Looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Look no further than Chikmagalur! With its lush greenery, stunning mountain ranges, and picturesque landscapes, this quaint town nestled in the heart of Karnataka is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
As one of the top tourist places in the state, Chikmagalur offers a wealth of tourism opportunities. From hiking and trekking in the mountains to exploring ancient temples and coffee plantations, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Some of the top tourist attractions in Chikmagalur include the Baba Budangiri Hills, the Mullayanagiri Peak, and the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can also take a stroll through the town’s historic bazaars and admire the stunning architecture of its temples and other cultural landmarks.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or visiting with family and friends, Chikmagalur is a destination that will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories. Don’t wait – start planning your next adventure today!
About Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a picturesque town located in the southwestern part of Karnataka, India. Situated at an elevation of 1,090 meters above sea level, the town is surrounded by the Western Ghats mountain range and is known for its stunning natural beauty, coffee plantations, and rich cultural heritage.
The history of Chikmagalur dates back to the 11th century when it was ruled by the Hoysala Empire. Later, the town was under the Vijayanagara Empire until it fell to the Mughals in the 17th century. In the 18th century, Chikmagalur was ruled by the Marathas and eventually became a part of the Kingdom of Mysore under Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan.
Chikmagalur gained prominence during the British era, when it became a popular hill station for the British officials stationed in India. The town also played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence, as it was here that the first revolt against the British in Karnataka took place in 1920.
Today, Chikmagalur is a thriving tourist destination known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the town’s historic landmarks and temples, go trekking in the mountains, or simply relax amidst the scenic coffee plantations. The town is also famous for its coffee, which is grown in the surrounding hills and exported to countries all over the world.
Architecture of Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a town situated in the Indian state of Karnataka, known for its scenic beauty, coffee plantations, and historical landmarks. The architecture of Chikmagalur reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region, which has been influenced by various dynasties that ruled the area over the centuries.
Hoysala Architecture:
- The Hoysala dynasty ruled over Chikmagalur in the 11th and 12th centuries, and their influence can be seen in the temple architecture of the region. The Hoysala temples are known for their intricate carvings, elaborate ornamentation, and unique star-shaped platforms. The most famous Hoysala temple in Chikmagalur is the Veera Narayana temple in Belavadi, which is known for its exquisite sculptures and carvings.
Islamic Architecture:
- The region was also ruled by various Muslim dynasties, including the Bahmani Sultanate and the Mughals, who left their mark on the architecture of Chikmagalur. The Jami mosque in Chikmagalur, built during the reign of the Bahmani Sultanate, is an excellent example of Islamic architecture in the region. The mosque features a large central dome, intricate arches, and elaborate calligraphy.
Colonial Architecture:
- The British ruled over Chikmagalur in the 19th century and left a lasting impact on the region’s architecture. The colonial buildings in Chikmagalur reflect the British influence and include structures like bungalows, churches, and government buildings. The St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Chikmagalur, built by the British in the 19th century, is an excellent example of colonial architecture in the region.
Traditional Architecture:
- The traditional architecture of Chikmagalur is characterized by the use of locally available materials like mud, stone, and wood. The traditional houses in Chikmagalur are usually built around a central courtyard and feature sloping roofs, verandas, and intricate woodwork. The traditional houses in the region are also known for their use of eco-friendly and sustainable building techniques.
Overall, the architecture of Chikmagalur is a fascinating blend of different styles and influences, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
40 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a scenic town in the Indian state of Karnataka that is known for its lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and coffee plantations. Here is a brief overview of the top 40 places to visit in Chikmagalur:
- Mullayanagiri: The highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
- Baba Budangiri: A pilgrimage site known for its ancient shrines and beautiful surroundings.
- Hebbe Falls: A picturesque waterfall located in the middle of the forest, offering a refreshing dip in the pool below.
- Kudremukh National Park: A protected forest area known for its diverse flora and fauna, trekking and bird watching.
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Another protected forest area famous for its tigers, elephants, and a wide variety of bird species.
- Kemmanagundi: A hill station known for its lush greenery, trekking trails, and beautiful waterfalls.
- Coffee Plantations: Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantations, which offer a glimpse into the local economy and way of life.
- Sharada Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Sharada, known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
- Hirekolale Lake: A serene lake surrounded by green hills, perfect for picnics and boating.
- Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple: A famous temple dedicated to the goddess Annapoorneshwari, known for its spiritual significance and stunning architecture.
- Jhari Waterfalls: A beautiful waterfall located amidst dense forests, offering a scenic trekking trail.
- Manikyadhara Falls: A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
- Z Point: A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Ballalarayana Durga Fort: A historic fort dating back to the 12th century, known for its stunning views and rich history.
