Chikmagalur

Situated at a distance of 20 km and 23 km respectively from Chikmagalur and Baba Budangiri, Mullayanagiri is Karnataka’s highest peak with an altitude of 1950 meters. There’s a small temple located on the topmost summit of this Mullayanagiri peak within which you have a small statue of Tapasvi Mullappa Swamy.According to the regional mythology, Tapasvi Mullappa Swamy observed meditation for years at the cave on top of the Mullayanagiri peak.This is the reason why the peak got its present identity. The old Kannada literature, however, relates the term ‘Mullai’ to the forests. The caves at the top of the Mullayanagiri hills are not so deep and has an entrance which directly leads you to the temple’s garbhagudi.Adventure buffs have a lot of things to do here as the destination serves as a hub for trekking, mountain biking, and road biking. Nestling amidst the Nilgiris and the mighty Himalayas, the panoramic beauty of Mullayanagiri is astounding. This is what makes the Mullayanagiri peaks as one of the most appealing destinations for intermediate trekkers.The trekking route to the topmost summit of Mullayanagiri starts from Sarpadhari which extends up to 3 km. It is relatively steep; yet you can easily cover the distance within 1.5 hours.There’s a Nandi statue, small streams, and a cave with a small water source to adore on your way. As there are no food or water reserves, you need to carry enough of them with you. Otherwise, you need to hold on your hunger and thirst until you reach the Lord Shiva temple located at the top. 

Bababudangiri is an amazing trek in the mountains of Chikmagalur, located at a distance of 250 km from Bangalore, making it ideal for a weekend getaway. Starting on the hiking trail from Sarpadhari (alternatively from Attinagundi), you can see the peaks of Budangiri (1895 m) and Mullayanagiri (1930 m) looming at a distance. Together, the two mountains appear like a crescent moon, therefore known as the Chandra Drona Range. Trekking enthusiasts have a lot to look forward to on the Budangiri hike. Trails snake through dark forests of shola trees, occasional moraine-filled rocky stretches, and miles of serene green grasslands on the rolling hills. Come on this trek to take in all the spectacular vistas of the enclosing slopes of the Nilgiri Hills, try your luck at spotting wildlife when crossing through the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, and test your stamina at negotiating a few steep inclines. Some of the highlights on this trek are- walking on the Blade Ridge on the way to Mullayanagiri, camping and campfire in the forest clearings, ancient cave explorations, and stunning hillscape photography from several viewpoints along the way. Blooming of the kurinji flowers in the low lying slopes of the Nilgiris is a rare seasonal attraction in these parts of the hills.The flowers blossom at an interval of every 12 years, cloaking the entire vicinity in shades of blue, giving the Nilgiri hills its name! The Budangiri mountain is also an important pilgrimage for Hindus and Muslims for the legacy of the Sufi saint Baba Budan and the hindu deity Dattatreya. 

Famous for its natural wonders, Chikmagalur District houses the magical Hebbe Falls. Located near the popular hill station of Kemmangundi, iti is among the most beautiful waterfalls in Karnataka. Hidden inside the Bhadra wildlife sanctuary, Hebbe Falls is a heavenly delight for nature lovers.With coffee estates surrounding the Hebbe Falls, the journey to the Falls will leave you in awe. The mild gust of coffee and dense forests around will make you feel like a little butterfly wandering around the beautiful falls.Nature lovers and wanderers are attracted in large numbers to Hebbe Falls. The famous hill station, Kemmangundi is located at a distance of 10 km. from the falls. In search of a unique waterfall, tourists from Kemmangundi often visit Hebbe Falls via a four-wheeler ride. There are cab services in Kemmangundi that ride through the bumpy roads surrounded by the pukka and dense forests. Some adventure seekers trek to Hebbe Falls to enjoy the realm of natural beauty. The trek passes through some of the magnificent views of the forests and coffee estates.One can hear the sound of the falls gushing with the ground from a distance. During the rainy season, the trekking path becomes a little uneasy as it becomes slippery and leeches can be found in large numbers almost everywhere. Hebbe Falls is among the most magnificent natural places in Chikmagalur District. It forms a natural jacuzzi which is filled with medicinal substances. These medicinal herbs are considered to offer healing qualities. This special attribute of the falls makes it a place of attraction for curious biologists.

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.For the most enchanting visit, Raj Bhawan in Kemmangundi offers a gorgeous view at the time of sunset making it a pure photographer’s delight. It is also a hotspot for nature lovers with beautiful waterfalls, gurgling streams and verdant valleys. Some of the famous attractions that one must not visit in Kemmangundi are Z Point, Rose Garden, Hebbe Falls, Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri etc.  • Height: It is at a height of 1434 metres above sea level• Location: Kemmangundi, Tarikere taluk of Chikkamagaluru• Best Time to visit: The months from September to May remain the most pleasant time to visit here• Distance from Chikmagalur Bus Stand: Kemmangundi is at a distance of 60 kilometres from Chikmagalur

