Mysore with Coorg and Kabini

Upon your arrival at Bangalore Airport, you will be met by our representative and begin your drive toward Mysore, a city steeped in royal history. Along the way, you will visit the historic Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, also known as Dariya Daulat Bagh, which translates to “Wealth of the Sea.” This architectural gem served as the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan, who famously described it as the ‘Abode of Happiness’ and the ‘Envy of Heaven.’ The palace sits on a raised stone platform and features stunning artistic interiors with pillars crafted from teakwood. While the construction was started by Hyder Ali Khan in 1778, it was his son, Tipu Sultan, who completed it in 1784 AD. The palace is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekdays and from 08:30 am to 5:30 pm on Sundays, with an entry fee of INR 15 for Indian Nationals and INR 200 for Foreign Nationals, to be paid directly.

After exploring the palace, you will continue your drive to Mysore and check into your hotel. Once you have freshened up, you will head out by 5:00 pm to visit the iconic Brindavan Gardens, located about 12 km northwest of the city near the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam (KRS Dam). This dam, built across the prominent Cauvery River, was named after Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV and was beautified under the vision of Sir Mirza Ismail, the then Diwan of Mysore. The gardens themselves are considered among the best terrace gardens in the world, designed with inspiration from the Mughal-style Shalimar Gardens of Kashmir. You can spend the evening wandering through the botanical park and expansive lawns before enjoying the famous musical and light fountain show. The gardens stay open until 8:00 pm on weekdays and 9:00 pm on weekends, with illumination timings generally starting between 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm depending on the season. An entry fee of INR 20 per person is applicable at the gate. After the show, you will return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Mysore. Please note that the exact schedule may vary based on your arrival time and the location of your hotel.

Meal Plan: Dinner

After an early breakfast, you will begin your day by visiting the majestic Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace. Completed in 1912, this grand residence of the Wodeyar dynasty is a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture—a stunning blend of Hindu, Islamic, Rajput, and Gothic styles. Designed by the British architect Henry Irwin, the three-storied palace is built of fine grey granite with striking deep pink marble domes and a 145-foot central tower. As you enter through the Varaha Gate, you can explore the magnificent Portico with its seven vast arches, the octagonal Kalyana Mantapa (Marriage Pavilion) featuring stained-glass ceilings, and the opulent Durbar Halls. The palace grounds are equipped with various visitor facilities, including free wheelchairs, a camera custody counter, a footwear stand, drinking water, and clean toilets. While the palace is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, it is most famous for its evening illumination on Sundays and holidays, when over 96,000 bulbs transform it into a glowing spectacle. If your visit coincides with the Mysore Dasara Festival (usually in October or November), you can witness the palace at its peak grandeur with cultural performances and the world-renowned elephant parade. Entry fees are INR 100 for Indian Nationals and INR 200 for Foreign Nationals, to be paid directly at the counter.

Following your palace tour, you will depart for Coorg, popularly known as the “Scotland of India.” This picturesque hill station is famous for its rolling hills, lush coffee plantations, and mist-covered landscapes. The drive itself is scenic as the urban landscape of Mysore gives way to the winding roads and emerald greenery of the Western Ghats. Upon your arrival in Coorg, you will check into your hotel and have time to freshen up and relax. The evening is yours to enjoy the cool mountain air and the peaceful ambiance of the resort. The day concludes with a warm dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Coorg.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

After a relaxing breakfast, you will have the morning to yourself to enjoy leisure activities or soak in the serene atmosphere of your resort. In the afternoon, your exploration of Madikeri begins with a visit to the Omkareshwara Temple, an ancient and unique shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in 1820, the temple is renowned for its distinctive architectural style, which lacks the traditional gopuram and instead features a central dome and four minarets, reflecting a fascinating blend of Gothic and Islamic influences. You will then proceed to the breathtaking Abbey Falls, located amidst lush coffee plantations and spice estates. Historically known as Jessi Falls—named by a British officer in memory of his wife—the waterfall cascades down from a height of 70 feet into a calm pool, offering a spectacular sight from the hanging bridge.

