Imagine a place where you can sip the fresh lip-sucking coffee directly from coffee plantations while enjoying the beauty of western ghats – that’s Chikmagalur for you. Nestled amidst the majestic mountain peaks, Chikmagalur is a hill station in Karnataka.
Located 241 KM from Bangalore, Chikmagalur is a perfect one-day trip from Bangalore. Coffee plantation, cascading waterfalls, high mountain peaks, Bhadra Wildlife sanctuary, and Hoysala temples make it a crowd favorite place. This place boasts luxurious resorts and budgeted home stays that make sure you’ll have a wonderful vacation.
Location – Perched at an elevation of 3580 feet, Chikmagalur is a popular hill station in Karnataka which is situated on the foothills of the Mullayanagiri peak of the western ghat.
Famous for – Being the coffee land of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is famous for its coffee plantation and estates. It is also popular for its pleasant weather, trekking trails, gushing waterfalls, lakes, Hoysala temples, lush green forests and high mountain peaks. The highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri hill is situated in Chikmagalur. Offering panoramic views of lush green coffee plantations and western ghats, it is truly a natural gem.
Best time to visit – September to May is the best time to visit Chikmagalur. It is the time when the climate becomes pleasant and temperature ranges between 14 to 35 degree Celsius. Also, the fresh and cool breeze through the western ghats makes you feel more comfortable.
How to reach – Chikmagalur doesn’t have a railway station and airport but it is well connected by road to most of the destinations in Karnataka like Mangalore, Bangalore, Mysore, Hassan, Belur and Kadur. You can get a direct bus from Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore to Chikmagalur. And if you’re traveling from other parts of the country then Mangalore has the nearest airport at a distance of 150 KM. For train travelers, the nearest station is Kadur Junction situated 40 KM away from the town.
So plan an astonishing vacation to this coffee wonderland with our handpicked list of 28 best places to visit in Chikmagalur –
Best Places To Visit In Chikmagalur
Let’s dive into the details
- For Coffee Lovers
- Best Trekking Destinations
- Top Waterfalls
- Lakes & Wildlife Sanctuary
- Hoysala Temples
- FAQ’s
For Coffee Lovers
1. Coffee Estates, Chikmagalur
Coffee Estates are some of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur. There are number of coffee plantations where you can enjoy the sweet fragrance of fresh coffee beans while watching the locals harvesting the coffee beans. If you’re interested then you can help locals in the picking of coffee cherries. Walking in these coffee plantations while interacting with locals to learn about their culture and work, will be the best experience of your life.
2. Coffee Museum (6 KM)
If you’re a coffee lover then Coffee Museum is one of the best places to see in Chikmagalur. This coffee museum offers the best coffee descriptions in the world – From harvesting to the brewing of the beans to the history of Coffee in this region. The Coffee yatra takes you through the tour which is a pictorial representation of Coffee. There is a Coffee encyclopedia where you can watch a small documentary about the history of Coffee. And don’t forget to explore the coffee laboratory where you can see lots of equipment which is used in making your morning refresher. Overall, it is a thematic museum that represents the history, cultural, traditional, and ecological value of coffee throughout history.
Best Trekking Destinations
3. Mullayanagiri Peak (20 KM)
The highest peak of Karnataka, the Mullayanagiri peak is elevated at 6317 feet above sea level. It is a part of the Baba Budan mountain range. The name of this peak derives from the name of Saint Mulappa Swamy whose tomb is located at the top of the peak. According to the legends, he meditated in the caves around these hills.
Sarpadari is the starting point of the trek. The peak is located around 3 to 4 KM from the starting point. To reach up there you need to take around 550 steps. The entire path is filled up with lush greenery of western ghats, refreshing cool breeze and chirping of birds. After reaching the top you’ll be surprised to see the astonishing natural views.
- Trek Level – Easy to Moderate.
- Duration – 4 hours.
- Base Point – Sarpadari.
