Nature Lover's Itinerary for Chikkamangaluru, Sakleshpura, Mudigere in October 2023

1. Day 1: Mullayanagiri Peak
   30 minutes (10 miles) from Chikkamangaluru

   Start your morning by hiking up Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and a glimpse of the Arabian Sea. After lunch, head over to Baba Budangiri to visit the ancient Manikyadhara waterfall. End your day at Hebbe Falls, a mesmerizing waterfall in the midst of a coffee estate.

2. Day 2: Bisle Ghat and Kukke Subramanya Temple
   2 hours (50 miles) from Mullayanagiri

   Wake up early and head over to Bisle Ghat, a serene forest region that is home to numerous species of flora and fauna. Take a guided trek through the forest, and spot rare bird species like the Malabar Trogon. After lunch, visit the Kukke Subramanya Temple, one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in South India. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel in Sakleshpura.

3. Day 3: Sakleshpura Railway Trek and Manjarabad Fort
   1 hour 45 minutes (40 miles) from Kukke Subramanya Temple

   Embark on a railway trek from Donigal Station to Yedakumeri Station, a scenic route that passes through 58 tunnels and 109 bridges. After lunch, visit the Manjarabad Fort, a star-shaped fort built by Tipu Sultan. Explore the fort, and enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats. End your day with a relaxing cup of coffee at the Hasiru Homestay in Mudigere.

4. Day 4: Kemmanagundi and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 15 minutes (30 miles) from Manjarabad Fort

   Start your day with a visit to Kemmanagundi, a beautiful hill station with lush green forests, waterfalls, and gardens. After lunch, head over to the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area that is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species. Take a jeep safari through the sanctuary, and experience the beauty of nature up-close.

5. Day 5: Belur and Halebidu Temples
   2 hours (50 miles) from Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

   Take a break from nature and explore the ancient temples of Belur and Halebidu, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Admire the intricate architecture and sculptures at the Chennakesava Temple in Belur, and the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu. End your day with a relaxing cup of tea at your hotel in Chikkamangaluru.

6. Day 6: Baba Budangiri and Hirekolale Lake
   1 hour 30 minutes (35 miles) from Halebidu Temples

   Start your day with a visit to Baba Budangiri, a sacred mountain range named after the Sufi saint Baba Budan. After lunch, head over to the beautiful Hirekolale Lake, a serene waterbody surrounded by lush green forests. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride, and soak in the tranquillity of the place. End your trip with a relaxing evening at your hotel in Chikkamangaluru.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the coffee plantations in Chikkamangaluru, and learning about the coffee-making process. You can also take a trip to the nearby Belavadi village, and explore its ancient temples. For a side trip, head over to the Jog Falls in Shimoga, one of the highest waterfalls in India. To make the most of your trip, hire a local guide who can take you through the narrow trails and hidden treasures of the Western Ghats. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!