Renu, Author at Travel Duo

How To Reach Thirunelli Temple – A Famous Vishnu Temple on The Hills of Wayanad

Renu on October 15, 2019

This is guide for people looking to travel from Bangalore to Wayanad by road and guide on how to reach Thirunelli temple.

On September 14th 2019, We went on 3 days road trip from Bangalore to Wayanad to celebrate our 4th Wedding Anniversary. During our stay in Wayanad, We visited Thirunelli Mahavishnu temple on the hills, about 10 mins drive from our resort. Early morning pooja performed at 5.30 in this temple is said to be very special. Though we couldn’t make it so early, we went around 10am and absolutely loved it.

So, this how to reach Thirunelli temple, a famous Maha Vishnu temple on the hills of Wayanad.

How to Reach Thirunelli Temple Wayanad

Thirunelli Vishnu temple in Wayanad, Kerala is situated 32 kms from Mananthavady. The Temple is situated in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains and trees with good parking facilities.

Thirunelli temple lies in the valley of Bhramagiri Hills, the name is connected to Lord Brahma and the ancient history of this temple.

We traveled from Bangalore to Wayanad in mid of September by car to celebrate our 4th Wedding Anniversary. Thirunelly was our stay destination in Wayanad, we checked in at Jungle Retreat on our first day, and Visited Thirunelli Vishnu temple on the next day morning.

There are 3 routes if you are travelling from Bangalore to Wayanad with almost same distances.

Since there are 4 routes from Bangalore to Wayanad, If you want to know the best route on how to reach Thirunelli temple from Bangalore, read here.

Of all the routes, If you are planning to take Nagarhole reserve forest route, call up their office to confirm the entry for visitors to save any unplanned deviation.

There are hardly few shops selling refreshments, pooja items and some ayurvedic products.

Driving your own vehicle – Once you reach the temple, park your vehicle from the ample parking area, walk about 200 meters to reach the temple. There is no vehicle parking fee, nor any shoes counter fee.

Taking Bus or Auto or Taxi– You could take it from Kutta, the nearest public transport with bus and taxi facilities connecting Wayanad, including services to Nagarhole National park.

Thirunelli temple images — Ambalam View, Thirunelli temple Wayanad, Kerala

How We Planned Our Wayanad Road trip

During our 3 stays in Tirunelly Kerala, we came to know that the restaurant choices are very limited. We found a good restaurant in Kutta while we were on the way to Nagarhole Jungle safari, called Safari Inn , an accommodation serving with veg and non – veg food choices. Both Food and price were satisfactory.

This was our travel itinerary –

Day 1 – Travel from Bangalore to Wayanad

Day 2 – Tirunelli Vishnu Temple and Nagarhole jungle safari

Day 3 – Travel From Wayanad to Bangalore

Another suggestion I have for restaurant while you are travelling via Gonikoppal, is Spice Rack Restaurant, click here for the location and review.

Wayanad to Bangalore distance is 250 to 300 kms depends on the location you start.

Definitely you would need 2 days for up and down travel to Tirunelly, visit temple, do jungle safari and return back to your home. You could plan one day trip if you are travelling from Coorg or Mysore or any other nearby places in Kerala district.

We skipped Thirunelli wildlife sanctuary since we had plan to go Nagarhole wildlife jungle safari.

Our Experience in the Famous Maha Vishnu Temple Wayanad

This was our very first trip to Wayanad and to the ancient MahaVishnu temple, unlike our frequent visits to Thirukovilur Vishnu Temple (TamilNadu near Tiruvannamalai).

First thing you notice here is the calm and serene location of the temple located in a valley surrounded by trees and mountains.

Second, despite all the crowd, you could only hear the noise of the surrounding nature, definitely a rare sight in a very famous temple I say. That’s how we listened to the Papanasini river nearby, otherwise we had no clue of its popularity and historic significance, since we didn’t do much research about this temple beforehand.

When it is normal in pilgrimage places to get surrounded by the aggressive beggars before you even set foot inside the temple, worst even when you are pulled between the street vendors, this temple was offering a tranquil experience.

Third, People were offering prayers in silence, moving in disciplined pace inside the temple maintaining silence. Some were praying by lighting up the temple’s embossed brass lamp of different sizes kept exclusively for the purpose. Hundreds of the lamps are kept for devotees as personal belongings are not allowed inside except for the pooja items.

Fourth, since it was maintained by a private trust, there was no unholy behavior of priests and administration are witnessed. Temple surroundings are including the parking area are beautifully maintained, even the stairs and the path leading to the holy river are maintained well.

Fifth, Small Sivalingas about 10 to 15 cms are found in the couple of places inside the temple, around the main sanctum which I believe is connected to the temple history.

a sacred pond in thirunelli temple images — Panchatheertham with Sivalinga (almost invisible) and Lord Vishnu Foot carved on Rock stone.

Thirunelli Temple – How to Pray, Dress Code and Temple Timing

Before you know how to reach Thirunelli temple, I think it is essential to plan the trip according to the Thirunelli temple open timing and the temple procedures.

Before Entering Tirunelly Vishnu temple – Know this: After parking the vehicle, we went straight to the temple to pray. But, ideally you will be carrying a change clothes after taking a dip in the nearby holy River called “Papanasini”. Then pray to the Sacred pond called Panchatheertham, a rock carved with miniature sivalinga with footprint of Lord Vishnu. There is a change room near this pond, but not sure of the tidiness. There are no restrictions if you want to enter the temple wearing wet clothes straight from the river.

Thirunelli Vishnu temple is open from 5.30 am to 12.30 and 5.30 to 8.00 pm. Early morning pooja is very special here, and many devotees visit this temple to perform respect to their forefathers.

If you are planning to attend the early morning pooja, it is better to book the Thirunelli agraharam resort at the foot of this temple stairs.

To know more about the temple, pooja timings and the contact number – visit this website http://thirunellitemple.org/index.php.

Thirunelly Vishnu Temple dress code for ladies is to wear decent attire of sarees or salwars, and for gents, only dhoti is allowed with no shirt.

To know about the ancient history, check this website.

Thirunelli Temple wayanad images — The holy river called “Papanasini” where poojas performed for forefathers

The name “Papanasini”, a holy river name of this Thirunelli temple reminded us of the similar experience we had in our recent trip to Papanasam, another famous tourist location near Kerala border. Even there is similarity in the name you see. And it was also a beautiful temple location amidst hills, with Thamirabarani river and Agasthiyar Waterfalls to crown the place.

Here in Thirunelli temple, we did not visit the Lord Shiva temple / cave near to the Vishnu temple due to lack of time. We left temple as soon as clicking pics in river and panchatheertham.

Then after chilling out for some time in Kutta, had lunch and went for jungle safari by 3pm.

Thirunelli Wildlife Sanctuary images — Places to Visit Thirunelli Wayanad

Returing To Bangalore From Wayanad – Via Kabini River

Next day, we checked out of the resort and returned back to Bangalore.