4. Baba Budangiri Peak (34 KM)
Located 34 KM from Chikmagalur in the western Ghat, Baba Budangiri peak is also known as Dattatray Peeta. The name of this peak derives from the Saint Baba Budan who grew the first coffee plant in this region. Due to that, there is a Dargah of Baba Budan and a temple of Dattatreya the incarnation of Lord Shiva. Hence, it is a pilgrimage spot for both Hindus and Muslims.
The place is easily accessible by the road from Chikmagalur. But adventure lovers can trek to the peak that starts behind the Shiva temple on Mullayanagiri peak. The trek traverse through the green grasslands, steep hills, misty cloud, fresh breeze and amazing views. On the way to the peak, you can visit the Manikyadhara falls. The BSNL tower is the only landmark on this trek. You can also set your own camp at the top of the peak but this place is very windy and there are no facilities for toilets.
- Trek Level – Easy to Moderate
- Trek length – 9 KM
- Duration – 5 to 6 hours
- Starting Point – Behind the Shiva temple on Mullayanagiri peak
- End point – BSNL Tower
5. Z Point, Kemmanagundi (60 KM)
Located 60KM away from Chikmagalur in Kemmanagundi, Z Point is the one of best short treks in Karnataka. It is a wonderful place to get an awe-inspiring view of western ghats. The splendid beauty, cascading waterfalls, steep hills, green grasslands and fresh breeze attract tourists from all around. Trek is the only way to reach up there that starts from the Kemmanagundi Raj Bhavan. There is a small waterfall on the way to the Z point named Shanti Fall. After reaching the peak you’ll get to experience one of the best scenery of your life. Morning is the best time to go to Z Point as the sunrise from this place is simply spectacular. The best part of this trek is that it can be covered by people of all age groups.
- Trek Level – Easy to Moderate
- Trek Length – 3 KM
- Duration – 2 hours
- Starting point – Raj Bhavan, Kemmanagundi.
6. Kudremukh National Park – The Trekker Paradise (106 KM)
Situated in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, Kudremukh National Park is home to the second-highest peak of Karnakata, Kudremukh peak. The three main rivers of Karnataka named Bhadra, Nethravati and Tunga, originate from this region and by trekking, you can reach up to the origin point of these rivers. The dense forest, rich wildlife, high mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, streams, and tropical riverbeds of this park attracts adventure seekers from all around. You need to take permission and a licensed guide to trek to the Kudremukh peak and other nearby peaks in the park.
The wonderful views from the peak will make you feel how beautiful mother nature can be. To maintain the beauty of this place the forest department limited only 50 people per day for the trek to Kedrumukh and plastic is banned here.
This region is home to rich wildlife including leopards, tigers, Malabar, elephants, deer, wild buffalo, chitals, wild monkeys, langurs and many more as well. Also, there you can spot over 200 species of migratory birds as well.
7. Kavikal Gandi Viewpoint (22 KM)
Located just 11 KM from Baba Budangiri, Kavikal Gandi Viewpoint is also known as Horse Shoe Viewpoint. This place always stays pleasant and windy. At the top of the point, you can enjoy amazing views of the Chandra Drona mountain range.
Kavikal Gandi Viewpoint is situated between the route of Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri. There is a check post on the route from where you need to climb around 50 steps to reach the viewpoint. There is a small temple of Lord Hanuman at the foot of the hill and a painting of Swami Vivekananda at the top of the hill.
It is a perfect place for camping and trekking near Chikmagalur while enjoying the amazing views.
- Best time to visit – October to May.
8. Seethalayanagiri (18 KM)
Looking for a place to seek inner peace or connect with nature while trekking on the hills then Seethalayangiri is the place to go. Located on the way from Mullayanagiri to Chikmagalur, Seethalayangiri is a wonderful trekking spot. The view from the top is breathtaking.
The journey to Seethalanagiri from Chikmagalur is as amazing as the destination crossing through Chandra Drona hill which will show you the amazing sight of western ghats. At the top, you can see the richness of wildflowers and orchids. And don’t forget to seek the blessing of Lord Shiva at Seethala Mallikarjuna Swamy temple where the Linga of Shiva is always surrounded by water.
