Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is Karnataka's Coffee Land and one of the best places you can visit with your friends and family in the Western Ghats. Its full of hills, valleys, and coffee plantations, which makes it the kind of place that takes you away from the stress of city life and calms your senses. When here, you can enjoy a peaceful getaway or one full of exciting adventures all in one vacation.

If you love admiring nature, Chikmagalur is where you can trek to Karnataka's highest peak called Mullayanagiri and hike through the forests of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. You can take jeep rides to hidden waterfalls, visit serene temples like the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, or sip freshly brewed coffee at the beautiful plantations here.

There's also a rich cultural side to Chikmagalur, which you get to see in its traditional homes, local food, and simple village life. As a foodie, you cannot miss the bold and unique flavours of Malnad cuisine. And if you like attending festivals, remember to plan your trip around the annual Kadur Utsav and coffee festivals here.

Chikmagalur's weather stays pleasant all throughout the year, but if you visit during the monsoon, you get to see the hills come alive with greenery. The winter months are also crisp and cool, which makes them perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

Blending natural beauty, adventure, and cultural charm, Chikmagalur offers a wholesome and refreshing break from the city buzz.

1. Type of destination – Nature, Adventure, Wellness

2. Prime Season – September to March

3. Monsoon Season – June to August

4. Off Season – April to May

5. Languages spoken – Kannada, Tulu, Hindi, English

6. Local Modes of Transport available:

• KSRTC Buses (intercity and local)
• Private buses
• Auto-rickshaws
• Rental taxis and cabs
• Two-wheeler rentals
• Jeep rides

Weather In Chikmagalur:

Summer in Chikmagalur

• Months: March to May
• Average temperature: 25 to 35 degrees Celsius
• Weather: Warm days with cool evenings, which are ideal for sightseeing and coffee estate walks.
• Crowd density: Moderate
• Budget: Moderate
• Clothes to pack: Light cotton clothes, sunglasses, hats or caps, and comfortable shoes

Monsoon in Chikmagalur

• Months: June to September
• Average temperature: 22 to 30 degrees Celsius
• Weather: Frequent showers, lush greenery, and misty hills, which are perfect for romantic getaways
• Crowd density: Low
• Budget: Low
• Clothes to pack: Raincoats or ponchos, waterproof footwear, insect repellents, and light warm layers

Winter in Chikmagalur

• Months: October to February
• Average temperature: 14 to 25 degrees Celsius
• Weather: Pleasant days and chilly nights, which are great for treks and bonfires
• Crowd density: High
• Budget: High
• Clothes to pack: Light woollens, jackets, comfortable trekking shoes, and scarves for chilly evenings

How To Reach Chikmagalur?

By Road – If you love road trips, you can either drive, get KSRTC buses, or hire private taxis to Chikmagalur from Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Mysuru. NH75 will take you from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur, while NH 73 and NH373 go from Mangaluru and Mysuru to the hill station. This entire journey will take you just 4 to 4.5 hours no matter which city you start from.

By Rail – The nearest railway station is Kadur Junction, which is 39 kilometres away and has connections to Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Mysuru, Chennai, Mumbai, and many other cities. Trains like SSS Hubballi Express and Vasco Da Gama Express take you to Kadur, from where you can get taxis and buses to Chikmagalur in around an hour.

By Air – If you are travelling from far-off cities like Delhi, you can just fly directly to Mangalore International Airport. Another option is to fly to Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport which has direct flights from Guwahati, Kolkata, Jaipur, and even Amritsar and Chandigarh. After landing, book a cab to take you to Chikmagalur in 4 to 5 hours.

Best Places To Visit In Chikmagalur:

Here are the most popular places to visit in Chikmagalur, and are must-inclusions on your Chikmagalur tour:

1. Mullayanagiri: It's the highest peak in Karnataka, and as you stand at a height of 6,332 feet, you will get to admire some jaw-dropping views of the Western Ghats. Mullayanagiri's trekking trail is a joy for trekkers, as you get misty paths, lush greenery, and crisp mountain air. There is also a small Lord Shiva temple at the top, which adds a spiritual touch to your natural adventure experience.

2. Baba Budangiri: Famous for its scenic drive and coffee plantations, Baba Budangiri is a mountain range named after the Sufi saint Baba Budan. It’s perfect for both nature lovers and history buffs. Legend says he brought coffee to India from Yemen, and the caves in this region are a big draw for spiritual travellers.

