Things to do in Chikmagalur : Exploring the 'Coffee Land of Karnataka'

Taking a tour of the resplendent coffee plantations is one of the most essential things to do in Chikmagalur. Aside from reveling in the fresh aromatic smell of coffee beans and relaxing amidst the verdant green plantations, the estates owners arrange frequent tours where you can learn about the history of coffee and other details.

Located in Karnataka, Chikmaglur is a haven for adventure-seekers. River Bhadra originates in the Western Ghats and flows across Deccan Plateau through the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary providing rafters with a spectacular view of the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, quaint villages and plantations. It is fed by the tributaries Somavahini, Thadabehalla and Odirayanahalla. The rapids span out over a distance of 8 km and the rafting activity takes 1.5 hours to complete. Experiencing rafting here is one of the topmost things to do in Chikmagalur.

Kemmanagundi is one of the most popular hill stations and retreats in the area. The highest peak of Karnataka, Mullayanagiri, too is found here. Natural beauty take all shapes and forms here from streams, waterfalls, springs, forests to gardens. The area is also home to the Royal Horticulture Society of Karnataka and hence exquisite and well maintained gardens abound here. While in Chikmagalur, take a day trip to Kemmanagundi and visit the Rock garden, Z point, Hebbe falls, Kalahasti falls, Bababudan hill town and the Shiva temple. Be sure to include visiting here in your list of top things to do in Chikmagalur.

To the north of Chikkamagalur district of Karnataka, lies the Baba Budan Range of the Western Ghats of India. Baba Budangiri is a mountain in the Baba Budan Range and is renowned for its shrine to the Sufi Saint, Hazrat Dada Hayat Khalandar (also known as Baba Budan). This is a famous pilgrim site for both Hindus and Muslims and is often flocked by travellers. This famous mountain range is also known as Dattagiri Hill Range, as the shrine here is believed to be associated with Hindu God Guru Dattatreya. This mountain range proudly exhibits one of the highest mountain peaks, with altitude lying between that of the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. Be sure to include visiting here in your list of things to do in Chikmagalur.

Perched at an altitude of 1930 m above the sea level, Mullayanagiri peak is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range of Western Ghats. It serves as the highest peak between the Nilgiris and the Himalayas offering its visitors a relaxed environment with temperature ranging between 20 - 25 degrees Celsius. Known for its peaceful ambience and nature's raw beauty, this peak is adorned with verdant grassland, rugged rocks, and a good trek path; also, this destination is adorned with perfect trek trail. The starting point of this 4 km trek is Sarpadhari with steep trail and full of thrill. If you are an adventure enthusiast, you should definitely put this activity in your top things to do in Chikmagalur.

Situated amidst the huge mountain ranges covered in green with the lake in the backdrop, Hirekolale Lake has been able to gain a lot of prominence in becoming the favourite spot for travellers. The beauty of the lake enhances when visited during sunset as the saffron colour of the sunrays gets reflected thereby making the place appear magical. This exquisite manmade lake is situated at a distance of 10 km from Chikmagalur and visiting here is one of the best things to do in Chikmagalur.

Located in Chikmagalur, the Coffee Museum is a unique repertoire of the coffee business, right from growing to the brewing of the beans. This museum was built to reconstruct the thematic display of the history of coffee and the processes including picking, grinding and drying using which the bean was made. The museum offers one of the best coffee descriptions in the world. Except for a coffee tasting experience, it gives an all-inclusive experience. Visiting here is one of the top touristy things to do in Chikmagalur. Nestled in a lush green environment, a short stairway leads one towards the coffee encyclopedia.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kudremukh National Park is an extremely famous tourist spot in Chikmagalur, given the various sightseeing options as well as the outdoor activities, organized here. Along with several other things to do in Chikmagalur, this one definitely tops the charts. Safaris are carried out, where the tourists can experience the flora and fauna in their natural habitat. In a particular non-restricted section of this park, trekking can also be enjoyed by the visitors.

Among 35 waterfalls in Karnataka, the Hebbe Fall is the most exotic ones located in the Chikmagalur district in West Karnataka. This enchanted waterfall is housed in the beautiful Kemmangundi hill station, which is only 60 kms from Chikmagalur, thus offering a scenic road trip for the enthusiastic tourists. The water of Hebbe falls comprises medicinal herbs offering healing qualities, thus attracting a large number of tourists to come and have a dip in it. Apart from being one of the most picturesque tourist attractions in South India, the medicinal herbs also attract biologists and scientists. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Chikmagalur.

