Renu, Author at Travel Duo

Kumbakonam Is Famous for Not Just Temples (Check the cute pic)

Renu on July 7, 2019

Most of us know Kumbakonam is famous for Hindu temples (mostly Navagraha temples trips). I did too. Until we went to Kumbakonam for Mahamaham festival, fell in love with this temple town immediately. So we came back the same year, not for just 1 or 2 days, we spent more than a week here in our 11-days long bike trip from Bangalore.

We rode bike everyday among agri lands, watched villager fishing for crabs in the rice fields, mesmerized at the beauty of the lilly ponds all over the town, watched sunset from the Mahamaham tank after a cup of ginger tea from a famous tea shop.

Everyone knows Kumbakonam is famous for degree coffee.

Kumbakonam Famous Food Items

Also did you know Kumbakonam is also famous for “power looms” making coir mat and silk sarees?.

List of things Kumbakonam Is Famous for

#1. Kumbakonam is Famous for Degree Coffee

The temple town is also famous for its aromatic coffee, served usually in Bronze cups or a silver ones like this. Me and my hubby used to travel 10kms from centre town to “Only coffee” restaurant, where we liked to have our first cup coffee and breakfast. Although, their other branch is in main town Kumbakonam, we love to go quite far enjoying the scenery along the way.

Kumbakonam degree coffee images — Kumbakonam Famous Degree Coffee

#2. Kumbakonam Is Famous For Restaurants too, Not just coffee

Almost everyday we used to go “Only coffee” near Thirupuvanam for coffee and meals. We have fallen in love with the ambience, cleanliness and the friendly staffs. You will get all kinds of vegetarian breakfast food items with any sweet of the day. And for lunch, complete meals thali served in banana leaves. Awesome the experience was. If I am to go back to Kumbakonam, the best place I would choose to eat and hangout would be “only Coffee”.

famous restaurants in Kumbakonam — Kumbakonam Famous Restaurants – Only Coffee restaurant

Hotel Pandian is Non-Vegetarians’ delight. It is my favourite eat out place for non-veg and I felt totally home. I prefer eating dinner all day here, try out all their non-veg specialties.

Famous non veg restaurant in Kumbakonam — Best Restaurant in Kumbakonam

Bonus – Where to eat in Kumbakonam

#3. Kumbakonam is Known for its festive mood all year around

Since its a temple town, all the significant events of each and every months are celebrated like festival here.

It is not a common sight to see all the houses in a town adorned with rangolis like this.

If you are a early riser like me, I am sure you would love morning sunrise in this calm colourful town. I don’t know what time the house ladies had to wake up to draw such beautiful art rangolis in front of their houses. Ah, What a sight. Even though I grew up in small town, I never had seen entire town bathed in colours. Definitely I am coming back for Ms/Mrs. Rangoli.

Kumbakonam Famous images, Kumbakonam photography — Colourful street in Kumbakonam

4. Kumbakonam is Famous for Green Skirts all over the town

I am a Nature lover, I have experienced vast lands, landscapes, wide scenery parks in my travel around India, outskirts of london, Scotland etc., But, Kumbakonam stole my heart with the endless rich agri land and lush green skirts as far as my eyes could see.

Kumbakonam is Famous for agriculture — Kumbakonam scenic view – feast for the eyes, green fields all over the town

5. Kumbakonam town decorated with Lily Ponds and Rivers – Connecting People and culture

You may have seen many lakes and ponds where you live and travel. I am living in one such city, Bangalore, a city full of thousands of lakes. But, in Kumbakonam you could see thousands of lily ponds in and around the town. Beauty Untouched.

Kumbakonam photography — Kumbakonam lily Ponds

Rivers in Kumbakonam, kumbakonam images, kumnbakonam photography — Kumbakonam River

6. Not Just MahaMaham Festival but Kumbakonam is also Famous for DivyaDesams, Padal Petra Stalams and Navagraha Temples

We have been to Mahamaham festival in Kumbakonam in the year 2017, in the month of March. It is famous festival celebrated every year, we were blessed to visit MahaKumbeswar temple at that time. Little did we know at that time that Kumbakonam is also a house for some 108 Divya Desam temples and Padal petra Sivan temples.

In our following 11 -day road trip to Kumbakonam, we made note of all the above mentioned temples including Navagraha temples – we visited all the temples in and around the town. No Kidding.

As much as I love nature, I am fond of temple architecture. That’s one of the reason we chose our long vacation in Kumbakonam, because its called “Temple Town”. In our 2 yrs of travel together, we have been to many famous temples, UNESCO Heritage Sites, Hoysala Architecture etc.,

Kumbakonam temples are breathtakingly beautiful.

GangaiKondaCholapuram, UNESCO Heritage site

Of all the temples I have visited, of all the temples I have marvelled in and around Kumbakonam, one temple holds very special place in my memory ie. Tirubuvanam. I am definitely re-visiting this place not only for this marvellous temple, but also to explore the famous handloom silk sarees.

Kumbakonam Famous temple images, kumbakonam temple photography — Kampahareswarar Temple, Tirubuvanam

^{7. Kumbakonam is Famous for Cheap Stay and Good transport to other cities}

Hotel rates are very moderate even during peak season time, from my two time year end road trip (11 days long ) experience in the years 2017 and 2018. Also in the month of March 2017, during Mahamaham Festival, we stayed in Poppys SET Residency, which was by far the best compare to our December stay in various hotels. Well, you might find the bookings are full during the season time but the rates remain moderate.

Kumbakonam is the best choice for anyone planning for long vacation without hurting the pocket and take tour of other nearby cities. Rooms in cities like Trichy, Tanjore, Chidambaram are costlier with limited choices so it is best to travel from Kumbakonam.

Also, you have one of the best NH roads connecting from kumbakonam and there are plenty of state and private buses connecting places in and far around the center town Kumbakonam.

Anytime I am planning for a trip to any of these cities, I am coming back to stay only in Kumbakonam.

Mannargudi Temple Elephant, Kumbakonam temple images — The Cute Temple Elephant – Mannargudi Temple

I suggest you to visit Kumbakonam by own vehicle instead of public transport, so you could see what I have fallen love with. Kumbakonam is the perfect getaway place for family vacation and holy trip. It is one of our all time favorite places, with many hangout places like UNESCO heritage sites, theaters, water dams, riverside lush green picnic spots, eat-outs and restaurants.

7 Articles on Trekking in Coorg I found Useful for Travelers

Renu on November 15, 2018

I have found 7 articles from famous bloggers on Trekking in Coorg which are useful for Travelers.

We are just back from 4 days bike trip to Coorg from Bangalore, starting from 1st November to 4th November 2018.

Travelling to any new destinations, we both invest some time to know the places, temple histories, places to see around, good restaurants and good accommodations.

So, I have compiled all the blog articles that I read which talk about Coorg travel, Trekking in Coorg, Homestays, Coffee plantation experiences and much more.

And I shared my travel experience in Madikeri Coorg, at the end of this article.

About Coorg – Kodagu, also known as Coorg, is a rural district in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka. In the area’s north, Madikeri Fort has 2 life-size elephant statues at its entrance, plus a Gothic-style church with a museum on its grounds. Nearby, the Hindu Omkareshwara Temple dates back to the 19th century. Farther north are the domed Raja’s Tomb, a burial place of Kodava kings, and cascading Abbi Falls. (Source Wikipedia)

Part I: 7 Real life Traveler’s experience on Trekking in Coorg

Travel Highway Blog

This is an interesting travel article where every bit of trek to Tadiandamol, Coorg is explained. I loved the way the author narrated her story from start to end of the trekking at Coorg with a group of 15 members. She narrated that how she had a difficult time trekking without proper shoes, lack of water and food supply and unforgettable experience when the team saw a snake in the trails. It was quite an article with many pics.

But, no much information on where she camped (if any), transportation and accommodation details. All I learnt from her article is I would need good supportive shoes, food and water supply and team coordination as I might get split up on the way up.

So, overall this article is helpful for travellers interested in Coorg one day trip and trekking in Coorg.

Thinking Particle Blog

This article caught my interest because the author traveled by bike to Coorg from Bangalore, and shared his both bike ride and trek experience to Mandalapatti. Our extensive Bike ride experiences have taught us many lessons – one of them is “be prepared for any sudden deviation in the plan at any point in time”.

I was not surprised when the author mentioned that they could not go trek on the planned day due to bike ride delay. I could very well relate to our bike ride experiences, where many things went wrong in our bike travel, one of them is in Dubare Elephant Camp.

It is an interesting article to see his pics of his bike ride, trekking and camping in Coorg.

Suramya Blog

This is another useful and descriptive article on one-day trekking in Coorg from Bangalore. If you are looking for a guide on one-day trek guide to tadiandamol from Bangalore, this article explains it all. From her trek experience I understood, they returned on the same day to Bangalore – accommodation details also provided. She has carried her food and water supply, so no complaints on those. Overall it seems to be a pleasant experience. Pics say it all.

Escape To Explore Blog

Yet another descriptive article on one day trek to Tadiandamol, Coorg from Bangalore. I liked the way the author first experienced trekking in rain and kayaking. And her trip ended at Golden temple in Nisargadama. In her words, it is “soul-satisfying experience”. If you are looking for a one-day trek in Coorg or planning to book one-day trekking in Coorg via Thrillophilia, this article would be useful. And useful for travelers looking for Coorg one day trip from Bangalore, especially for trekking plans.

My Recent Trips Blog

Even though the author has not gone any trekking in Coorg trip she went, I listed this article for the information, “do’s and dont’s” from her 3 days and 2 nights travel plan.

She has covered Mysore and Coorg in 3 days, spending 12k on budget. Overall, this is a very useful article for someone who is planning to couple 2 places (Mysore and Coorg) in one trip and how you can make maximum out of the trip sightseeing many places.

Like her, we too did stay in Mysore on day-1, roamed around the cleanest city in the evening, headed to Coorg on day-2. If you are looking for one day trip to Coorg from Mysore, I would suggest following this article, pick the places from her article which would fit your plan (Just saying 🙂 )

Maptia Blog

This is the best Nishani Motte trek (Coorg) blog article I have come across. Author has captured some breathtaking pics in his Nishani Motte Trek, Coorg and shared his 2 days homestay and trekking in Coorg.