We took the following route to return back to Bangalore.

Wayanad (resort) – Tholpatty – Bavali wild life forest road – Mysuru – Bangalore

This route is one of the best scenic route suited for a peaceful drive.

You could use the same route to reach Thirunelly Vishnu temple, that is Bangalore – Mysuru – Bavali wildlife road – Tholpatty road. Somewhere in the tholpatty road it is approx. 13 kms journey to the temple. Less traffic and no bumpy roads to reach the destination.

On the way back, we stopped in Mysore for a long break. We had lunch in one of the non veg restaurants called Nandhini. Then had evening coffee at Malgudi cafe house situated inside the green hotel.

(Malgudi cafe house in Mysore is the best for coffee, dessert and sandwiches).

This is guide for someone on how to reach Thirunelly Vishnu temple from Bangalore by road via Mysuru and Nagarhole. Hope it helps to plan your journey.

By 2 Coffee Basavanagudi – Can’t beat the Quality of this 15 Rupees food

Renu on October 13, 2019

By 2 Coffee Basavanagudi, the best budget eatery for south Indian food items in Bangalore.

We travel for work, we travel for shopping, we travel for sightseeing and we travel for fun. And We always have a reason to travel. During one such time, we found this humble eatery called By 2 Coffee Basavanagudi Bangalore.

Here is the location link –

https://goo.gl/maps/ceJTy4TpRwjXwEzw6

By 2 Coffee Basavanagudi – A Small food joint with 8 branches in Bangalore

By 2 Coffee or By2Coffee Basavanagudi is a small food joint with 8 branches is a trusted brand in Bangalore.

It is a place that serves soft idlis, crispy vadas, all time kesari bath and Khara Bath combo (a traditional Karnataka breakfast combo called Chow Chow bath), with the best tasting coconut chutney.

No sambar or any other side dishes served here, except for this handful of items at all times.

All the items looks exactly as shown in the pic above.

How We Found this – By 2 Coffee Basavanagudi Eatery

Usually when we are tired of eating in the nearby favourite restaurants, we would turn to google or Instagram to find new interesting places to eat. Did you know once we rode bike 50 mins from our home to eat breakfast here. It is a small tiffin shop is famous for breakfast combo street style.

Well, for this By 2 Coffee in Basavanagudi, we crossed the street accidentally when we were on a shopping spree.

After long shopping hours, we wanted to stop someplace for refreshments, that’s when we saw the people rushing to the just opened shutter. It was just a few hours past noon time, don’t remember the time exactly.

While Rajesh went to explore the shop, I kept guard of our stuffs in the bike. He then came back with few tokens for food and coffee.

Initially we wanted to just try their coffee, not knowing how famous they were. But looking at the crowd, we finally decided to try their idly and vada.

It was freshly made, hot idly and vada served in a small round steel plate with tasty coconut chutney. Then after a long que, got the 2 cups of by 2 coffee, to end the evening well.

Now that they are serving dosas, we are planning to try it sometime.

Furthermore, they can be contacted through their website for party orders.

Some More Suggestions For You to Eat in Bangalore

By 2 Coffee Basavanagudi is more of a street food as there is no proper seating arrangements. But I think thats the best way to control the crowd.

Here are some more suggestions for you if you like street food shop outlets.

If you are looking for a shop serving best grilled sandwiches and juices in Bangalore, here is the best place. Or If you are fond of street foods, here is a place called VV Puram. Probably it is the only famous food street in Bangalore where you can stuff you faces with all kinds of street foods, all in one place. Am sure you will love it.

So what’s your favourite dish from By 2 Coffee Basavanagudi?. Or if you are trying out for the first time, you could start with idly vada or the temple meals. Happy eating.

The Best Grilled Sandwiches in Bangalore (Tasty and Pocket Friendly)

Renu on October 7, 2019

If you are on a hunt to eat the best grilled Sandwiches in Bangalore with pocket friendly prices, I have only 2 places to suggest (for now).

Both these brands are quite famous and has many branches across Bangalore and, they are not just pocket friendly but also serve sandwiches best in town.

The Best Grilled Sandwiches in Bangalore – Juice Junction

I work from Co-work space in Bannerghatta main road, and I would love to have some real good food joint choices in the vicinity for an easy access. It’s not that I am very particular of the distance, once myself and Rajesh traveled 50 min in Bike to taste the Instagram famous breakfast combo in Bangalore.

Thankfully, this food joint is 1 km ride from our co-work space, one of the best grilled sandwiches in Bangalore I would say.

Location – https://goo.gl/maps/Td8auZy4cXBmaYVS7

We normally would go here to eat sandwiches on our working weekends for a mid morning snack or evening snack. They also serve fruit juices, Lassies, Ragi malt (another best seller), Maggie Noodles, Chaat items, and hot beverages.

Most noteworthy of this place is they have all in one place.

Mostly, we love this street food joint for their sandwiches, one of our all time favourite is Aloo cheese sandwich. With the right amount of mint chutney spread and mayo, it literally melts in the mouth.

To go with this good sized brown bread sandwich, I order to drink Avocado juice and he orders Watermelon, always. 🙂

We almost never had their Maggie noodles or chaat items and hot beverages. Once I had their coffee and it was not bad at all.

Speaking of Maggie noodles, one very item I find it hard to give up for the sake of my good health. I am trying my best these days to avoid it. My co-work cafeteria serves one of the best noodles along with many other best sellers.

But anytime, I prefer ‘juice junction’ only for sandwiches.

best grilled sandwiches in bangalore images — Best Grilled Sandwiches in Bangalore At Juice Junction

The Next Best – Hari Super Sandwiches

If you are looking for traditional home-made style sandwiches, I would suggest Hari Super Sandwiches.

We prefer to eat here for an evening snack whenever we are on a shopping spree to Jayanagar 4th Block Bangalore. Here we had almost all the varieties of sandwich, the best one is Hari Special Sandwich. And they are also famous for their unique style roasted groundnut salad and the masala coke (chat masala flavor added to the regular coke).

When compared to the Juice Junction sandwiches, price is almost the same but the size is small for sharing.

It is one of the most crowded places on all days.

While you are waiting for your order you could try the chaat stall nearby.

Seems like the entire building is jointly owned by one person. They have burger joint, chaat shop, and other shops named “Hari”. I would suggest to try once here to experience the unique and the best grilled sandwiches in Bangalore.

Find the location – https://goo.gl/maps/7Xt25cKcLp2TtxSk8

Dont just stop there, just cross the road to experience one of the best lassi, a shop named “The Lassi Park“. It is famous for various flavours of Lassis, faloodas and what not.

Both these joints are located in the hot location, surrounded by colleges and shopping streets near Jayanagar 4th block, and quite crowded at all times.