- Sringeri Sharada Peetham: A famous pilgrimage site known for its spiritual significance and ancient temples.
- Kalhatti Falls: A beautiful waterfall located in the midst of dense forests, offering a refreshing dip in the pool below.
- Shanti Falls: A serene waterfall located in a quiet corner of the forest, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
- Honnamana Halla Waterfalls: A beautiful waterfall located in a picturesque valley, offering a scenic trekking trail.
- Kallathigiri Falls: A stunning waterfall located amidst lush green forests, perfect for a relaxing picnic or trek.
- Kadambi Falls: A hidden gem in the middle of the forest, offering a refreshing dip in the pool below.
- Hanuman Gundi Falls: A scenic waterfall located in a beautiful valley, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
- Bababudangiri Dattatreya Peetha: A pilgrimage site known for its ancient shrines and stunning views of the surrounding hills.
- Ayyanakere Lake: A serene lake surrounded by green hills, perfect for picnics and boating.
- Kote Kere Lake: A scenic lake located in the midst of the forest, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Kadambi Waterfalls: A picturesque waterfall located in a beautiful valley, offering a refreshing dip in the pool below.
- Belavadi: A historic town known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage.
- Halebeedu: Another historic town known for its stunning temples and rich history.
- Javagal: A quaint village known
- Kotebetta: A beautiful hill station known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
- Hirekolale Lake: A serene lake surrounded by green hills, perfect for picnics and boating.
- Ayyanakere Lake: A scenic lake located in the midst of the forest, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Hiremagalur: A small town known for its beautiful temples and scenic surroundings.
- Kadur: A historic town known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage.
- Koppa: A scenic town known for its coffee plantations and beautiful waterfalls.
- Magundi: A beautiful village known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage.
- Amruthapura: A historic town known for its stunning temples and rich history.
- Sringeri: A famous pilgrimage site known for its spiritual significance and ancient temples.
- Hornadu: A small town known for its famous temple dedicated to the goddess Annapoorneshwari.
- Mudigere: A scenic town known for its coffee plantations and beautiful surroundings.
- Baba Budan Giri Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected forest area known for its diverse flora and fauna, trekking and bird watching.
Weather and Best time to visit Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station located in Karnataka, India. It has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. However, the best time to visit Chikmagalur is from September to May, when the weather is cool and pleasant, and the rainfall is low.
The monsoon season in Chikmagalur starts from June and lasts until August. During this time, the hill station receives heavy rainfall, which can make it difficult to explore the outdoors. However, if you are a fan of lush green landscapes and want to witness the waterfalls in full flow, then monsoon season can be an ideal time to visit.
The winter season in Chikmagalur starts from December and lasts until February. The weather during this time is cold, with temperatures dropping to as low as 10°C. If you enjoy the cold weather and want to witness the beauty of Chikmagalur in the misty mornings, then winter season can be a good time to visit.
Overall, the best time to visit Chikmagalur is from September to May, when the weather is cool and pleasant. However, you can visit this beautiful hill station throughout the year, depending on your preferences and interests.
How To Reach Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a popular hill station in Karnataka, India, and is well connected to major cities in the state by road, rail, and air. Here are some of the ways to reach Chikmagalur:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Chikmagalur is the Mangalore International Airport, which is around 170 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Chikmagalur.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Chikmagalur is Kadur, which is around 40 km away. You can take a taxi or a bus from the railway station to reach Chikmagalur.
- By Road: Chikmagalur is well connected by road to major cities in Karnataka. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore, and other cities to reach Chikmagalur.
- By Self-Drive: If you have your own vehicle, you can take the NH75 (Bangalore-Mangalore Highway) to reach Chikmagalur. The road is well-maintained, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats along the way.
Overall, reaching Chikmagalur is easy and convenient, and you can choose the mode of transport based on your preferences and budget.
Accommodation Options in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka, India, and offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Here are some of the accommodation options available in Chikmagalur:
- Hotels and Resorts: There are several hotels and resorts in Chikmagalur that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation. Some popular options include The Serai, Gateway Chikmagalur, and Trivik Hotels & Resorts.
- Homestays: Chikmagalur is also known for its homestays, where you can stay with a local family and experience the culture and traditions of the region. Some popular homestays in Chikmagalur include Nature Craft Homestay, Java Rain Resorts, and Hunkal Woods.
- Luxury Resorts: If you are looking for a luxurious stay in Chikmagalur, then you can choose from several luxury resorts, such as Taj Gateway, The Gateway Resort, and Coffee County Resort.
- Treehouses and Cottages: For those who want to experience something unique, Chikmagalur also has treehouses and cottages that offer a rustic and charming stay amidst nature. Some popular options include Thippanahalli Estate, The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, and Honeydewwz Exoticaa Hotel & Resort.