- Best time to visit – October to May
9. Doddabale Siddaragudda Peak (35 KM)
Chikmagalur is a heaven for nature & trekking lovers and Doddabale Siddaragudda Peak holds a special place among all of the tourist attractions. Situated at the height of 5500 feet, Doddabale Siddaragudda peak offers the breathtaking views of the Lakeville Dam, Baba Budangiri hills, Bhadra Lake and Yemmedoddi village.
Trekking through the coffee plantation and scenic hills will be an amazing experience for any adventure lover. There is an 800-year-old Shiva Temple at the top of the hill that gives it a religious touch.
- Best time to visit – October To May
- How to reach – It is located 35 KM from the Chikmagalur. You will easily get a taxi or cab to reach up there.
10. Ballalarayana Durga Fort (70 KM)
If you’re fond of trekking but don’t have enough experience then Ballalarayana Durga Fort is the perfect place to start your trekking journey. It is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. This trek holds an abandoned fort from the 17th century and 1000 feet waterfall named Bandaje Falls.
Situated at a height of 1509 meters, Ballalarayana Durga fort is one of the few forts in the western ghats. The way to reach the fort is to traverse through the dense forest, and abundance of flora & fauna.
- Location – Madagundi, Karnataka
- Best time to visit – Monsoon is the perfect season to enjoy this trek in its full glory but be aware of leeches. If you’re afraid of leeches then Nov to May is the best time to visit Ballalarayan Durga Fort.
- How to reach – It is located just 70 KM from Chikmagalur and well connected by road to all the major cities of Karnataka.
11. Kyatanamakki hills
Kyatanamakki Hill is a paradise for those who love off-roading. Located near Horanadu village of Chikmagalur, Kyatanamakki is an off-road route from where you enjoy the 4×4 jeep ride that takes you to the top. The 360-degree views from the top are wonderful and watching the sunset from here is spectacular.
- Best time to visit – October to May
- How to reach – It is located 15 Km from Kalsa. And it has excellent connectivity to all the major nearby cities of Karnataka. So you will easily get a taxi, cab or bus to reach there.
Best Waterfalls
12. Hebbe Falls (65 KM)
Located in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Hebbe fall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls to visit in Karnataka that falls from the height of 168 meters. It is the best place to escape from the hectic city life and spend an amazing time in peace. The surrounding natural beauty, pleasant smell of Coffee beans, 13 KM jeep ride and religious significance of this place make it a popular place to visit in Chikmagalur. To reach up there either you can hire the jeep from the forest counter or take the 10 KM trek from Karnataka Horticulture Department Guest House.
The water comes from the spring of mountains and Bhadra river then it is believed that herbs get mixed inside the water that helps to cure the skin disease. Hence, don’t forget to take bath inside the pool that is situated at the bottom of the fall.
13. Kalhatti Falls, Kemmanagundi (52 KM)
Nestled amidst beautiful valleys and coffee gardens, Kalhatti fall comes from the Chandra Drona hills at the height of 122 meters. There is a temple in front of the waterfalls named Veerabhadreshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hence, it is a pilgrimage spot for the devotee of Lord Shiva. The water of the fall is believed to have the magical power to cure skin diseases. The location of the temple itself is a visual treat to the visitors as it is surrounded by majestic mountains and steep hills. Therefore, adventure lovers can climb up to any nearby hills to the amazing views of the surroundings and waterfall.
14. Jhari Waterfalls or Buttermilk Falls (21 KM)
Located 11 KM from Baba Budangiri Peak, Jhari waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur. The best part of this waterfall is that you can touch and even take bath as it is not much big. There is a pool at the bottom where you can take bath. Also, there is a shack where you can change your clothes and use the washroom. Overall, it is a perfect place to spend an amazing time in peace. Adventure lovers can climb to the 2nd tier waterfall that is located above 30 meters.
How to reach – The journey to the waterfall makes it even more interesting to visit. To reach up there you need to hire a jeep available at the main gate and it would charge around 700 INR per jeep (6 to 8 people) including return. The jeep will drop you 100 meters away from the fall and then you’ll need to trek down at the base of the waterfall. Trekking lovers can also take 3 to 5 KM long trek all the way from starting point to reach the waterfalls.