Good Coffee to Go with the Sandwiches in Jayanagar

Once we are done with savouring the sandwiches and lassi, we then prefer going to Hatti Kaapi shop in the late evening.

Hatti Kaapi, for the very famous Mysore style coffee served in this small shop with samosas. I am not a fan of samosas here, but any time we both would love to have this much flavoured coffee.

It is located about 1 km distance from this sandwich shop in Jayanagar.

Find the location here – https://goo.gl/maps/7WmN72PbmWvHGaxQA

Hatti kaapi for the best filter coffee — Hatti kaapi in Jayanagar for the best filter coffee

Again they too have many branches across Bangalore, you could find them easily on the google maps.

Diagonally opposite to the Hatti Kaapi, is yet another famous and all time crowded food joint called, “Maiyas”. Since our all time preferance is Hatti Kaapi, we rarely prefer to go Maiyas restaurant.

If you are travelling to Mysore, this cafe serves the best coffee in town along with some really tasty brownies and sandwiches.

Sum Up – Not all “famous” shops are our favorites

We have been to many food joints in recent years either for work or for leisure.

We would like to explore new places but only after reviewing them online, and always say big No to the places that serve the super sized monster burgers or chocolate sandwiches or cheese overloaded pizzas.

If you want to eat the french toast, go to “the egg factory”, they too have many branches across the city.

We don’t prefer to eat burgers in any other food joints except our favourite burger joints McD and KFC.

And for Pizza occasional indulgence in other favourite “Chavadi” restaurant in our area. We love all the items in the menu, and it is only go to place for Pizzas. You can see here for “Chavadi restaurant” pics and where else we love to eat regularly.

When it comes to street food, more is always less.

Here is one such place famous only for street food in Bangalore, where you can stuff your face all you want.

It will be a memorable experience only when we get sufficient quantity for the price.

So, This juice junction scores all the points – chill out ambiance, cleanliness, many choices in sandwiches and juices, taste, quantity for the money, pocket friendly prices and what not. So, it is my number 1 suggestion for the best grilled sandwiches in Bangalore.

Happy eating fellas :).

The Best Cafe in Mysore City (Our All Time Favorite)

Renu on October 4, 2019

For the best cafe in Mysore city – here is the suggestion for you from our frequent road trip from Bangalore.

It is probably the only best cafe in Mysuru serving best brownies to go with your coffee. And they serve really good sandwiches too.

The name is Malgudi coffee shop and bakery – a humble cafe inside the very posh location of The Green Hotel in Mysore.

And it beats all other cafes in space and ambiance. Sure you will love it too.

The Best Cafe in Mysore City – Malgudi Coffee Shop

We are so in love with this – one of the best cafes in Mysore called Malgudi Coffee shop. We love to go back again and again for the good quality Coffee and cake. Basically the cake baking aroma drags you inside this comfortable coffee shop in The Green Hotel.

The google map location to this best cafe in Mysore is given below.

First thing you notice would be the lustrous green ambiance around the vast area of the hotel. The open dining area is a feast for the eyes, with the dazzling sun-drenched array of plants.

Second thing you would notice is the strong aroma of baking and coffee spread outside the hotel entrance. Just follow the smell to reach the coffee house fellas :).

Third thing you would notice is the quality of the brownies and breads (of course you need to taste to know’em). Must try is Lemon grass brownie we had was the best in my life. They have everything from the different varieties of breads and brownies.

You can order in or take away, it tasted the best when you order in. (We also did take away, but it was not so good comparatively).

Well, the last thing is the price for the food and coffee served, the lowest price you can ever ask for.

Guess the price?.

We paid around 50 to 60 rupees for each item in the pic shown above.

Not to mention the peaceful ambiance, a prompt service and the food for hearts.

This Coffee house has become one of our favourites next to the french coffee house in Tiruvannamalai (see this article for their pics), and the Rasta cafe in Mysore road from Bangalore.

Best Restaurant in Mysore — Best Place to hangout for dessert and coffee

How to Reach The Malgudi Coffee House

This was our first time visiting this Coffee shop in Mysore, when we were returning from 3 days car trip to Wayanad from Bangalore. We have been to Mysore couple of times before. Many times we have stayed in Mysore just to chill and spend the weekend, do nothing but rest and eat in the hotel room.

Once we stayed in Mysore before we headed to Coorg by bike on 4 days trip.

Speaking of Mysore, our another favorite thing to do on weekends is to go on one day bike trip to Srirangapatna Sri Ranganathar Temple.

(We are bike riders, we have been to many places by bike, including 11 days trip in 2017 and 12 days trip in 2018. You can explore my blog to know more).

Now I feel bad for missing this best cafe in Mysore in all our past trips.

How to reach this cafe?

It is situated in the hot location of Mysore city and not far from the another best cafe in Mysore called, Cafe Cornucopia.

You can follow the link to reach the coffee house – https://goo.gl/maps/5KTH7GCcEjtgHLox9

A contemporary coffee shop inside very authentic hotel – the best cafe in Mysore and for one of the best cakes you can ask for is the Malgudi coffee house.

Well, who doesn’t love a good cuppa coffee with sandwiches and cakes, isn’t it?

The Spice Rack Restaurant in Gonikoppal near Coorg (Best Restaurant in Coorg)

Renu on October 3, 2019

When we were on 3 days road trip to Wayanad from Bangalore, we routed our trip through Gonikoppal. The reason we had to drive via Gonikoppal was that Nagarhole tiger reserve park route was closed due to bad rains. And while we were there, we went to the The Spice Rack Restaurant – one of the best restaurants in Gonikoppal.

The Spice Rack Restaurant in Gonikoppal

We stopped for lunch in the late afternoon on 14th September, since we knew there will not be any choices on the Hill station. Except for the Dinner which we pre-ordered in the Resort we were going to stay, we had nothing planned for the entire 3 days journey.

We were not exactly hungry. From morning since the time we started our car, we were binge eating on the fruits and snacks throughout the journey. Also we had heavy breakfast in A2B in the Mysore highways.

Now we wanted a good ambiance restaurant with good restroom facilities to refresh after a long drive.

The Spice Rack restaurant had all the comfort we looked for including the ample parking space in the underground.

Find the link – https://g.page/TheSpiceRack?share

What we ate in Spice Rack Restaurant

We ordered Fried chicken to go with the Mutton biryani. Though it was the best biryani in Coorg or anywhere I have tasted, I very much liked the fried chicken more than the biryani.

Chicken was dipped in flour with groundnuts and deep oil fried, which gave the dish nutty and crunchy taste which I never had before.

Mutton was served with plain gravy and raita. Accompanied by the lemon soda we ordered.

It was sufficient for us two.

We spent about an hr for refreshment and lunching. Then we headed to Wayanad resort, it was a thrilling experience riding among the woods and hairpin bends.

