Welcome to Chikmagalur, a charming heaven in Karnataka, India.
If you're seeking a serene escape amidst nature's beauty, you're in the right place. Our blog is your guide to an unforgettable Chikmagalur trip. From scenic landscapes to aromatic coffee plantations, we'll show you the best places that you can cover in Chikmagalur.
Whether you crave relaxation or adventure, our tips and insights will help you plan the perfect Chikmagalur getaway from Bangalore.
Get ready to embark on a journey you'll cherish forever.
About Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a hill station in Karnataka, India's Western Ghats mountain range. It is a popular tourist destination known for its coffee and tea plantations, scenic landscapes, and waterfalls.
The town of Chikmagalur is located at an altitude of 3,400 feet and is surrounded by lush green hills and valleys. The climate is pleasant throughout the year, making it a perfect place to escape the heat of the plains.
Chikmagalur is a major producer of coffee and tea in India. Visitors can take tours of the coffee and tea plantations and learn about growing and processing these crops. They can also sample and purchase freshly brewed coffee and tea at the plantations.
But, Wondering why Chikmagalur is known as the "Coffee Land of Karnataka"?
There is an interesting story associated with it, The Coffee cultivation in Chikmagalur dates back to the late 17th century, when Baba Budan, a Sufi saint, is said to have brought seven coffee seeds to the region from Yemen.
The coffee plants thrived in the Western Ghats, with the unique microclimate of the region providing the perfect environment for their growth.
Today, there are over 50,000 coffee estates in Chikmagalur, employing millions of people. The coffee grown in Chikmagalur is known for its high quality and rich aroma. It is exported all over the world, making Chikmagalur one of the most important coffee-producing regions in India.
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| Captured early morning view of Mullayangiri Peak and western ghats |
Best Time to Visit Chikmagalur?
The best time to visit Chikmagalur is during
The winter months (September to February) are when the weather is pleasant and sunny. The temperature during this time ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The monsoon season in Chikmagalur lasts from June to August. While the lush green landscapes are beautiful during this time, the heavy rains can make it difficult to travel and explore the region. Additionally, some of the waterfalls and attractions may be closed during the monsoon season due to safety concerns.
The summer months (March to May) can be quite hot in Chikmagalur, with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius. If you are planning to visit Chikmagalur during the summer months, it is advisable to avoid the afternoons and evenings and to plan your outdoor activities for the early mornings.
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| Captured this view from Mullayangiri Peak in August |
How to reach Chikmagalur?
There are three main ways to reach Chikmagalur: by road, rail, or air.
By road: Chikmagalur is well connected by road to major cities in Karnataka, such as Bengaluru, Mysore, and Mangalore. There are regular buses and taxis available from these cities to Chikmagalur. The journey time from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur is around 5 hours, while the journey time from Mysore to Chikmagalur is around 4 hours.
By rail: The nearest railway station to Chikmagalur is Kadur, which is located about 40 km from the town. There are regular trains from major cities in Karnataka to Kadur. From Kadur, you can take a bus or taxi to Chikmagalur.
By air: The nearest airport to Chikmagalur is Mangalore International Airport, which is located about 150 km from the town. There are regular flights from major cities in India to Mangalore. From Mangalore airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Chikmagalur.
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| On my way to Chikmagalur by my car |
Where to stay in Chikmagalur?
There are a variety of accommodation options available in Chikmagalur, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.
We stayed in Coffeeberry Hills Resort which is 5km away from the main Chikmagalur city center and is located amidst nature. The panoramic view of Mullyangiri Peak and the western ghats overlooking our property is a delight to our eyes.
The room condition is quite good, they took care of good hygiene. Our breakfast is already included in the tariff and they have limited breakfast options but the taste is good.
They have indoor activities like pool tables and board games and a well-maintained swimming pool.
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| Coffeeberry Hills Resort in Chikmagalur |
Things to do in Chikmagalur?
Here are some of the things you can do in Chikmagalur:
Visit coffee plantations: Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantations. There are many coffee plantations in the region that offer tours to visitors. You can learn about the coffee-making process and taste different varieties of coffee.
Go trekking: Chikmagalur is a great place for trekking. There are many trekking trails in the region, ranging from easy to difficult. You can trek to waterfalls, mountain peaks, and other scenic spots.
Visit waterfalls: Chikmagalur is home to many beautiful waterfalls. Some of the popular waterfalls in the region include Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls, and Kalhatti Falls.
Go camping: Chikmagalur is a great place for camping. There are many campsites in the region where you can pitch your tent and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
Visit cultural attractions: Chikmagalur is also home to many cultural attractions, such as the Belur and Halebidu temples, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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| Hebbe Waterfalls in Chikmagalur |
Places to Visit in Chikmagalur in 3 Days?
Day 1: Reach Chikmagalur -> Take Rest in Property -> Visit Hirekolale Lake for Sunset
Day 2: Mullayangiri Peak -> Jhari Waterfalls -> World of Coffee Cafe -> Back to Resort
Day 3: Coffee Plantation Tour -> Hebbe Waterfalls -> Bonfire at Stay
Day 1 Itinerary
- Reach Chikmagalur
We planned this trip along with our 10 month little old baby and its going to be his first long trip. Also we planned our trip in the weekdays as we wanted to avoid the rush which usually we see on weekends.
We started our trip in the morning around 8:30 AM. The connectivity from Bangalore to Chikmagalur is very good as highway condition is very smooth. After driving for almost 6 hours we reached Chikmagalur at around 1:30 PM.
- Take Rest in Property
We booked our stay in Coffeeberry Hills Resort which is 5km away from the main Chikmagalur city center. The path to reach the property is so serene with full of lush green coffee plantation around it. But the road condition is not good. But its only 500Meter off route drive to reach the property.