3. Hebbe Falls: Tucked deep inside a coffee estate, Hebbe Falls is a stunning two-stage waterfall cascading from a height of 551 feet. It will take you a bumpy but beautiful ride by jeep or a scenic trek to get here, but the views make it totally worth the effort. You can click amazing pictures and simply relax by the gushing waterfall surrounded by forested hills in this unforgettable experience.

4. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: If you are fond of wildlife and want to see some tigers, elephants, and a wide variety of birds during your Chikmagalur trip, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit. It's a great place for nature walks and photography sessions, but the best parts are the jungle safari and river boating experiences here.

5. Kemmanagundi: Once the summer retreat of Wodeyars of Mysuru, Kemmanagudi today is a serene hill station full of ornamental gardens, forest trails, and panoramic views. One of the best experiences here is to hike to Z Point, Shanti Falls, and Raj Bhavan, from where you can watch epic sunset views.

Top Things To Do In Chikmagalur:

Here are some of the best things to do in Chikmagalur:

1. Trek to Mullayanagiri Peak: As an adventure lover, one experience you cannot miss during your Chikmagalur holiday is trekking to Mullayanagiri. It takes you to Karnataka's highest peak by crossing lush forests, misty hills, and rocky stretches, making it a thrilling adventure. A pro tip is to go for the trek before sunrise, as the sunrise view from the top is something that stays with you forever.

2. Coffee Plantation Tour: When in the land of coffee called Chikmagalur, you simply cannot miss a coffee plantation walk in Chikmagalur. There are so many estates in and around Chikmagalur that have guided tours where you can learn how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed. You can also sip on freshly brewed coffee while walking through aromatic fields, and its an experience that’s as relaxing as it is informative.

3. Jeep Safari to Hebbe Falls: If you are a fan of off-road adventures and natural beauty, the jeep ride to Hebbe Falls will check all your boxes. The safari takes you through muddy paths and across coffee estates, which makes the journey half the fun. At Hebbe, the two-tiered waterfalls surrounded by forests and hills are a great spot to test your photography skills.

4. Wildlife Spotting at Bhadra Sanctuary: Nature lovers and birdwatchers will adore Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can go for early morning or evening jeep safari and spot elephants, deer, tigers and leopards. To add some adventure to your trip, you can go for boating, kayaking, trekking trails, nature walks and birdwatching experiences here.

5. Sunset at Z Point, Kemmanagundi: Kemmanagundi is famous for its sunset, and there are no better views than at the Z Point trail. It's a short but rewarding trek that crosses thick forests and takes you to a valley viewpoint, where you can relax and click amazing pictures. Start in the late afternoon so you can catch the golden hour views and the beautiful sunset here. 

Adventures To Try In Chikmagalur:

1. Trekking in Chikmagalur – Don't forget to take your trekking boots along, as Chikmagalur has stunning trails like Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, and Kudremukh. Each of these trails offer stunning views of the Western Ghats and have different difficulty levels, which make them perfect for beginners as well as experienced trekkers.

2. Camping in Chikmagalur – Camping lets you see Chikmagalur's natural beauty in a different way as you spend a night under the stars near hills and coffee plantations. You can set up your own camp or go for the complete experience at campsites that have tents, bonfires, and activities like stargazing or music nights.

3. River Rafting in Bhadra River – Sign up for an adrenaline rush as you go rafting in the Bhadra River. The rapids here are thrilling but still beginner-friendly, plus you get to glide through scenic forest corridors and untouched stretches of the Western Ghats.

4. Off-Road Jeep Trails in Kemmanagundi – Kemmanagundi's bumpy jeep rides are famous as they take you through narrow forest paths, slushy roads, and hill climbs. To add to the adventure, you will get to see hidden waterfalls and viewpoints and even see the iconic Hebbe Waterfall.

5. Mountain Biking through Coffee Estates – Take your coffee plantation tour to the next level by going for guided cycling tours. As you bike through Chikmagalur’s rolling coffee hills and plantations, you get to explore the quieter side of the region while breathing in the fresh mountain air.

Cuisine To Try In Chikmagalur:

Some of the top dishes to try in Chikmagalur are:

• Kadubu
• Akki Roti
• Koli Saaru
• Filter Coffee
• Neer Dosa
• Halasinakai Palya

Note: Don't miss trying Bisi Bele Bath, Ragi Roti, Mysore Pak, Uppittu (Upma), and Chiroti while you are here.

Dining Places In Chikmagalur:

1. Town Canteen, Chikmagalur: A local legend, this humble eatery is famous for its crispy dosas, steaming idlis, and that unbeatable filter coffee. It’s a breakfast ritual for many travellers.