15. Manikyadhara Falls (33 KM)
Manikyadhara fall is a popular place to visit along with the Baba Budangiri hills of Chikmagalur. It is a small yet beautiful waterfall which height is 30 feet. The view from the waterfall is amazing with misty fog and a cool breeze. This waterfall has religious significance among locals. According to the legends, this waterfall is the blessing of god after the prayer of Baba Budan who come here in the search of water. The best part of this fall is that it doesn’t dry even in the hot summer. There is a pool at the bottom where you can take bath. You can spot some locals selling herbs and local products around the waterfall. Indeed, it is a great place to enjoy the splendid views of Baba Budangiri hills.
- How to reach – To reach up there you need to climb 200 steps from the main road.
16. Madu Gundi Falls (69 KM)
Located in the Dakshina Kannada in the western Ghats, Madu Gundi Falls is the most wonderful place to visit in Chikmagalur. If waterfall is something that excites you then this is the best place to go. Situated just 69 KM from the Chikmagalur bus stand it is one of the best places for a day trip.
The off-roading against the western ghats mountain backdrop is the experience that everyone craves. The scenic surroundings and gurgle of fall water will make you forget all the problems and calm your soul. You can also take a dip inside the pool that forms by a waterfall.
- Best time to visit – June to September, the monsoon season
- How to reach – Either you can use public transport or drive your own vehicle to reach the fall.
17. Hanumanagundi Falls (116 KM)
Nestled amidst lush green jungles and hilly terrains, Hanumangundi Falls is situated between Karkala and Lakya Dam in Kudremukh National Park. It is also known as Suthanabbe falls or Soothanabbai falls by locals. This tired waterfall gushes down from the height of 72 feet on a natural rock. On a good day, you can even spot a rainbow at the falls when the sunlight crosses the water.
Located 116 KM from Chikmagalur, it is a perfect destination for a day trip. This place is rated as a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers as it is not much-crowded place. You need to step down 300 man-made steps to reach the fall but it is nothing in front of the picturesque beauty of Hanumangundi falls.
- Best time to visit – June to September – During monsoon or just after the monsoon.
- Entry Fees – INR 50
- How to reach – You will easily get a taxi or rental car from Chikmagalur to reach the falls. A rental bike is the best way to reach the waterfall.
18. Kadambi Falls (123 KM)
Situated in Kudremukh National Park, Kadambi fall is one of the most amazing places to visit in Chikmagalur. This 30 feet high waterfall can be seen from the bridge situated near the main road between Sringeri and Kudremukh. But adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers can go close to the fall after passing some hurdles.
The sheer natural beauty surrounded by the lush greenery makes it a perfect picnic spot near Chikmagalur. You can also dip inside the pool near the waterfall. If you’re planning for a day trip from Chikmagalur then you should include Kadambi falls, Kudremukh peak, Lakhya dam and Hanumangundi falls on your bucket list. As all these places are located near to each other.
- Best time to visit – October to May, the monsoon or just after the monsoon is the best time to see the waterfall at its peak from.
- How to reach – Located 123 KM from Chikmagalur, Kadambi falls is well connected by road to its nearby cities. You will easily get a bus or taxi to reach the fall.
Lakes & Wildlife Sanctuary
19. Hirekolale Lake (10 KM)
Located 10 KM from Chikmagalur, Hirekolale lake is a beautiful man-made lake surrounded by the scenic beauty of western ghats. Being in proximity to the main town it is a perfect gateway to escape from the hustle of daily life. This lake is constructed to provide water to Chikmagalur and the other nearby village for farming. The serene beauty of Mullayanagiri hills with peaceful surroundings attracts tourists and photographers. Overall, it is a perfect place to spend an ideal evening in Chikmagalur and capture some instagrammable sunset moments in your camera.
20. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (38 KM)
Spread over an area of 492 KM, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger reserve is the best place to visit in Chikmagalur. Situated amidst the Western Ghats, the sanctuary consists of green meadows, steep hill, dense forest and majestic mountain peaks that is enough to invite all kinds of traveler. The name of this sanctuary derives from the Bhadra River that flows through this sanctuary. There you can spot around 120 species of tree and 250 species of Birds. Also, there you can find tigers, leopards, wild cats, elephants, bears, sambar, deer, mouse deer, wild boar, wild buffalo, Malabar giant squirrel and many more wild animals. Jeep Safari is the best way to witness these animals and go inside deep into the forest.
