The Best 5-Day Itinerary for Nagarahole National Park and Palakkad
By JAGAT [08/May/25] South India is a land of lush greenery, misty hills, and timeless traditions. Its natural beauty and rich culture create a travel experience that lingers in the heart. A journey through Nagarahole and Palakkad brings together the calm of nature and the charm of history. On one side, you have Nagarahole National Park with its dense forests, winding rivers, and thrilling wildlife safaris. Conversely, Palakkad greets you with scenic landscapes, ancient forts, and traditional Kerala culture. This 5-day tour plan offers a refreshing mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great pick for anyone who enjoys exploring offbeat destinations at an easy pace.
This itinerary is designed to make the most of your time by balancing travel, exploration, and relaxation. Starting with the untamed beauty of Karnataka’s famous tiger reserve and ending with Kerala’s cultural heartland, it offers a well-rounded experience. For those looking to book Nagarahole tour packages, this guide will also help you understand how to structure your travel days efficiently and enjoyably. Read on for the complete route and day-by-day breakdown.
The Overall Route Map
To begin your wildlife adventure, you can choose to arrive at Bangalore or Mysore, both of which are major cities with excellent connectivity via air and rail. While Bangalore offers more international flight options, Mysore is closer to Nagarahole and saves time on the road. From your arrival city, you'll take a road transfer to Nagarahole National Park, nestled in the Western Ghats and known for its dense forests, rich biodiversity, and frequent sightings of elephants, leopards, and tigers. After experiencing the wild beauty of Nagarahole, the journey continues southward to Palakkad in Kerala - approximately a 6-hour drive. Your tour ends here with a cultural dive into this heritage-rich town. Departures can be arranged from Coimbatore International Airport (about 1.5 hours from Palakkad by road) or Palakkad Junction railway station, both offering easy connections to major Indian cities.
The Ultimate 4N & 5D Tour Plan for Nagarahole and Palakkad
Day 1: Arrival at Bangalore or Mysore and Transfer to Nagarahole National Park
Upon arrival at either Bangalore or Mysore, you'll begin your road trip to Nagarahole National Park. The journey from Mysore takes roughly 1.5 hours (61 km), while from Bangalore it’s about 3.5-4 hours (205 km). Check into a jungle lodge or wildlife resort near the park for a rustic yet comfortable stay. After some rest, explore the surroundings or take a short walk along the Kabini River if time permits. Many resorts offer nature trails, birdwatching sessions, or local village visits in the evening. Enjoy a traditional dinner and prepare for the adventure that awaits the next day.
Day 2: Exploring Nagarahole National Park: Morning and Evening Safaris
Day 2 is the highlight of your trip - a full day of wildlife exploration. Begin with a morning jungle safari, which starts around 6 am. The safari takes you through dense teak and sandalwood forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats. Return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast and spend midday at leisure - relax by the pool, read, or enjoy the resort’s amenities. Later in the afternoon, embark on an evening safari that begins around 2:30 pm. Your guide will help identify rare birds and animal tracks, making the experience both exciting and educational. In the evening, gather around a bonfire (seasonal) or enjoy a wildlife documentary screening, followed by dinner.
Day 3: Transfer to Palakkad from Nagarahole
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the forests of Nagarahole and head south towards Palakkad, Kerala. The drive is approximately 206 km and takes about 6 hours. On arrival in Palakkad, check into your hotel or heritage homestay. Use the evening to relax and enjoy a peaceful dinner. If you’re not too tired, a short walk through the local market will give you a taste of the local culture and cuisine.
Day 4: Sightseeing in Palakkad
Palakkad, often called the "Granary of Kerala," is known for its fertile lands and vast green paddy fields. Its landscape, dotted with swaying coconut palms and dense forests, reflects a deep-rooted agricultural heritage. Positioned on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, Palakkad acts as a welcoming gateway into the state and showcases a seamless cultural blend from both regions. The district’s beauty shines through its hills, rivers, waterfalls, and historical landmarks. Must-visit attractions: • Palakkad Fort • Kalapathy Temple • Dhoni Waterfall • Yakshi Statue • Kava View Point • Rock Garden
Day 5: Departure from Palakkad
After breakfast, it’s time to conclude your 5-day journey. Based on your further plans, you may choose to either: • Drive to Coimbatore Airport (about 60 km / 1.5 hours) for your return flight. • Board a train from Palakkad Junction, which connects to several major cities.