You can follow his article if you are planning to go trek to Nishani Motte, I would too in future inspired his very own words in the article,

“If you want to experience wilderness in its rawest form, trails which are crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, fulfilling, leading to the most amazing views and experiences, Nishani Motte gives you that Thrilling Experience ! !”

Am sure you would fall in love with his words and photography. Also you will know all details like Nishani motte from coorg, best place to stay in Coorg etc.,

EvolveBack Blog

This author has written general guidance about –1. Tadiandamol trek 2. Bramagiri Trek 3. Galibeedu Trek and the best season to travel and trekking in Coorg. Wish he had written more about the trekking places in Coorg and added few more pics to narrate the experience. Not much you can learn from his article, but it was in my research list, so sharing with the readers here.

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My Travel disappointment story in Dubare Elephant Camp Coorg (Elephant Bathing timings?)

Renu on November 10, 2018

This is our story of travel disappointment in Dubare Elephant camp Coorg, 4 days of bike trip planned by my husband Rajesh to impress his Elephant loving wifey.

Have you ever traveled to a destination planned wholly based on the information mentioned in one of the travel websites, later realize that the information was not precise only after reaching that destination? Not only your travel plan is screwed, but the effort you need to put to cover the disappointment because your entire trip was weaved around that destination.

Well, read further to know how you can avoid the same mistake as we did. Also, find at the bottom of the article for other sightseeing places around Dubare.

About Dubare Elephant Camp Coorg

For those who do not know anything about Dubare Elephant Camp Coorg, it is explained as follows.

It is a nature camp situated by Kaveri river bed about 100kms from Mysuru, run by Karnataka Forest department with the aim of providing tourists/visitors memorable wildlife experience. As Dubare forest is home to many wildlife animals and birds, you would not only connect with nature, but also a thrilling adventure to feed, touch, play and bath the elephants.

Cool isn’t it?

Elephants are the main attraction here, as they are trained under naturalists (some are trained for Mysore Dussehra festival, now retired and used for the elephant safari in this camp), Jungle Lodges and Resorts have various activities involving elephants.

Basically, Dubare Elephant camp is for Elephant safari, Elepaht bathing and feeding, and Bird watching.

You could stay in the resorts in the dubare elephant camp or you could stay in Kushal Nagar or Madikeri or Coorg whichever suits your travel plan, budget and comfort.

Bike Ride to Dubare Elephant Camp

Since it was a 4 days trip, we chose to stay in Madikeri, so before reaching we decided to spend half daytime in Dubare, experience the unimaginable wildlife experience with the elephants.

I cannot even explain the happiness and expectation I had for this bike trip.

I, animal lover, Love watching Animal Planet and Sony BBC Earth over any other TV channels, especially watch Elephants at any given time. So, my beloved hubby planned 4 days bike trip from Bangalore to Coorg. On the way he had planned to take me to Elephant safari and Elephant bathing in Dubare Elephant camp. Because he knew I would travel any extent to at least touch the Elephants.

Here we are, around noon, started from Mysore, explored Nisargadhama temple before we reached the Dubare camp.

There were only very few vehicles in the parking area and to our happiness, we saw the passenger boat returning from the other side. Also we saw few adults and kids playing in the Kaveri river.

All signs are positive. So far.

We wondered where we would safe keep our bike saddle bags and a tank bag which has Laptop, SLR camera and other important stuffs. Looking around, saw a few commercial shops but doesn’t seem to be a safe place to keep our valuables. Clearly, we had not thought in advance about securing our baggage.

Meanwhile, leaving me with my thoughts about safekeeping the luggage, my hubby went to inquire the boat ride timings and fee to the Dubare Elephant camp situated across the river.

Here Comes The Unexpected Disappointment

Rajesh was told that the ride to the camp is closed at 11 am itself, and we were asked to come by 4.30pm.

Waiting till 4.30pm was not a good idea as we knew from our past experience (to Yercaud) that it gets dark soon in the hill stations. Hiding the disappointment I hoped on the pillion to ride to Coorg. It took me some time to get back travel mood forgetting the dreams I developed from the minute I heard about my hubby’s plans.

Had we checked and cross-checked in multiple websites and confirmed the entry timings to Dubare Elephant camp, we would have avoided the disappointment.

Well, some other time. We are bike riders, we could always plan next time.

Bye Bye Dubare Elephant camp.

We then had lunch, headed straight to Madikeri.

Apart from our disappointment, we absolutely enjoyed our smooth ride among the forests and hills. Thanks to google maps, we reached safely to Hotel Coorg International around evening.

Suggestions: Read this before you plan your trip to Dubare Elephant Camp

Well, here are some suggestions to the readers from my failed travel experience to Dubare Elephant camp Madikeri.

#1. Bangalore to Mysuru Bike trip

Day 1 (Bangalore to Mysore)

If you are going to travel from Mysore, then skip this section. For those who plan to travel to Dubare from Bangalore, continue reading.

Bangalore to Dubare camp distance is approx 260 km. As a beginners in long bike trip, we decided to split the kms to give enough time to rest. So we have decided to spend the night in Mysore (day-1) so that the next day we could reach before noon to Dubare (day-2).

And Remember, this was all Rajesh’s planning. All I was told was that we would be going straight to Coorg on Day-2.

Also, there was no point reaching tired and exhausted to the elephant camp, So we spent night in Ginger hotel, had dinner and roamed around Mysore.

It was a clean city with regulated traffic, with so many places to see in Mysuru. We decided to visit them in near future.

Read – The Best cafe in Mysore – Malgudi Coffee House

#2. Dubare Elephant Camp Coorg timings

Day 2 (Mysuru to KaushalNagar )

Distance from Mysore to Dubare elephant camp Coorg is just 100kms, so on day-2, we first reached Namdroling Monastery at 10 am after having breakfast on the highway.

In Kaushalnagar where the temple is located, you could see the monks everywhere in red/maroon attire in the temple, in the local shops and some are even running the local businesses.

You also have good toilet facilities in the temple parking area.

kaushal nagar - On the way to Dubare Elephant camp — Namdroling Monastery Images – TravelDuo Pics

Day 2 (KaushalNagar to Dubare Elephant Camp Coorg)

Kushalnagar to Dubare elephant camp Coorg distance is the just 15kms ride. Once you reach the entrance to Kaveri River, find a place to park vehicles and cross the river by boat.

As per other travelers reviews, it is not advised to walk across the river as the rocks are very slippery, so we planned to cross the river by boat.

We reached Dubare around noon, to our disappointment the boat ride was closed by 11 am itself, so we just stood there in disbelief.

We then decided to come back the next day from Madikeri to dubare elephant camp with the distance of 36kms via kedakal.

Dubare Elephant Bath Timings

Dubare elephant camp Coorg timings are 9 to 11 in the morning and 4.30 to 6 pm in the evening. Even though camp is open for visitors from 4.30 pm to 6.30pm, elephant bathing is available only in the morning timings.

If you are travelling with a partner or with family, especially on weekends, plan such as way so you could reach Dubare before 9 am, so you can effortlessly secure a place for parking and less queue for a boat ride to the elephant camp and elephant bathing as well.

Although Dubare elephant camp day visit timing is 9 to 11 am, you can spend extra time with family or have lunch in the restaurants.

According to dubare elephant camp reviews, food is available for visitors inside jungle lodges restaurant.

#3. Dubare Elephant Camp Entry Fee

Once you reach the entrance, park your vehicle at Kaveri river bed, cross the river by shared boat taxi or walk across to reach the camp (caution: water level and slippery rocks).

For the family of 4, with 2 adults and 2 kids, you will be charged 300/- INR for boat ride alone. Once after you reach the camp, you will be allowed to feed the elephants (10/- INR per food bag) and bath the elephants (100/- INR per person) and ride the elephant safari (100/- INR per person).

It is to be noted that during weekends, there is always a long queue for elephant feeding and bathing.

Below is the Dubare elephant camp timing and entry fee for both locals and foreigners- but it contradicts the information I mentioned above.

We collected the information straight from the parking ticket collector – believing that to be true – it is safe to reach the spot by 8 am itself.

If you are bored waiting for boat, you could play in the kaveri river – it is open for visitors all the times.

#4. Dubare Elephant Camp Jungle Lodges (where to stay and eat)

Dubare Elephant Camp is The Property of Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd, Govt. of Karnataka.

You could check their website here for more information on 2 days jungle resort stay and elephant fun activities.

As per online reviews, there is no more Jeep Jungle safari which you can confirm contacting them directly.

Otherwise, if you choose to stay outside of Dubare, you have plenty of options in Kushal Nagar and Coorg.

We chose to stay in Madikeri, in Hotel Coorg International, where we spent day-3 and had good time sightseeing Madikeri especially Raja’s seat and trek to Abbey falls.

If we had to travel from Madikeri, and Coorg to dubare elephant camp distance is 37 km. But we made our mind to explore Coorg to make the 2nd half of journey worthful.

When in Kushalnagar, we had lunch in Fish curry rice restaurant, which I recommend to non-vegetarians.

Overall, 4 days bike ride was a memorable experience.

As soon as I visit Dubare Elephant camp again, I will come back and share the experience here again with pics.

And don’t forget to leave a comment about your experience in Dubare Elephant camp.

Sightseeing in Coorg – List of Places

To Know how we spent our rest of the 4 days sightseeing in Coorg, Read here.

Other Places to see In and Around Dubare elephant Camp

Nisargadama Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery) -Kaushal Nagar
Mysore – Famous Tourist destination – Mysore Zoo, Palace, Sri Chamundeswari hills, Brindavan garden, Tippu Sultan Fort etc.,
Visit Nagarhole National Park – Wildlife safari at 6am to 8am, so you need to be there earliest by 5.45 am for safari resgistration.
Srirangapatna – Sri ranganathar Temple.
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Talakadu – Origin of Talakaveri, Play in the river, Visit famous ancient temples being buried under sand
Somanathapura – Chennakesave temple – Ancient Hoysala Architecture under Archaeology department

Sum Up

If you are staying in Dubare Forest resort or Planing for one day trip to Dubare Elephant Camp – You need to make sure to be there before 8.30 am. Park Your vehicle, collect parking ticket (10/ – rupees for 2-wheelers), head to Kaveri river.

Pay 300/ -(For a family of 4) for Boat ride to cross the river, to reach the camp.

Once after you reach the camp, you will be allowed to feed the elephants (10/- INR per food bag) and bath the elephants (100/- INR per person) and ride the elephant safari (100/- INR per person).

Little extra money for the foreign individuals.

Note:

During Weekends it is best advised to be there at the entrance by 8.00am itself as there will be long queue for boat ride. Also you are not allowed to swim across the river, only bathing is allowed at this point.

Dubare Elephant Camp Timing

9am to 11 am – For Elephant safari, elephant bathing, elephant feeding and wildlife photography

4.30 pm to 6.30 pm – Only Elephant safari, wildlife photography

Please note all the details about Dubare elephant camp Coorg -entry fee, entry timing and activities, so you could plan your trip to Dubare accordingly.

4 Days Road Trip To Coorg From Bangalore (Bangalore to Coorg Bike Trip)

Renu on November 8, 2018

We went on a 4 days road trip to Coorg from Bangalore, by Bike.

Since 2016, travelling to Coorg from Bangalore has been in our travel bucket list. We were hesitant to ride that long bike for being new rides. But, by 2017, we were super confident after numerous bike trips, therefore decided to ride to Coorg, but with enough pit stops.

That’s the reason it was a well planned 4 days long bike trip to Coorg from Bangalore.

From our recent Bangalore to Coorg bike trip – here is what you will takeaway.

Bangalore to Coorg road trip travel guide
Popular routes with best alternatives
Best pit stops
Sightseeing guidance to Tibetian temple
Dubare elephant camp timings and procedure
Places to see in Coorg.

Road Trip To Coorg From Bangalore – 4 days Travel Itinerary

On 1st November 2018, hardly 2 full weeks before our 12 days long bike trip, we went on road trip to Coorg From Bangalore.

Throughout the journey we traveled by our bike, with the help of google maps we enjoyed going to all the places discussed below.

This is how we spent our 4 days of a bike ride to Madikeri, Coorg.

Day 1: Bangalore to Mysuru (150 kms)

Stay – Oyo rooms

Day 2: Mysuru to Madikeri, Coorg (157 Kms)

Sightseeing places: Dubare elephant camp, Tibetian temple (Nisargadama).

Stay at Coorg International Hotel.

Day 3: Sightseeing and Explore Coorg

Day 4: Finally Return Coorg to Bangalore (270 kms)

We enjoyed eating in a small – family run restaurant, during our stay in Madikeri.

Coorg road trip pics — *Tibetian temple (Nisargadama)*

Best Places To See in Coorg

Here is the list of best Places to see in Coorg Abbey Falls, Madikeri.

Iruppu Waterfalls, Bramagiri
White River Rafting, Barapole river
Tadiandamole Peak
Iruppu Falls
Omkareswara Temple
Madikere Fort
Honey Valley – Nilakandi Falls
Bird Watching
Spice and Coffee plantations

In 4 Days Road trip to Coorg From Bangalore – Why Didn’t We Go Trekking

Of our 4 days road trip to Coorg from Bangalore via Mysore, we have spent 2 days in Coorg.

Here is the reason why we did not plan to go trekking in coorg even though I have done all the research.

Some people travel for adventure, some travel to experience the place and culture, some travel for passion and make living, some travel to relax and get away from regular life, some travel for creating memories and experiences.

We traveled so we could ride the motorbike to the destinations and cherish the whole experience.

So our prime aim is to ride a bike and enjoy the experience on different roads riding to different places.

Also, a disadvantage with riding a bike for such long hours is that we cannot do any sports activities or any physical activities which demand more energy (unless we choose to stay in one place for a very long time).

All we do is relax at the end of a bike ride, and explore the city where we stay.

That’s the reason even though I read all the articles and collated all the info, we did not plan to go trekking in Coorg.

7 Articles on Trekking in Coorg I found Useful for Travelers

Where we went Local Sightseeing in Coorg Madikeri

Mostly we go sightseeing the famous places in our destinations and chill in restaurants, eat the local cuisine and enjoy the vacation.

While we were there in Madikeri, we chose 2 destinations apart from hanging out in cafes and restaurants.

On day 3 of our road trip to Coorg from Bangalore, we went to Raja’s seat and Abbey falls (mini trekking experience).

Sightseeing In Coorg : Raja’s seat

One of the well maintained tourist places to see in Coorg Madikeri is Raja’s seat.

It is a family vacation spot in Madikeri, with minimum entrance fee for adults.

After a hearty complimentary breakfast at Coorg International Hotel, we went to Raja’s seat, about 5 mins ride from our hotel.

We spent great time hanging around the park, clicking pics on the cliff of Raja’s seat.

The view was awesome and we clicked many pics before we left the place to hang out in a nearby small cafe.

coorg bike trip pics — Raja’s Seat view – Madikeri

Sightseeing In Coorg : Abbey Falls Madikeri

Even Though we didn’t go on a trek in Coorg during our stay, the trip to Abbey falls gave us a mini trekking experience.

After about a 15 mins bike ride from the hotel to Abbey falls checkpost, we walked down the stairs for about 20 mins to reach the falls.

But it was worth the sweat, spent time clicking pics, amazed at the falling river standing behind the barricade.

The crowd was moderate and a security guard was there to stop any trespassers from playing in the river.

Coorg Sightseeing pics — Abbey Falls – Travelduo Pics

Places To see Near Coorg

Dubare Elephant Camp – Elephant Safari and Elephant bathing, wildlife photography, River rafting
Nisargadhama Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)
Nagarhole National Park (Wildlife safari at 6am to 8am, so you need to be there by 5.45 am atleast)
Wayanad Hill station
Kabini River (River view and plenty of resorts for stay)
Talakadu (Origin of Talakaveri, Play in the river, Visit famous ancient temples being buried under sand)
Somanathapura – Chennakesava temple (Ancient Hoysala Architecture under Archaeology department)
Mysore (Famous Tourist destination – Mysore Zoo, Palace, Sri Chamundeswari hills, Brindavan garden, Tippu Sultan Fort etc.,)
Srirangapatna – Sri Ranganathar Temple.
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

In this 4 days road trip to Coorg from Bangalore, we have visited Mysore, Dubare (missed) and Nisargadama golden temple before reaching Coorg.

My Disappointment story in Dubare Elephant camp – How we missed the Elephant bath timings

We have been to Mysore more than a dozen times in the past years, and explored all the places. And we have been to Talakadu, Srirangapatna and Somanathapura on our various one day bike trips from Bangalore.

Also we have been on Wildlife safari to Nagarhole national park when we were on a 3 days road trip from Bangalore to Wayanad. In the same trip, on the way back we have visited Kabini river too.

Basically, we have been to all the places in our travel History. :- ) .

Is it Safe to Travel From Bangalore to Coorg Bike trip?

Now the most important question everyone asks -How safe it is to go on road trip to Coorg from Bangalore?.

Going to a hill station like Coorg arises this common question, especially with the wildlife starting from Nagerhole.

Here are few things to know about road safety in your Bangalore to Coorg Bike trip or car trip:

From Bangalore to Mysore, you would be enjoying 4 ways road with divided roads on Mysore Highways.
If you are taking you Kanakapura road to reach Mysore, then you will have undiveded road but with far less traffic. A peaceful and greenary road compared to Mysore highways.
Read more…

Bangalore to Coorg Bike trip – Overall Experience

This was a successful 4 days road trip experience to Coorg.

Overall we had a good time –

– visiting Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple (also Cauvery Nisargadama)

– bike riding / roaming around the places near Madikeri (mainly Raja’s seat and Abbey falls),

-enjoying local food and coffee, clicking lots of pics and making memories.

We didn’t buy any Coorg spices nor Coorg coffee because we were limited by luggage space. But would love to buy some on our next road trip to Coorg from Bangalore.

Now you can also plan for a 4 days road trip to Coorg From Bangalore. You could also add many sightseeing places near Coorg from the list above. Also plan for trekking in Coorg.

Or you could spend just a day or two only in Coorg, because there are many local sightseeing places in Coorg Madikeri.

If you are planning road trip from Mysore, you could cover more places beyond Coorg – like Kabini River, Nagarhole National Park, Wayanad etc.,

So overall it was very memorable and pleasant road trip from Coorg to Bangalore.

5 Best Places To Visit in Yercaud for 2 days (Bike trip From Bangalore)

Renu on May 14, 2018

We went on 2 days bike trip from Bangalore to this beautiful hillstation – Yercaud at the end of year 2017. Here is 5 best places to visit in Yercaud in our 2 days road trip expereince.

This was our first adventurous 2 days bike trip from Bangalore.

5 Best Places to Visit in Yercaud for 2 days

We went on 2 days bike trip to Yercaud from Bangalore, a distance of 230kms in one way. This was our first adventurous bike trip to the hill station by bike.

Here are the places to visit in yercaud for 2 days. All the places mentioned below are the sightseeing places near Yercaud lake, so you could finish sightseeing in just 1 day.

1. Anna park – The best place to visit n Yercaud with family

Yercaud Anna Park — Yercaud Best Place for Fitness Lovers

One of the most visited places in Yercaud is Anna park, also a central destination for tourist buses.

You could plan fun activities in Anna park with kids located in center Yercaud. Even though your kids make you run behind them the whole day, it is for sure fun playing here. Take advantage of that pure oxygen-rich air in entire Yercaud situated a few thousand feet above the ground.

Note – You would also enjoy flower show in Yercaud Botanical garden and Rose garden in summer. Also, Deer Park is another tourist destination for fun activities with kids and for nature photography.

2. Go Boating in Emerald Lake

Emerald lake or Yercaud lake is the major tourist attraction in this mountain clad vacation spot. Boating in Yercaud lake is not only refreshing and also great way to have fun with your loved ones. You will enjoy the picturesque water body surrounded by gardens and teak woods.

Emerald Lake is one of the top places to visit at yercaud, infact many people visit Yercaud just for boating in the lake and playing in the Kiliyur falls.

3. Go trekking to lady’s seat, Servarayan Hills, and many other choices

Yercaud has developed recently as one of the major trekking destinations. Yercaud lake is surrounded by mountains with dense woods.

Tourists are spoilt with choices for sightseeing and trekking in the mountains. Tourists can choose any of these mountain viewpoints to go trekking.

