Chikmagalur
( Karnataka )
Introduction
Chikmagalur — the coffee land of Karnataka — is a refreshing hill destination where misty mountains, lush coffee plantations, waterfalls, dense forests, and peaceful trails create a perfect escape from city life.
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Chikmagalur is famous for its aromatic coffee estates, scenic peaks like Mullayanagiri, serene temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and breathtaking viewpoints.
From early morning plantation walks, cool weather, hidden waterfalls, adventurous treks, to calm sunsets over rolling hills — Chikmagalur offers nature, adventure, and relaxation in equal measure.
Chikmagalur is not about rushing through sights — it’s about slowing down and breathing in nature.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Karnataka, South India |
| Best Time to Visit | September–March |
| Ideal Duration | 2–4 Days |
| Famous For | Coffee plantations, hills, waterfalls |
| Nearest Airport | Mangalore / Bangalore |
| Nearest Railway Station | Kadur |
| Local Transport | Taxis, bikes, jeeps |
| Language | Kannada, English, Hindi |
| Altitude | ~3,400 ft |
Destination Overview
Chikmagalur lies in the Western Ghats and is divided into:
Town Area
Markets, cafés, hotels, temples & local life.
Coffee Estate Region
Plantations, homestays, scenic walks & nature stays.
Hill & Forest Zone
Peaks, wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls & trekking routes.
It’s ideal for couples, nature lovers, photographers, and weekend travelers.
Top 11 Attractions in Ziro Valley
1. Mullayanagiri Peak
Famous For: Highest peak in Karnataka
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
At 6,330 ft, Mullayanagiri offers panoramic views of misty hills and valleys.
Tips:
• Visit early morning for clouds & sunrise
2. Baba Budangiri (Dattagiri Hills)
Famous For: Sacred caves & views
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
A spiritual and scenic mountain range linked to coffee’s history in India.
Tips:
• Jeep ride recommended
3. Coffee Plantations Walk
Famous For: Estate experiences
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
Guided walks through lush estates explaining coffee cultivation & tasting.
Tips:
• Stay at a plantation homestay
4. Hebbe Falls
Famous For: Tiered waterfall
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
Expanded Description:
A powerful waterfall hidden inside forest, accessible by jeep or trek.
Tips:
• Wear non-slip footwear
5. Kallathigiri Falls
Famous For: Cave waterfall
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A waterfall cascading over rocks near a small cave temple.
Tips:
• Best after monsoon
6. Hirekolale Lake
Famous For: Sunset views
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A calm reservoir surrounded by hills — perfect for photography.
Tips:
• Evening visits are magical
7. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Famous For: Wildlife & nature
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Home to elephants, birds, leopards & rich forest life.
Tips:
• Book safari in advance
8. Z Point Trek
Famous For: Valley views
Timings: Daytime
Expanded Description:
A short trek offering panoramic landscapes & cool breeze.
Tips:
• Combine with Mullayanagiri
9. Manikyadhara Falls
Famous For: Sacred waterfall
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
A seasonal waterfall near Baba Budangiri, popular with pilgrims.
Tips:
• Visit during post-monsoon
10. Kudremukh Viewpoint (Nearby Extension)
Famous For: Grassland hills
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Rolling green hills, trekking routes & stunning Western Ghats scenery.
Tips:
• Requires forest permission for trekking
11. Belavadi Temple
Famous For: Hoysala architecture
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A 12th-century temple with intricate stone carvings & calm surroundings.
Tips:
• Ideal for heritage lovers
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. Local Food
Local homestay meals
2. Café Spots
The Estate Café
Coffee Barn Café
3. South Indian Food
Sri Annapoorneshwari Hotel
Hotel Mayura
How to Reach
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Hills & Views
Mullayanagiri
Baba Budangiri
Manikyadhara Falls
Sunset Viewpoint
Day 2 – Waterfalls & Coffee
Coffee Plantation Walk
Hebbe Falls
Kallathigiri Falls
Hirekolale Lake
Day 3 – Nature & Heritage
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Belavadi Temple
Local café hopping
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800–2500/night |
| Food | 200–500/day |
| Local Travel | 300–800/day |
| Entry Fees | ₹20 – ₹500 |
| Jeep Safari | Extra |
Hidden Gems of Ziro Valley
1. Devaramane Hills
Stunning sunset views.
2. Jhari Waterfalls
Calm water body surrounded by hills.
3. Silent Coffee Estate Stays
Panoramic valley scenery.