Karnataka Coastal & Hill Temples and Waterfalls Itinerary (June 17-20, 2025)

Day 1: June 17 – Bangalore to Gokarna

Morning: Start early morning from Bangalore to maximize sightseeing. Drive directly to Gokarna (approx. 8-9 hours). Enjoy the scenic route and rest during travel.

Afternoon: After checking into your accommodation in Gokarna, visit the famous Gokarnatheshwara Temple and take time to explore the spiritual ambiance.

Evening: Relax at Kudle Beach, enjoy the sunset, and soak in the peaceful beach vibes.

Day 2: June 18 – Around Gokarna & Mangalore

Morning: Depart early for a drive to Mangalore. Visit prominent temples — Kodial Korgajja Temple, Kadri Temple, and Gokarnatheshwara Temple (if time allows).

Afternoon: Explore Tannirbavi Beach near Mangalore for some coastal relaxation and sightseeing. Optionally visit Somnatheswara Temple in Kundapur on the return trip.

Evening: Stay overnight in Mangalore. Stroll local markets or enjoy local cuisine for dinner.

Day 3: June 19 – Mangalore to Chikmagalur (via Western Ghats and Waterfalls)

Morning: Start early towards Chikmagalur via Bisle Ghat. En route, visit serene Bettada Byraveshwara Temple and the small village Devaramane, nestled in the hills.

Afternoon: Explore the magnificent Kalathgiri Falls, Hebbe Falls, and Jhari Falls near Chikmagalur. Enjoy lunch amidst nature.

Evening: Stay overnight at Chikmagalur to rest and prepare for the next day’s hill and temple explorations.

Day 4: June 20 – Chikmagalur to Bangalore via Sringeri, Horanadu, Dharmasthala, Shimoga & Jog Falls

Morning: Leave Chikmagalur early; visit Sringeri (famous Sharada Peetham) and Horanadu. Proceed to Dharmasthala, known for the Manjunatha Temple and charitable activities.

Afternoon: Visit Shimoga’s Sigandur Temple and then experience the grandeur of Jog Falls, one of India’s highest waterfalls.

Evening: Begin return drive to Bangalore; expect to reach by late night if timing permits or rest midway depending on energy.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Gokarnatheshwara Temple: 1.5 hours - Free entry
• Kudle Beach: 2 hours - Free
• Kodial Korgajja Temple (Mangalore): 1 hour - Free
• Kadri Temple: 1 hour - Free
• Tannirbavi Beach: 1.5 hours - Free
• Somnatheswara Temple (Kundapur): 1 hour - Free
• Bisile Ghat drive and viewpoints: 1.5 hours - No cost
• Bettada Byraveshwara Temple: 1 hour - Free
• Devaramane Village exploration: 1 hour - Free
• Kalathgiri Falls: 1 hour - Entry approx. ₹20 per person
• Hebbe Falls: 1 hour - Entry approx. ₹20 per person
• Jhari Falls: 1 hour - Free
• Sringeri: 1.5 hours - Free
• Horanadu Temple: 1 hour - Free
• Dharmasthala Temple: 1.5 hours - Free
• Sigandur Temple (Shimoga): 1 hour - Free
• Jog Falls: 2 hours - Entry approx. ₹20 per person

Total Estimated Cost: Around ₹150-₹250 per person for entry fees, excluding travel and accommodation expenses.

Tips

If you prefer a more relaxed trip, consider extending your stay by a day in either Gokarna or Chikmagalur to soak in the nature and temple ambiance without rush. For a shorter itinerary, skip some inland waterfalls to focus on coastal temples and beaches. Starting the trip on the night of June 16 is possible but less advisable given the long travel distances and multiple stops; a fresh early start on June 17 morning is recommended for safety and better time management. Staying Day 3 in Chikmagalur is better to avoid fatigue from continuous travel, especially after Mangalore and Western Ghats stretches.