After reaching we were so tired that we ordered a cup of tea and enjoyed beautiful landscapes of western ghats that was overlooking from the property.
- Hirekolale Lake
Hirekolale Lake is a beautiful man-made lake located near Chikmagalur, Karnataka, India. It is surrounded by lush green hills and valleys, and offers stunning views of the Mullayanagiri peak. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
We decided to go to Hirekolale lake to watch sunset and enjoy the peaceful vibe. The place is 3KM from our property so it only took 15min drive to reach there. As it was a weekday we didn't find any rush in the parking spot.
We parked our car and took a stroll around the lake. But the sky was full of dark clouds so we were unable to watch the sunset but we enjoyed the beauty of this place.
Entry Fee: Free
Hirekolale Lake in Chikmagalur
Day 2 Itinerary
- Mullayangiri Peak
We panned the second day for Mullayangiri Peak. But before that, we had a delicious breakfast at our resort followed by some amazing clicks as the views from our resort itself were just marvelous.
We left the resort by afternoon to towards Mullayangiri. The day was sunny unexpectedly but the view till the peak was fabulous. After the midway, we were able to see the peak and we finally reached there in almost an hour.
The weather was very windy and colder as compared to the resort.
After parking our car at the specified parking area, we headed up towards the top. There were broad stairs and it took around 20 minutes for us to reach the top. There was the Lord Shiva temple, so was specifically mentioned to take off our shoes. The view from the top was breathtaking. We could literally see the clouds and the greenery all around made me speechless. I instantly took my drone out and captured the beauty that I was witnessing. You can check my drone shots in my Vlog by the way.
All of a sudden it started raining while we were having our moments at the top of the peak. We had to literally run to our car. Our experience was unforgettable though.
Entry Fee: Free
Mullayangiri Peak in Chikmagalur
- Jhari Waterfall
Jhari Waterfall, also known as Buttermilk Falls, is one of the most popular waterfalls in Chikmagalur. After covering Mullayangiri you can plan to visit Jhari waterfall as it comes on your way to Mullayangiri Peak.
We had planned to go to Jhari Waterfall after this, but due to a shortage of time and the weather, we dropped that and headed toward the city side to have some food.
- The World of Coffee Cafe
We read about this cafe on internet and after reading reviews and ratings we planned to visit as they have wide variety of coffee as well as rated as a good cafe.
It is located in the main city of chikmagalur, so after reaching we went staright to cafe to grab some food. There we ordered Coffee Panna Cota, Tirumasu Latte Cofe and Pizza. All tastes good.
Afterwards we clicked some pictures and bought some coffee for our home.
Cost for 2 Person: 1000 INR
World of Coffee Shop and Cafe in Chikmagalur
- Back to our Resort
We came back to our resort in the evening, also we got so tired traveling all day. We took rest and had dinner at our stay only and ended our day 2.
Day 3 Itinerary
- Coffee Plantation Tour
We woke up early in the morning and after having our breakfast we decide to visit the coffee estate which was very close to our resort. One of the guy from property assisted us in giving a tour to the coffee estate.
I was amazed to see the beauty of coffee plantaion as it was spread out in so much wide area and big pine trees makes it more like some bollywood movie scene. We got to know how they cultivate the coffee beans and once the beans gets ripened it is used for furger processing.
Overall it was a good experience and would recommend to have this expereince in your visit.
Lush green coffee estate in Chikmagalur
- Hebbe Waterfalls
The main highlight of our day 3 is visiting Hebbe waterfalls, It is one of the most popular waterfalls in Chikmagalur district and It is located around 65KM from our main resort.
The road to reach Hebbe waterfall is very good and we reached there in an hour drive from our stay.
After reaching we had to book a Jeep to reach the waterfall starting point because it is located inside a wildlife sanctury.
The jeep ride will take 25-30 Min to reach the base of Hebbe waterfall and from there we had to take a walk for 500 Meter inside a dense coffee estate.
The journey to reach Hebbe waterfall was quite challanging but it was worth a shot as the view of majestic waterfall was just amazing. The happiness after viewing this waterfall was unexplainable. The place is must visit and it is one of the most beautiful waterfall I have ever visited.
Jeep Cost: 500 INR/Person
Note: Carry salt or dettol along with you as there is leaches if you are visiting in monsoon. Also if you are travelling along with the baby, keep in mind that the jeep ride is very bumpy. Try to grab the front, covered seat instead of back open seats.
Hebbe Waterfalls
- Bonfire at Resort
After visiting Hebbe waterfall we were back to our resort and we all were so tired that we took a power nap and had some tea afterwards. As it was our last day in resort we requested for a Bonfire and they arranged it for us.
After having dinner we all sat around bonfire and enjoyed our moments and ended our day with lots of memories.
Tips for visiting Chikmagalur?
Here are a few tips for visiting Chikmagalur:
1. The best time to visit Chikmagalur is during the monsoon season (June to September) when the waterfalls stand in full flow. However, the roads can be slippery during the monsoon season, so it is important to be careful.
2. Chikmagalur is a relatively safe place to visit, but it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
3. If you are planning to go trekking, it is a good idea to hire a guide.
4. Be sure to try the local food and coffee.
5. Pack for all types of weather, as the weather in Chikmagalur can change quickly.
6. If you are visiting the waterfall, for safe side you can carry salt or Dettol to avoid leeches
Conclusion
Chikmagalur, with its natural beauty, rich culture, and serene ambiance, promises a truly enchanting experience for every traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a glimpse into the coffee culture, Chikmagalur has it all.
As you explore this pristine paradise, you'll discover why it's a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wanderers alike. So, pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the tranquil charms of Chikmagalur, where every moment is a memory waiting to be made.
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