5-Day Family-Friendly Adventure in Karnataka on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Bangalore

Bangalore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at MTR

Kickstart your adventure with a wholesome South Indian breakfast at MTR, famous for its soft idlis and aromatic filter coffee.
Located in the heart of Bangalore, easily accessible via local transport.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Explore the vast green spaces and beautiful flower beds at Lalbagh, and do not miss the iconic glasshouse.
A short bus or auto ride from MTR.
INR 30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at VV Puram Food Street

Enjoy a local food scene with a variety of snacks such as dosas, chaat, and sweets at this vibrant food street.
A 15-minute drive from Lalbagh.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Bangalore Palace

Visit the stunning Bangalore Palace, a piece of history with beautiful architecture and landscaped gardens.
About 30 minutes from the food street via cab.
INR 230, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Board Train to Chikmagalur

Take an evening train to Chikmagalur and enjoy the scenic views en-route.
KSR Bengaluru to Chikmagalur station.
INR 150, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Mounica

Savor a simple, yet tasty dinner at Hotel Mounica, famous for its local cuisine.
A short walk from the train station.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 2: Coffee Plantation Tours

Chikmagalur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Our Native Village

Enjoy a traditional breakfast featuring akki rotti (rice roti) and fresh coconut chutney.
Located near local plantations, accessible via short ride.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Coffee Plantation Tour

Dive into the world of coffee with a guided plantation tour, learning about coffee production and enjoying the scenic countryside.
Organized tours are available through local farms.
INR 500, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Town Canteen

Relish some mouth-watering local dishes like chicken curry and rice at this economic eatery.
Located in the town center.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Hirekolale Lake

Spend a peaceful afternoon at Hirekolale Lake, enjoying boating or just soaking in the natural beauty.
About 30 minutes from the canteen by taxi.
INR 150, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Town

Take some time to relax at your accommodation or explore local shops.
Taxi back to town.
INR 100, 30 minutes

8:00PM

Dinner at Brahmins Meals

Dig into a delicious, wholesome thali dinner; a perfect end to a busy day.
Nearby location from your accommodation.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 3: Heritage and History

Hampi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Kamath Restaurant

Fuel up with South Indian staples like rava idli and a cup of chai.
Walking distance from your stay in Chikmagalur.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Hampi

After breakfast, board an early morning train from Chikmagalur to Hampi.
Chikmagalur train station.
INR 150, 3 hours

12:30PM

Check In and Lunch

Check into a budget guest house and head out for a hearty lunch nearby.
Select from local eateries near the guest house.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Hampi Ruins

Visit iconic ruins like the Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple; let history come alive!
Walking or renting a bicycle is best for local exploration.
INR 250, 3 hours

5:30PM

Sunset at Matanga Hill

Hike up Matanga Hill to catch a stunning sunset view over the boulder-strewn landscape.
A moderate hike from the ruins.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Mango Tree Restaurant

Enjoy a meal under the stars at this famous local restaurant known for its fresh food.
Head back down towards the main area.
INR 350, 1 hour
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Day 4: Beach Day

Gokarna, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Guest House

Have a relaxed breakfast with local bread and butter and fresh fruit at your accommodation.
Just in-house dining.
INR 150, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Gokarna

Catch an early train or bus towards Gokarna to enjoy its pristine beaches.
Gokarna bus or train stations.
INR 150, 3 hours

11:30AM

Check In and Lunch

Check into a budget stay and recharge with some local coastal cuisine such as seafood thali.
Eateries near beaches offer great options.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Relax at Om Beach

Spend a lazy afternoon relaxing on Om Beach, known for its unique shape and serene beauty.
Walking distance from where you'll stay.
Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kudle Beach

Stroll to Kudle Beach, less crowded, offering great spots for swimming and sunbathing.
Short walk or rickshaw ride from Om Beach.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Namaste Cafe

Enjoy dinner with stunning ocean views; try their famous red curry!
Located on the beach front.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Culture and Nature

Dharwad, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Ashoka

Have a delightful breakfast featuring local delicacies like poha and upma.
Centrally located in Gokarna.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Dharwad

Take a short train ride to Dharwad, immersing in the beautiful landscapes during the journey.
Gokarna train station.
INR 100, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Unkal Lake

Visit Unkal Lake, a beautiful spot ideal for a leisurely walk and some photography.
Reachable by local transport.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kamat's Pure Veg

Enjoy a sumptuous pure vegetarian feast at Kamat's, featuring North Karnataka staples.
Located near the lake.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Dharwad Kittur Rani Chennamma Park

Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the lush greenery within this public park.
Short distance from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Shopping at Dharwad

Explore local handicrafts and specialities like Dharwad Peda, a famous sweet treat.
City market area.
Cost varies, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Swadikar

Conclude your trip with a delightful dinner at Swadikar, known for its rich local flavour.
Located conveniently for your last evening.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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