Trekking in Kemmannagundi
Kemmannagundi is a secluded single hill that is located at an altitude of 4,705 ft. Its also known as the KR hills after the erstwhile Wodeyar king, Krishna Raja Wodeyar, who made this picturesque hill-station his favourite summer camp.
Kemmannagundi overlooks the coffee-covered slopes of Malnad. It is located close to the Bhadra Sanctuary. Dense forests, perennial springs, cool climate and serene atmosphere make Kemmannagundi an ideal trekking destination in Karnataka. The major attraction is the rock garden which is maintained by the Horticulture department.
[Also check out some of the famous trekking trails around Bangalore]
Kalahatti Falls is 10 km from Kemmannagundi. The waterfall of Kalahatti plummets down from a height of 122 m. The falls is also a religious center for both Hindus and Muslims. There is a small temple located in a gap in the rocks.
A short trekking trail (8 km) leads you to the spectacular Hebbe Fall, which cascades down from a much greater height of 500 ft. Also, alternatively, you can trek 30 km to reach Z-point through a steep climb. You will cross Shanti falls on the way, and Z-point offers a panoramic spectacle of the sunset and sunrise, and also the valley.
Location
State: Karnataka
Exact Location: Kemmannagundi is situated in Tarikere taluk. District: Chikmagalur
Nearest Town: Bhadravathi and Chikmagalur
Distance from Bangalore: 295 km
How to Reach
Nearest railhead is in Kadur (40 km). However, the better connected railway station is at Hasan (60 km). There are taxis available from Kadur and Hasan to Kemmannagundi. Direct bus services are available from Chikmagalur, Birur and Tarikere.
From Bangalore: The national highway (NH) 48 leads you to Hasan via Kunigal, and then state highway (SH) takes you to Kemmannagundi via Chikmagalur and Baba Budangiri.
Other Attractions in the Vicinity
Mulayangiri: Its is the highest peak, standing tall at 6,317 feet, in the state of Karnataka, and also the highest peak between Nilgiris and Himalayas. It is part of the Baba Budan hill ranges. Adventure lovers call it the trekkers paradise in Chikmagalur.
Dattatreya Peeth: Its a laterite cave nestled in the Baba Budanagiri Peak, and is considered a holy place both by the Hindus and Muslims. Dattatreya Peeth is located en route from Chikmagalur, 32 km before Kemmannagundi.
Best Time to Visit
September to June