg. This lesser-known hill station offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is best explored through a trek. Another hidden gem is the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, located near Mysore. Get closer to nature as you boat through the serene waters and witness a plethora of migratory birds in their natural habitat. These hidden gems are perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility and breathtaking landscapes.