Best restaurant in Gonikoppal Coorg — Spice Rack Restaurnat in Gonikoppal

The best thing about this Spice Rack Restaurant was that it has a quiet and pleasant ambiance with good tasty food for a fair price. That’s all we look in any restaurant, isn’t?

We would love to visit here again on our next trip to Wayanad or Coorg.

(Here is the guide If you are planning to go Dubare Elephant camp and Nisargadhama temple in Coorg)

What We did and Where we ate in our 3 days Vacation to Wayanad

It was dawn by the time we reached the restaurant, unpacked our luggage, ordered ginger tea, spent the evening enjoying the view. We clicked some pics of the spotted deer grazing in a far away land before the desperate monkeys wanted the share of our tea and snacks. Thankfully there was no tv or mobile network, so we had to pick each other’s brain until we until had non-veg meals for dinner :).

On day -2, we went to Tirunelli Vishnu Temple, then after lunch in Safari Inn at Kutta, we went for 3hrs safari ride to Nagarhole National Park. Again non-veg meals in the resort for dinner.

On day -3, Return back from Wayanad to Bangalore via Bavali – Nagarhole reserve forest – Kabini river. Followed by a long rest and lunch in Mysore, had an awesome time in Malgudi Cafe house for dessert and coffee. Soon, we added this Malgudi cafe house in the Green Hotel Mysore to our all time favourite places to hang out.

Click the link for google map – https://goo.gl/maps/aA1bfDGLLsUx9m3r8

Best Coffee in Mysore — The Malgudi Coffee house in The Green Hotel Mysore

I would say this was one of the best road trips we have ever experienced. Loved every single minute of our time together.

Sum Up

If you are planning a trip to Wayanad via Gonikoppal, either from Bangalore or Coorg, I would suggest The Spice Rack Restaurant. When compared to the reviews of all other restaurant choices mentioned online, I found The Spice Rack restaurant in Gonikoppal to be elite, with fast service and good quality and tasty food. And definitely a go to place for the best biriyani in Coorg. Cheers!!.

Total 4 Routes: Best Route from Bangalore to Wayanad

Renu on September 20, 2019

best route to reach Wayanad from Bangalore

When you are planning on a Bangalore to Wayanad trip plan, you will be presented with 4 different routes. Which one is the best route from Bangalore to Wayanad?.

We went on a 3 days Bangalore to Wayanad Road trip, and stayed 2 nights in Jungle Retreat resorts on Thirunelli road.

When we started our onward trip, our journey didn’t go as planned. We had to pivot from the plan to reach Wayanad. And we had to take entirely different route for the return journey.

So, I now know how to reach Wayanad from Bangalore.

Bangalore To Wayanad Trip Plan By Car

Whenever we plan a trip, it is always my responsibility for the itinerary and the baggage packing.

It is in my best interest to look for a best route with more good choices for pit stops.

So I take at-least a week’s time to analyse the routes, gather info from the forums, etc., Finally it wouldn’t take much time to plan the travel including pit stops and list out the travel essentials.

After the trip plan is designed, I would then discuss with hubby to take his opinion. Sometimes he agrees with the plan, sometimes he suggests alternative. At times he would add any additional sightseeing places along the way.

Now, all my research has gone for a toss as we faced an unexpected roadblock, and had to take an entirely new route to reach Wayanad.

So, from our experience I am suggesting the best route from Bangalore to Wayanad by road.

Even Though we stayed in Thirunelli, for the ease of reading I have mentioned the end destination as “Wayanad”. Since your destination could be anywhere in Wayanad so feel free to change it accordingly in google map.

Best Route from Bangalore to Wayanad: 4 Routes with Same Distances

When you are presented with 4 different routes with same distances: then which is the best route from Bangalore to Wayanad. I have given both pros and cons for the most frequented route by travelers, to make an informed decision.

Route 1:

Bangalore to Wayanad via shravanabelagola – Srirangapatna – Bandhipur Tiger Reserve(320 km)

This route looks best for the people travelling from Peenya, Yeshwanthpur, Malleshwaram and other nearby places. And I suggest taking the Nice ring road (toll road) and connecting to the Mysore highways.

Restaurant choices – Plenty of Veg and Non veg Choices on the NH until Karnataka Border.

Route 2:

Bangalore to Wayanad via Srirangapatna – Hunsur – Nagarhole national park – Kutta (253 km)

This route looks best for the people starting from Bangalore South zone, this was the route we took to reach Wayanad on our onward journey.

The drive was smooth in NH, except we were diverted from Nagarhole National Park because of heavy rains.

Nagarhole National park route was closed for both – travelers and the safari tourists.

So we had to take the Gonikoppal route to reach Wayanad (route 3).

But thanks to the road diversion, we got to eat in one of the best restaurants in Gonikoppal.

Restaurants in Coorg and Wayanad — Gonikoppal_SpiceRack Restaurant

Note: To avoid any time delay like how we faced at that time, you could call Nagerhole National park office to check for the entry and timings if any.

Note on Nagarhole Wildlife Safari

Although Nagarhole to Kutta route was closed for wildlife safari, Safari from Kutta to Naharhole was operative. And we were able to book tickets to safari from the resort we stayed at, and it was a seamless process instead of booking directly. If you are not booking through the resort / hotel you are staying, you need to be there 45 mins before safari time to stand in a queue for booking.

Restaurant choices – Limited after you cross Hunsur, and very limited going forward. We found a small restaurant called Safari Inn lodge in Kutta during our wildlife safari, otherwise we had no choice but to eat in our resort.

Route 3:

Bangalore to Wayanad via Srirangapatna – Hunsur – Gonikoppal -Tholpetty – Tirunelli – Kattikulam (303 kms)

This is the next best route from Bangalore to Wayanad, with good restaurant choices and good roadways connecting the destination. We had a good time travelling via Gonikoppal, we absolutely loved driving through woods and hair pin bends.

We reached only around 8pm to the Jungle Retreat Resort in the Thirunelli road.

sightseeing and stay in wayanad — View from our resort in wayanad

One of the main attractions in the Thirunelly is the Vishnu Temple on the hills and we were just 6kms ride away from the temple.

Next day morning we went to this temple on the account of celebrating our Wedding anniversary.

Read: How to reach Tirunelli Vishnu Temple, temple timings and dress code.

Also this is the best route to reach Coorg from Bangalore with Gonikoppal being the centre point for pit stop.

Read: 4 Days Road trip to Coorg from Bangalore by Bike.

Restaurant Choices – After Hunsur, Gonikoppal is the best place with good restaurant choices. Otherwise it’s difficult to find any except for small tea shops.

Route 4:

Bangalore to Wayanad via Kanakapura – Malavalli – Somanathapura – Kabini -Bavali – Kattikulam (290 kms)

We discovered this route on our way back from Wayanad to Bangalore. Since route 2 doesn’t always work, this is the best route from Bangalore to Wayanad I can strongly suggest.

