Chikmagalur is a hill resort of unequalled beauty with its coffee plantation, rolling hills, trekking trails, and beautiful landscape in Karnataka Western Ghats. It lies 250 km away from Bangalore. A quiet sojourn which is nature lover's heaven, adventure sport lovers' haven, and coffee lover's heaven, Chikmagalur also goes by the name "Coffee Land of Karnataka" as coffee plantations took birth here in India. Hence, Chikmagalur also has a historical and cultural significance. The rolling hills, green forests, and waterfalls tumbling down creating the perfect getaway from urban drudgery is Chikmagalur's largest draw. The scenery is idyllic with trekking trails all over, the most sought-after being the Mullayanagiri, the highest point of Karnataka at 1,930 meters (6,330 feet). Baba Budangiri due to its importance from a religious and historical sense and Kudremukh due to its picturesque valley and grassland views are two of the most sought-after trekking locations. The treks give nature lovers a fairy-tale experience amidst nature. Chikmagalur is also renowned for its fauna and wildlife. There exists a Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary there, which is a blend of faunas and floras such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and some birds. Nature enthusiasts can go for jeep safaris, bird watching, and nature walks to see the natural splendour of the destination. Apart from adventure, Chikmagalur is also a peaceful retreat with plantation resorts and green coffee plantations. Travelers looking for coffee estates and mountain landscapes often choose our Chikmagalur Tour Package.The travellers can experience coffee tours, see how the coffee is being prepared, and indulge in fresh coffee in scented plantations. The weather of the region, especially for the period between September to March, is nice and therefore worth visiting around the year. History and spirituality buffs, Chikmagalur boasts temples and heritage monuments as old as Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu, a masterpiece of the beauty of Hoysala art and architecture, and Sharadamba Temple at Sringeri, a pilgrim town. The town also boasts laid-back homestays and nature resorts where one can enjoy a peaceful experience of nature. Whether you’re a trekker, wildlife enthusiast, coffee lover, or someone seeking peace amidst nature, Chikmagalur has something to offer everyone. Its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and adventure-filled trails make it one of Karnataka’s most sought-after travel destinations. Hill lovers and nature travelers can discover more scenic destinations through our Weekend Getaways From Bangalore guide.Nearby Places of ChikmagalurMullayanagiri: Mullayanagiri, 1,930 m (6,330 ft) is the state's highest peak and lies about 15 km from Chikmagalur. The hill provides a majestic view over surrounding hills and valleys. Climbing to the top is the favourite practice drill of adventure trekking clubs, and an ancient Mullayanagiri Temple constructed in memory of Lord Shiva stands there.Baba Budangiri: Approximately 30 km from Chikmagalur is Baba Budangiri, a site well known for its beauty and its ancient name. Known for supposedly Sufi saint Baba Budan bringing coffee to India by planting it, there are some trekking routes here besides the Datta Peeta, a pilgrims' shrine graced by a temple of Hindu god Dattatreya.Kudremukh National Park: Some 40 km from Chikmagalur is the Kudremukh National Park, a World Heritage of unimaginable biodiversity and unspoiled beauty. The common fauna of the national park are leopards, elephants, and some endemic birds. The green heaven home can be seen with a trekking camp and a forest walk.Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, which is about 38 km from Chikmagalur, is another perfect place for nature enthusiasts and wildlife activists. The sanctuary also has its own fauna and flora like elephants, tigers, and birds. The tourists have the opportunity to witness the richness of the ecosystem of the sanctuary by going on nature walks and jeep safaris.Horanadu: Horanadu, 100 km from Chikmagalur, is well known as the temple of the Annapoorneshwari goddess. It is a quaint pilgrim centre from where visitors arrive from all sides of the state. The serene atmosphere and trees quieten the environs and provide a tranquil haven to travellers.Sringeri: Around 80 km from Chikmagalur is Sringeri, a town old to its credit - India's one of the oldest consecrated temples, Sharadamba Temple. Sringeri possesses the ancient Sharada Peetham, a school of Hindu philosophy and spirituality all over the world. The serenity of the place and the surroundings makes it an absolute destination.Hebbe