Located in the foothills of western ghats, Chikmagalur is one of the most fascinating and beautiful destinations in Southwest India. Surrounded by the mighty peaks, misty fog, lush greenery, dense forest, cascading waterfalls, rich heritage and coffee plantation, Chikmagalur offers ample opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From the highest peak of Karnataka, Mullayanagiri peak to cascading waterfalls and from rafting in Bhadra river to Hoysala temple in Belvadi, Halebedu and Belur, Chikmagalur has a lot to offer. So, let’s check out the 10 best things to do in Chikmagalur for an astonishing holiday:
Things To Do in Chikmagalur
1. Explore Coffee Plantation
The Coffee Land of Karnataka – Chikmagalur is famous for its beautiful coffee plantation. Therefore, the trip to Chikmagalur can’t be complete without visiting them. There are many local coffee estates where you can witness the process behind how our morning refresher is being made. The pleasant fragrance in the backdrop of western ghats is good enough to make a day. These coffee plantations are perfect for those who looking to relax in the tranquility of nature.
2. Go For Trekking
The surrounding western ghats peaks of Chikmagalur invite trekkers from all around. From an easy short trek to adventure trails there is enough variety that can excite any adventure lover. And the pleasant weather conditions are just perfect for trekking at any time of the year. The misty fog, pleasant smell of coffee, lush greenery, thundering river and waterfalls attracts adventure seekers.
Best Trekking Spot in Karnataka:
Mullayanagiri Trek – The highest peak of Karnataka, Mullayanagiri peak is quite famous among trekking lovers. This 12 KM trek starts from the Sarpadhari and ends at the Bababudangiri peak. Once you reach the Mullayangiri peak you can start the trek to Bababudan Giri which starts behind the Shiva temple.
Kemmanagundi – Located 60 KM from Chikmagalur, Kemmanagundi is the hub for trekking lovers. Z Point and Hebbe Falls are the two most popular trekking spots in this region.
Kudremukh Trek – Located 100 KM away from Chikmagalur, Kudremukh trek is part of Kudremukha National Park. The trek traverse through the lush greenery and wildlife of Western Ghats.
3. Enjoy Rafting in Bhadra River
If you’re in Chikmagalur then don’t miss rafting in the Bhadra river. The crystalline river gushing in the backdrop of Western ghats is a perfect mix for adventure lovers. Besides the natural beauty, the 8 KM stretch of the Bhadra river has 4 to 5 rapids above class 3 that making it perfect for rafting. There are many tour operators and agencies who offer you the perfect package of rafting along with all the necessary equipment. And even some homestays keep organizing rafting tours to promote tourism. June to October are the best months to do rafting when the temperature varies from 16 to 25 deg Celsius.
4. Visit Hoysala Temples
When you’re in Chikmagalur don’t forget to visit Hoysala temples that include temples that were constructed between 11 to 13th by the Hoysala empire. Halebid, Belur, Somanathapura and Belavadi are some of the must-visit temples. The amazing architectural designs, ancient and mythological significance of these temples will surprise you. Even some of the temple like Belvadi is mentioned in the Hindu epic of Mahabharta. These architectural marvels are a great mixture of devotion and natural beauty.
5. Play Golf
Yes, you read it right, Golfing – Chikmagalur is a perfect place for Golf lovers as there is a Golf Club situated at the foothills of the Bababudan Giri range. This well-maintained Golf club has an 18-hole golf course and a clubhouse that will make your day. You don’t need to bring equipment as you can hire them inside at a very normal price. This place is frequented visited by international golfers and tourists as well. Indeed, visiting Golf Club is the best thing to do in Chikmagalur.
- Timings – 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry Fees – 70 INR for 9 Hole and 200 INR to hire a golf set per hour.
6. Experience Homestays
Situated in the backdrop of the western ghat mountain range inside the coffee gardens, staying in homestays is definitely going to be worth it. While relaxing, experience the refreshing cold breeze with the sweet aroma of Coffee from the window of your room, these homestays welcome tourists with open hearts. There are many homestays in Chikmagalur for both luxury and budget travelers. Enjoying the delicious local cuisines with locals will be one of the best experiences you can have in Chikmagalur.
7. Jungle Safari in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Located at 38 KM from Chikmagalur, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary has spread over 490 Sq Km. It is one of the best spots to witness the diverse wildlife of the western ghat range. During jungle safari, you can spot over 250 species of birds and rich variety of Flora and Fauna. Since it is a tiger reserve, there you can spot 30 tigers and 20 leopards. Also, there you can see the deer, gaur, bear and many more. Due to the surroundings of western ghats, this sanctuary gives the perfect opportunity for sightseeing and camping.
8. Visit amazing waterfalls
Chikmagalur has many waterfalls including Jhari Falls, Hebbe Falls, Kalhatti Falls, Manikyadhara Falls and Shanti Falls. Situated amidst the lush greenery of western ghats and the refreshing smell of Coffee Plantation, exploring these waterfalls is one of the best things to do in Chikmagalur. Hebbe and Jhari Falls is famous for its amazing jeep ride that takes you to the bottom of the falls. And Kalhatti falls is famous due to the temple of Lord Veerabhadra that is a popular pilgrimage spot to the devotee of Lord Shiva. Manikyadhara falls is a must-visit place while trekking to Bababudan Giri peak. And Shanti fall comes on the way to Z point.
9. Shopping
There are various things that you can shop and take home from Chikmagalur including various blends of Coffee, handicrafts made from the wood of Coffee, berries, perfumes and aromatic sandalwood. The Spice hub, Nature Craft, Market road and Panduranga Coffee 1938 are some of the best places to do shopping in Chikmagalur.
10. Camping
Being one of the best hill stations in India, Chikmagalur is blessed with pleasant weather, beautiful lush greenery, amazing mountain peaks and lots of waterfalls. And all these things make it a perfect camping spot. Gazing a night sky of sparkling stars with a group of friends while chatting around a bonfire is a perfect way to create memories in Chikmagalur. There are various tour operators who offer you various campsites to enjoy the natural beauty of Chikmagalur. You can also set you your own camp as well. Ask the locals for a perfect spot for a camp.
FAQ’s about the best things to do in Chikmagalur
Q1: What is Famous in Chikmagalur?
Chikmagalur is famous for its pleasant weather, dense forest, cascading waterfalls, misty fog, refreshing breeze, homestays, western ghats, rich wildlife and coffee plantation.
Q2: What is the best time to visit Chikmagalur?
Chikmagalur is blessed with pleasant temperatures throughout the year however September to March is the best time to visit Chikmagalur. The temperature varies between 14 to 32 deg Celsius.
Q3: Is Chikmagalur worth visiting?
Yes, Chikmagalur is the popular weekend gateway from Bangalore. This hilly town is known for its waterfalls, western ghats, coffee plantation and heritage. Being home to the highest peak of Karnataka, Chikmagalur has a lot to offer including trekking, rafting, golfing, kayaking, and nature walking.