This is also the only best route to reach Kabini river from Bangalore.

best route from Wayanad to bangalore via kabini river — ***Kabini River view***

Kabini reservoir view at this location – https://g.page/Kabini-Resort?share

Which is The ONE Best Route to Reach Wayanad from Bangalore?

From the list of 4 routes mentioned, I found Route 4 is the best route for Bangalore to Wayanad trip plan with so many advantages –

1. Good roadways all the way connecting Wayanad

2. No restriction for drive through Nagarhole National park entrance

3. Enjoy Wildlife enroute

4. Awesome view of the Kabini river as far as your eyes could see (some resorts here with Kabini River view are pretty expensive).

Don’t Break Forest Law – Otherwise Pay 500 rupees Penalty

Note that when you drive through Nagarhole national park, you have but 1hr to cross the exit gate.

If you delay more than 1 hr to reach the exit gate, that means you have stopped your vehicle in the middle of forest, which is against the forest law.

And you will be levied Rs. 500 fine for breaking the law.

Also if any forest rangers found you wandering outside the vehicle anywhere in the forest route, you will be levied heavy penalties, just a heads up guys :).

No one would warn you about this at the entry gate. You can inquire about this time restriction at the entry gate when you purchase an entry ticket (Ticket with a time stamp, with fare 100 rupees for a car).

Read – Is it Safe to Drive From Bangalore to Coorg by Bike?

Things to Note Before Plan Your Bangalore Wayanad Road Trip

Don’t bother to take route 1 and route 2, directly go for route 4. It is the best route from Bangalore to Wayanad I could suggest.
Mandatorily pack some food and snacks, or you could buy some when you are in Mysore. It helps when you are left with no good restaurants of your choice. This tip is actually helpful for travelling to any place you see.
Carry a water kettle to make instant noodles, instant soup and instant coffee when you think your resort is charging you way too much for simple snacks and beverages. This is the best water kettle I have been using for ages and it works best for all kinds of travels.
Carry back up power banks to charge your mobile phones for emergencies. This is one of the most essentials in our travel bags apart from toiletries, water bottles, kettle and protein packed snack bars. This is the best Bluetooth earphones under 2000 best suited for road trips.
Thanks to our car we were able to charge our phones, otherwise it would have been so difficult in those 3 days. Also it doesn’t hurt to carry 3 or 4 different network sim cards, from our experience “Jio” saved us more than “Airtel”. On the safer side it is better to share the resort’s contact details to your family members for emergencies.
While you are in Tirunelly / Wayanad, you could take your kids to Tholpetty park as well apart from Nagarhole National Park safari ride. And Visit Thirunelli Vishnu Temple for spiritual experience.

Are you a regular road tripper?. Here are some interesting articles for you to explore from my Website. Feel free to explore more of our bike trip experiences

7 Good Qualities of A Bike Ride Partner (A guide to select a Travel Partner)

Renu’s Solo Trip To Kumbakonam – How I roamed Kumbakonam for 5 days in a Rented Bike

How to Go Trip to Goa from Bangalore – Both by Air and Bus

This is How to Prepare for a Long Bike ride in India – Free Guide

Art of Living In Bangalore Ashram (How to Visit in detail)

Renu on September 11, 2019

If you are looking for details about visiting and/or enrolling to Art of Living in Bangalore ashram, this article has detailed answers.

About Art of Living In Bangalore Ashram

Sri Sri Ravishankar Ashram in Bangalore is the headquarters of Art of Living Foundation located in more than 156 countries. The interested individuals can learn the “Art of Living” programs (scroll down to know more details) under the certified professionals all over the world, or can learn the Art of Living in Bangalore ashram directly.

It is an international center open for all the national and international participants with the in-house accommodation with food for the entire duration.

AOL Bangalore ashram is open for the visitors to explore, learn, meditate and spend time on all days.

(Note: Art of Living Ashram, Bangalore Ashram, Sri Sri Ravishankar Ashram, Art of Living International Center are all the same).

We always travel past the Sri Sri Ravishankar ashram in Bangalore on all our bike trips via Kanakapura road, but never have set foot inside. Today we decided to give a try as we trying to go past this ashram while coming after coffee from rasta cafe. Anyways we have half a day left to end the weekend.

This is the guide for someone looking to just visit or learn the courses of Art of Living In Bangalore Ashram – International Centre, Kanakapura Road.

AOL Bangalore Ashram – Location

Bangalore ashram – the International Centre is located in Kanakapura road, closer to Bannerghatta road and Banashankari.

Use this map location for navigation – https://goo.gl/maps/gUnQurDUB6oXmeX1A.

The Art of Living International Centre

21st Km Kanakapura Road

Bangalore-560082

Tel: +91-80-28427060

www.vvmvp.org

A guide to Art of Living- Entrance Fee, Parking, Help Desk and Bus tour

Paid parking facilities are available adjacent to the main gate
First of all, you need to know that AOL ashram is always crowded. And it is super crowded on the weekends and during festive seasons.
Also, no vehicles are allowed beyond the entry desk at the security
Park your vehicles, walk to the help desk for any assistance
Free entry for the visitors at all times, but prior online booking is a must for attending any events. Any kind of current bookings are not allowed
Bus tours are available at 11 to 12 and 2 to 3 pm everyday
There is a coffee shop available next to the help desk for a quick refreshmentAlso there is organic vegetable shop here
Also there is organic vegetable shop here

Note: If you are a AOL program participant you will be registering at the security gate with a valid id and an entry coupon. If you are a AOL course participant – national or international, you will be arriving one day before for the Art of Living in Bangalore ashram, for check-in and accommodation.

Vishalakshi Mandap inside Art of Living Banglore Ashram

The main attraction of Ravishankar Ashram International centre Bangalore is the weekend satsang and yoga courses on time to time basis. It is open for all the local and international participants. All the major events and evening satsang takes place in this huge thousand petal lotus mandap located about 1 mile walk from the main gate.

How to Spend a day at Sri Sri Ravishankar Ashram in Bangalore

You can walk straight to this Vishalakshi Mandap or take time to explore all other area before reaching here. Here is the list of other places you could explore in Art of Living ashram Bangalore.

Opposite to the help desk, a place called Nakshatra vanam. A bunch of trees planted corresponding to zodiac signs and the planets. A peaceful place to hangout or for a walk.
From the main gate, located in 200m is Guru Paduka Vanam / sumeru mandap. This is huge area can accommodate vast gatherings on special occasions like Navarathri Pooja, Sri Sri Ravishankar’s birthday celebration etc. A nice place to hangout with the view of ducks in the water pond in the centre.
Cafe Vishala and Children Play area – Try out some of the freshly baked breads with coffee here. You will also get good healthy satvik food for reasonable prices. We had cinnamon bread and coffee while we were there. Children play area is located right next to the cafe and also don’t miss out the organic garden view from the cafe.
Shop for adulteration free organic products and groceries in Sattva stores.
Shop in Madhurya – for all the handcrafted products, pooja items, wall hangings, cotton weaves etc.,

How to Participate in the “Art of Living” program

There are lots of programs designed for the wellness of children and adults of all ages. If you are interested to attend any of the programs, you need to register first in the following link, then book the available seats.

