5-Day Family Friendly Road Trip to Chikmagalur - Nature and City Adventures on a Budget

Day 1: Travel to Chikmagalur

Bangalore, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at MTR

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room), known for its rava idli and filter coffee.
From MTR, head to your rented car for departure.
INR250, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Chikmagalur

Enjoy the scenic drive through lush greenery and coffee plantations, covering approximately 250 km.
Follow NH 75 and NH 173 to reach Chikmagalur.
Fuel INR1500, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Beneshan Restaurant

Savor some local Malnad cuisine, with options like chicken and fish curry along with rice.
Located in the heart of Chikmagalur town near the bus stand.
INR500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Coffee Museum

Explore the world of coffee through interactive exhibits and tastings, a must for every coffee lover.
Just a short drive from the restaurant.
INR100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Town Canteen

Grab a budget-friendly meal at Town Canteen, famous for its dosas and idlis.
Located in Chikmagalur town.
INR300, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Exploring Nature

Chikmagalur, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Sri Durga Bhavan

Fuel up with pancakes or traditional idlis before heading out for the day.
Close to your accommodation in Chikmagalur.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kallathigiri Falls

Enjoy a peaceful morning amidst nature at Kallathigiri Falls, perfect for a refreshing dip.
A short 30-minute drive from Chikmagalur.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch

Bring packed lunch from the hotel to munch while surrounded by nature.
Enjoy it near the falls, soaking in the views.
INR300 (for supplies), 1 hour

1:30PM

Trekking at Mullayanagiri

Hike up to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, for stunning panoramic views.
Drive to Mullayanagiri car park, then trek up to the summit.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Shankar Hotel

Savor local dishes such as biryani or kottu roti at an affordable price.
Back in Chikmagalur town.
INR400, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Culture and Adventure

Mullayanagiri, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Hill View

Start your day with a hearty breakfast buffet at the hotel.
Located nearby.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Samadhi of Dattatreya

Explore the sacred shrine dedicated to the deity Dattatreya near Mullayanagiri.
A short trek from Mullayanagiri peak.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Scenic Drive to Baba Budangiri

Take in beautiful views on the route to Baba Budangiri, known for its scenic hills.
Travel by car from Mullayanagiri to Baba Budangiri.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Baba Budangiri's Local Stall

Taste local delicacies like idli and chutney from a small vendor.
Nearby the Baba Budangiri shrine.
INR200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Baba Budangiri

Spend your afternoon trekking and viewing stunning natural beauty with family.
Walk around the area to discover trails.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Chikmagalur

Relax after a full day of adventure.
Drive back to Chikmagalur.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sri Ganesh Hotel

Enjoy local seafood dishes that are both tasty and economical.
Located in Chikmagalur town.
INR350, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Family Nature Day

Kolabailu, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Enjoy a simple breakfast made from local ingredients.
Eat at your hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kolabailu Lake

Spend the morning at Kolabailu Lake, enjoying boating or simply picnicking by the shore.
Drive 15 minutes from Chikmagalur to Kolabailu.
Boating INR300, Picnic Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Under the Trees

Pack a delicious lunch to enjoy under the shade of trees by the lake.
Use a portable tablecloth for comfort.
INR300 (for supplies), 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Wildlife at the Lake

Watch for birds and other wildlife during a relaxed stroll around the lake area.
Walking trails around Kolabailu Lake.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Chikmagalur

After a day full of nature, head back to your hotel.
Drive back to Chikmagalur.
Free, 30 mins

5:00PM

Dinner at Select Hotel

Try local dosas that are filling and friendly on the pocket.
Located in Chikmagalur town.
INR300, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Departure Day

Chikmagalur, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the last breakfast featuring local specialties.
In your accommodation.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hirekolale Lake

Spend the last day at Hirekolale Lake, perfect for taking beautiful family photos.
Less than 30 minutes' drive from Chikmagalur.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Last-minute Shopping

Pick up souvenirs from local shops and enjoy some sweets.
Nearby local markets.
INR500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hoysala Regency

Treat the family to an appetizing buffet spread before leaving.
Centrally located in Chikmagalur.
INR600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive Back to Bangalore

Conclude your trip with a pleasant drive back to Bangalore, filled with wonderful memories.
Follow NH 173 back to Bangalore.
Fuel INR1500, 5 hours
View Hotel Availability