10-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Karnataka: Nature, Culture, and Relaxation on a Budget

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

Bengaluru, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at MTR

Kick-start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast at the iconic MTR, famous for its rava idli and filter coffee.
Located in Lalbagh, easily accessible by local transport.
INR300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Stroll through the lush greenery and explore the beautiful flower displays and the historic glasshouse.
Walk from MTR to Lalbagh, approximately 15 minutes.
INR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Vidyarthi Bhavan

Enjoy a flavorful masala dosa at this legendary eatery known for its authentic taste.
Head to Basavanagudi via taxi, around 20 minutes.
INR150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Bull Temple

Visit the magnificent Bull Temple, known for its massive bull statue, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Located near Vidyarthi Bhavan, a quick 10-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Cultural Show at Ranga Shankara

Experience the local theater scene with a family-friendly play at this well-known theater.
A brief drive from Bull Temple, about 20 minutes.
INR500, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Nagarathpet

Savor a delightful dinner of North Indian cuisine at this bustling marketplace, famous for its street food.
Driver can drop you off, around 30 minutes.
INR400, 1 hour
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Day 2: Scenic Hill Stations

Chikmagalur, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the scenic drive to Chikmagalur.
Hotel lobby.
INR200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Journey to Chikmagalur

Embark on a picturesque drive through coffee plantations and lush valleys towards Chikmagalur.
Drive approximately 4 hours.
INR1000 (for fuel and tolls), 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Town Canteen

Grab a quick and tasty local meal at this hidden gem in the heart of Chikmagalur.
Located in the town area, about a 10-minute drive.
INR250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Coffee Estates

Take a guided tour of a coffee estate and learn about the coffee-making process, a must-do in Chikmagalur.
Various estates are available; choose one near your accommodation.
INR500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Mullayanagiri Peak

Enjoy a family hike to the highest peak in Karnataka for breathtaking panoramic views.
Drive to the base, around 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sri Durga Kadai

Indulge in authentic Malnad cuisine served at this simple yet delicious local eatery.
Drive about 20 minutes from Mullayanagiri.
INR300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature & Tranquility

Sakleshpur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Coffee Estate

Enjoy a traditional breakfast amidst the green hills at the coffee estate where you stayed.
On-site at coffee estate.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Sakleshpur

Drive to Sakleshpur, famous for its scenic landscape and pleasant climate.
Approximately 1 hour drive.
INR200 (for fuel), 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Manjarabad Fort

Explore this stunning star-shaped fort, offering a glimpse into history and spectacular views.
Short drive from Sakleshpur town, about 30 minutes.
INR50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Savor local delicacies in a family-friendly dhaba that offers hearty meals.
Near Manjarabad Fort, easy to find.
INR250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Trekking at Ettina Baskota

Embark on a family-friendly trek to stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning views of the Western Ghats.
Travel to Ettina Baskota from the dhaba, around 25 minutes.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Have a cozy dinner at the hotel, offering both Indian and continental dishes.
At your accommodation.
INR400, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Discovery

Coorg, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Sakleshpur before departing for Coorg.
On-site at your hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Coorg

Set off for Coorg—a beautiful hill station renowned for its coffee and spices.
A pleasant 2 hour drive.
INR300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Abbey Falls

Immerse in nature at the stunning Abbey Falls, where you can take beautiful family photos.
Drive to Abbey Falls from your hotel, about 20 minutes.
INR30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Raintree Restaurant

Enjoy local Coorgi dishes such as pandhi curry at this lovely restaurant surrounded by greenery.
Near Abbey Falls, approximately 15 minutes' drive.
INR350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Dubare Elephant Camp

Interact with elephants at this unique camp, where you can also enjoy a river bath.
A short drive from Raintree, about 30 minutes.
INR1000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at East End Hotel

Indulge in a traditional Coorgi meal featuring local meats and rice in this popular eatery.
In Madikeri, accessible via a 40-minute drive.
INR500, 1 hour
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Day 5: Heritage & History

Mysore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel in Coorg before heading to Mysore.
On-site at your hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Mysore

Depart for Mysore, known for its majestic palaces and rich heritage.
Approximately 2 hours by car.
INR500, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Mysore Palace

Discover the grandeur of Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into royal history.
Located in Mysore city, easily accessible.
INR50, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Hotel RRR

Relish traditional Mysore meals featuring biryani and thali dishes at this popular restaurant.
Close to the palace, about 5 minutes away.
INR400, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Chamundi Hill