Visit for the Ravishankar ashram courses – https://programs.org.in/ekam/index.php/public/

Take a look at the following screenshot to understand the requirements.

If you want to know more about the courses in detail, visit this website https://bangaloreashram.org/

Also, for the national and international guests, there are good accommodation facilities with laundry services.

Walk Walk Walk

We walked about 3 kms in those 2 hrs spent looking only for the places mentioned above. For that reason, next time we are planning to take a guided bus tour to look at all the places. Because there are many places need to be explored. Like panchakarma ayurvedic centre, goshala, yagyashala with lake view, pathshala, guest accommodation facilities etc., And Sri ma annapoorna hall where more than 20000 meals served in a day. The best time to visit the bangalore ashram is around 1.30pm, take the guided tour by 2 to 3 pm, take a break at the cafe for some time before you attend an evening program in the lotus mandap.

If you want to know more about learning the Art of Living in Bangalore ashram, visit their Bangalore ashram website – https://bangaloreashram.org/

Hope you have got all the questions answere with respect to visiting the ashram and enrolling the courses.

The Best Non Veg Restaurants Nearby – Where We live

Renu on September 2, 2019

best non veg restaurants near by bannerughatta road arekere jp nagar btm bangalore

I have a handful of our favorite best non veg restaurants nearby my home and office where I prefer to eat regularly. I have given google map link for all the restaurant suggestions. Enjoy!.

The best part?. They are just 30 mins waiting time away in Swiggy or Food panda or Ubereats or Zomato.

Update – Added our new favorites at the end of this article, pls do check it out

The Non Veg Restaurants Nearby – Our Favorite List

Check – post: Mangalore Style Restaurant

It used to be our all time favourite situated near my office, now we don’t like it much here as they don’t have consistency in taste and quality. They are famous for many combos varieties for lunch and mangalore style non-veg dishes with the aroma of coconut oil. We used to go regularly here for evening pakoras, coffee and tea. And for morning Idiyappam, puttu and kadala kari.

I still like to take away their donne biryani, nattu kozhi fry and chicken roast. Their seasonal fruit juices and faloodas are must try here. They have both self service and alacat service.

Find the location – https://goo.gl/maps/YZxSRUk5BKxcxvae7

Compared to the above two, here comes the list of our all time favorite non veg restaurants nearby home and office.

Shanghai Court -Chinese Restaurant

We are one of the regular customers since the time they recently opened. Our all time favourite chinese restaurant to dine in and to order take away from both my office and home. Location – https://goo.gl/maps/ffzP3wiFog3zzSx57

Since almost all the weekend we eat here, I have quite a list of favourite food list to share here-

Veg Manchow soup – all time fav (Didn’t like the chicken version)
Burnt Pepper chicken
Momos -steamed and fried
Egg fried rice (99 % of the time its our main course)
Chicken Koithio (Next best main course)
Veg Hakka Noodles (weekend main course choice)
Pepper Mushroom manchurian – one of the best side dish

the best non veg restaurtant images bangalore — Soup and Starters from Shanghai Court Bannerughatta road

Food images Shanghai Court Bannerughatta road — Soup and Starters from Shanghai Court Bannerughatta road

Shanghai Court Bannerughatta road_best non veg chinese hotel — Soups and Starters from Shanghai Court Bannerughatta road

Food images from Shanghai Court Bannerughatta road — Favourtie Momos from Shanghai Court

Food images from Shanghai Court - all time favourite chinese restaurants in Bangalore — Soups and Starters From Shanghai Court

Chavadi – A Trendy Restaurant

A trendy restaurant with indian lamps and rustic furniture, surrounded by potted plants – one of our all time favourite restaurants to dine-in. Especially dinners. Spending the weekend evening, listening to music and eating Veggie overload pizza is our favourite thing to do here. Location – https://goo.gl/maps/SA24eNtXbtAVQi7U8

Chavadi restaurant - trendy restaurant for fusion dishes — Inside Chavadi Restaurant

best non veg restaurant in bangalore_chavadi in bannerughatta road — Nachos_Chavadi in Bannerughatta road

Chavadi restaurant images — Food Images From Chavadi

Chavadi_best non veg restaurant in bangalore beannerughatta road — veggie Overlaod Pizza From Chavadi

Oye Amristar – Punjabi Style Restaurant

A recent addition to the list of non veg restaurants nearby office, for its good quality and quantity Punjabi style restaurant. Masala papad, Phulkas, Rotis, Aloo stuffed parathas, Paneer based gravy, bhindi fry, tandoor chicken, mutton biryani (serves 2), are some of our all time favourite here. Somehow we didn’t quite like their jal jeera and buttermilk, but their curd quality is amazing.

Location – https://goo.gl/maps/gicxfbveVMoJqWLc9

Mutton Biryani From Oye Amritsar_best non veg restaurant punjabi style in JP nagar banagalore — Mutton Biryani From Oye Amritsar_JP nagar

Barbeque Nation – Unlimited Non Veg and Veg Buffet

This place is all time crowded for their unlimited veg and non- veg starters, main course, ice cream, kulfis and cakes. In a year we hardly go twice or thrice here, when we are really in the mood for non-veg feast. We love the food quality and service here with really nice ambiance and friendly staff. Since this is “eat all you want” type restaurant, seats are available on pre-booking only.

Location – https://g.page/BNJPNagar?share

Unlimted non veg restaurant in JP nagar bangalore_Barbeque nation images — Sweets buffet from Barbeque nation JP nagar Bangalore

Nagarjuna Restaurant – Andhra Style Restaurant

The only place we order in meals to Home is Nagarjuna restaurant. Nagarjuna is our next door neighbour in my office location, we prefer to eat here for their quality vegetarian meals, andhra style. When we are at home, a lazy weekend with no travel plans and office plans, we like to order in meals from here. This is best place if you are looking for South Indian style veg thali restaurants in Bannerughatta road.

Location – https://goo.gl/maps/9cxDobdBWN92mjzV7

Andhra Meals in Nagarjuna Restaurant_travelduo images — Andhra Meals in Nagarjuna Restaurant

Onesta – Unlimted Pizza House

Next to Chavadi, our other favourite stop for pizzas is “Onesta”. A house for a variety of pizzas and pastas, with best ambiance, friendly staff and good music. And above all they have “unlimited pizza” option for nominal price, with free coke and a dessert.

