Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

Get ready to feast your eyes with the charm of wild and natural beauty at Kudremukh National Park. This place is notable as one of the most visited Chikmagalur tourist places and offers a refreshing getaway. It is appreciated for its scenic splendor and houses some of the most gorgeous flora and fauna in the state of Karnataka. The word Kudremukh means a horse face and gives the name to the peak located in this park which is often hailed as a thrilling trekking place.

One of the most spectacular attractions in Chikmagalur is Mullayanagiri that is known for its jaw dropping natural beauty. With its calming ambience formed by lush greenery, misty weather and rugged rocks, Mullayanagiri is a heavenly place to relish your vacation. Mullayanagiri Peak is a heaven for adventure junkies who wish to partake in a number of thrilling activities like road biking, trekking and mountain biking. 

Baba Budangiri is a sacred pilgrimage spot in Chikmagalur for both the Hindu and Muslim communities. It is famous for its shrine of Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalander who was a 17th century Sufi saint. The place is also notable for the caves which are believed to be once the residence of Sri Dattatreya Swamy. Baba Budangiri is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Chikmagalur and also famous among the thrill seekers for its trekking and hiking opportunities.

Known as one of the most exotic places to visit in Chikmagalur, Hebbe Falls offers a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With an enthralling view, Hebbe Falls is believed to have sacred herbs in its waters that can cure diseases. A dip in the waters at Hebbe Falls is always considered the most refreshing activity here. It is surrounded by the beauty of verdant forests and coffee plantations and makes for a serene trip.

Escape into the serene surroundings at Kemmangundi in Chikmagalur which is known for its panoramic views. This beautiful hill station is popularly known as KR Hills and was known as the summer retreat for the Mysore King Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. One of the best places to visit in Chikamagalur, this place is known for its beautiful gardens and spectacular views.

If you’re a fan of natural beauty then you will find yourself spellbound at the gorgeous vista of Kallathigiri Falls in Chikmagalur. It is one of the most panoramic Chikmagalur tourist places and offers an unforgettable trip for everyone. Kallathigiri Falls is surrounded by serene valleys and has a small temple called Veerbhadra Temple that attracts a number of tourists to this place. This temple adds to the serene ambience of this place in Chikmagalur.

Offering an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is among the must visit sightseeing places in Chikmagalur. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it is known for being a habitat for diverse flora and fauna. It boasts of a landscape that is filled with lush green forests with the river Bhadra flowing in between. Some of the animals which you can spot here include tigers, leopards, Malabar giant squirrel etc.

Located at the Sampangi Rama Nagar of Hiremagalur (Chikmagalur), Kodandarama Temple is a holy shrine dedicated to Hindu Lord Rama. The term ‘Kodandarama’ signifies the bow of Lord Rama. The principle idol here is that of Lord Rama with a bow in his hand, and this is how the temple got its identity. 

Kodandarama is equally well-known for its intricately carved idols and temple architecture as it is known for its religious significance. Right at the central heart of the temple, you will find the presence of the main shrine. Here, there are huge idols of Lord Rama with Goddess Sita towards his right and Sri Lakshmana towards his left. 

What makes the onlookers go crazy about the idol architecture is the fact that they have been carved out from a single massive boulder. Besides, the minute detailing of these idols (from eyes to the ornaments and supporting accessories), makes them adorable masterpieces. 

Adjacent to the Kodandarama Temple flows the mighty River Tungabhadra, which is a well-known water sporting adventurous site. Right in the front of the temple’s main entrance, you have a Chakratirtha ghat where lakhs and lakhs of pilgrims take holy dips in the river water. This spot is highly auspicious according to the beliefs of Hindu mythology. 

Standing atop a large land cover, the temple’s architecture is appealing. Whatever massive pillars you come across here, are all inscribed various ancient and medieval sculptures. The central holy sanctum has been carved in the shape of a rectangle where you have the three main idols. If you are good with the architectural basics, you will immediately come to know that the temple reflects an amalgamation of Hoysala and Dravidian style.

Location –  Double Rd, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560027

Timing – Kodandarama Temple of Chikmagalur remains functional on all seven days of the week between 05:00 am to 12:00 pm. Then, the temple doors are closed during lunch hours and are reopened again between 04:00 pm to 09:00 pm. You can explore the entire temple within a duration of 1 to 1&1/2 hours.

Price – You do not need to pay anything on behalf as entry fees for visiting this holy shrine of Kodandarama Temple.