Malnad Region Tour Package
One of the under-explored and hidden gems of Karnataka is the Malnad region. A region filled with hills, mountains, heritage, adventure, waterfalls, streams, and historical places. Malnad or Agumbe is the region that attracts many film producers and directors for its mesmerizing locations for shooting romantic sequences and songs. Adventure seekers and nature lovers flock to the Malnad region to satisfy their souls and desire to be in tranquility.
Malnad region consists of 13 districts, however the most relatable are the Shimoga, Hassan, and Chikamagalur. Most of the Malnad region is covered with forests and hence a great place for hiking and trekking. The popular treks are located in Coorg, Chikamagalur, Agumbe, and Kodachadri regions.
Ideally, the Malnad region needs at least 5 nights and 6 days to cover the entire region with not just sightseeing but also some memorable experiences.
Hassan
Travel to Hassan via Bangalore in just 4 hours via road or rail. A beautiful drive crossing through the lush green farmlands, speeding highways, and the boulders and hills on either side of the roads will take you to this heritage town of Karnataka.
Hassan is primarily a heritage town known for its ancient temples Belur – Halebeedu. A tour package on Belur- Halebeedu-Shravanabelagola can be a separate itinerary and one can plan separately.
Chikamagalur
Just an hour or so and 60 km away from Hassan, is the ‘Coffee land of Karnataka’. One of the most popular and the most scenic hill stations of Karnataka, Chikamagalur will mesmerize you with the aromas of coffee, misty hills, fauna and flora, hiking trails, temples, and waterfalls. The nip in the air when the temperature goes down to as low as 15°-18° C makes it just perfect to visit the town. A hill station in South India at an elevation of 3400 feet high has the highest peak in Karnataka called Mullyanagiri. The other hills like Baba Budangiri, Z point, and Kemmanagundi too have some breathtaking views. The captivating waterfalls like Jhari, Hanuman Gundi, Kadambi, Shankar, and much more with cascading water will leave you spellbound. A quick break to Chikamagalur from the monotonous routine will charge you enough till your next vacation.
Shimoga
Shimoga is the next biggest town and is easily accessible via road and rail from all the major towns of Karnataka. Shimoga is just 3 a half-hour’s drive from Hassan. After exploring the ancient temples and heritage of Hassan, you can proceed towards Shimoga. Alternatively, after the enthralling landscapes of Chikamagalur, you can proceed toward Shimoga. It is just 100 km and takes about 2 hours to reach Shimoga from Chikamagalur.
Shimoga often called the ‘Gateway to Malnad’, lies on the banks of the river Tunga. Shimoga is one of the unexplored and hidden gems of Karnataka with a strong historic past, heritage, culture, wildlife, and nature at its best. The rich heritage and architectural marvels of temples and monuments of Shimoga can be cherished which was ruled by various dynasties like Chalukyas, Kadambas, Gangas, and Hoysala.
Shimoga is one of the favorite locations in Karnataka amongst nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, hikers and researchers, and scholars. India’s third-highest plunge waterfall, Jog falls lies on the banks of River Sharavathi in Shimoga. The breathtaking views of glorious Jog falls will leave you spellbound. The ancient temples like Ikkeri – Keladi, super exciting off-roading to Kodachadri hills, the iconic railway station Araslu now converted into Malgudi Days Museum, and the Sakrebyle Elephant Camp are the highlights of the Malnad region.
Shimoga is one of the undiscovered locations in Karnataka. Discover the unseen charms of Karnataka along with many other places like Honnemaradu, Kavaledurga Fort, Nagara Fort, Bhadra Wildlife sanctuary, and much more.
Malnad Cuisine
Malnad region has a very distinctive cuisine and must be tried when in that region. A little different from rest of the Karnataka, Malnad cuisine is mostly the coastal specialties more specifically fish delicacies, however, Kadubu, Jackfruit pancakes, Patrode, neer dose, and curry and Akki roti are the most authentic and must to try dishes. The sea-food is you must try if non-vegetarians
How to reach and get around
By Air
The closest international airport from Malanadu town Shimoga is Mangalore. Mangalore is about 190 km away. A scenic and picturesque drive from Bangalore can also be considered if you are landing in Bangalore.
By Rail
Shimoga is the major and big town in the Malnad region but has no direct trains from Mangalore. Direct trains are available from Bangalore and other smaller towns of Karnataka. It takes about 6- 7 hours by train.
By Road
As mentioned, Shimoga is the biggest town in the Malnad region and is well connected by road to most of the major towns of Karnataka. It takes about 4 hours (200 km ) from Mangalore and taxis & public transport is easily available. There is also good connectivity by road from Bangalore and other towns of Karnataka. It takes about 7 hours by road from Bangalore to reach Shimoga.
Best time to visit
Usually, the Malnad region has warm weather but the monsoon and post-monsoon is the best time to visit. The lush greenery, fauna and flora, the Ghat section, misty hills, and a little nip in the air makes a perfect weather to be in the midst of the forest. The temperature drops down to as low as 12°-15 °C, just perfect to enjoy the warm delicacies from the region.
Travel Tips
1. Malnad region is astonishingly beautiful and should be explored at your own pace. Do not rush to complete the itinerary.
2. Driving through the Western Ghats and Agumbe region is an experience in itself. Drive carefully admiring the hilly terrains.
3. Look for King Cobras in the Agumbe region. Agumbe is home to many such reptiles.
4. Dress appropriately when visiting the temples.
5. Do not feed wild animals.
6. The best time to visit the region is post-monsoon, from September to March. The mornings and evenings are mildly chilly. Hence carry a pair of woolen clothing.
7. Chikamagalur is also famous for its rains. Check the weather conditions and is advisable to carry rainwear or an umbrella.
8. The treks and hikes in the Malnad region are quite strenuous and need some expertise. Make sure you carry proper shoes if you wish to trek.