2. The Estate Cafe, Aldur Road: Nestled amidst coffee plantations, this charming café offers wood-fired pizzas, continental meals, and some of the freshest brews you will taste. Perfect for a peaceful lunch.

3. Maharaja Restaurant, MG Road: For authentic South Indian thalis and North Indian dishes, Maharaja is a go-to. The service is quick, portions generous, and flavours absolutely on point.

4. Coffee Barn Café, Halli Berri Estate: A laid-back open-air cafe offering sandwiches, omelettes, desserts, and of course, excellent coffee. It’s a blink and miss, and a great spot for hanging out in peace.

5. The Rider's Nest, Rathnagiri Bore: With pizzas, sandwiches, pasta, and highway-special Chikmagalur coffee, Rider's Nest is a perfect stopover for bikers.

Resorts And Stays In Chikmagalur:

1. Java Rain Resorts, Girija Estate: A luxury coffee estate resort, you will get beautiful villas with infinity pools here. It's perfect for honeymooners and those looking for a quiet escape.

2. The Serai, Mugthihalli: One of Chikmagalur's most popular luxury stays, The Serai offers private pool villas, gourmet dining, and plantation views.

3. Trivik Hotels & Resorts, Channagondanahalli: Perched on a hilltop, Trivik offers panoramic views, spacious suites, and a relaxing spa. It's ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers seeking some peace.

4. Vismita County, Alagudde: A mid-range stay perfect for families and nature lovers, this resort offers cottages amidst coffee plantations along with activities like plantation walks and indoor games.

5. Coffee Grove Resort, Yelagudige: A cosy resort amid Chikmagalur's lush plantations, Coffee Grove has plantation walks, cycling tours, bonfires, Sky Tower views, indoor games, gym area, and a multi-cuisine restaurant for you.

Nightlife In Chikmagalur:

1. Bonfire Nights at Coffee Estates: Many homestays and resorts organise cosy bonfire evenings amidst the coffee plantations. Share stories, enjoy local snacks, and unwind under the starlit sky—it’s the perfect way to wrap up a day of sightseeing.

2. Live Music Cafés in Town: Some cafés like Siri Coffee and Coffee Barn Café host live acoustic nights with local artists. Just grab a cup of freshly brewed local coffee and sing along to the soft tunes here.

3. Wildlife Safari in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Go on late-evening safaris around Bhadra and spot wild animals like tigers and deer in their natural habitat after sunset.

4. Stargazing at Mullayanagiri: As Karnataka's highest peak, Mullayanagiri is the best place for stargazing in Chikmagalur. Sit on a blanket under the dark sky and enjoy a quiet moment under the stars away from city lights here.

5. Private Dining at Luxury Resorts: Resorts like The Serai and Trivik offer special private dining experiences at night. It's ideal for honeymooners or if you are celebrating a special occasion.

Shopping In Chikmagalur:

• Chikmagalur-special coffee beans
• Spices like pepper and cardamom
• Handmade chocolates
• Local honey
• Wooden handicrafts
• Areca leaf products
• Traditional silk sarees, especially Mysore silk

Note: You can also explore and buy coffee-scented candles, herbal oils, homemade preserves, and traditional jewellery items made by local artisans in Chikmagalur. You can get most of these products at MG Road Market, Panduranga Coffee Works, and different plantation outlets here.

Markets And Shopping Centres In Chikmagalur:

1. MG Road Market, Chikmagalur: It's Chikmagalur's central market and the best place for you to buy fresh coffee beans, local spices, wooden crafts, and souvenirs. You can also grab delicious snacks at small cafés and stalls during your shopping spree here.

2. Panduranga Coffee Works, Chikmagalur: This spot is where you will get the best of Chikmagalur's wide variety of ground coffee, powders, and traditional blends. You can also taste different brews when you shop for them here.

3. Ayyanakere Local Market: This local market is perfect if you are looking for organic honey, handmade chocolates, and spices straight from the nearby plantations.

Offbeat Places To Visit In Chikmagalur:

1. Hirekolale Lake: If you want a peaceful spot to relax and admire the views of the Mullayanagiri Hills, Hirekolale Lake is a great choice. Since the lake is away from the usual track, you can plan a family picnic, enjoy a fun nature photography session, and watch the beautiful sunset in peace here.