As the afternoon winds down, you will head to Raja’s Seat, a seasonal garden of flowers and artificial fountains that was once a favorite relaxation spot for the Kings of Coorg. Perched on a hillock, it offers a commanding panoramic view of the rolling hills, green valleys, and winding roads, making it the perfect place to witness a stunning sunset. Please note that the flow of the day may be adjusted based on your schedule and the location of your hotel, and any applicable entry fees or activity costs are to be paid directly. After a full day of sightseeing, you will return to your hotel for dinner and a restful overnight stay in Coorg.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

After a delicious breakfast, your day begins with an adventurous visit to the Dubare Elephant Camp, a vital base for the Karnataka Forest Department situated on the scenic banks of the River Kaveri. This camp offers a unique opportunity to learn about elephant conservation and observe these gentle giants in a natural forest setting. While at the camp, you can choose to participate in various engaging activities such as elephant interaction, feeding, or even quad biking, all of which are available at an additional cost. The camp is open for visitors from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm; however, please note that it is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Access to the camp usually involves a pleasant boat ride across the river, providing a serene start to your wildlife experience.

In the afternoon, after returning to the hotel for a brief rest, you will head out to explore the Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery) at Bylakuppe. This is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in South India and serves as a major center for Tibetan Buddhist learning. The monastery is world-famous for its magnificent gold-plated statues, intricate murals, and traditional Tibetan architecture. While exploring the settlement, you can also visit the local handicrafts center, carpet factories, and incense factory to witness the rich cultural artistry of the Tibetan community. As with other days, the sequence of sightseeing may change depending on your schedule and hotel location, and all entry fees or activity charges are to be paid directly. You will return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in Coorg.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you will check out from your hotel and depart for Kabini, one of South India’s most prestigious and breathtaking wildlife destinations. Nestled on the southern fringes of the Nagarahole National Park, Kabini is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike. The region is defined by the tranquil backwaters of the River Kabini, creating a stunning and serene backdrop that serves as the perfect setting for a peaceful vacation away from the bustle of city life.

Upon arrival, check into your forest resort and take some time to settle in. In the afternoon, you have several exciting options to choose from to begin your wilderness experience. You may opt for a thrilling jungle safari (either by Jeep or Canter at an additional cost) to explore the deep forests of Nagarahole, known for sightings of leopards, tigers, elephants, and diverse birdlife. Alternatively, you can visit the Kabini Dam to enjoy the expansive views or simply spend a relaxing evening enjoying the premium facilities and natural ambiance of your beautiful resort. Please note that all entry fees and safari costs are to be paid directly at the site. The day concludes with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay at your resort in Kabini.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Your day begins with an early morning adventure into Nagarhole National Park, a premier wildlife destination that was declared India’s 37th Project Tiger reserve in 1999. Part of the majestic Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the park features a rich landscape of dense forest cover, winding streams, valleys, and waterfalls. It is renowned for maintaining a healthy predator-prey ratio, making it one of the best places in India to spot tigers, Indian bison (Gaur), and large herds of wild elephants. You can choose between a Canter/Jeep Safari to explore the terrestrial wilderness or a Boat Safari to witness wildlife gathered along the riverbanks. For those seeking a truly local experience, the afternoon offers the chance to enjoy a Coracle Ride on the Kabini River. These traditional, round-shaped boats are unique to Southern Indian rivers and offer a quiet, rhythmic way to soak in the surrounding nature—a must-do experience for every traveler.

Safari Booking & Essential Information: To ensure a smooth experience, please note that Kabini safaris cannot be pre-booked online. Tickets must be purchased offline at the Dammanakatte Forest Department in Antharsanthe. For the 3:00 PM evening safari, tickets are typically available at 9:30 AM, while tickets for the next morning’s 6:30 AM safari are usually sold at 4:00 PM the previous day. Please be aware that Jeep Safaris are exclusively reserved for guests staying at Kabini River Lodge or Evolve Back; guests at all other resorts can enjoy the forest via the Canter or Boat Safari, which must be booked individually upon arrival.

The park generally operates from 6:45 AM to 8:45 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, while the specific safari timings are 6:30 AM – 9:15 AM and 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Approximate costs for the canter safari are INR 1,500 per person and INR 2,000 for the boat safari, plus park entrance fees (INR 250 for Indians / INR 1,000 for Foreign Nationals). Please note that camera fees for professional lenses are extra and all rates are subject to change by the forest department. After a day of thrilling encounters, return to your resort for dinner and an overnight stay in Kabini.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

On your final morning in the wilderness, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the resort while soaking in the last views of the tranquil Kabini backwaters. After breakfast, you will check out and begin your drive back to the bustling city of Bangalore. As you leave behind the misty coffee plantations of Coorg and the untamed forests of Kabini, you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on the incredible wildlife sightings and serene landscapes experienced over the past week.

Upon reaching Bangalore, you will be transferred to the Bangalore Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey home. It is now time to bid farewell to the beautiful state of Karnataka, carrying with you wonderful memories of royal heritage, emerald hills, and the majestic spirit of the wild.

Meal Plan: Breakfast