Translated as the ‘Young Daughter’s Town’ as it was presented as dowry to the younger daughter of the Chief of Sakrepatna, Rukmangada, this serene city is also known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’ tranquilizing you from within with its aroma.
Lush green trees set against the backdrop of majestic Mullayangiri ranges, Chikmagalur is one of the most popular spots for trekkers, nature enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and explorers. The pious land is home to numerous temples including the Sharadamba Temple, Vidyashankara Temple, Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple, and Amruteshwar Temple adding grace to the grandeur of the vicinity bringing in devotees from far and close offering their prayers.
Chikmagalur stands at an elevation of 3,400 feet, covered with eye-catching tea and coffee plantations, making it a major commercial hub of the state, and also bringing in tourists from all over the world to entice the unique experience of walking through the plantations.
This entrancing hill station is not just about temples and sightseeing but also adventure activities that would savor your inner thrill enthusiast. Do not miss out on the famous waterfalls, namely, Jhari Waterfalls, Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls, Shankar Falls, and Kadambi Falls as there are plenty of them that will surely leave you mesmerized by spellbinding scenic beauty. Cascade of water flowing over the rugged terrain, it is a view that you will remember all through your life.
If you wish to find an escape from the monotonous 9 to 5 life, this is just the right place for you to spend some time amidst the flora and fauna. Do not forget to carry your camera along to come back with pictures to flaunt on your social media.
The verdant greenery has umpteen number of attractions to share with each of its visitors makes this top among travellers list. Click here to know all the famous places in the city.
Kudremukh National Park - Best known for trekking and wildlife
Hebbe Falls - Best known for natural jacuzzi with exotic herbs
Tea Plantation - Best known for photography, accommodations
Homestay with Private Waterfall - Best known for homely feel and best amenities
Kyatanamakki - Best known for jeep ride, picturesque sunsets
Madu Gundi Falls - Best known for off-roading, nature photography
Mullayanagiri Coffee Estates - Best known for jeep ride, heaven for coffee lovers
Chikmagalur is one of those tourist attractions known for its heritage spots, water attractions, adventurous activities, wildlife safaris, and unique nature themes. So whether you are one of those bold adventure junkies or the silent brooding nature lovers, Chikmagalur will delight you with the plethora of activities which it offers.
Mullayanagiri Trek, Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur Camping At Great Monsoon Retreat
Bhadra River Rafting, Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is located in the Chikamagaluru district along the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range in the Indian state of Karnataka.
By Air: If you want to reach Chikmagalur by air then there are various airline options are available for you. The Mangalore airport is the nearest airport to Chikmagalur; sharing a distance of 110 km. from Mangalore airport you can hire a taxi to reach the location. There are both domestic and international flights landing in that airport. These flights are affordable and you can approach for early booking.
By Railway: Yes, Chikmagalur has its own railway station but to be frank, it is not well-connected. And thus if you want to reach Chikmagalur by train you have to reach Kadur railway station that shares a distance of 40 km from Chikmagalur. The Bangalore rail station lies within 203 km from Chikmagalur.
By Bus: Bus services are also available to reach Chikmagalur. The distance between Bangalore and Chikmagalur is 240 km and takes 6 hours to reach. From Mangalore junction, the ticket costs Rs 150 and it takes near about 4 hours to covers 127 km. From Mysore, it takes 3 hours to reach covering a distance of 180 km. The ticket costs Rs 100. This is perhaps the most hassle-free journey to Chikmagalur, as you won’t need to change the vehicle again and again and can direct visit the destination.
By Car: If you want to drive your own car to reach Chikmagalur then you have to cover a total distance of 240 km. from Bangalore you would take 4 hours to reach. The route is Bangalore kunigal - Channarayapattana - Hassan - Belur - Chikmagalur. From Mysore, it is 180 km. In the car you would take 3 hours covering the route via Arsikere - Mysore - Belur - Chigmagalur. And from Mangalore, you have to cross 110 km taking 1.5 hours via NH169 and Sringeri road in a car.
Check Out: Bangalore to Chikmagalur Travel Guide
From the month of September to the month of March is considered as the right time to visit the place. During this period of time, the weather remains very soothing and comfortable for the tourist to explore different tourist spots in Chikmagalur.
Karnataka is considered as the safest state of India because of the low crime rates. Known for friendly and welcoming locals, you can comfortably seek help from the locals if you get stuck anywhere. It is advisable to stay alert and not trust anyone blindly on the trip.
Women should try not to wander around alone during the late hours. It would be better to keep a small knife and pepper spray handy for your own safety. Make sure you let someone know about your location and keep them well informed of your plans to be on the safer side.
Chikmagalur is an excellent location to venture out on weekends from Bangalore. With its pleasant climate and its picturesque landscapes favorable for trekking and sightseeing across its coffee plantations and green velvety hills, it is an ideal getaway option for both family and friends and you will enjoy a lot with your group in this amazing tourist destination.