Or could register with Yercaud trekking club for your safety. You would absolutely love the view from lady’s seat, and also try out the telescope mounted on watchtower to enjoy the serene view of the plains.

If you on a long vacation, on alternate days you could try other trekking destinations like Shevaroy Hills (Highest hill with a breathtaking view and a Hindu temple), Bear Cave, Karadiyur viewpoint, Arthur’s seat, Manjakuttai viewpoint and Pagoda point.

Note: Visit Silk farm located nearby lady’s seat to get a tour of silkworm farming and cultivation of mulberries in Yercaud.

4. Go Cycling in “loop road” in Yercaud

It is definitely crazy and super fun activity to go cycling in 32 km loop road in Yercaud. It would be absolute fun for both nature lovers and fitness lovers. Enjoy the nature’s beauty, Yercaud versatile plantation, take a pit stop to eat organic and homegrown fruits sold by local kids.

5. Go Walk through twisted steep foothills to reach Kiliyur falls

Kiliyur Falls is situated 3km from the Yercaud lake, once you reach the parking area, you need to walk through the twisted steep foothills to reach the Kiliyur falls. This was our absolute favourite fitness activity and needless to say the view was worth the pain. We played in the falls for sometime, clicked pics, retured as it was getting dark. Kiliyur falls is yet another top places to visit at Yercaud, it is must see sightseeing too. Am sure you will love it.

Our Travel Story – Bike ride From Bangalore to Yercaud

We Travel Duo, Myself Renuga and My Hubby Rajesh – rode the bike from Bangalore to reach Yercaud hill on a weekend.

Yercaud Images — This is how we travel by bike

We chose the adventurous wildlife forest road on the way to Yercaud while coming back we chose 20 hairpin road connecting to the main Salem city.

We stayed in TGI resorts, absolutely enjoyed the food, weather and mountain view from this hotel.

For 2 days we explored almost all tourists destinations, some by bike and some by walk.

It was one of the best and memorable weekend trip we ever had.

How We Planned Our Trip To Yercaud

As usual, we have done research on places to visit at Yercaud, just like how we do for other bike trips.

Distance from Bangalore to Yercaud is 230Kms, i.e. almost the same distance as Bangalore to Tiruvannamalai, which we have covered by bike plenty of times. But travelling to Hill Station by bike is new, so we added an additional 1 hr to plan our travel time.

How We Packed For Our 2 days Bike Trip

We started in Bangalore on an early morning at the weekend, with our saddlebags packed just one day before our travel. We filled our water bottles and packed some healthy snacks. Once again checked for mobile phone chargers, power banks, hand sanitizer, coolers, scarfs to protect from pollution and dust are kept in our fuel tank bag for easy access.

Why Yercaud is Best Place For Fitness Travellers

Sitting whole day and riding the bike usually leaves us with numbness in fingers, muscle stiffness, shoulder pain and back pain. Thankfully Yercaud gave us many choices to stretch our legs, forget the pain and enjoy the nature.

Yercaud is one of the best places for fitness travelers, with plenty of options for trekking, mountain climbing, kayaking, biking, jogging and walking.

Travel alone or with family, finding time for fitness is one of the hardest things to do on vacation. Especially when your body begs you to stay in a hotel bed after that long journey, or rejuvenate in an exfoliating spa, or relax in a lounge chair under the warm sun, or enjoy a cocktail looking at the sunset far from the cottage – we always end our day guilty of not being active.

Not to mention the unlimited buffet breakfast awaiting you to wake up the next morning. Another way to enjoy the vacation is to put on the shoes and grab a waterbottle – go for bike riding or hiking in the mountains. So, whichever you aim is, here is the list of places for sightseeing in Yercaud.

FAQs About Travelling To Yercaud

How to reach Yercaud from Chennai?

Yercaud to Chennai distance is 380 Kms, the best route is via Krishnagiri for both bike and car riders. You have many options to come to Yercaud by bus from Chennai or by train from Chennai.

What is Yercaud distance from Bangalore?

Compared to Chennai, travelling from Bangalore is 100kms less the distance and the time. Onward journey we took short route near thoppur, which was fun and adventurous riding amongst forest and unexpected hairpins (see pic above). While coming back we took the route via Salem, with proper roads and it was another way of fun when we saw many riders like us. Overall it is safe to journey both the routes. Salem route is better for restaurant and washroom options.

How to travel from Coimbatore to Yercaud?

From Coimbatore, it is 195 km distance, much lesser distance than from Chennai and Bangalore. Also, you have plenty of options for food and restrooms.

How to travel from Trichy to Yercaud?

Trichy to Yercaud distance is less than 200 Km, via Tiruchengode. You don’t have train options from Trichy, but you can travel by road or by bus.

Where is Yercaud fall located?

Kiliyur Falls also called as Yercaud falls, situated 2.5kms across Yercaud lake. Its just 10min walk from the boating place, also good hiking spot for fitness travellers.

Yercaud weather, stay and restaurants review?

Weather is too good even in summer, the best time to visit is from April to June. But if you like to enjoy hill station winter, travel after June with an overcoat or jumper or sweater.

About restaurants, I don’t recommend eating anywhere outside the resort you stay. Around Anna park and Yercaud lake we did not see any decent eateries, it is ok to have a snack and tea there.

We enjoyed eating hot hot mirchi bajji and tea for yercaud awesome weather, just across Yercaud lake. You should try too.

For stay, we have not tried any homestay, anyways homestays and resorts are equally priced, so we chose resort to stay.

What to wear and what to pack for Bike ride to Hill station?

Roaming in the Yercaud hill station demands good physical energy and I suggest you wear comfortable loose clothes because you would be sweating a lot from hiking and climbing activities. Also, it is essential to carry a hiking backpack which is not as big as your regular travel bag, but small enough to wear it for a long time, also a good size to fit in your water bottles and snacks.

We always make sure to wear comfortable clothes (also good looking for taking pics) for long hour bike ride – he wears sweat pants , I wear very comfortable jeggings almost on all rides.

This Fratini Jeggings– Color Black is super comfortable to climb on the bike and to ride the bike. This is what I have worn most for more than 2 yrs bike travel, it still stays brand new. It is always on demand in Amazon, you could buy directly from the store or any other shopping websites.

Since it doesn’t have pocket, I always carry this sling bag -good size to keep mobile phones (very essential for google maps), coolers (need them for sunny ride), and Money (you know its very essential).

Next time make sure to visit all the places in Yercaud, a beautiful hill station to cherish.

Talakona Waterfalls and Forest Trekking: Two Days Bike Trip

Renu on March 7, 2018

The Talakona waterfalls, which is the highest forest waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of the main tourist attractions and trekking spot in AP tourism.

The water falls from a height of 280 feet from the top of the mountain, thus making it the highest waterfalls in Andhra state.

I and my hubby Rajesh travelled to Talakona waterfalls on 4th March 2018 by bike, reached the forest before 9 am. We have spent about two and a half hrs including our trekking time and recreation.

Unexpectedly, there was good water flow from hilltop even at the beginning of summer. It is a beautiful location for trekking, in all seasons.

Here are the things to know before you plan a trip to Talakona

1. Entry fee and timing to Talakona forest waterfalls

Forest waterfalls view in Talakona — Talakona waterfalls in Summer

(a) Checkpoint 1 – Forest Check-post (Pay entry fee for Vehicles)

We started from our hotel room in the morning after breakfast to Talakona forest. We enjoyed our motorbike ride watching mango farm and flowers plantations in the village.

Once we entered the forest area (from here distance to Talakona waterfalls is 8.5 kms), we were asked to enter the name, vehicle name details in the check-post.

The entry fee for two-wheeler is 15/- INR, four-wheeler is 100/- INR. Also, we noticed that the security guard was screening vehicles for alcohols as it was strictly not allowed. If you are carrying any camera then 100/- INR to be paid, otherwise no fee for carrying any mobile phones.

After 5 km drive, we reached Siddeshwara Swamy temple, a forest temple for Lord Shiva and also a guardian of Talakona.

At this point, you could find lots of local food stalls (very dirty) offering to prepare veg and non-veg food fresh for tourists. I would not suggest taking any kind of service from these locals.

It is better to carry own snacks and food as there are no decent eat-outs from our experience.

And be polite with these locals when you are rejecting their service to make the whole experience pleasant.

(b) Checkpoint 2 – Sri Siddeshwara Swamy Temple (Pay Visitors entry fee to enter waterfalls)

Siddeshwara Swamy Temple, Forest Shiva temple in Talakona Forest

An ancient temple for Lord Shiva in the middle of the forest is one of the main reasons Talakona is crowded all the time.

Since it was the weekend, there was already a big group of people found to be actively preparing food to offer God. Soon they would take a dip in waterfalls before they start the rituals.

So it is better to avoid visiting Talakona on full moon day (pournami) and no moon day (amavasya), which are auspicious days for Lord Shiva.

Near to the temple, there is a dress change room facility available for the public. From this point, one can choose to go by walk or by own vehicle. There is no second entry fee for vehicles but for individual persons. They charge 10/- per head for adults and 5/- per head for kids.

We chose to go by bike and the road here to waterfalls parking was quite an adventurous one.

One can expect these roads to be very slippery and muddy in monsoon. So it is better to go by walk in the rainy season.

Entry for vehicles at this checkpoint opens only at 9.15 am and closes by 4 pm. In fact, whole forest entry closes by 4 pm.

(c) Parking area – near pond (Park vehicles here for trekking)

After a rough ride for about 2 km among the gigantic trees and teasing monkeys, we halted at forest waterfalls parking area. There is a beautiful man-made pond at this point for those who are not able to trek to the mountains.

I and Rajesh clicked some pics before we set to go for a trek for about 2 km to reach the top of the mountain. Trekking is not new to us, we have done 2 hrs trekking to various mountain tops in south India.

Since we were early on Sunday, there were only a few people trekking along with us. We parked our bike here and headed towards the pond to climb the mountain.

2. Monkeys atrocities in the hilltop of Talakona waterfalls

Even Though there were monkeys all along the trekking path, they seem to be minding their businesses.

Except for a group of rowdies near the hilltop, taking advantage of the visitors to waterfalls and their luggage bags.

We were attacked too.

We didn’t have any pole or stick in hand, we used our water bottle to shush them away but in vain.

On the way back from waterfalls, we brought wooden sticks for our safety. So keep your backpacks tightly closed and hold it close to your body.