Overall, Chikmagalur offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Chikmagalur As per Users Reviews and Ratings
- The Serai Chikmagalur: The Serai is a luxurious resort located amidst coffee plantations and offers excellent views of the hills. The resort has spacious and comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious food.
- Trivik Hotels & Resorts: Trivik is a beautiful resort located in the heart of Chikmagalur and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. The resort has well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious food.
- Taj Gateway: Taj Gateway is a luxurious resort located amidst lush greenery and offers a peaceful and serene stay. The resort has spacious and comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delectable cuisine.
- Java Rain Resorts: Java Rain is a beautiful resort located in the midst of coffee plantations and offers a luxurious and comfortable stay. The resort has well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious food.
- Flameback Lodges: Flameback Lodges is a beautiful homestay located in the midst of coffee plantations and offers a comfortable and peaceful stay. The homestay has spacious and well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves authentic local cuisine.
- The Gateway Resort: The Gateway Resort is a luxurious resort located amidst coffee plantations and offers stunning views of the hills. The resort has well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delectable cuisine.
- Eagle Eye Holidays: Eagle Eye Holidays is a beautiful homestay located in the midst of coffee plantations and offers a comfortable and serene stay. The homestay has spacious and well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves delicious food.
- Nature Craft Homestay: Nature Craft Homestay is a beautiful homestay located amidst lush greenery and offers a peaceful and comfortable stay. The homestay has well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves authentic local cuisine.
- Honeydewwz Exoticaa Hotel & Resort: Honeydewwz Exoticaa is a beautiful resort located amidst coffee plantations and offers a comfortable and luxurious stay. The resort has well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious food.
- Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Resort: Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Resort is a beautiful resort located amidst coffee plantations and offers a comfortable and serene stay. The resort has well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves delectable cuisine.
These are some of the top-rated and highly recommended hotels to stay in Chikmagalur as per user reviews and ratings. However, there are several other options available as well, depending on your budget and preferences. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Chikmagalur
If you are planning a trip to Chikmagalur, here are some travel tips that you should keep in mind:
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Chikmagalur is from September to May when the weather is pleasant and the temperature is moderate.
- Getting There: Chikmagalur is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by bus or private cab. The nearest airport is Mangalore Airport, which is about 150 km away, and the nearest railway station is Kadur, which is about 40 km away.
- Accommodation: Chikmagalur offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, including hotels, resorts, homestays, and treehouses.
- Local Transport: The best way to explore Chikmagalur is by renting a private cab or a scooter. You can also hire a local guide to take you around and show you the best places to visit.
- Food: Chikmagalur is known for its delicious South Indian cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and vadas. Make sure to try the local coffee, which is grown in the region and is considered one of the best in the country.
- Sightseeing: Chikmagalur is known for its stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, hill stations, and coffee plantations. Some popular tourist attractions include Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, Kemmangundi, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Clothing: Pack light cotton clothes and comfortable footwear for your trip to Chikmagalur, as the weather can be warm during the day.
- Safety: Chikmagalur is a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take basic precautions, such as not venturing out alone at night, avoiding secluded areas, and keeping your valuables safe.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can have a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Chikmagalur.
Food To Eat in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a foodie’s paradise and offers a range of delicious South Indian and local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try foods in Chikmagalur:
- Akki Roti: Akki Roti is a popular dish made with rice flour, onions, and spices. It is usually served with coconut chutney or tomato chutney.
- Neer Dosa: Neer Dosa is a thin and light crepe made with rice flour and water. It is usually served with coconut chutney or fish curry.
- Bisi Bele Bath: Bisi Bele Bath is a spicy rice dish made with lentils, vegetables, and spices. It is usually served with a dollop of ghee and papad.
- Mysore Pak: Mysore Pak is a popular sweet made with gram flour, sugar, and ghee. It is a must-try dessert in Chikmagalur.
- Kesari Bath: Kesari Bath is a sweet dish made with semolina, sugar, ghee, and saffron. It is usually served as a breakfast dish or a dessert.
- Pandi Curry: Pandi Curry is a spicy pork dish that is a specialty of Coorg cuisine, which is a neighboring district. It is usually served with rice or Akki Roti.
- Filter Coffee: Chikmagalur is known for its aromatic coffee, and you should not miss the chance to try the local filter coffee.
These are some of the must-try foods in Chikmagalur. You can also try other local delicacies like Idli, Vada, Dosa, and Sambar, which are available in almost all restaurants in the region.
