Gundlupet Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gundlupet with this comprehensive travel guide featuring natural and cultural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Located in the southern part of India, Gundlupet is a beautiful town situated in the district of Chamarajanagar in the state of Karnataka. Rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, it offers tourists a diverse range of attractions including museums, historical sites, hiking and biking trails, and much more.

Whether you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or food lover, Gundlupet has something for everyone. So, here’s a comprehensive travel guide on how to plan your trip to this charming town in Southern India.

Introduction to Gundlupet

Gundlupet is a small town that is famous for its silk sarees and exotic fruits. It is located at the junction of three different states - Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The town is surrounded by picturesque hills and dense forests with a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Chamarajnagar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Bandipur National Park are also situated close to Gundlupet.

List of Places to Visit in Gundlupet

There are plenty of places to visit in Gundlupet that offer a mix of natural and cultural experiences. Here is a list of some must-visit attractions in the town.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Somanathapura Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century temple is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture.

  • Melukote: The town of Melukote is home to many ancient temples and shrines, and is also famous for its delicious local cuisine.

  • Gopalaswamy Hill and Temple: Located at the top of the Gopalaswamy Hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Natural Attractions of Gundlupet: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bandipur National Park: A wildlife sanctuary located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Bandipur National Park is home to tigers, elephants, and many other rare and endangered species.

  • Chamarajnagar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and rare flora and fauna.

  • Mudumalai National Park: Located in nearby Tamil Nadu, Mudumalai National Park is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary that attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gundlupet

The hills and forests surrounding Gundlupet offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Some of the best hiking and biking trails in the town are:

  • Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta Trek: This trek is perfect for adventure lovers and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests.

  • Bandipur Trek: A beautiful hike through the Bandipur National Park, this trek is ideal for nature lovers.

  • Biligiri Rangaswamy Trek: This trek takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region, from grasslands to dense forests.

Best Things to Do in Gundlupet: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other things to do in Gundlupet. Here are some of the best activities and tours to consider:

  • Silk Saree Shopping: Gundlupet is famous for its silk sarees, so remember to take some time out for shopping.

  • Fruit Tasting Tour: The town is also known for its exotic fruits, so don’t forget to try some while you are there.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gundlupet

If you are planning on spending a week in Gundlupet, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Somanathapura Temple and explore the town.

Day 2: Go on a wildlife safari in Bandipur National Park or Chamarajnagar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Day 3: Spend the day exploring the town of Melukote and its ancient temples.

Day 4: Go on a hiking or biking trail in the surrounding hills and forests.

Day 5: Visit the Gopalaswamy Hill and Temple and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 6: Take a fruit tasting tour of the town.

Day 7: Spend the day relaxing and shopping for silk sarees.

Food and Drink Scene of Gundlupet

The food scene in Gundlupet is a mixture of local and global dishes, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mysore Pak: A rich, sweet dessert made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour.

  • Bisi Bele Bath: A spicy rice dish cooked with lentils, vegetables, and spices.

  • Rava Idli: A light and fluffy South Indian breakfast dish that is steamed.

Local Beverages

  • Kaapi: A traditional South Indian coffee made with roasted beans and boiled milk.

  • Nannari Sherbet: A refreshing drink made from the roots of the Nannari plant.

Where to Stay in Gundlupet: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Gundlupet, ranging from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • The Windflower Resort and Spa: A luxury resort located close to the Bandipur National Park.

  • Kabini River Lodge: A rustic lodge located on the banks of the Kabini river.

  • G Continental Hotel: A budget hotel located in the heart of the town.

What to Buy in Gundlupet: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Apart from silk sarees, here are some other souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Sandalwood Products: Gundlupet is known for its sandalwood products, including incense sticks, perfumes, and soaps.

  • Fruit Products: You can buy various types of fruit products, including jams, jellies, and pickles made from the exotic fruits grown in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Gundlupet

The local culture of Gundlupet is a mix of Hindu and Muslim traditions. Most of the people in the town are involved in agriculture and are very friendly and hospitable towards tourists. During festivals and special occasions, the town comes alive with music, dance, and other cultural activities.

Best Time to Visit Gundlupet

The best time to visit Gundlupet is between the months of October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. However, if you are a wildlife enthusiast, the best time to visit is between June and October, when the animals come out in search of water.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gundlupet

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Gundlupet:

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.

  • Follow the guidelines set by the wildlife authorities when on wildlife safaris.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter or harm the environment in any way.

  • Do not disrespect the local culture or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gundlupet

Gundlupet is a safe town, but it is always advisable to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid traveling alone at night.

  • Keep your valuables safe and secure.

Health in Gundlupet

Gundlupet is a relatively healthy town, and there are no major health risks. However, it is always good to carry basic medicines and drink bottled water when traveling.

Getting to Gundlupet: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gundlupet is well-connected by road, and there are plenty of buses and taxis available for travel. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Gundlupet

  • Kempegowda International Airport: Located in Bengaluru, this airport is approximately 215km from Gundlupet.

  • Coimbatore International Airport: Located in Tamil Nadu, this airport is approximately 180km from Gundlupet.

Bus Stations Near Gundlupet

  • Gundlupet Bus Station: The main bus station in the town, with regular services to major cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Taxis and Private Cars: Taxis and private cars are a good option for traveling within the region.

How to Get Around in Gundlupet

The best way to get around in Gundlupet is by walking, as most of the attractions are located close to each other. However, if you are traveling longer distances, taxis and private cars are a good option.

Where to Go Next from Gundlupet: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Gundlupet include:

  • Mysore: A beautiful city known for its palaces, museums, and art galleries.

  • Coorg: A popular hill station famous for its coffee plantations and natural beauty.

  • Ooty: A quaint hill station located in Tamil Nadu, known for its scenic views and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Gundlupet is a hidden gem in Southern India that offers a unique blend of culture and nature. Whether you want to explore ancient temples, go on wildlife safaris, or try exotic fruits, Gundlupet has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in this charming town!

Kerala style coffee shop at Gundlupet Kerala style coffee shop at Gundlupet Kerala road from Gundlepet Kerala road from Gundlepet Mariamma Temple, Hangala Mariamma Temple, Hangala Lunch at Gundlupet Lunch at Gundlupet