Drive up to Chamundi Hill and explore the temple, offering breathtaking views of the city.
A short drive from the restaurant, around 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Silent Shores

Dine at this lakeside restaurant offering continental and Indian cuisine in a serene setting.
Located away from city noise, about 30 minutes drive to the lake.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 6: Wildlife Adventure

Bandipur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel in Mysore before the journey to Bandipur.
On-site at your hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Bandipur National Park

Drive to Bandipur, famous for its wildlife sanctuary and rich biodiversity.
A scenic 1 hour drive.
INR300, 1 hour

11:00AM

Safari in Bandipur National Park

Embark on a thrilling safari to spot various wildlife species including elephants, deer, and birds.
Join a scheduled safari, usually arranged by local hotels.
INR1500 (for safari tickets), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Safari Lodge

After your safari, enjoy a buffet lunch at the lodge offering local and international dishes.
At the safari lodge itself.
INR500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Nature Walk & Bird Watching

Experience a guided nature walk to learn about the flora and fauna of the region.
At the lodge, usually organized by the staff.
INR200, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy local delicacies at a nearby restaurant after a day of adventure.
30-minute drive toward Gundlupet.
INR300, 1 hour
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Day 7: Nature Exploration

Wayanad, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lodge

Relax with a leisurely breakfast at your lodge in Bandipur.
On-site at your lodge.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Wayanad

Set off to Wayanad, known for its waterfalls and wildlife.
Approximate 1.5 hour drive.
INR400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Edakkal Caves

Explore ancient rock carvings and enjoy scenic views from these historic caves.
A short drive from your drop-off point, easily locatable.
INR30, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Wayanad Restaurant

Try out local delicacies, like bamboo rice, at a family-friendly restaurant nearby.
Easy access on your way to the next stop.
INR350, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Banasura Sagar Dam

Relax by the picturesque dam and take a boat ride, enjoying the stunning scenery.
About a 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR300 (for boat ride), 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Wind down with a delicious dinner at your hotel, offering various cuisines.
At your accommodation.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 8: Historical Adventure

Hampi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up before you embark on the journey to Hampi, known for its rich history.
Dining area at your Wayanad hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Hampi

Drive towards Hampi, famous for its ancient temples and ruins.
About a 6-hour drive.
INR1200, 6 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Mango Tree

Dine on delicious local fare at this popular eatery in Hampi with lovely views.
In the center of Hampi.
INR400, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Vijaya Vittala Temple

Explore the iconic ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and witness the famous Stone Chariot.
A short drive from lunch, easily locatable.
INR50, 2 hours

6:30PM

Enjoy Sunset at Hemakuta Hill

Climb Hemakuta Hill for stunning sunset views over the ancient city of Hampi.
Easily walkable from keys points in Hampi.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at The Goan Corner

Finish off your day with a delicious coastal meal at this lovely restaurant.
Located within Hampi.
INR500, 1 hour
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Day 9: Historic Diversity

Badami, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a hearty breakfast before venturing to Badami, a town famous for its rock-cut temples.
At your Hampi hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Badami

Drive to Badami, approximately known as 3-4 hour drive.
A scenic route through the countryside.
INR500, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Badami Restaurant

Enjoy traditional North Karnataka meals at this renowned local restaurant.
Easily accessible in Badami.
INR300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Badami Caves

Explore the magnificent rock-cut temples carved into cliffs, a must-see in Badami.
Reachable by a short drive or walk.
INR30, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Bhoothanath Temple

Admire this historic temple located by a beautiful lake, perfect for family photos.
A quick drive from the caves, around 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Have dinner at your hotel before settling down for the night.
On-site at your hotel.
INR400, 1 hour
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Day 10: Departure Day

Bengaluru, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and heading back to Bengaluru.
At your hotel in Badami.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel Back to Bengaluru

Make your way back to Bengaluru, reminiscing about the beautiful moments from your trip.
A scenic 5-hour drive.
INR800, 5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery in Bengaluru

Enjoy a last meal of authentic South Indian cuisine before departure.
A local restaurant close to the airport.
INR400, 1 hour

4:30PM

Optional: Visit Bangalore Palace

Take a quick tour of Bangalore Palace, immersing yourself in the historical architecture.
Located near the city center, around 30 minutes drive.
INR230, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Departure

Make your way to the airport for your departure, cherishing the memories of Karnataka.
Airport accessible by taxi, around 30 minutes drive.
N/A, 1 hour
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