Planning your next vacation in a hill station in the southern part of India? Chikmagalur would be the perfect choice. Home to one of the biggest lush plantations of coffee, it is situated in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, offering stunning views of nature’s beauty.
The city where nature blooms as greenery and songs of birds from over 200 species. This place offers a perfect retreat from the messy world to its travellers. From the waterfalls of Hebbe to the fun activities, including trekking, golfing and birdwatching, this city has numerous memorable experiences to offer. Are you ready to receive them?
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Explore the Top Attractions of Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur, karnataka offers its tourists ethereal views of several natural attractions, including waterfalls and major wildlife sanctuaries. The attractions you should not miss include:
1. Mullayanagiri Peak
Mullayanagiri peak is situated at an elevation of 1,930 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking vistas of the Western Ghats. This peak has a special place in the hearts of trekkers due to its spiritual significance. It is believed that a sage named Mulappa Swamy meditated here for a long time, and a small temple was constructed at the summit of the peak and named after him.
- How to Reach Mullayanagiri Peak: The Mullayanagiri peak is situated 35 km from Chikmagalur Railway Station and 22 km from the town of Chikmagalur. You can reach it by a jeep or a taxi from the town or the station.
- Ideal Months to Visit: The ideal time for trekking here is between September to April due to the dry season and temperatures from 14 °C to 32 °C, making it perfect for clear scenic vistas of mountain peaks.
Note: Avoid the monsoon season from June to August, because of the heavy rainfall that makes the pathways very slippery.
2. Kudremukh National Park
Situated in the Western Ghats, Kudremukh National Park is home to famous wildlife species, including 200 species of migratory birds, tiger, leopard, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, and Malabar giant squirrel. This national park of Chikmagalur consists of a vibrant flora and fauna and is wrapped in a soft canopy of clouds, offering activities like nature safaris and walks in high mountains, deep valleys, and through tropical wet evergreen forests. A whole package of nature adventure!
- How to Reach Kudremukh National Park: By taxi from the nearest airport, Mangalore Airport (IXE), and from the Mangalore Railway Station (MAQ), lying between 93 km and 103 km respectively, offering a pre-trek road trip.
- Ideal Months to Visit: June to September are the best times if you want to see lush greenery, due to the monsoon.
- October to February: Ideal time to get the clear of giant skies, after the monsoon. Although the months include the winter season, so pack to battle with chilly nights.
3. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are fond of having jeep safaris and birdwatching, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is waiting for you. This national park is located in the Chikmagalur and Shivamogga districts and is a hotspot of major attractions, including Jagara the Giant tree, Bhadra Dam, Hebbe Giri (peak within the sanctuary), and 120 types of flora.
This sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes wildlife like tigers, elephants, leopards, gaur, and sambar, giving you an overall expedition into the wild.
- How to Reach Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: From the nearest railway stations of Kadur and Birur, it offers a 51 km drive. Other routes include the distance of 29 km from Chikmagalur and 12 km from Mallandur village. Get complete info on the conveyance before reaching.
- Ideal Months to Visit: You can visit between October to March.
- Morning Safari Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM
- Evening Safari Timing: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
4. Hebbe Falls
Embraced by the lush green forests and the coffee plantations, Hebbe Falls is famous for its healing properties, which compel tourists to take a dip in the pool. It is a twin-stage waterfall that is divided into two parts due to its geography. While taking in the experience of this picturesque place, be cautious of the slippery rocks or avoid them as much as possible.
- How to Reach Hebbe Falls: Reach Kemmannugundi from Chikmagalur, which is at least 65 km away from the city. From Kemmannugundi, you can book a jeep ride to reach Hebbe Falls.
- Ideal Months to Visit Hebbe Falls: Visit after the monsoon months, between August to January, to see the vibrant blanket of greenery.
Note: Avoid the monsoon months as they are not the safest due to slippery stones and the dangerous flow of the waterfall.
5. Jhari Falls
Jhari Falls is a spectacular waterfall amidst the coffee plantations and dense forest in Chikmagalur, offering photographic wonders and swimming to its tourists. This place can be crowded, so visit as early as possible to experience the best out of it.
- How to Reach Jhari Falls: 22 km away from the Chikmagalur town, this waterfall is situated near Attigundi, which offers a jeep ride and a trek of 4 to 5 km in the forest.
- Ideal Months to Visit Jhari Falls: The peak season to visit the waterfall lies from September to December, and the post- monsoon season.
Note: The dry months of summer and the heavy rainfall season of the monsoon are not recommended.
6. Hirekolale Lake
Beyond any attraction of Chikmagalur, Hirekolale Lake is one of a kind man-made reservoir, offering gorgeous views of sunsets, Western Ghats and Mullayanagiri hills. The waters of the lake offer calm composure and tranquil vibes, making it perfect for picnics, nature walking, and relaxation spots on the bridge and the shoreline.
- How to Reach Jhari Falls: It is situated 10 km away from Chikmagalur city, and you can take a rickshaw or a taxi to get there.
- Ideal Months to Visit Jhari Falls: To get a cool and pleasant experience, visit here in the months of September to March, especially at dusk and dawn.
Experience the Irreplaceable Activities in Chikmagalur
Here is the list of must-have experiences in Chikmagalur that you will remember until the expiry date of your life:
- Adventure trek to Mullayanagiri Peak, Kudremukh Trek, Z Point Trek and Baba Budangiri Hills.
- Kailash Fair of the city, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, offers a cultural and traditional tapestry of the city.
- The folk event of the Hosa Todaku Festival, signifying the harvest season, is held in January with vibrant rituals and folk dances of locals.
- River rafting in the Bhadra River and kayaking in the Hirekolale Lake.
- All-terrain jeep riding through hidden forests and pleasant coffee plantations.
- River side camping or mountain camping, and admire the unforgettable stars glowing in the ocean of cosmos.
- A visit to the Krishna Rajendra Botanical Garden, which is 60 km away from Chikmagalur.
- A refreshing visit to the waterfall, including Hebbe Falls, Shanti Falls and Jhari Falls.
Journey’s End
The city of Chikmagalur, Karnataka, is a mosaic of the finest creations of nature. Embrace the curtain of verdant forests and rich coffee plantations, which offer a thrill-seeking expedition to its tourists. Whether it’s a domestic traveller or a foreign backpacker, this place has preserved the hidden beauty in the form of wide flora and fauna. With this guide, we are optimistic that you will navigate your journey in the safest and convenient way possible.
In case you are looking for a detailed tour package with personalised tour plans and comfortable accommodation, you can reach out to the Luxury Trails of India. With years of expertise in tourism, we offer unparalleled journeys to the hidden gems of India. Our tour packages include custom guides and luxurious services, making your cultural exploration unique and special. Waste no more time and connect with us for your journey to the wonders of India, an expedition to cultural heritage.
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