The Kallathigiri Falls, also known as the Kalhatti Falls, is a magnificent natural abode located 50 kilometres away from Chikmakagalur. This waterfall is a perfect destination for leisure mongers and thrill seekers alike, and is popular among both locals as well as tourists. The fall gushes down the majestic Chandra Dona Mountains from a height of about 400 feet.The Kalhatti Falls is the first major waterfall around Chikmagalur, and easily the most distinctive one. Water drops from an overhanging ledge, allowing people to take showers beneath it. The falls contain the headwaters of the river Sharavathi. Apart from being a natural goldmine, the Kalhatti Falls also has a poignant religious significance. It houses the renowned Veerabhadra Temple, or Veerabhadreshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple welcomes thousands of pilgrims to its shrine throughout the year. Owing to its legendary history, the waters from this waterfall is considered to be holy by locals, and is said to cure several diseases.The waterfall provides a number of opportunities to pass one’s time. The rolling green surrounding is a well-known photographer’s delight. One might also delight in taking the short trek up to the Falls. The trekking trail is fairly easily, and suitable for both beginners as well as expert trekkers. The trail is marked by a number of figures and idols of various Gods and Goddesses, and contains an abundance of natural flora and fauna. The Fall is also a perfect spot to hold picnics with family and friends.

Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is located in Karnataka at a distance of 38 km from Chikmagalur town. It boasts of a substantially large number of tiger populations and was declared in 1998 as the 25th Project Tiger of India. The sanctuary has an elevation point of 750 m to 1875 m above the sea level. The lofty hill range and green vegetation surrounding it from all sides make it look absolutely stunning. The lush green vegetation mainly consists of dry deciduous and moist forests.The mesmerizing Bhadra River passes through this sanctuary whistling soothingly, and hence it has given it the name Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread over the area of 490 sq km, it is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and is home to diverse varieties of flora and fauna. You can spot some of the endangered species over here like Malabar giant squirrel and orangutan.The two main reserves in this area are Lakkavali and Muthodi. More than 120 species of trees are grown over here. The highest peak in this sanctuary is Kallahathigiri located at the height of 1875 m. The sanctuary is also a habitat for reptiles like king cobra and Indian rock python. A giant teak tree known as Jagara is the main attraction of this sanctuary, which is sought to be around 300 years old. Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is one of the must-visit spots in Chikmagalur where you can enjoy various activities such as jeep safari, trekking, bird watching, rock climbing, and water sports at river Bhadra.

Surrounded by the beauty of mountains in the Western Ghats, Hirekolale Lake is one of the most wonderful places to visit in Chikmagalur. This beautiful man-made lake is awe-striking for every spectator in Chikmagalur and must not be missed while visiting Chikmagalur tourist places. It was built as a source to supply water for drinking and irrigation purposes to the town of Chikmagalur. The lake is encompassed by gorgeous surroundings and offers a serene retreat for people coming along with friends and family wishing to have a great time.Hirekolale Lake offers the most mesmerising views of the landscape at the time of twilight when the most number of travelers flock here. It is a delight for photography lovers who are looking to add an idyllic sunset shot to their travel albums. One can also appreciate the exceptional views of Mullayanagiri Hills from Hirekolale Lake.• Location: Hirekolale lake, Chickmagaluru, Karnataka• Best Time to visit: Hirekolale lake can be visited throughout the year. However, tourists are advised to visit this lake during twilight for the best experience.• Entry fee: Free• Timings:  It is open 24 hours• Distance from Chikmagalur Bus Stand: It is located at an approximate distance of 10 kilometres from Chikmaglur Bus Stand.