If you want to stay inside the sanctuary then you can go for the state-run jungle lodges, resorts, river tent lodges and camps on a hillock on the edges of the Bhadra reservoir, near Lakkavali.
21. Bhadra Dam (78 KM)
Looking for water activities like sailing, boating, kayaking, water cycling and water trampoline near Chikmagalur? then Bhadra Dam is the perfect place to visit. Bhadra Dam is built over the Bhadra river, a tributary of Tungabhadra. The surrounding natural beauty and rich varieties of flora & fauna make it a tourist attraction. There you can spot a wide range of migratory birds and if you’re lucky enough then you could even witness the various species of Butterfly. Also, there are some islands that enhance the beauty of this place. It is a part of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve. Due to its proximity to the sanctuary, it is the perfect place to spend a day with family and friends.
- Location – On the border of Bhadravathi and Tarikere.
22. Ayyanakere Lake (18 KM)
Situated just 18 KM from Chikmagalur, Ayyanakere Lake is the 2nd largest lake in Karnataka. It is also known as Dodda Magoda kere. Surrounded by hills on three sides, it is one of the picturesque places to visit in Chikmagalur.
The serene mountainous surroundings offer the spectacular sight of sunrise and sunset. Therefore, if you’re looking for a peaceful place to connect with nature then Ayyanakere lake is the ideal place to visit near Chikmagalur. Camping around the lake is the best thing you can do here.
Shakunagiri hill is the point from where you can catch a bird-eye view of the lake. Watching this man-made marvel from the height of 4600 feet is a treat to the eyes.
- Entry Fees – No entry Fees
- Best time to visit – Monsoon is the best time to visit when the lake is in full flow and the surrounding becomes lush.
- How to reach – You will easily get a taxi or bus from Chikmagalur to reach the lake. It is located just 50 min drive from Chikmagalur.
23. Mahatma Gandhi Park
Located in the north of Chikmagalur, Mahatma Gandi park is the perfect place to go with kids. A small toy train and water fountains are the main attraction of this park. Most of the activities here are targeted for the kids. It is a good place to go for a long evening walk in Chikmagalur.
Hoysala Temples
24. Chennakeshava Temple, Belur (25 KM)
Buil in the 12th century, Chennakeshava temple is one the best architecture marvels by the Hoysala Empire. It is situated in the Belur town that was the capital of the Hoysala Empire. The walls of the temple are carved by the sculpture of dancing girls in various forms. There are 80+ madanika sculptures carved on the wall of the temple in the form of dancing, haunting and standing. And the pillars of the temple boast some of the finest details, sculptures and artwork in the entire complex. There are total of 48 pillars and the Narasimha pillar is the most famous.
You can read the hidden details on the wall with help of sculptures that depict the various important events of Ramayana and Mahabharta. There are many temples in the complex like Channigraya temple, Ranganayaki temple etc. Indeed, it is a perfect place to admire the architectural wonder of the famous Hoysala empire.
How to reach – Since it is a popular tourists attraction so you’ll easily get bus or cab from Chikmagalur to Belur.
25. Veeranarayana Swamy Temple, Belavadi (30 KM)
Sri Veeranarayana is a trikuta temple with idols of Veeranarayana in the center facing east, Venugopala facing north and Lakshmi Narasimha facing south. The temple was built in the 13th century by Hoysala Empire. There are two giant elephants carved on the entrance of the temple. There are total of 108 pillars in the complex and each of them exhibits sculptures and beautiful artwork. The idol of Lord Krishna is the main highlight of the temple with beautiful carving of stone.
As compared to Belur, the temple is not much hyped hence not many tourists visit it. Therefore, it is a great place to spend an amazing time with historical marvels surrounded by the greenery of western ghats. No issue with parking and there is no entry fee. So, if you’re in Chikmagalur then don’t forget to visit this historical wonder.
