places to visit in chikmagalur

Chikmagalur, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. Renowned for its lush greenery, sprawling coffee plantations, and majestic mountain ranges, It offers a serene escape into nature’s embrace. With its pleasant climate and rich biodiversity, it’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.

How to Reach Chikmagalur: The nearest major airport and railway station is in Mangalore, around 145 km away. Many visitors from Bangalore (240 km) opt to take a bus or drive themselves to Chikmagalur as it is well-connected by roads. Alternatively, you can fly into Bangalore and hire a cab from there.

The best time to visit Chikmagalur is from September to March when the weather is cool and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 26°C. The monsoon months of June to August also have their charm if you don’t mind the occasional rains.

Amazing Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station in Karnataka, located in the Western Ghats mountain range. It is a popular vacation spot for those looking to get away from the heat and crowds of the cities. Chikmagalur has lush green forests, tall mountains, cascading waterfalls, and acres of coffee plantations that make for stunning scenery. If you are planning a trip to Chikmagalur, here are 7 places to visit in Chikmagalur to add to your itinerary:

Mullayanagiri Peak

At 1,930 meters (6,330 feet) above sea level, Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka. On a clear day, the views from the top are breathtaking. you can see across the green hills, valleys, and many lakes sparkling in the distance. To reach the peak, there is a trek of around 4 km from the base village of Sarpadhari. The trek is of moderate difficulty and takes 2-3 hours depending on your fitness level. Make sure to carry snacks, and water, and wear proper trekking shoes. The best time to do this trek is in the morning to catch sunrise from the summit.

Baba Budan Giri  

Baba Budan Giri, one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur is a mountain range located around 16 km from Chikmagalur town. It is believed that the Sufi saint Baba Budan first brought coffee seeds from Yemen to India and planted them in this region, starting the immense coffee cultivation in the area. At the foothills is the sacred Dattatreya Peetha cave temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Dattatreya. The temple is an important pilgrimage site. The region also has some excellent hiking trails winding through coffee estates and forests.

Hebbe Falls

Hebbe Falls, located 27 km from Chikmagalur, is a scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The waterfall consists of two segments, one which plunges from 120 feet and the other from 180 feet. You can walk down a path and get up close to the base of the waterfalls, feeling the spray of the water. Swimming is allowed in designated areas, so it’s a great spot to cool off on a hot day. Just be cautious of the slippery rocks. The falls look their best after the monsoon rains from July to October.

Kodanda Rama Temple

This ancient temple situated in Chikmagalur town is dedicated to Lord Rama. It was constructed around the 9th century AD and is a great example of Dravidian temple architecture with intricate carvings. The main highlight is the huge idol of Lord Rama, standing at around 8 feet tall. The serene temple premises with old stone pillars and courtyards transport you back in time. It is open daily from 7 am to 8 pm and there is no entry fee to visit.

Kemmanagundi

This quaint hill town is located around 55 km from Chikmagalur at an altitude of 1,434 meters above sea level. It is the starting point for many scenic trekking trails through the Baba Budan Giri mountain range. The Z Point is a popular viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of the misty mountains and valleys. Kemmanagundi also has rose gardens and ancient rock formations that make for interesting exploration. Due to its high elevation, the weather remains pleasant and cool throughout the year, making it an ideal summer getaway.

Hirekolale Lake

About 24 km from Chikmagalur is the beautiful Hirekolale Lake, situated amidst coffee plantations. It was created in the 16th century as an irrigation reservoir but is now a serene spot for boating, fishing, and bird watching. You can rent small motorboats or pedal boats to paddle around the placid waters. The garden island in the middle of the lake is a nice place for a picnic. Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for spot-billed pelicans and painted storks around the lake. The best time to visit is early morning when the mist is still rising.

Coffee Museum 

To learn all about the history and production of coffee in Chikmagalur, a visit to the Coffee Museum is a must. It has exhibits displaying the coffee-making process from planting to brewing, along with old photographs and machinery used on the plantations. You can see a live demonstration of the traditional method of grinding coffee beans using a massive wooden pulley. Guided tours are available where you can walk through the adjacent coffee estates and see how coffee is grown. The timings are 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and the entry fee is Rs 20 per person.

In Chikmagalur, visitors can explore and enjoy a variety of breathtaking destinations. From the majestic Mullayanagiri Peak offering panoramic views to the serene Kemmanagundi hill town with its picturesque landscapes, there’s something for everyone. Hebbe Falls and Hirekolale Lake provide refreshing natural beauty, while the Kodanda Rama Temple and Coffee Museum offer cultural insights. Plan your trip to Chikmagalur and set yourself in its diverse attractions.

So pack your bags and get ready to experience the lush green hills, serene coffee estates, scenic waterfalls, and more on your trip to Chikmagalur.

FAQs

1. When is the best time to visit Chikmagalur?

The best time to visit Chikmagalur is between September and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and trekking.

2. What are some of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur?

Some of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur include Mullayanagiri Peak, Bababudangiri Hills, Kemmanagundi Hill Station, and Kadambi Waterfalls.

3. What adventure activities can we do in Chikmagalur?

Adventure activities in Chikmagalur include trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, and camping in the scenic Western Ghats.

4. What is the approximate cost for a 3-day trip to Chikmagalur?

3-day trip to Chikmagalur for a couple can cost around Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 12,000, including accommodation, food, and sightseeing.

5. What can we do on a 3-day visit to Chikmagalur?

On a 3-day visit, you can trek to Mullayanagiri Peak, explore Bababudangiri Hills, visit Kadambi Waterfalls, and indulge in adventure activities like rock climbing.

Also Read:

7 Must Places to Visit in Karnataka

Best Places to Visit in June in India- 2024

 References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chikmagalur

Chikkamagaluru

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