7-Day Nature Itinerary: Chikkamangaluru, Sakleshpura, Kukke, Dharmasthala, Devarmane, Didupe, Samse, Udupi, Goa

Friday September 22: Chikkamangaluru

Start your trip in Chikkamangaluru, known for its lush greenery and coffee plantations. In the morning, visit the famous Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest peak in Karnataka, for breathtaking panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the serene Hebbe Falls and indulge in a refreshing swim. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the Baba Budangiri Hills and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

• Mullayanagiri Peak: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Hebbe Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Baba Budangiri Hills: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Saturday September 23: Sakleshpura

Head to Sakleshpura, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. In the morning, embark on a scenic trek to the beautiful Manjarabad Fort and learn about its historical significance. After lunch, visit the enchanting Bisle Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests. In the evening, relax at the serene Hemavathi Reservoir and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

• Manjarabad Fort: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Bisle Viewpoint: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Hemavathi Reservoir: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday September 24: Kukke and Dharmasthala

Start your day in Kukke, home to the famous Kukke Subramanya Temple. Participate in the morning rituals and seek blessings. Afterward, make your way to Dharmasthala and visit the revered Manjunatha Temple. Spend the afternoon exploring the peaceful surroundings and admiring the intricate architecture. In the evening, relax at the Netravathi River bathing ghat and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

• Kukke Subramanya Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Netravathi River bathing ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Hotel Advaith Lancer for delicious South Indian dishes like idli and dosa. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹100 per person.
• For lunch, try Sri Krishna Bhavan for authentic vegetarian thali meals. They offer a variety of options and the average cost for a meal is around ₹150 per person.
• For dinner, Raghavendra Bar and Restaurant is a great choice. They serve mouthwatering seafood dishes and the average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.

Monday September 25: Devarmane and Didupe

Explore the scenic beauty of Devarmane in the morning. Take a leisurely walk through the lush forests and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Afterward, head to Didupe and visit the stunning Didupe Falls. Spend the afternoon swimming in the crystal-clear waters and immersing yourself in nature. In the evening, indulge in a night drink party at a local lodge.

• Devarmane Forest: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Didupe Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Night drink party: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 3 hours

Tuesday September 26: Samse

Discover the natural beauty of Samse, a small village surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. In the morning, embark on a scenic trek to the majestic Kudremukh Peak and enjoy the panoramic views. Afterward, visit the serene Hanuman Gundi Falls and relax in its tranquil setting. In the evening, explore the nearby tea estates and savor a cup of freshly brewed tea.

• Kudremukh Peak: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4 hours
• Hanuman Gundi Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Tea estate visit: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Wednesday September 27: Udupi

Visit the coastal town of Udupi known for its beautiful beaches and temples. In the morning, explore the famous Udupi Sri Krishna Temple and witness the grandeur of its architecture. Afterward, head to the picturesque Malpe Beach and indulge in water sports or simply relax by the shore. In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

• Udupi Sri Krishna Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Malpe Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Seafood dinner: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Thursday September 28: Goa

End your nature-filled trip in the vibrant state of Goa. In the morning, visit the popular Dudhsagar Falls and marvel at its cascading beauty. Afterward, explore the bustling markets of Panaji and indulge in some souvenir shopping. In the evening, unwind at one of the famous beach shacks and enjoy a night drink party amidst the lively atmosphere.

• Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Panaji markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
• Night drink party at a beach shack: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature lovers seeking off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the lesser-known Ballalarayana Durga in Chikkamangaluru. It offers stunning views from the top of the hill and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. Another hidden gem is the serene Maranakatte Lake near Sakleshpura, perfect for a peaceful picnic. Locals also recommend exploring the unspoiled beaches of Kapu and St. Mary's Islands near Udupi for a taste of untouched natural beauty.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the latest prices on Kayak.