Bangalore to Chikmagalur – Hoysala Temples & Bhadra Wilderness
Product Code : AGORA962
Bangalore to Chikmagalur – Hoysala Temples & Bhadra Wilderness takes you on a private 2-night/3-day journey blending heritage, nature, and coffee country charm. Travel from Bangalore to the historic towns of Halebeedu and Belur, where exquisite Hoysala temples narrate tales through stone. Continue to Chikmagalur, a serene hill station surrounded by lush coffee plantations. Enjoy a choice of experiences, from trekking to Mullayanagiri Peak, birdwatching, or a Jeep Safari in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, home to elephants, gaurs, and diverse birdlife. Learn the art of coffee-making with a plantation visit and tasting session. Conclude with a spiritual stop at Shravanabelagola, where the colossal Bahubali statue crowns your journey.
Day 1: Bangalore – Halebeedu & Belur – Chikmagalur
Your private driver will pick you up from your Bangalore hotel and begin the journey towards Chikmagalur. En route, stop at Halebeedu, once the regal capital of the Hoysalas. Here you will explore:
- Hoysaleswara Temple – famous for its detailed sculptures depicting mythological stories.
- Shantaleswara Temple – dedicated to Queen Shantala Devi, adorned with graceful carvings.
- Kedareshwara Temple – showcasing a blend of Hoysala and Chola architectural styles.
- Basadi Jain Temples – reflecting the religious diversity of the Hoysalas.
Next, proceed to Belur, home to some of the finest examples of Hoysala craftsmanship:
- Chennakesava Temple – dedicated to Lord Vishnu, with exquisitely carved pillars and friezes.
- Kappe Chennigaraya Temple – smaller in size yet equally intricate.
- Veera Narayana Temple – notable for its finely sculpted images.
- Ranganayaki Shrine – dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi.
After sightseeing and a leisurely lunch break, continue to Chikmagalur, a charming hill station surrounded by coffee plantations. Check in at your hotel and spend the evening relaxing, enjoying hotel facilities, or taking a stroll amidst the serene coffee-scented surroundings.
Overnight stay in Chikmagalur.
Day 2: Chikmagalur – Nature & Coffee Experience
Early morning, select any one of the following options:
Option 1: Mullayanagiri Trek
Drive to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka. A short but rewarding trek takes you to the summit, offering sweeping views of the Western Ghats, rolling hills, and misty valleys – perfect for a refreshing nature escape.
Option 2: Bird Watching in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Enjoy a guided bird-watching excursion in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a rich variety of avian species such as the Flame-throated Bulbul, Racquet-tailed Drongo, Malabar Whistling Thrush, and Velvet-fronted Nuthatch.
Option 3: Muthodi Jeep Safari
Embark on an exciting Jeep Safari through the southern part of Bhadra Tiger Reserve, a dense forest known for its biodiversity.
- Traverse forest trails and grasslands while keeping an eye out for elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, wild boars, and diverse bird species. Leopard sightings are rare but possible for keen observers.
- Visit the Jagara Giant, Karnataka’s largest teak tree, with a girth of 5.1 m and height of 32 m, estimated to be around 400 years old.
- The safari offers a close-to-nature experience, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and spotting endemic flora.
Return to the hotel for breakfast and some rest. Later, visit a coffee plantation estate and processing centre to learn about coffee cultivation and roasting techniques. Conclude with a coffee tasting session (seasonal).
The afternoon is free to relax at the hotel, explore the local town, or enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Overnight stay in Chikmagalur.
Day 3: Chikmagalur – Shravanabelagola – Bangalore
After breakfast, check out and begin the drive back to Bangalore. On the way, stop at Shravanabelagola, an important Jain pilgrimage centre.
Climb Vindhyagiri Hill, where more than 600 carved stone steps lead to the towering 57-foot statue of Bahubali (Gommateshwara), one of the largest monolithic statues in the world. The panoramic views from the summit over the surrounding countryside are spectacular.
After visiting Shravanabelagola, continue your journey to Bangalore and drop off at your hotel.
Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver for the entire trip as per itinerary.
Accommodation in Chikmagalur for 2 nights with breakfast.
Services of an English-speaking guide at Halebeedu, Belur, and Shravanabelagola.
Guided trek to Mullayanagiri (if opted) OR Birdwatching tour/Jeep Safari at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (as per chosen option).
Visit to a coffee plantation estate and coffee tasting session (seasonal).
Entrance fees, monument charges, safari permits, and camera fees.
All applicable taxes, parking fees, and toll charges.
Lunches and dinners, unless specified.
Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, and beverages.
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
Travel insurance, flight tickets, or train tickets to/from Bangalore.