And for safety, at least one member in your team should be carrying a stick to keep them at bay.

On the way back from the hilltop, same monkey rowdies attacked a female, sat on the top of the backpack and started pulling out some items.

There was a lot of screaming before we rushed to help them with the stick. Until we reached the parking area, we kept warning the visitors to be careful of these monkeys. Ah, what a trip!!

3. Slippery rocks on the highest point of the waterfalls

Talakona photos :Talakona waterfalls in summer season

Except for the monkeys’ atrocities, it was a very pleasant trek in the forest to the mountain top.

As you climb up, the view gets much better with a fresh breeze. We stopped now and then to click some pics. Unlike other mountain waterfalls, here you have proper trails to support. But, in some places trails were broken and fallen off, could be due to rain and wind.

Everyone should experience this forest trekking to take the cold shower of untouched pure water with medicinal properties.

Yes, we did climb up to the mountain top.

Waterfalls with the enormous force and the rocks at this point are very slippery and dangerous.

The view is always better from the top.

4. Poor mobile network and worst food service in the Forest

There was no network available in the forest area and near the falls.

If you are planning to stay in the forest resort, it would not be a wise decision.

Also, we heard that there is also no electricity in the guesthouses.

Though we didn’t stay in the resort, we met a fellow companion staying in the guest house. He complained about the poor guest house service, no electricity, no power back up and no food service also.

There is just one maintenance person who brings food from the local stalls near the temple.

And looking at the stalls, definitely, it is not a good idea to order food from them. So it is better to plan as a short one day trip either from Tirupati or Chennai or Madanapalle.

Moreover, there is nothing much to see around here except for the temple and dense forest waterfalls. Until we reached the checkpoint 1, we had trouble with the poor network connectivity.

Note: If you are planning to stay in the Talakona forest resort, it is best to carry this small water kettle to make tea, coffee and even cook noodles. This kettle comes handy when you have kids in the trip, and when you don’t have access to nearby local stalls. From what I have heard, it is not advisable to eat in the local stalls.

5. Trek to Talakona is suitable for older adults (but not in monsoon)

Talakona waterfalls photos — Talakona photos: Steps to Talakona waterfall

Since it was summer, we had no issue climbing up the unpaved stone stairs. But in monsoon, it would get slippery and hard to climb with the poor rails for support.

In some places, the rails were broken and fallen off from the track. Otherwise, it is safe to climb the man-made stairs with the rails support.

Talakona is the perfect romantic and adventurous getaway for youngsters. And the best place to hang out with family.

Talakona is a must visit tourist place if you are planning a trip to Tirupati.

To my fellow travellers:

Be early, enjoy the beauty of forest waterfalls in silence. And cherish the moment.
Be brave, take a cold shower in the hilltop, and be proud because not everyone can make to the top.
Be sensitive, don’t pollute the forest and the environment.

Trekking essentials – Things necessary for Talakona Trekking

#1. Small Backpack – To fit in all the travel essentials.

Size – Sufficient to fit 1 pair clothes, snacks, flip flops (chappals) and water bottle
Polythene bag /waterproof bag – to keep the wet clothes. Keep extra bag if needed to keep shoes or sandals water free just before you go to play in the falls
Soaps and hand sanitizer
Snacks
Extras – Walking stick (especially for elders and to ward away monkeys)

Where to buy the cheap and best backpack?

I bought this small backpack from Decathlon sports and fitness shop in Bangalore. You could buy the same in the store or on their website. It is very handy, comfortable and lightweight backpack which fits in all the above-said essentials. Best suited for a single person. If you are travelling with a partner or with kids, its best to buy each bag for individuals to avoid tired and pain.

Avoid carrying family size bags up the hills – makes it difficult to trek the hills.

#2. Water Bottle

Summer or winter, trekking uphill always make you go thirsty for water. It is one of the most essential things in any kind of travel and definitely, you cannot travel without them for trekking to Talakona. So grab a bottle or two, make sure you are well hydrated throughout the trip.

As I mentioned before, it is not safe to buy bottles in the forest area stalls – as you would have never heard of those aqua brands before – so pack your own bottle or buy good brands before you hit the talakona border. Buy these reusable water bottles of high quality to protect the nature from plastics dumping.

#3. Travel towel

Essential for trekking and most important when you have the plan to play in the waterfalls. No One can resist this Talakona waterfalls falling 280 feet from the top of the mountain, which is said to carry medicinal properties – so it is not a bad idea at all, is not? So travel towel is an essential item in your backpack along with your change clothes. (there are no change rooms immediately near the falls, so need to climb down near to the Shiva temple to access the change rooms)

#4. Camera Bag

Needless to say, you need to protect them from water as you cannot leave them in open while you are bathing.

#5. Snacks

Healthy and space-saving snacks like chocolate bars, peanuts burfi, mixed nuts etc., These snacks not only occupy less space, they keep you full for a longer time from going hungry.

#6. Flip Flops

To relax your feet after a long walk. I saw locals climbing the hill with just flipflops, you could try too if you think will be comfortable and to save some space in the bag. We usually prefer shoes, comfortable for the bike ride. So we carry a pair of slippers for relaxing wherever we travel.

#7. Multi-Purpose scarf

This is our mandatory gear for our bike ride, it will be useful for you too if you are riding anywhere long distance by bike. You can use it as a scarf on your head to wear the helmet or on your face to protect from the sun and pollution.

#8. Basic skin care essentials

Soap, hand sanitizer, moisturizer, pocket comb etc.,

We are regular bike riders, so we have an exclusive travel kit to keep all the skin care essentials and medicines. Since it is a one day trip, you can toss in those cosmetics inside the bag, instead of carrying a pouch.

FAQ about Talakona Forest Waterfalls:

1. Where is the Talakona waterfalls located?

The Talakona waterfall is the highest waterfall in the Andhra Pradesh state with a 270 feet (82 m)-fall. It is located in Nerabailu village of Chittoor district in Andhra. It is situated 250 km from Bangalore, 220 km from Chennai, 58 km from Tirupati, 105 km from Chittoor and 102 km from Madanapalle.

How to reach Talakona waterfalls?

After reaching the forest entry (from Forest check-post security gate) it is about approx. 5 km distance to reach Shiva temple and 7 km ride to reach the waterfalls parking area.

Public transport buses from Tirupati, Madanapalle, Chennai would stop at this check-post. Otherwise, all types of private vehicles are permitted up-to waterfalls parking area, which is the closest parking area to waterfalls.

But some would prefer to halt at Shiva temple, whichever is convenient for you. So, if you have taken public transport, it is exactly 8.5 km walk to the waterfalls.

Details about the nearest railway station, Bus station and cab facility to Talakona Forest and waterfalls?

There is no direct railway connectivity to Talakona falls, one has to stop and change buses from Chittoor or Tirupati railway station.

Bus facilities are available from both the bus stations but are very infrequent.

Early morning direct bus available from Tirupati, but it is quite a long journey. Also, local taxi services in Tirupati would cost 2500/ -INR to 4000/- INR, varies for the season. So it is better to arrange own transport.

Are there any options for Room bookings, Hotels and Resorts near Talakona Forest?

Like public transport, hotel room availability is also not very supportive for the tourists. From what I gathered, the forest guest house facility is very poor and maintenance is not up to the expectation.

Needless to say, the struggle for good food, as the area is dominated by local food stalls which are dirty and untidy.

So it is better to look for accommodation in Tirupati or Madanapalle.

Also keeping the unavailability of restaurants in mind, it is advised to pack food and snacks from home or the nearest city.

What are the Activities to do / things to do in and around Talakona waterfalls?

Usually, people visit Talakona after Temple darshan at Tirumala Tirupathi. Or like us, people would directly come to talakona for trekking. In our next visit to Madanapalle, we are planning to visit the Horsley Hills. So the activities you could do when you are in Talakona –

Visit Lord Siddeshwara temple and seek his blessings
Trekking to hilltop – wear comfortable clothes and shoes, keep your luggage zip locked, keep a stick to ward off monkeys
Cook food, recreation with family and friends (alcohol prohibited)
Connect to mother nature, experience the forest away from city life
Poor network connectivity, disconnect with social media, connect with family and friends
Play in the pond -There is a beautiful pond at the waterfalls parking area for those who are not able to trek to the hilltop

Locker room facilities, Dress change rooms and washroom facilities in Talakona Waterfalls?

There are no locker room facilities, it is better to pack very light luggage. And there are dress change and washroom available but not clean, as there is no maintenance person.

Entry Fee, Timing, alcohol consumption and Photography in Talakona falls?

As I mentioned above, there are two checkpoints for vehicles.

One is forest checkpost where they check vehicles, note down the registration number, entry time and the number of visitors. There they collect 15/- for two-wheelers, 100/- INR for four wheelers and 100/- for cameras. Here entry time is open from early morning, but it is not preferable to reach the forest before 8 am as there won’t be any visitors until 9 am.

In the second entry point, which is near Shiva temple, the entry fee to waterfalls is collected. Here they collect 10/- per person for adults, 5/- per person for kids. The gate opens only by 9.15 am, until then you can spend time around the temple.

When is the best season to visit Talakona falls?

Usually, the best time to visit Talakona forest is between November to January. As you see in pics, there was a good amount of water flow even in March. It is suggested to avoid trekking during rainy season as it gets more dangerous in slippery rocks.

No alcohols or any impolite behaviour are entertained in the forest and waterfalls area.

By 4 pm, forest entry closes for visitors.

How much time one can spend in Talakona Falls?

From 9.15 am to 4 pm, you could spend time at the mountain top, playing and bathing. You could spend little more extra time in the area near the Lord Shiva temple, where you could find local food stalls and tea shops (hardly 1 or 2 shops)

Hope you got all the information you are seeking. For more details, you could ask your questions in the comment box below.

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Kumbakonam Famous Food Items – And Where to Eat

Renu on February 6, 2018

Kumbakonam famous food items – the list of famous food items and the names of restaurants.

“Where to eat?” is the first thought comes to our mind if we are travelling to new places.

Kumbakonam is like our second home, we have been to this famous temple city many times in the past couple of years. A small vibrant city decorated with equal number of temples and lily ponds – a unique sight to see in any place.

Here is the list of famous food items and where to eat in Kumbakonam.