2. Ballalarayana Durga Fort: Ballalarayana Durga Fort a hidden trekking gem only adventure lovers who want to see Chikmagalur's rugged side visit during their holiday. What makes this moderately challenging hike special is that it takes you to the ancient fort, from where you can catch amazing views of the Western Ghats.

3. Devaramane: See mist-covered hills and seek blessings at the Kalabhairaveshwara Temple when you go for a day trip to Devaramane. It is a quiet village near Mudigere which you will love if you enjoy scenic drives and offbeat temple visits.

4. Baba Budangiri Caves: While the peak is popular, the caves near Baba Budangiri are often overlooked. These ancient caves are linked to both Hindu and Sufi legends and offer a unique blend of spirituality and history for you to see and admire.

5. Kadambi Falls: Located inside Kudremukh National Park, Kadambi Falls is a lesser-explored waterfall surrounded by dense forest. It’s best visited during or just after the monsoon, when the greenery here is at its peak.

Festivals And Events In Chikmagalur:

Cultural Festivals

• Mahashivratri – February/March
• Ugadi – March/April
• Dussehra – September/October
• Deepavali – October/November
• Kambala (Buffalo Race) – November to March

Events

• Coffee Festival – December/January
• Malnad Food Festival – TBA
• Kudremukh Trek Events – Monsoon and Winter

Key Experiences To Have In Chikmagalur:

1. Coffee Plantation Tours – A signature experience you simply cannot miss in Chikmagalur is visiting one of its lush coffee estates. The best way is take a guided walk, as with that you get to learn about how coffee is processed into the form you love. You will also get to try some freshly brewed coffee during the tour to begin your Chikmagalur holiday the right way.

2. Jeep Safari to Mullayanagiri – As an adventure lover, a thrilling jeep ride to Karnataka's highest peak Mullayanagiri is a must for you. The rugged offroad trail and beautiful cloud views keep you engaged while you ride to a height of 6,332 feet for some amazing views of the Western Ghats.

3. Trekking to Baba Budangiri – This scenic trek is perfect if you are a fan of nature and spirituality. The trek and the mountain get their name from the Sufi saint Baba Budan, who is said to have brought coffee to Chikmagalur. As you trek through the trail, you will get to see stunning views of the Ghats and coffee plantations.

4. Camping near Hebbe Falls – Camping is one of Chikmagalur's best experiences, and one of the top sites you can enjoy it is Hebbe Falls. Set up your tent in the lush greenery here and you will get the rare chance to wake up to the sound of a cascading waterfall.

5. Visit the Coffee Museum – This museum is an underrated stop in the heart of Chikmagalur where you can see antique machines and learn about coffee cultivation in India. It's also a great place to watch how Chikmagalur became the birthplace of coffee in the country.

6. Wildlife Safari in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary – Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and numerous birds. You can also enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Bhadra River while surrounded by wilderness.

7. Cycling through the Western Ghats – Rent a bicycle and ride along forested trails, mist-covered hills, and quiet villages. It’s one of the most enriching and eco-friendly ways to explore the raw, untouched beauty of Chikmagalur.

8. Offroading in Jhari Falls Trail – If you’re looking to amp up the adventure, hop on a jeep and drive through rugged forest paths leading to Jhari Falls. The bumpy ride and sudden waterfall view make this one of the most thrilling experiences in the region.

Tips:

• You should carry a light jacket as you might feel chilly during early mornings and late evenings.
• When travelling during monsoon, you will need raincoats and waterproof shoes.
• For treks and hikes, remember to pack good trekking shoes and essentials like torches, energy bars, and a water bottle.
• You can negotiate the prices for jeep rides, plantation tours, or local sightseeing trips before booking them.
• Valid ID proof and travel documents will come to use if you are exploring nearby wildlife reserves or restricted zones.
• Some trekking trails and forest zones have entry checks, so be ready for verification or ticketing points.
• It's best to have some cash on hand as local markets and smaller shops may not accept digital payments.
• Book your hotels, travel tickets and transfers in advance to avoid last-minute hassles and extra payments in peak season.

Interesting Facts About Chikmagalur:

• Chikmagalur is believed to be the birthplace of coffee in India, introduced by Baba Budan in the 17th century.
• The Mullayanagiri Peak, located here, is the highest peak in Karnataka at 6,332 meters above sea level.
• The name Chikmagalur literally means "The Land of the Younger Daughter", as it was given as dowry to the younger daughter of a local chieftain.
• The hill station has some of the oldest coffee plantations in the country, many of which still follow traditional cultivation methods.
• Chikmagalur is on the border of the Western Ghats, which are one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.