How to reach – The temple is located 30 KM from the Chikmagalur but there are direct buses to this place and it is walkable distance from the bus stop of Belavadi.
26. Kodandarama Temple, Hiremagalur (4 KM)
Dedicated to Lord Rama, the Kodandarama temple is an amazing masterpiece of the Hoysala empire. The temple is derived its name from the idol of Lord Rama as here you can see Lord Rama and Lakshmana with their bows and the bow of Rama is called Kodanda, that’s why the temple is known as Kodanda temple. This is one of the fewest temples in India where Goddess Sita is placed on the right side of Rama. According to the legends, here Lord Parshuram wishes to see the wedding to Rama and Sita. And as the Hindu wedding tradition, the bride has to sit to the right of the groom, that’s the reason Sita is placed on the right side of Rama. And like that this temple has great mythological significance among locals.
27. Sringeri Sharada Peetham
Located on the banks of the Tunga river, Sringeri Sharada Peetham was built by the great sage Shri Adi Shankaracharya. It is dedicated to the goddess Sharadamba, the goddess of wisdom, music, and learning. On the premises of the temple, there is another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Both temples feature Hoysala & Dravidian architecture marvels in the forms of pillars, stone carvings on the wall and sculptures of gods.
The gold sculpture of Goddess Saraswati in the Vidyashankara temple is the main attraction of the temple. There are 12 sculpted pillars each one representing the sign of the zodiac.
- Best time to visit – Any time of the year.
- How to reach – You will easily get direct buses from all the major cities of Karnataka to Sringeri village.
28. Sri Annapoorneshwari Temple
Annapoorneshwari temple is built by the great Sage Agasthya Maharishi about 400 years ago. It is one of the rarest temples in India that is dedicated to the goddess Annapurna, the goddess of Food (bhojan ke devi). It is situated in Horanadu village on the banks of the Bhadra river. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of western ghats, this temple gives you the peace that everyone craves in the modern world.
You’ll always get free food & free stays inside the premises of the temple as this temple is dedicated to the goddess of Food so how can you stay hungry inside the Annapurna temple.
- How to reach – It is located 90 Km from Chikmagalur via Kalasa Balehonnur road. So you will easily get a bus from Chikmagalur to Horanadu village.
FAQ’s about Chikmagalur
Q1: What are the best things to do in Chikmagalur?
Here are the most popular things to do in Chikmagalur:
- Visit Coffee Plantation.
- Trek to the highest peak of Karnataka, Mullayangiri Peak.
- Trek to the Hebbe Falls.
- Tour the various waterfalls – Jhari falls, Hebbe Falls, Kalhatti Falls, and manikyadhara falls.
- Jeep Safari in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- Explore Kemmanagundi
- Visit Kudremukh National Park
Q2: What are the best places to visit in Chikmagalur at night?
Chikmagalur doesn’t have much for the nights but here we’ve picked some of the best places to visit at night:
Belavadi – Belavadi is home to various historical temples while Veeranarayana temple is the most famous. This place looks stunning at night when the hundreds of candles and lanterns lighten up the temple.
Belur – Belur is another religious site near Chikmagalur that is known as the Banaras of the south. After sunset, visiting the Chennakesava temple is treat to eyes when you can soak the beauty of this historical marvel under lights of lamps and candles.
Q3: What are the best temples to visit in Chikmagalur?
Chikmagalur is known for its Hoysala temples including the Veeranarayana Swamy temple of Belavadi, Chennakeshava Temple of Belur, Kodandarama Temple of Hiremagalur, Sharadamba Temple, Amrutheshwara temple and Sri Sharada Peetha.
Q4: What are the best places to trek in Chikmagalur?
Z point, Baba Budangiri Hills, Mullayanagiri peak, Hebbe Falls, Jhari falls and Kudremukh peak are some of the best trekking spots in Chikmagalur.
Q5: What are the top waterfalls to visit in Chikmagalur?
Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls, Manikyadhara falls, Kalhatti Falls, Alekan Falls, Shanti falls and Elaneeru falls are some of the most beautiful waterfalls to visit in Chikmagalur.