What is Kumbakonam Famous for?

Kumbakonam is famous for numerous Ancient temples and Navagraha temples across the town. Every year lacs of devotees visit Kumbakonam during Mahamaham festival and during the Margazhi festival season.

So, mainly Kumbakonam is famous for its yearly Masi magam festival (during march), all year around Navagraha temple visits and Margazhi festival (during December).

For such a small town, Kumbakonam is busy all year around with tourists.

It is hard to decide where to eat in Kumbakonam, especially with fake ratings and reviews for restaurants these days.

Myself and my hubby have spent the majority of our vacation in Kumbakonam in our 11 days long bike trip in 2017 and 2018.

During our stay, we have explored all the major eateries – both vegetarian and non-vegetarian restaurants in Kumbakonam.

I am suggesting the following places to eat in Kumbakonam based on the quality of food, ambiance, fast service and value for money.

Famous food items (with images) in Kumbakonam with best places to eat is detailed below.

Also, I am suggesting the best ginger tea shop at the end of this article for tea lovers in the coffee famous town.

Most Famous Pure Veg Restaurant – Mangalambiga Coffee and Tiffin Center

Where – Behind Adi kumbeshwarar Temple, Kumbakonam

Google map link – https://g.page/mangalambiga?share

If you are a pure vegetarian, your search for good food in Kumbakonam ends here. This restaurant and cafe serves all south Indian tiffin items – Pongal, Vada, All varieties of dosa, Poori sabji, upma etc.,

My personal favourite – Poori and tomato Uttapam

Open on all days from 6.30 am to 10.00 pm, this restaurant serves best veg food in Kumbakonam throughout the day. Even with all the popularity, this restaurant remains humble with limited seats and food served only by senior citizens till date.

The Best place to try all Kumbakonam Famous Food items and Snacks -“Only Coffee” Restaurant.

I am an early riser, and a Coffee lover.

Almost everyday we used to travel 10kms from center Kumbakonam town to “Only Coffee” restaurant for steaming cup of coffee. If we had no long travel plans to any temples, we used to hangout there until we finish our breakfast. Sometimes we roam around near by agri field, chill out, take some pics and come back to the same restaurant for Lunch.

Even Though they have another branch in centre town, a restaurant facing Holy Mahamaham tank, we always loved going to this place for the scenic ride and friendly staffs

The name says “Only Coffee” so obviously anyone would think of it as a coffee shop.

We did too.

When we stayed in Aditya Resorts for 2 days where we had no option for dining, we came out of the resort in a mindset to ride to the nearby coffee shop.

We found “Only Coffee” in the immediate neighborhood, with the display of clay toys and some interesting books.

The friendly hotel staff asked us whether we wanted to have some snacks to go with coffee, we said yes, and we chose “kolukattai” from the choice of salad and sandwich.

This is the best restaurant that serves snacks, healthy options suited for all the ages.

Famous Snacks in Only Coffee restaurant: They had “today’s special” green salads, sandwiches, south indian special pidi kolukattai, kuli paniyaram, etc.,

Since then, our entire two days stay in Aditya Resort, we never had to roam searching for food and snacks in Kumbakonam. Even after we moved to different accommodation in the city, we came back almost everyday, sometimes twice in a day for their dosa varieties and coffee.

They serve all kinds of typical Tamil Nadu breakfast items.

They also serve unlimited and limited meals for lunch, the only time rice item was available, we chose limited meals because we preferred light food for lunch.

Not only their food is healthy (they use only less oil for food items, so they don’t serve any deep fried snacks) but also they have a variety of healthy snacks and pickles for sale. They also sell wood pressed cooking oil (Marachekku oil), some children books and wooden play toys. According to me, this place is the best vegetarian restaurant in Kumbakonam.

We absolutely enjoyed eating every time in “Only Coffee”.

Its definitely a best place for healthy, vegetarian food choices to eat with family and friends.

Only Coffee Restaurant, Best Vegetarian Food in Kumbakonam — Only Coffee Restaurant, Tiruvidaimaruthur

Only coffee Restaurant – The best hangout place for all kinds of TamilNadu food and snacks 3x a day.

You will absolutely love its peaceful ambiance with the healthy variety of vegetarian tiffin and meals, packed organic snack, pickles, evening salads and Sandwiches served all time with hot coffee/tea/milk.

Alert

“Only coffee” Restaurant is operating only at centre town kumbakonam, opposite to holy mahamaham tank. Call up and check for “Only Coffee” Thiruvidaimaruthur branch, as it was closed for renovation when we visited last time in Dec 2018

Small Shop Serving Quality Food items and Snacks all the time In Kumbakonam- “Ayya Kadai“

Initially, we thought of it as a tea stall, because hardly 15 people can sit inside this shop. Later we came to know they serve food 2 times a day apart from coffee/tea with snacks.

We found this shop when we stayed in “Poppy’s SET hotel” for 3 days Mahamaham festival in Kumbakonam.

Famous food list in Ayya Kadai: Poori masala, pongal, idli, dosa varieties for breakfast and dinner, variety rice and parotta for lunch.

Famous Snacks List in Ayya Kadai: Methu vada (Urad dhal vada), Paruppu Vada (Channa dal vada), Valalikkai Bajji (Banana Besan Fry) are must try here. They are available in the morning and noon timings, different dishes at different times throughout the day.

Almost all the prices were less than or equal to Rs. 20/- including the variety rice(like tomato rice, puliyogare, lemon rice and curd rice), so it is obvious to doubt the quality of food.

But it is a super clean small eatery shop run by 3 elderly guys, and they promise to deliver the quality food and they live up to their words. And from my experience, it is the super clean place in Kumbakonam serving good quality food and snack items.

Evening Parotta In Ayya Kadai, Kumbakonam — Ayya Kadai, Kumbakonam centre town

Ayya Kadai – is the best choice in Kumbakonam town for anyone looking to eat light (and healthy) without hurting the pocket. Also, it is a must try place for an evening snack – masala vada and other oil fried snacks with coffee or tea.

Google Map link – https://goo.gl/maps/efzmdoiTVN2mJKMV7

Try Pandian Hotel For Famous Non veg Food items when in Kumbakonam

I love to eat Non-Veg for dinner, if not daily at least twice in a week is a must for me. Rajesh does not like non-veg as much as I like it, but he too loves to indulge in it, if it catches his eye.

After asking few people in the busy street, we were guided to a hotel across “Sarangapani temple”. We very much liked the variety of food they had in the menu, in fact, we had a hard time picking orders from the menu.

Non-veg Hotel in Kumbakonam, Pandian Hotel — Pandian Hotel Menu

Idiyappam In Kumbakonam, Pandian Hotel — Idiyappam With Chicken gravy

Non-Veg Hotel in Kumbakonam, Pandiyan Hotel — Muttai Lappa with Prawn Masala

Non-Veg Hotel in Kumbakonam — Egg Kothu Parotta with Fish Fry

Food was served in Banana leaf, calm place to enjoy the feast. We had enjoyed two varieties of parottas, Kothu parotta, chicken masala and prawn masala with butter milk.

No chinese items were available.

We loved going back for the crispy Kothu Parotta and the Idiyappam. (Note: You need to be little early in the evening for idiyappam, since there is a huge demand).

We were also suggested to go Hotel Shanmuga, which is also a famous non-veg serving restaurant. The other day we tried some chinese there, but we didn’t enjoy it as much as we did in all other restaurants in Kumbakonam. Eventhough Hotel Shanmuga is popular among localities, we personaly did not like it much because of noisy ambiance and poor quality food.

Pandian Hotel in Kumbakonam – Pure authentic restaurant serves all kinds of Non-Veg items with a wide variety of parottas, dosa items, idiyappam, and meals.

Google map link – https://goo.gl/maps/utsGgKZEKMRxEaS68

For Family Lunch – Indeco Hotels Swamimalai

Indeco Hotels located 4kms from Kumbakonam, is one of the award winning eco-friendly resorts.

This finest heritage resort offers guests an unique opportunity to experience rich cultural heritage in tranquil environment.

We got to expereince this place when I went on 5 days solo trip to Kumbakonam, later husband joined me for the weekend.

Their saatvik meal was delicious and spent quality time sightseeing their heritage collections (arts and automobiles) after the unlimited meals.

Here are some pics from the trip.

kumbakonam is famous for — Pet Deers In Indeco Hotels Swamimalai

kumbakonam famous for — Heritage Collections – Hotel Indeco Swamimalai

Famous Tea Shop for Snacks and Ginger Tea in Center Town Kumbakonam

Speaking of tea, all I would suggest is to go to this shop opposite to clock tower in center town Kumbakonam.

You will get the best ginger tea all the time.

You can also enjoy coffee or flavoured milk, all of them are good here.

Ginger tea shop in Kumbakonam — Ginger tea famous Sri Balaji Shop, opposite to clock tower in Kumbakonam

If you want to have some evening snacks before having tea, then above mentioned “ayya kadai” is the only place I would suggest.

You can have snacks and can come back to have tea here.

Sum -Up

You could also try the famous sweet shop in Kumbakonam town named Murari sweets. Their famous ajmeet cake, dry jamun are must try sweets. Buy only from a shop near to Ramar temple, as there are many fake brands all over the town.

In general, Kumbakonam famous food items are usual south indian dishes apart from degree coffee.

Since we are not a foodie we did not attempt to eat in all the restaurants in Kumbakonam. Instead, we went and explored which was convenient for us and repeatedly went to same places for comfort.

Oh yeah, while you are there, try Kumbakonam famous degree coffee in any of the restaurants. Happy Sightseeing !!.

One Day Trip From Bangalore to Kolar By Bike

Renu on December 15, 2017

If you are planning on One day trip from Bangalore to Kolar – this is the comprehensive guide on travel, food and sightseeing places in Kolar.

(At the bottom is the FAQ section which answers all the your travel queries related to Kolar trip)

Here is the reason why Kolar travel is one of the best one day trip from Bangalore within 100 kms.

One Day trip From Bangalore to Kolar (Distance and Places to Visit)

Kolar (a state in Karnataka) is famous for its Gold Mines also called Kolar Gold Fields (KGF) and are also a perfect destination for one day temple trips and for an adventurous road trip.

Kolar is situated in Bangalore -Tirupati highways, a little before Mulbagal. The Bangalore to Kolar distance is just 85 km from my home (the distance may vary a little from your start location in Bangalore).

