Cauvery Basin Travel Guide

Explore the stunning Cauvery Basin in Southern India with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, local culture, where to stay and more.


Introduction to Cauvery Basin

Nestled in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, the Cauvery Basin is a picturesque region that is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. This region is named after the Cauvery River, which is one of the most extensive rivers in India and a lifeline for many people in Southern India. The Cauvery Basin covers an area of approximately 81,155 square kilometers and is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic landscapes, ancient temples, and diverse flora and fauna.

List of Places to Visit in Cauvery Basin

There are many must-visit destinations in the Cauvery Basin that attract visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the top places to put on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Srirangapatna: A historic town where you can visit the Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and the Dariya Daulat Palace.
  • Mysore Palace: One of the most popular destinations in the Cauvery Basin, also known as the ‘Palace City’
  • Somnathpur Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that features stunning Hoysala architecture.

Natural Attractions of Cauvery Basin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bheemeshwari: Renowned for its scenic river rafting, wildlife sanctuary, trekking, and fishing activities.
  • Coorg: Also known as the ‘Scotland of India,’ this hill station is famous for its coffee plantations and stunning waterfalls.
  • Shivanasamudra Falls: A picturesque waterfall that is divided into two segments – the Gaganachukki and Bharachukki, plunging from a height of 98 meters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cauvery Basin

  • Kodachadri Trek: An ideal trekking spot for nature enthusiasts, featuring stunning views and waterfalls.
  • Biligiriranga Hills: A hiker’s paradise with a plethora of trails, including the Kyatdevara Gudi Wilderness Camp trek.
  • Bheemeshwari to Sangama Trek: A perfect trekking route for beginners, with plenty of scenic views of the Cauvery River.

Best Things to Do in Cauvery Basin: Activities and Tours

  • Take a wildlife safari tour in the Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary or Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Indulge in thrilling river rafting, kayaking or zip-lining activities in the Cauvery River.
  • Experience the traditional dance, food and culture of the region in Mysore or the nearby villages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cauvery Basin

Day 1: Arrive in Bengaluru and head to Mysore. Day 2: Explore Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and the Devaraja Market. Day 3: Travel to Coorg and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and coffee plantations. Day 4: Spend the day trekking in the Biligiriranga Hills. Day 5: Go river rafting in Bheemeshwari. Day 6: Visit the Somnathpur Temple and Shivanasamudra Falls. Day 7: Depart from Bengaluru.

Food and Drink Scene of Cauvery Basin

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mysore Masala Dosa: A famous breakfast dish filled with a spicy potato filling.
  • Coorgi Pandhi Curry (Pork Curry): A spicy and flavorful curry made with Coorgi spices.
  • Bisi Bele Bath: A rice dish made with lentils and vegetables, a staple food of this region.

Local Beverages

  • Filter Coffee: A popular beverage throughout Southern India, including Cauvery Basin.
  • Palm Wine (Toddy): An alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees.

Where to Stay in Cauvery Basin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to homely guesthouses and budget hostels, the Cauvery Basin has accommodation to suit every traveler’s preference. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • The Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel: A luxury hotel in Mysore that was once a summer palace of the Maharaja of Mysore.
  • Amanvana Spa and Resort: A luxury resort located in Coorg, surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp: A perfect accommodation for adventure enthusiasts located in Bheemeshwari.

What to Buy in Cauvery Basin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sandalwood Products: Known for its sweet aroma, sandalwood products such as perfumes, soaps, and incense sticks are popular souvenirs.
  • Coorg Coffee: Rich in flavor and aroma, coffee from Coorg is famous throughout India.
  • Mysore Silk Sarees: Known globally for their unparalleled quality, the Mysore Silk Saree is a must-buy for those who love textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Cauvery Basin

The Cauvery Basin has a diverse cultural heritage influenced by its history and geography. The region is home to various tribes and communities with unique customs and traditions. The people of this region are friendly, hospitable and take great pride in their traditions and culture. It is recommended to respect the local customs, dress modestly, and avoid public affections as it is considered inappropriate in public.

Best Time to Visit Cauvery Basin

The best time to visit the Cauvery Basin is from October to March when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The monsoons bring heavy rains and make traveling and outdoor activities relatively challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cauvery Basin

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly while visiting religious places.
  • Try the local food and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Engage in public affection as it is considered inappropriate in public.
  • Litter or harm the local environment and wildlife.
  • Disrespect the culture, traditions, and customs of the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cauvery Basin

The Cauvery Basin is relatively safe for travelers, but it is always recommended to keep your valuables safe and be cautious while traveling alone. It is also advisable to stay in secure accommodations and avoid walking in poorly lit areas at night. Stay updated with the local news and weather conditions while traveling throughout the region.

Health in Cauvery Basin

It is recommended to take the necessary vaccinations and obtain a comprehensive health insurance policy before visiting the Cauvery Basin. It is also best to carry essential medicines and consult a doctor before embarking on any physical activity such as trekking or white-water rafting.

Getting to Cauvery Basin: Transportation Options and Logistics

The easiest way to get to the Cauvery Basin is to fly to the nearest airport, the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. From there, you can take a bus, taxi or hire a car to Mysore, which is the gateway to the Cauvery Basin. Various transport options such as buses, taxis, and private cars are available for commutes within the region.

Airports Near Cauvery Basin

  • Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore
  • Kannur International Airport, Kerala

Bus Stations Near Cauvery Basin

  • Mysore Bus Stand
  • Coorg Bus Stand

Other Options

  • Hire a taxi or private car from Bengaluru to Mysore.
  • Travel by train to Mysore, which is well-connected to various parts of India.

How to Get Around in Cauvery Basin

The easiest way to get around the Cauvery Basin is by hiring a car or taxi. Local buses are also available, but it may be challenging to navigate without knowing the local language. Hiring a bike or cycle is also an option, especially in Coorg and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Cauvery Basin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The Cauvery Basin is in Southern India, a region with a plethora of fascinating destinations to explore. Here are some of the top nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once home to the Vijayanagara Empire.
  • The Nilgiris: A picturesque region in the Western Ghats, that is home to various tea estates, wildlife, and hill stations.
  • Badami: Known for its ancient cave temples filled with intricate carvings and stunning architecture.

Conclusion

The Cauvery Basin is a region that deserves to be explored for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, delicious food and warm, welcoming locals. From trekking to wildlife safaris, visiting historic temples to indulging in local cuisine, the Cauvery Basin has something for everyone. Plan your itinerary today and immerse yourself in the beauty of this stunning destination.

Lakshmi Narayanaswamy temple at Harohalli riverside, Pandavapura Lakshmi Narayanaswamy temple at Harohalli riverside, Pandavapura Agni Nethramba Temple, Thandavapura Agni Nethramba Temple, Thandavapura Chinnada Gudi Hundi Temple, Nanjangud Chinnada Gudi Hundi Temple, Nanjangud


    Chamarajanagar (district)
    Chikmagalur (district)
    Hassan (district)
    Kodagu
    Mandya (district)
    Mysore (district)
    Nagarhole National Park