Location – https://goo.gl/maps/ykGkrdYF8B9KBUSB9

Onesta Unlimited Pizza_travelduo photography — Onesta Unlimited Pizza

Onesta in JP nagar_travelduo images — Onesta Complimentary Desser choices

Onesta_travelduo images — Onesta Garlic breads

You know there is Food street in Bangalore, only for all kinds of street food? Click link

https://travelduo.in/food-street-vv-puram-must-try-shop-2-in-the-list/

Thalappakatti Biryani – Authentic TamilNadu Biryani

Hubby like to order in from this world famous restaurant for its authentic biryani cooked in jeera rice. The smell says it all.

It is the only best non veg restaurant for mutton biryani, no other restaurant can take its place. This restaurant has many branches, we always go to one in JP nagar, 5 mins ride from my office.

Thalapakkatti Biryani, HSR layout_travelduo images — Starters in Thalapakkatti Biryani, HSR layout

Anjappar Restaurant – Authentic TamilNadu Style

Next to Thalapakkatti hotel, this Anjappar restaurant in Koramangala is our all time favourite, we like to go there for favorable biryani, the unlimited South Indian meals, tandoori chicken and parotta with natti soup.. Now we have a branch located nearby our home, we don’t have to travel far. We love all their veg and non-veg varieties here.

Of those two branches, Koramangala food and service is mcuch better, find the link here – https://goo.gl/maps/Jgou2vR1aTemhpyNA

Instagram Famous Breakfast combo in Bangalore, click the link

https://travelduo.in/for-the-love-of-food/

KFC and McDonalds – Food Joints

We have McDonald’s near our home and KFC near my office. Depends on our working location, we like to go for quick bites in any of these fast food joints.

KFC Bannerghatta road location – https://goo.gl/maps/TyBNLs8bfesQ53H26

KFC food joint Bannerughatta road" width — KFC food joint nearby Office, Bannerughatta road

Here is where you get some of the best grilled sandwiches in Bangalore, click the link below

https://travelduo.in/the-best-grilled-sandwiches-in-bangalore/

Galitos – In Vega City Mall

Our recent love for non vegetarian food is Galitos, in vega city mall, bannerughatta road. It is located just 2mins walking distance from my office and we never miss any weekday offers here.

We absolutely love their 5 different barbecue flavors to go with their all oven cooked chicken items.

Galitos – Chicken wings with Coleslaw salad

Summary

All the above listed are some of the best non veg restaurants nearby Bannerghatta road and JP Nagar.

All the restaurants except “Chavadi” has many other branches through out Bangalore and in India. You can google to find out the nearest location feasible for you.

Even though they are listed as non veg restaurant choices, they do serve some best vegetarian dishes. Very soon I will be uploading list of best veg restaurants in Bangalore as well. Stay tuned.

And before you go, here is the restaurant serving best quality veg food starting 15 rupees in Bangalore.

Places to Visit in Papanasam with Distances (Rivers, Waterfalls, Dams and Temples)

Renu on August 27, 2019

If you are looking for places to visit in Papanasam, surprisingly there are so many picnic spots you could go to. Papanasam is a small village located 60 kms from Tirunelveli city, falls under Ambasamudram taluk.

Papanasam is a must visit place once in your life time because it is a house for waterfalls, rivers, dams, green fields and historical temples. And all the goodnesses surrounded by hills and forests is a sight to sore eyes.

(Note: there is another place called “Papanasam” near Kumbakonam, also a famous place in Tamilnadu, mostly for temples).

Places to Visit in Papanasam with Distances

Here is a quick look at the sightseeing places to visit in and around Papanasam, Tirunelveli district:

In Papanasam – Ancient LordShiva temple at the foot of Agasthiyar Falls
Papanasam to Manimuthar (waterfalls and dam) – 14 kms
Papanasam to Manjolai (Tea estates) – 65 kms (via Manimutharu)
Papanasam to Courtallam – 34 kms
Papanasam to Tirumalai kovil, Panpoli – 50 kms (via Ilanji and Tenkasi)
Papanasam to Ilanji Kumarar Temple – 37 kms
Papanasam to Tenkasi Ancient Ulagamman and Kasi Vishwanathar temple- 34 kms
Tenkasi to Courtallam – 5.5 kms
Papanasam to Tirunelveli – 60 kms

I know it is not practically possible to look at all places in Papanasam, here are some popular places to visit in Papanasam in one or two days.

Take a dip in Agasthiyar Waterfalls and Visit Papanasanathar Sivan Temple

This famous Hindu temple is located at the foot of Agasthiyar Forest and Waterfalls at the distance of 2.7kms.
All the vehicles are allowed up to the foothill of waterfalls. There is toilet and dress change facilities near the parking.
No entry fee to enter the forest but a nominal fee for the waterfalls entry. No special fee for cameras.
Forest and waterfalls entry is restricted after 5 PM.
The famous Lord Siva temple is called as Papanasanathar or Mukkalanathar, lingam in the main sanctum is believed to be one of the 9 planetary deities – Lord Suriya.
This temple is one of the nava kailasam temples on the banks of Thamirabarani river and thus famously called Suriyan temple.

Best sighseeing places in Tirunelveli district - Papanasam agasthiyar falls — The best places to visit in Papanasam Tirunelveli – Agasthiyar falls

Famous Temples in Papanasam - travelduo images — The Best places to visit in Papanasam Tirunelveli – Sivan Temple entrance view

Places to Visit near Papanasam – Courtallam Main falls, Courtallam Five falls and Tenkasi

Courtallam ranks top in the places to visit in Papanasam Tirunelveli.
Not much intro is required for this famous place in Tirunelveli district, the locals call it as Kuttalam, otherwise called Courtallam, is house for many rivers and waterfalls.
Since the Nickname “Spa of South India”.
Distance from Papanasam to Courtallam is 34 kms.
This place is said to be the origin of rivers namely – Chittar river, Manimuthar river, Pachaiyar river, Thamirabarani river.
Most people visit Courtallam mainly for taking a dip in the main falls and pray to lord Siva.
You have toilet and dress change facilities here near the car parking area.
You could also visit courtallam five falls – Series of 5 small river cascades above a shallow pond, with separate bathing areas for men & women.
June to September are the best months to visit courtallam, later the entry is closed to waterfalls due to heavy rain and floods.
The famous Lord Kutralanathar temple (Lord Siva) is located at the foot of the main falls – Peraruvi.
This temple is one of the Pancha Sabhai Sthalangal, refer to the places where Lord Nataraja performed his cosmic dance.

Famous places to visit near Papanasam - Courtallam falls — Courtallam Main falls (Periya aruvi) Travelduo images in January Month

Courtallam falls and Lord Siva temple travelduo images — Courtallam Sivan Temple – Entrance view

Tenkasi is just 5.5 kms From Courtallam- house for one of the biggest temples in Tamilnadu

Tenkasi is the 34th district in Tamilnadu since 2019. This small town is built around the very famous, majestic dravidian style of architecture – Kasi Vishwanathar Ulagamman temple.
It is firmly believed that worshipping lord Siva in this temple would bring in as much benefits to the devotees as praying in Kasi – Varanasi.
This temple is notably famous for the swayambhu murti of Lord Siva, 180 feet artistic – majestic gopuram and exquisite beauty of the temple sculptures are world known.