Yes! Home to numerous temples dripping in architectural grandeur including the Sharadamba Temple, Vidyashankara Temple, Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple, and Amruteshwar Temple to name a few, major families come flocking from far and nearby pay their religious respect and pray for good fortune.
Not just temples, Chikmagalur also has an abundance of attractions like the Bhadra WildlifeSanctuary, Coffee Museum, Bhadra Dam, and Kudremukh National Park, which you can visit along with your kids.
You can also enjoy the eye-feasting view of the cascading falls which are plenty in the vicinity namely, Jhari Waterfalls, Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls, Shankar Falls, and Kadambi Falls.
Must Check: Chikmagalur Tour Packages
Your trip to Chikmagalur can be easily completed in a couple of days where you can explore trekking, wildlife safaris, camping and other adventure activities
It is better you select a holiday package depending upon the time and money you wish to spend on different activities. Also, take your budget into consideration while planning a trip to Chikmagalur or check out some Chikmaglur tour packages.
Read More: Places to visit in Chikmagalur in 2 days
Camping places in Chikmagalur allows you to take the vacation which you will cherish forever. Click here to grab the tour at best prices.
Camping In Sakleshpur, Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur Camping At Great Monsoon Retreat
Riverside Camping In Chikmagalur
Campsite With Fun Activities Near Chikmagalur
If wandering amidst the forests, listening to the chirping sounds of birds and counting stars in the sky during the night defines your dream adventure excursion, then Chikmagalur is one of the best spots to make this dream of yours come true.
Chikmagalur is an ideal location for trekking to the hills. The highest peaks here for trekking are:
-Mullayanagiri
-Kemmagundi
-Kudremukh
Also Read: Trekking in Chikmagalur
Yes, you can do Kemmanagundi Trekking in Chikmagalur to explore the beauty of Western Ghats. The trek includes camping, bonfire and a visit to Hebbe Falls with an excellent opportunity to discover the coffee plantations in the backdrop of a serene landscape.
The beautiful waterfall located between the green hills and dark forests makes the trek unforgettable. The trek is known for its captivating beauty and a tranquilizing experience amidst nature which will de-stress you as you engage in this adventurous activity.
The Kudremukh trek in Chikmagalur is an exciting activity for a delightful experience to explore the majestic landscapes. The difficulty level of this trek is from moderate to difficult. It is one of the most beautiful treks of South India and an ideal place to tramp in the wild.
The trail offers some breathtaking vistas of the lush green valleys and the verdant meadows of the Western Ghats. There is also an opportunity to witness an enchanting waterfall as you cherish the experience in such a great landscape.
Yes, you can definitely enjoy a Coffee Plantation tour when in Chikmagalur. It includes a homestay at a coffee estate where you can explore the coffee plantations and spend time amidst nature.
Chikmagalur is popularly known as the Coffee Land of Karnataka and an awesome destination to enjoy the aroma of coffee while trekking around the coffee plantations.
Yes, there are many famous temples where you can explore the beauty of Chikmagalurthey are:
-Sharadamba Temple
-SringeriSharadaPeetha
-Amruteshwar Temple
-Vidyashankara Temple
-KodandaRamaswamy Temple
Chikmagalur is known for its scenic beauty which is unparalleled to most of the places. The verdant greenery will just take your breath away as you indulge in sightseeing in Chikmagalur.
So the best way to cherish these experiences is by picking the resort which allows you to fulfil your travel goals in Chikmagalur.
Some of the most famous resorts for staying in Chikmagalur are:
-The Serai Resort
-Winter Greens Resort
-Eagle Eye resort
-Jenukallu Resort
-Tusk and Dawn
-River Tern Lodge
-Kalgreen Valley Resort
-Silent Valley Resort
The local cuisine of Chikmagalur which is also known as Malenadu cuisine is famous for its richness and spicy flavors, mainly supplemented by the taste of coconut milk. Rice and fish curry serve as staple items of the local platter in Chikmagalur.
There are many restaurants where you can enjoy the local cuisine at Chikmagalur. Some of these are:
The best waterfalls in Chikmagalur are:
-Jhari Waterfalls
-Hanuman Gundi Falls
-Shankar Falls
-Kadambi Falls
-Jhari or Dabdabe Falls
While it is advisable to pack less for the trip, there are certain things you must keep handy for a successful and comfortable trip, namely:
-Mosquito repellants
-Hats
-Sunglasses
-Sunscreens
-Warm clothes
-First aid kit (inclusive of basic medicines for cold, fever, cuts, and injuries)
-Tickets and itinerary
-Medical requirements (consult a physician)
-Sports shoes
Make sure you check your shoes prior to your journey as you would not want to have sore feet keeping you off the thrill so close.
Here are some of the best treks that you can book through Thrillophilia:
Here are the famous day out resorts of Bagalore: