Chikmagalur is a charming little town located on the Mullayanagiri range. This famed coffee hub offers a invigorating blend of lush greenery, majestic waterfalls, historic temples and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. To top it off, the crisp, clean and oxygen saturated air offers the perfect respite for city folks looking for a relaxing short break.
Mullayanagiri
The highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayangiri is part of the Baba Budan Giri Hill ranges and is riddled with several hiking and nature trails. The 27 km ascent to the top is narrow and arduous. However, the panoramic view of the the landscape and the charming Shiva temple more than makes up for the trek. On a clear day, visitors can even catch a glimpse of the Arabian Sea from the summit.
Tip : The best time to trek the mountain is during the spring as it can get slightly warm during the summers and inundated with water during the monsoons.
Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple
This is one of the oldest temples in Karnataka and is designed in the Hoysala style of architecture. The temple was built in three phases : the Navagraha sanctum in the 14th century AD, the Mukhamanatapa shrine during 16th century and the entrance in 17th century.
Kudremukh National Park
Kudremukh is located at a distance of 97 km from Chikmagalur, at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level. The place is famed for its serene environment and pleasant climate, even during the harshest of summers. The entire region is covered by a melange of coffee and tea plantations and dense forests. Most of the trekking trails leads to the origin of three important rivers : Bhadra, Nethravati and Tunga.
Tip : Opt for a nights stay in a nature camp to truly experience the wilderness
Sringeri
Sringeri is a popular temple town located on the banks of River Tunga. It is around 90 km from Chikmagalur and is home to the Sharadamba and Vidya Shankara temples. Don’t miss the 12 zodiac pillar in Vidya Shankara shrine, which are crafted so that the rays of the sun fall on the pillar corresponding to the month.
Kemmanagundi
A picturesque hill station surrounded by thick forests, Kemmangundi is located at a distance of 55 Km from Chikmagalur. The town is flanked by the majestic Baba Budan Giri range and is home to vibrant gardens, charming valleys and sparkling mountain streams. Get your adrenaline fix by exploring secluded jungle trails and hiking any of the numerous peaks. Other attractions include a beautiful rose garden and the Z-point – a viewing spot that give panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
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Where to Eat
Salpicon : A burger shop that incorporates special mix of herbs into their patties to give them a unique flavour.
Town Canteen : A legendary eatery famed for their crisp and delicately flavoured masala dosas.
Sri Kalki Ganapathi Belpuri Center : In the mood for some chaat? Visit this popular place near JVS School.
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Where to Sleep
These are top 5 hotels in Chikmagalur
- The Gateway Hotel ($$$)
- Hotel Empire – ($)
- Hotel Soundarya Residency – ($)
- The Planters Court – ($$$)
- Mekanagadde Homestay – ($$)
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How to Reach
By air
Mangalore airport, located 170 km away, is the closest airhub to Chikmagalur.
By train
There is a daily passenger train that connects Chikmagalur and Shimoga (via Kadur).
By bus
Chikmagalur and Bangalore is well connected by a steady bus service (every 45 minutes). KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) operates Non AC Deluxe and Airavata Volvo service between the two cities.
By car
The fastest way to reach Chikmagalur from Bangalore is via Hassan (NH 48). The other popular route is via Tumkur and Arsikere/Kadur. Both the roads have their share of smooth and rough patches, but the NH 48 is the more popular one.