The Best places to visit near Papanasam Tirunelveli - Tenkasi — The majestic 180 feet Gopuram View of Tenkasi Kaasi VishwanatharTemple

Places to Visit Near Papanasam – Manimuthar Dam and Waterfalls

Another important places to visit in Papanasam is Manimuthar dam and waterfalls, about 14 kms from Papanasam.
If you are travelling from Tirunelveli to visit Papanasam, spend some time in Manimuthar dam before heading towards Papanasam.
Situated above 6kms from Manimuthar dam is Manimuthar waterfalls and river, with the entry fee of 25 rupees per person. Camera fees extra.

Thamirabarani river near manimuthar dam, travelduo images — Best places to visit in Papanasam Tirunelveli images – Tamirabarani river near Manimuthar dam

Read – A moment of glory in Kanchipuram – Athi Varadar Perumal Raise Once in 40 yrs – We did Darshan on 21 July 2019

Places to visit Near Papanasam – Manjolai

If you are travelling from Tirunelveli, Manjolai is another tourist place to stop before heading to Manimuthar and Papanasam.

Located on top of the Manimuthar dam is Manjolai, about 23 kms from Manimuthar and about 63 km from Tirunelveli, is famous for tea plantations -Manjolai Estate, Manimutharu Estate & Oothu Estate.

Famous Temples in and around Papanasam with distances

Papanasanathar Sivan Temple, Papanasam
Kutralanathar Sivan Temple, Courtallam, 34 kms
Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Tenkasi, 34 kms
Shri Ilanji Kumarar Koil – Ilanji ,37 kms
Tirumala Koil -Panpoli, 50 kms
Thooranamalai Sri Murugan Koil – Perumpattu, 25 kms
Sri Nithya Kalyani Amman Temple, Kilakadayam, 19 kms
Ponmalai Murugan Temple, Pulavanoor, 20 kms

Summary

Here is how you can plan one day trip from Tirunelveli to Papanasam –

Tirunelveli – Manjolai – Manimuthar dam (skip waterfalls) – Agasthiyar falls – Papanasam Sivan temple.

(or)

Tirunelveli – Papanasam – Courtallam.

See how we spent time in Papanasam and Tirunelveli in our recent 5 days road trip from Bangalore.

If you have a plan to stay in Courtallam then you can plan for Courtallam waterfalls and trekking, visit to all other places mentioned above.

The Only Reason We Chose Tirunelveli For Our 5 Days Road Trip from Bangalore

Renu on August 22, 2019

Last week, we went on a 5 days road trip from Bangalore. We choose this trip only for the love of Papanasam town near Tirunelveli.

We started from Bangalore on Aug 12th 2019, drove about 650 kms to reach Tirunelveli via Madurai.

This was the first time we set a new milestone of driving above 500 kms in one day by car.

We drove alternatively, smooth ride on the NH with good food choices on the Bangalore highways.

This time we had not pre-booked any accommodation in our planned destination – Tirunelveli, since we were not sure of driving 600+ kms in just one day.

We had a plan B of staying in Madurai if we were too tired to drive any further.

Thankfully, we reached the destination as planned.

This is how we spent our 5 days vacation in a road trip from Bangalore.

5 Days road trip from Bangalore for the love of Papansam

We have already been to Tirunelveli in Jan 2017, in our 3 days trip to Rameshwaram.

In this 5 days road trip from Bangalore, we have spent whole 2 days only to sight see the places around Tirunelveli.

Since one cannot miss visiting courtallam falls, we also went to nearby Thenkasi and Papanasam.

Papanasam – we immediately fell in love with the drizzling weather with the spectacular view of greenery mountains and plains.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t enjoy the picturesque small town for long as we were in a hurry to return to the Tirunelveli town for return journey.

So, this trip is all about going to Papanasam exclusively for its serene beauty, a place surrounded by mountains, reserve forests, waterfalls and dams.

Hence, we decided to stay in Tirunelveli, a buzzing small city, 60 km distance from Papanasam, well connected to other cities by roads with good accommodation and restaurant choices.

The Itinerary of Our 5 days Road Trip from Bangalore

Day 1, 12th August 2019, Monday : Drive 650 Kms From Bangalore to Tirunelveli

Day 2, 13th August 2019, Tuesday : Drive to Tiruchendur beach and temple, on the way stop at Srivaikundam temple. Evening darshan in Nellaiappar temple in Tirunelveli.

Day 3, 14th August 2019, Wednesday : Drive to Papanasam via Manimuthar forest and dam and Agasthiyar falls. And darshan Papanasam Sivan temple. Evening return Tirunelveli via Ambasamudram.

Day 4, 15th August 2019, Thursday : Drive to Madurai via Sankaran Kovil and Srivilliputhur, darshan at both the temples. Check-in Madurai, evening roam around the city.

Day 5, 16th August 2019, Friday : Return to Bangalore from Madurai, 450 kms drive via Dindigul, Karur, Namakkal and Salem.

Wanderlust to Papanasam

Here we are, at Papanasam, the place behind our desire to plan 5 days road trip from Bangalore.

Papanasam, a small town located 56 kms from Tirunelveli, adorned with mountains and trees, river and dams, we fell in love with.

After a good night’s rest from previous day’s long car ride to Tirunelveli, we started to Papanasam around noon.

We stuffed our travel bags with some snacks and water bottles, before we headed towards Papanasam.

Decided to go by Pathamadai and Manimuthar forest, just like we always preferred to ride among scenic views. We skipped going to Manjolai, since we didn’t do much research on this place and also had a time constraint.

We spent some time in the Manimuthar dam (did not go to the waterfalls), before we headed towards Papnasam.

When I say Papanasam, the end destination is Papanasam Sivan temple, this is where all the local buses stop for tourists.

A little further Papanasam Sivan temple is Agasthiyar falls, almost 10 min drive uphill.

The drive was smooth since there was no dangerous hair-pin bends to worry about, like in Yercaud hill station.

By the time we reached Agasthiyar falls, it was almost closing time, so we spent only brief period clicking pics in the falls area.

Unlike a pretty long-haul we trekked to talakona falls in Andra Pradesh, Agasthiyar falls was just 1 min walk from the parking area.

Once after reaching Agasthiyar falls, we spent some time enjoying the view and the waterfalls. We then started our car towards Papanasam Sivan temple after clicking some pics.

Returning Back to Tirunelveli

We then took Ambasamudram (ambai) route in the evening to return back to Tirunelveli.

Like we wished, we spent every single minute enjoying the ride among the agri fields and woods accompanied by a pleasant weather.

Desire fulfilled.

Overall it was an adventurous and fun-filled 5 days road trip from Bangalore. And, iIt was worth the pain and headache riding in the sun and the rains.