So, Kolar is always in our favorite list on weekend getaways from Bangalore.

Famous Places to Visit in Kolar

In our frequent travels from one day trip from Bangalore to Kolar, we have been to the list of famous places –

Kolaramma Temple,
Kotilingeshwara Temple (in detail below)
Someshwara Temple,
Chikka Tirupathi and
AntaraGange.

Myself and hubby experienced Kolar for the first time when we went on a temple trip by bike in the year 2016.

Later we have visited Kotilingeswara temple twice with our family in the next year. Since then we have been frequent travelers from Bangalore to Kolar by bike.

Any place less than 100 km (total 200kms both ways) we are good to go for one day trip by bike.

We have had so many adventures since 2016, which you can check under “categories” section.

All were pleasant experiences.

Kotilingeshwara Temple – Famous sightseeing in Kolar

Kotilingeshwara is more of a tourist destination than a spiritual place in Kolar. The name denotes – one crore Lord Shivalinga.

It is also the place for the world’s biggest Shivalinga statue standing 108 feet tall and 35 feet Nandhi idol. You can get more info on the history of the temple here.

We went twice to Kotilingeswara temple. Since it was a family trip, we hired private cab to Kolar, it cost us 3000/- for each round trip.

Did You Know?

Kotilingeshwara temple timings: Entry to the temple is limited to 9 am to 4 pm, exit is closed by 6pm.

You can find lots of shops selling clay lamps, agarbathis, kids toys etc.,

Kotilingeshwara Temple Guidance : Entry fee and Pooja Procedure

Park your vehicle, pay parking fee
Leave your shoes in the counter, collect a receipt
Buy flowers or lamps before entering the temple, as per your wish.
Pay entry fee 20/- INR per head, little less for children.
Enter the temple, explore the lakhs of lingas on your way to the biggest shiva linga, also you could find other hindu god and goddess idols.
Spend time taking pics – taking pics allowed here
You could also have lunch in a big hall inside the temple
Darshan other idols (Lord Vishnu is special here).
Exit the temple, collect your shoes with the token, come back to home

Highway Star – The Best place to eat in Kolar highways

In one of our recent one day trip from Bangalore to Kolar, we found “Highway Star” using google maps.

We were searching for food joints like McDonald’s or Domino’s in Kolar highways.

On that of travel we had late breakfast in Bangalore before we started to Kolar, so we were looking for some quick bite in the late afternoon.

It’s a rare combination that we get to relax in good ambiance when we are out to travel. I could write 100 articles on how many times we had pathetic food in our travel experiences.

Thankfully, we found the best place to eat in Kolar highways.

We have located Highway star in between Kolar and Mulbagal in the Tirupati Highways, situated in vast area with huge vehicle parking space.

We were happy because we found many restaurant choices in one place with a classy ambiance for recreation.

It has all the facilities that any travelers could ask for. It has restroom and shower facilities with wheelchair access, Car wash and repair, Kids play area with rabbits and love birds.

Highway Star is not only the perfect recreation center for travelers, but also for families and college kids to hangout in the weekend.

We enjoyed eating Veg Manchurian with fried rice and Malay veg noodles from a Chinese restaurant.

Also we had french fries and cola from McDonald’s.

The List of Restaurant names in Highway Star, Kolar

Fujian Express – For Chinese food
McDonald’s
Domino’s Pizza
Maaya’s Restaurant -pure veg
Nagas Restaurant -Andhra style veg and non-veg
Juice Junction – all kinds of juices and smoothies
Baskin Robbins -for ice creams

Other restaurants in Kolar Highways are (just opposite to this complex)

Vasudev Adigas veg restaurant – just opposite to Highway Star
Cafe coffee day – near to Vasudev adigas.

So next time when you are travelling to Kolar, you know where to stop for food and relaxation.

Activities You Can Do In Kolar

Of all the places we have been, Antaragange in Kolar was one of the most adventurous as we climbed 100+ steps to worship Lord Siva on the hill. Climate in Kolar was not too hot even in the beginning of summer, February.

Because you can do all the following activities in Kolar in One Day:

Go long bike ride /car ride from Bangalore to Kolar gold fields
Visit the famous Kotilingeswara Temple, marvel at one of the world’s tallest SivaLinga Statue
Go Hiking in Antaragange Hills, take a dip in temple pond
Go to ancient temples – Kolaramma temple, Someshwara Temple and Chikka Tirupati
Eat Chinese food / Fast food in many food joints in Highway Star located in Bangalore – Tirupati highways
Spend time looking at the rabbits and love birds eating icecream near the kids play area in Kolar Highway Star.

High Way Star - Kids Play Area — High Way Star – Kids Play Area

As such you will love the experience of travel by car or by bike, with wide roads and occasional flower fields popping up on either sides.

You could also hire a cab, book a train or bus from Bangalore to Kolar, but we always love to go by road.

FAQs – One day Kolar Trip from Bangalore:

How to reach Kolar from Bangalore?

Bangalore to kolar distance varies based on which location you are planning to start the trip, for me the distance from my home is just 85kms. Until we crossed Whitefield we had to face the hectic traffic, then its stress free ride once you hit the Triupathi highway.

Trains from Bangalore to kolar?

There are train facilities from Bangalore city central , cantonment and Yeswanthpur junction at various timings. Search in google for Bangalore to kolar train timings, train name etc.,

Buses from Bangalore to kolar?

There are numerous buses from Bangalore to Kolar, KSRTC and private buses available at all major junctions. You could check online for the bus stops and timings. Recently when I checked, for bus from Bangalore to Kolar bus ticket fare 67/- per head from majestic, for KSRTC express bus service.

Bangalore to Kolar cabs / ola cabs availability?

You could reach Kolar by train or KSRTC bus or bike or car or private cab. Not sure of Ola cab service to Kolar, both the family trips we have hired private cabs, which had cost us 3k for each round trip.

Places to eat in Kolar?

As mentioned above Highway star is the by far best pit stop with best restaurant choices and washroom facilities with car parking. Opposite to Highway star you could find Vasudev Adigas veg restaurant. If you are not keen to eat in the Kolar highways, you anyways have plenty of restaurant choices once you hit Bangalore.

Places to see in Kolar?

Sightseeing in Kolar is very limited but good choice for one day trip with the famous Kotilingeswara temple, ancient Kolaramma temple, and for adventurous hiking and temple trip, you could go to Antaragange.

Kotilingeshwara temple timings?

Entry fee 20/ – per head to Kotilingeswara temple, entry is closed by 4pm but visitors can stay inside temple until 6 to 6.30 pm.

Hope you have got list of activities to do on one day trip from Bangalore to Kolar.

Are you a regulr bike rider just like us. Then here is the suggestion for you.

Best Bluetooth Earphones Under 2000 rupees – We Used Regularly MotorBike Rides

Famous One Day trip destinations from Bangalore

Nandi Hills Temple – 9th Century Big Ornamental Temple with Breathtaking View of Beautiful Pond

Lepakshi Temple From Bangalore: Two States, One Day, 300 Kms Bike Trip

Talakad Temples (Our One Day Bike Trip -260 Kms)

Shivanasamudra Falls From Bangalore: Explore Gaganachukki Waterfalls, Nearby places

Bangalore to T Narasipura: Crazy Bike Ride to the Less Known Destinations in Karnataka

Hoysala Architecture: How we visited 4 Different Temples Just in One Day

Talakad Temples (Our One Day Bike Trip -260 Kms)

Renu on November 7, 2017

We are frequent bike travelers to – Talakad temples and Talakad beach (TalaKaveri River) in Karnataka. Here you will be presented 3 different routes to reach Talakad by road, with many options for sightseeing near Talakad.

On 4th November 2017, we went on a one day trip from Bangalore to Talakadu temples, one of the famous tourist destinations in Karnataka. We spent a day playing in TalaKaveri (Talakadu river / beach), later we spent time visiting all the temples situated near the river. We rode about 260 Kms in a day trip travelling up and down to Talakadu, Karnataka.

This is a travel guide for road trip looking to visit Talakadu temples from Bangalore or from Mysore.

Also, I have outlined the route map with different options for sightseeing places near Talakadu.

Talakad Temples – Location and List of Places for Sightseeing

Talakad (Talakadu), is a small town with a group of temples, a famous pilgrimage centre for Hindus, situated 43 kms from Mysore and 133 kms from Bangalore.

We travelled from our home in Bangalore. So it was total of 260 Km bike ride both ways.

We visited just Keerthi Narayana temple and pancha linga temples except mallikarjuna temple, because it is located quite far away.

After spending some time around Kaveri river came by walk to the parking location.

We then had lunch in one of the many Brahmin lunch houses before visiting all the temples detailed below.

Travel Tips:

You could skip going to Talakadu Kaveri river altogether, and go straight to darshan temples.

Or, you could go only Talakadu River, eat in the one of the stalls near beach or eat your home cooked meals, before you return home.

In the later section I have detailed on how to reach Talakadu temples and river you for your guidance.

Pancha Lingas Temple – Famous in Talakad

Today, most of the magnificent temples of this ancient town are submerged in sand. All the stone pillars (square at the base and fitted into a wheel below the abacus) lie scattered throughout the town.

Among the temples of Talakad, the Pathaleshwara, Maruleshwara, Arkeshwara, Vaidyanathee-shwara (vaidyeshwara) and Mallikarjuna temples form the pancha lingas. In honour of these five Shiva temples, a fair is held once in 12 years called Pancha Linga Darshana, on a new moon day. ( Source )

how to reach talakad temples — Vaidyeshwara temple in Talakad

Keerthi Narayana Temple – Lord Vishnu Temple

Besides the Pancha Lingas, another magnificent structure is the Keerthinarayana temple, which is the only temple in Talakad to have been constructed in the Hoysala style of architecture.

A greater part of this temple is buried in sand. Other than the sanctum sanctorum, there is a sukanasi and a navaranga in this temple.

Inside the sanctum sanctorum stands an eight-foot-tall statue of Keerthinarayana. Recent excavations in the temple complex have brought to light remains of earlier centuries. ( Source )

kirthinarayan temple_talakad temples — Keerthi Narayana Temple – Lord Vishnu Temple in Talakad

How to Reach Talakadu Temples From Bangalore – Our Trip Plan

Talakadu temples and Talakadu river are the two different picnic spots which attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists to this destination. River is located about 1km walkable distance from the temples. Many travel Talakadu just to spend time in the River, or to offer puja on the banks of the river, many visit temples after a dip in the Holy River Kaveri.

We, duo travellers, rode bike to Talakadu by taking the following route.

Our Bike trip Plan (Plan -1)

Bangalore – Bidadi – Ramanagara – Channapatna -Halagur – Talakadu

This time saving the fastest NH route with good pit stop options.

(Read our experience when we went on a one day bike trip from Bangalore to T Narasipura via Srirangapatna and Somanathapura).

Talakadu One Day Trip Plan -2

You can follow our trip plan -1 mentioned above or add a few more sightseeing places along the way.

Trip plan -2

Bangalore – Srirangapatna – Somnathpur Keshava Temple -T.Narasipura (optional) – Talakad temples

Start early from Bangalore, take NH and reach straight to the Srirangapatna Ranganathar temple.

After darshan around 11 to 11.30 am, travel to Somanathapura. A beautiful, one of a kind Hoysala architecture temple is open from 9 am to 5 pm.

You would need a minimum 1 to 2 hrs to spend at this beauty of the architecture, hire a guide if you must.

Then after lunch (preferably home packed as no eatery If you have missed NH near Srirangapatna), drive about 30 mins to reach Talakadu.

Here you will have some Brahmin lunch houses for home cooked vegetarian food if you would like.

Otherwise there are some options available for non veg lovers near Talakadu river. If you had any time, you could stop at T. Narasipura Narasimha temple on the Banks of Kaveri River before reaching Talakadu.

Now, in Talakadu, take a dip in the Kaveri river, spend some time, change clothes if you would like before you head to Talakadu temples.

how to reach Talakadu from bangalore — Ride to Talakadu temples

Note Talakadu temple timings: All temples of Talakadu are closed after noon pooja and are only open after 4 pm. You would want to darshan the temples before 12 noon or after 4pm, according you could plan visiting other temples mentioned in the above route.

Trip Plan -3 with Kollegal and Shivanasamudra

Okay, the above route will not interest you if you have fun travel planned, and if you are not much fond of just temple visits.

I have different travel plans for you.

Trip Plan – 3

Bangalore – Talakadu temples – Kollegal – Shivanasamudra

(or)

Bangalore – Shivanasamudra – Kollegal – Talakadu Temples

I would prefer the 2nd route if you like riding in the road among lush green fields. You are in for a treat by the time you reach Shivanasamudra. The entire ride to the falls, the trip to Kollegal and Talakadu river would be so mesmerizing (not much in summer though).

Starting from Bangalore, ride to Shivanasamudra after taking a diversion from Malavalli on Mysore NH road. Play in the Shivanasamudra falls to your heart’s content, place a visit to the very famous Lord Vishnu temple (Ranganathar temple popular next to Srirangapatna) for the interested.

Next ride to Kollegal, about 20 kms en route from Shivanasamudra, the most beautiful ride you will ever have among the paddy fields and sugarcane farms. Spend some time in Gaganachukki waterfalls – one of the biggest and Barachukki waterfalls. Compared to Shivanasamudra, you would love it more in Kollegal..

Next stop would be Talakadu temples – darshan the temples or head straight to the River. Enjoy the sunset view, spend some time before you return home.

For returning back to Bangalore, take the Mysuru NH road via Somanathapura, that would be safest and fastest for the evening drive.

(Read our one day Bike trip from Bangalore to Shivanasamudra falls and MadyaRang temple).

Other Sightseeing Places Near Talakadu

These are the following sightseeing places you could pay a visit along the way to Talakadu temples. Feel free to use google maps to calculate the time and distances, so you will have a fun filled, peaceful travel.

Shivanasamudra (Ranganathaswamy temple)
Kollegal
Nanjangud
Somanathapura temple
Mandya
Mysore

Bike ride to Talakad temples was one of a memorable, 12th one day Bike trip from Bangalore.

We traveled back to Bangalore by late evening from Talakadu temples on the same day. For sure we loved every bit of the trip, clicked many pics. Looking forward to visit this place again.

Melkote From Bangalore (335KM in One Day Bike Trip)

Renu on February 15, 2017

In our One day bike trip to Melkote From Bangalore, we have visited CheluvaNarayanaSwamy temple and Lord Yoga Narasimha Swamy temple on the Melkote hill.

On our way back we have visited the very famous Srirangapatna temple, near Mysore.

We have traveled a total of 335 kms just in one day trip from Bangalore and here is our travel story.

How to Reach Melkote From Bangalore by Road – 2 Routes

On an early morning on 11th Feb 2017, we started our bike journey to Melkote from Bangalore, coincidentally it was our 11th one day bike trip from Bangalore :).

Never we have ever been to Melkote on our previous bike trips to Mysore or Srirangapatna.

You know we always make it a point to visit a famous temple / historic place during all our bike trips.

Knowing that Melkote is famous for a historically important Lord Vishnu temple called Cheluvanarayana Swamy temple and the other Yoga Narasimha Swamy on the hill, we have decided to ride exclusively to Melkote.

This was our first exclusive trip to Melkote from Bangalore.

There are 2 routes to reach Melkote from Bangalore. One is Kunigal Mangalore Highway and the other Mysore Highways.

We took Kunigal highways to reach Melkote (I explained the reason in next section). If you are taking Mysore NH, the distance is almost the same as above, you will be taking a diversion from Mandya to reach Melkote.

The following is the route we took to reach Melkote by Bike.

Melkote route from Bangalore (Kunigal Highways)

Bangalore-Nelamangala-(Kunigal Mangalore highway)-Bellur cross- Nagamangala-Melukote (temple visit) -return via Srirangapatna (temple visit) mysore highway road

Melkote Distance From Bangalore

Melkote distance from Bangalore is 167 kms (from my home) via Kunigal route and 140 kms from my home via Mysore NH.

The reason I mentioned “My home” as a starting point is because the distance might vary a little based on the location you start in Bangalore.

Both the routes now have plenty of options for restaurants, cafes and fast food joints.

Since we never experienced Kunigal route ( with 167 kms) we decided to take that route.

Note: Both the routes have plenty of pitstop options for the travellers.

In Kunigal route, we had breakfast at tiffanys in Nelamangala. And we stopped at Hotel Mayura at Bellur cross for lunch.

2 Must See Temples of Melkote

Melkote is famous for two temples namely Cheluvanarayana temple and Yoga Narasimha temple on the hills.

We spent some time in the CheluvaNarayana Temple pushkarini until the temple opened for evening darshan. As soon as we had darshan, we headed to the Melkote hill temple.

We had to wait a long time in the queue to darshan Lord Yoganarasimha and headed as fast as we could to Srirangapatna temple.

Again standing in queue for quite sometime in Srirangapatna temple, we had darshan only at 7.15pm.

Well, we knew for sure made mistake of coming all the way to Srirangapatna instead of returning to Bangalore from Melkote itself.

We then started our bike around 7.30 pm, with a prepared mind for a thrilling bike ride in the NH.

Riding in dark is not new to us, once we rode about 500kms in Hassan trip, the highlight was riding in pitch dark among tall trees.

Sightseeing Places Around Melkote

From our experience, know that it’s better to stick to just sightseeing in Melkote on your trip.

Here is the list of places to go nearby Melkote.

Feel free to click on the name to get google map location, explore more about the places in google before you decide to go sightseeing these places around Melkote.

Ancient Sri Brahmeswara temple, Kikkeri – Famous Hoysala architecture temple. Located 40 kms from Melkote.
PanchaLingeshwara temple – Hoysala architecture temple located near Kikkeri
Shravanabelagola – Bhagawan Bahubali Statue, A famous sightseeing day trip destination in Karnataka, located 35 kms from Melkote.
Sri ChennaKesava Temple – Hoysala architecture temple located 47 kms from Melkote and located near to Shravanabelagola. You could plan to visit these two temples in one go before reaching Melkote.
Nuggehalli Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple – located a short distance from Bellur cross, is yet another breathtaking architecture of Hoysala. Located about 30km away from Bhagawan Bahubali Statue and 55km from Melkote, it is a must visit temple in Karnataka.
Adichunchanagiri Hills – Sri Kalabhairaveshwara Swamy Temple, located close to the Bellur cross. At 54 kms from Melkote – a serene temple with a breathtaking view atop the hill should be in your travel bucket list.
SriRangapatna – Sri Ranganathaswamy temple, located 38 kms from Melkote is yet another historically famous temple of Lord Vishnu near the Kaveri river. This temple location is close to both Mysore and Melkote.

We have fallen in love with the beauty of this Nuggehalli temple. Consider this place to add to your bucket list on your trip to Melkote from Bangalore.

Here Is the Sample Road Trip Plan for you

If you are not sure of trip plan, here is a sample road trip plan to help you started with.

Start From Bangalore -Darshan Melkote temple – on return journey from Melkote – visit in order – Shravanabelagola -Nuggehalli – Adichunchanagiri hills.

You could even plan the other way around, like you can visit all famous places first, later in the evening visit Melkote before reaching home.

Moreover it gets too dark and scary in Adichuchanagiri hills temple (from our Hassan bike trip experience).

Did We Return Home Safe?

Following what seemed to be a never ending ride among the super crazy vehicles in the National Highways, we reached home safe sometime past midnight.

Yet another memorable one day bike trip to cherish, to Melkote from Bangalore, of total un-freaking-believable 335 kms in Pulsar bike.

Anything around 200 to 250 kms, we are good to go by motorbike in a day.

But on that day, we pushed past our comfort zone and rode about 335 km in just one day.

Looking back we are now so proud of the risks we took in our early days of bike trip. So later we were able to go on an 11 days long bike trip.

After almost 4 long years of bike ride to places, now we are settled to travel by car.

So these bike rides definitely hold a special place in our life. All credit goes to Rajesh, who was never afraid to set new milestones.

Read Related Our Bike Ride Stories here:

From Bangalore to Hassan Road Trip: A tale of New Bikers Riding at Night, 500KM trip

Bangalore to Tiruvannamalai Temple Thrilling Night Bike Ride Of 200 Kms

4 days Road Trip To Coorg From Bangalore (Bangalore to Coorg Bike Trip)

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

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