Falls: Approximately 30 km from Chikmagalur is Hebbe Falls, a scenic waterfall surrounded by coffee plantations and forest. The waterfalls fall from a distance of approximately 168 meters and are perfect for a picnic and unwinding. Jeep or trekking to the waterfalls is an added adventure.Jhari Waterfalls: Jhari Waterfalls is a scenic waterfall located around 40 km from Chikmagalur and surrounded by coffee plantations. The peaceful atmosphere and al-fresco environment are a promise of an awesome venue for a hassle-free day outing. These kinds of areas around are otherwise varied in activities they have to offer, ranging from walking and game-watching to religious pilgrimages and nature spreading. Chikmagalur is an ideal home to stay as a tour and trip place to visit here and therefore an ideal destination to visit for every tour and traveller willing to make adventure and recreation.How to Reach ChikmagalurBy RoadThe journey to Chikmagalur. The locals are 250 km away from Bangalore, and the journey would be 5-6 hours. Several of the state highways link Chikmagalur with the other big cities independently. Some of the favourite roads are:Bangalore: Journey on NH 75 through Tumkur Road to journey to Chikmagalur. It is a very good-looking road with a pleasant drive.Mangalore to Chikmagalur is 150 km. Use NH 73, a beautiful drive through the Western Ghats.Mysore to Chikmagalur is nearly 130 km. NH 275 Road is beautiful and a great drive.State and private bus transport in abundance from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore city to Chikmagalur.Bus travel is cheap and very comfortable to avail.By TrainThe closest railway station to Chikmagalur is the Kadur Railway Station, 40 km from here. Kadur enjoys good connectivity to other cities of Karnataka and other states. Take a taxi or local transport from Kadur to Chikmagalur. Alternatively, take a train to Mangalore or Bangalore and drive down to Chikmagalur.By AirportThe nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE) which is 150 km from Chikmagalur. It is well covered by flights from and to other Indian cities including Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai. Taxi or bus reservations from the airport to Chikmagalur may be reserved. The nearest alternative option is Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore, 250 km away, where there are easier flight options available. By road means, one can reach Bangalore from there as explained above.Best Time to Visit ChikmagalurThe lush coffee plantations of Chikmagalur, beautiful hills, and pleasant climate make it a perfect haunt for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Chikmagalur is best experienced from September to March, as the area becomes favourable for touring during this period. Here is a detailed discussion of the sectoral experiences:Post-Monsoon (September to November): The Ideal Time for VisitingWeather: The post-monsoon foliage is lush and green, and there are waterfalls and streams that are in full flow.Temperature: 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77) makes for comfortable outdoor activities.Experience: This is the best time to visit Chikmagalur because the area is stunning and also very good for trekking, coffee plantation tours, and sightseeing. Flora and fauna reach their peaks, resulting in a refreshing and uplifting experience. Wintertime (December to February) - Pleasant and CoolWeather: The winter months are cool and pleasant, making it just right for outdoor exploration.Temperature: 10 degrees at night and 15 to 20 during the day have a tendency to meet that score.Experience: Winter is wonderful for trekking and the outdoors, with clear skies for spectacular views, and early mornings may see some fog that creates a magical atmosphere for photography.Summer (March to May) - Hot, but ManageableWeather: The summer months are pretty hot, but evening is rather cool.Temperature: Can soar to around 30 (86) in the daytime but cools off to about 20 (68) in the evenings.Experience: Summer is not the time for the bulk of tourists, but manageable for those who enjoy less of a crowd. Early morning treks and visiting coffee plantations are invigorating and still beautiful. Monsoon (June to August) - Beautiful but DangerousWeather: Heavy rain during the monsoon season transforms Chikmagalur into a paradise of green hills and flowing waterfalls.Experience: The view is marvellous; however, the rains create havoc in travel plans and trekking becomes moot due to slippery trails. This time of the year is best for those who want to enjoy nature's beauty without the crowds. Monsoon travel involves a little planning. It should be well prepared for trains with proper gear.