Covering a vast area of over 490 sq.kms, the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located only 38 km west of the Chikmanglur town in Karnataka. Surrounded by hills of the Western Ghats on all sides, the view of the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary looks like a scene right out of a movie! Experiencing jungle safari at the sanctuary is one of the prime things to do in Chikmagalur. Activities like Water-based adventures, trekking, island camping, bird watching and rock climbing are the added recreational things along with the wildlife viewing on jeeps. The reserve also provides an opportunity for a 3.5-km long nature trail at Muthod.

Nestled in Kemmangundi and offering exquisite views of the Western Ghats, Z Point is a vantage point which can be reached after undertaking a thrilling trek, thereby making it a must-visit place for all the adventure lovers out there. It is among the top exciting things to do in Chikmagalur. The trek is quite challenging, one also comes to beautiful surroundings and lush green valleys. Comprising of some of the deepest ravines, the trek to reach the Z Point is likely to offer you some of the best views of Kemmangundi. Listed amongst the most picturesque places to visit in Chikmagalur, Z Point is a magnificent sunrise and sunset point.

Coffee Shopping is one of the prime things to do in Chikmagalur. Almost essential is to take back home varieties of locally grown coffee beans and berries. Head to the National Coffee Research Station, to get your hands on some exclusive varieties. Apart from coffee beans, you can also purchase sandalwood for perfuming rooms or for other purposes.

Built in the modern Dravidian style of architecture, this temple is dedicated to the Goddess Sharada Parmeshwari, the Goddess of Knowledge. Visiting this temple is one of the popular things to do in Chikmagalur not just among the devotees but also among the tourists. The temple experience a large influx of pilgrims all through the year.

Jhari Waterfalls, also known as the Buttermilk Falls, is situated near Attigundi at a distance of 12 km from Baba Budangiri. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Chikmagalur district and one of the best tourist places in the district. Visiting here is also one of the top things to do in Chikmagalur. This mesmerising falls surrounded by dense forests and coffee plantations are created by the springs which originate in the mountains. There is pool too which has been formed in the lower part of the waterfall for the tourists to swim and play in the water and relax.

Located on the Baba Budan Giri Hills, this holy site is visited by Hindus and Muslims alike. The cave is believed to have provided shelter to Guru Dattatreya and Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalandar. Three day annual celebrations known as Urs are hosted here in the third month of the Islamic calendar. Hindu devotees visit during the Kartik poornima celebrations.

Being a national heritage site and one of the prime attractions in Karnataka, Belavadi is situated at a distance of 29 km from the town of Chikmagalur. A scenic village which is surrounded by green lands, trees, and tons of lush greenery makes it a perfect place for one to relax at. The village of Belavadi is believed to have a lot of historical significance due to the presence of the Veer Narayana temple which was constructed by the Hoysalas. If you have time at hand, you should definitely include visiting this place in your list of things to do in Chikmagalur.

Nestled amongst the backdrop of the exquisite Malnad Hills on the banks of River Tunga and established by Sri Adi Shankaracharya, Sringeri Sharada Peetham is named after the great Rishi Rishyashringa. The prime deity of the temple is Sharadhamba Devi. Managed by Adi Shankara Matha and formed as a trust, numerous social services take place in the temple. This Matha is considered to be one of the Advaita centres of authority and holds control over the Yajur Veda and the Krishna Yajur Veda amongst Smarthas who are the followers of the Advaita School.

Kalhatti Falls is the perfect combination for anyone seeking spirituality and serenity in a single location. Also known as the Kalahasti Falls, the Kalhatti Falls are situated in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. They are at a distance of 10 kilometres from the Kemmangundi hill station. The location has the infamous Veerabradeshwara Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The entire area is covered with greenery. Being situated close to the Chandra Drona hill, you can enjoy the view of the water pouring down from there too. If you are seeking serenity and peace, be sure to include visiting here in your top list of things to do in Chikmagalur.

Annapoorneshwari Temple, a mesmerising temple devoted to Goddess Annapoorna, is located at Horanadu which is at a distance of about 100 kilometres from Chikmagalur in the South Indian state of Karnataka. The temple is surrounded by dense forests and valleys of the Western Ghats and lies on the banks of the scenic River Bhadra. The location is an absolute treat for nature lovers. The grand, colourful entrance of the temple is breathtaking. As you walk up the stairs, you are sure to feel the spiritual atmosphere. As you proceed further, try to make that atmosphere a part of you and your prayers.