Bhadra dam is a beautiful dam built across the river Bhadra, and hence the dam derives its name. This location crowns itself as Chikmagalur’s key tourist attraction. Bhadra Dam is at a distance of 78 km from the mainland of Chikmagalur. To amplify the agricultural prosperity of the surrounding region, Bhadra Dam project was undertaken by the National Water Management Project. It was mainly intended towards increasing rice cultivation. Today, this place serves as a significant irrigation source for the locals of the surrounding region to produce electricity.Besides its primary purpose, this dam of Chikmagalur features some astounding views of the surrounding lush green hills. There are many small islands representing the unique creativity of the reservoir present here. As you move across one of those islands, you will be able to spot several migratory bird species endemic to this region. There’s a wildlife sanctuary here through which flows the Bhadra river. It homes to an imperial green pigeon, emerald dove, Malabar parakeet, black woodpecker, hill mynas, wild boars, and so on. If you are fortunate enough, you could even spot various butterfly species hovering here and there. It is also a part of the famous Project Tiger, meant for protecting the tigers all across. A wide array of floral and faunal species makes this place a perfect one-day family outing destination. Bhadra Dam hosts a wide array of water activities such as kayaking, sailing, water trampoline, water cycling, and boating.  Apart from Bhadra Dam, Chikmagalur homes to other sightseeing adventures such as Mullayanagiri Hills, Baba Budan Hills, Hebbe Falls, Mahatma Gandhi Park, Kere Anjaneya Temple, and Inam Dattatreya Pitha.  Overview: Location:Bhadra Dam is constructed along the borderline of Tarikere and Bhadravati and forms a part of the western region of Karnataka. Entry Fee:There are no entry fees to reach the Bhadra dam. Timings:Bhadra dam is accessible for all 24 hours. Yet, it is recommended to visit the dam location between 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Best Time to Visit:Monsoon is the best time to visit the Bhadra Dam. The months from June to November account as the filling period for the dam. Also, the surrounding beauty is mesmerizing with its lush green grass cover. Average Temperature:The average temperature in the region surrounding the Bhadra Dam lies in the range of 24 to 28 degrees.  Distance from Chikmagalur: Bhadra Dam is located at a distance of 78.4 km from Chikmagalur. It will take around two hours to travel between these two points. How to Reach Bhadra Dam:By rail:Tarikere is the nearest railway station to Bhadra Dam. By road:Bhadra Dam offers good road connectivity. You have both cab and bus options to reach here. By bus:You have many state-run buses to travel between Chikmagalur and Bhadra Dam. Places to Visit near Bhadra Dam:Here’s a list of places to explore after your visit to the Bhadra Dam:Kudremukh National ParkThis national park is located amidst a range of mountains and is accounted for its scenic beauty. You get to explore many endemic floral and faunal species here. Lion-tailed macaque, spotted deer, langur, gaur, sambar, barking deer and so on are some key species to be spotted here. Mullayanagiri HillsThis place is accounted as Karnataka’s highest peak. Rising up to a height of 6330 m, this is the top-rated trekking destination of the state. There’s a tomb of Mulappa Swamy atop the summit, and hence the hills derive its name. Inam Dattatreya PeethaThis holy site is present atop the Baba Budan Hills and is equally visited by both Hindus and Muslims. Urus is a 3-day annual festival here which is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Sri SharadambaSri Sharadamba Temple is home to a golden idol of Goddess Saraswati. There are huge pillars here displaying carvings of different deities. Also, there’s a gold floor covering with eight panels. Each panel represents one significant figure of Astha Lakshmi.Baba BudangiriThis mountain range lies in the northern part of Chikmagalur region. Baba Budangiri is renowned for its Baba Budan shrine. The forest that surrounds the area is famous amongst hikers and trekkers to put all their skills to test here. Apart from these, Hebbe Falls, Mahatma Gandhi Park, and Kere Anjaneya Temple are other key attractions of Chikmagalur. Things to Do in/near Bhadra Dam:A good spot for a One-Day OutingBhadra Dam has got some serene lush green cover surrounding it on all four sides. The presence of this lush greenery creates a pleasing atmosphere and makes this place an ideal one to plan a day outing. You can organize day camping here with your family, friends and relatives. Just make sure that you do not litter here and there. Enjoy Water SportsBhadra Dam hosts many water adventures. You can enjoy kayaking, sailing, water trampoline, water cycling, and boating activities with your little ones. Explore the Wildlife at Bhadra Wildlife SanctuaryBhadra Dam has a wildlife sanctuary close to it where you get to see myriads of floral and faunal species. To name a few of them are an imperial green pigeon, emerald dove, Malabar parakeet, black woodpecker, hill mynas, and wild boars. As this wildlife sanctuary is a part of the Project Tiger, you can bring in your children here to educate about the conservation of wildlife heritage.Other Important Information: Places to Stay near Bhadra DamOyo DV Residency: The rooms at Oyo DV Residency have wooden furniture and bright cushions. Equipped with all essential amenities, this place promises you a comfortable and affordable stay. Hotel Jai Maata Grandeur: There are both soundproof suites and family rooms available here. Every room is equipped with an air-conditioning system and has a desk with a tea/coffee maker. Free parking and high-speed internet connectivity are add-on services.Green View Clarks Inn: This property features air-conditioned bridal suites and regular suites. The staff here is known for its 24/7 customer dedication. You have free car parking, internet connectivity, and 24/7 front desk assistance here. Besides, they do offer conference facilities for all your business meets. You will be served with bottled water throughout your stay here.  Royal Orchid Central: Royal Orchid Central offers non-smoking suites and family rooms. Every room has an air-conditioning system, 24/7 room service & front desk assistance, flatscreen TV, tea/coffee maker. Amongst other services, this hotel offers conference facilities, business centre, and a minibar for all their guests. Places to Eat near Bhadra DamMeenakshi Bhavan: This place is known for its authentic Indian style delicacies and meals. Masala dosa is best to try here. Royal Orchid: Royal Orchid is the next best option for Indian style meal. You get both veg and non-veg food varieties here. They have a luxurious ambiance. Hotel Shubham: This is an affordable place to try Indian and Asian authentic food varieties. South Indian cuisines are their signature serving. Rice Bowl Restaurant: Here, you have the choice amongst Indian, Chinese and Asian food servings. This place is good to visit on weekdays as the weekends are usually crowded here. Moreover, food is highly affordable. Tiger Trail: Tiger Trail serves both Indian and Asian style food. This is a decent dining option for a family meal. Transportation facilityBhadra Dam is well-connected with other major destinations of the state both via roads and railways. Medical FacilitiesThere are no immediate medical facilities available at the Bhadra Dam. To seek medical assistance, you need to visit the hospitals located in Tarikere town. Network Connectivity:The network connectivity at the Bhadra Dam is not so good.