Best Places for Shopping in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a great destination for shopping, especially if you are looking for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Chikmagalur:
- MG Road: MG Road is the main shopping area in Chikmagalur, and you can find a range of shops selling clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs. This is a great place to pick up some souvenirs to take back home.
- Baba Budangiri: Baba Budangiri is a mountain range near Chikmagalur that is famous for its coffee plantations. You can visit the local coffee estates and pick up some freshly roasted coffee beans to take back home.
- Kerehaklu Eco Retreat: Kerehaklu Eco Retreat is a beautiful eco-tourism destination near Chikmagalur. You can shop for handicrafts made by local artisans here, including pottery, bamboo crafts, and wooden sculptures.
- Handicraft Emporium: The Handicraft Emporium in Chikmagalur is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, including paintings, carvings, and textiles.
- Town Canteen: The Town Canteen is a popular restaurant in Chikmagalur that also sells local spices, coffee, and handicrafts. You can pick up some freshly ground spices and coffee beans here.
These are some of the best places for shopping in Chikmagalur. Make sure to bargain when shopping in local markets to get the best deals.
Things You Can Buy as a Tourist
Chikmagalur is a great place to buy souvenirs and local handicrafts. Here are some things that you should buy as a tourist from Chikmagalur:
- Coffee: Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantations, and you can buy some freshly roasted coffee beans or ground coffee as a souvenir. You can also buy coffee-related products like coffee mugs and coasters.
- Spices: Chikmagalur is also known for its spices like pepper, cardamom, and cloves. You can buy these spices at local markets or shops.
- Handicrafts: Chikmagalur has a rich tradition of handicrafts, and you can buy items like pottery, bamboo crafts, wooden sculptures, and paintings as souvenirs.
- Silk Sarees: Chikmagalur is also known for its silk sarees, which are made by local weavers. You can buy silk sarees in different designs and colors as a souvenir.
- Chikmagalur Honey: Chikmagalur honey is known for its unique taste and aroma. You can buy honey from local shops or bee farms as a souvenir.
- Sandalwood Products: Sandalwood is grown in the neighboring state of Karnataka, and you can buy sandalwood products like incense sticks, soap, and oil in Chikmagalur.
These are some of the things that you can buy as a tourist from Chikmagalur. Make sure to buy from authentic shops and markets to get the best quality products.
Nightlife in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is not known for its nightlife, as it is a relatively small and peaceful town that is more focused on nature and outdoor activities. However, there are a few places where you can enjoy a drink or two in the evenings. Here are some options for nightlife in Chikmagalur:
- Hotels and Resorts: Many hotels and resorts in Chikmagalur have bars and lounges where you can enjoy a drink or two in a relaxed and comfortable environment.
- Local Pubs: There are a few local pubs in Chikmagalur that serve drinks and snacks. These pubs usually have a casual and friendly atmosphere.
- Bonfire Nights: Many resorts in Chikmagalur organize bonfire nights where you can enjoy music, food, and drinks around a bonfire. These are great opportunities to socialize with other travelers and enjoy a fun evening.
- Coffee Shops: Chikmagalur is known for its coffee, and there are many coffee shops where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and some snacks in the evenings.
These are some of the options for nightlife in Chikmagalur. However, it is important to note that Chikmagalur is a quiet town, and there are no clubs or late-night parties. It is advisable to enjoy the natural beauty of the town during the day and have a relaxed evening with a drink or two.
Activities and Things to Do in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station located in Karnataka, India. There are plenty of activities and things to do in Chikmagalur. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Chikmagalur:
- Trekking: Chikmagalur is known for its beautiful trekking trails, including the Mullayanagiri trek, Kudremukh trek, and Baba Budangiri trek. These treks offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Coffee Plantation Tour: Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantations, and you can take a tour of the coffee estates to learn about the history and process of coffee cultivation.
- Wildlife Safari: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Chikmagalur, is home to a variety of wildlife including tigers, elephants, leopards, and deer. You can go on a wildlife safari to spot these animals in their natural habitat.
- Waterfall Visits: Chikmagalur is home to several beautiful waterfalls like Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls, and Kadambi Falls. You can visit these waterfalls to enjoy their natural beauty and take a dip in the cool waters.
- Sightseeing: Chikmagalur has several sightseeing spots like the Kudremukh National Park, Kemmangundi Hill Station, and the Hirekolale Lake. You can visit these places to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
- Yoga and Meditation: Chikmagalur is a great place for yoga and meditation retreats. You can participate in these programs to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body.
These are some of the top activities and things to do in Chikmagalur. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance to make the most of your time in this beautiful hill station.
Lesser Known facts about Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station in Karnataka, India, known for its natural beauty, coffee plantations, and trekking trails. Here are some lesser-known facts about Chikmagalur:
- Chikmagalur is known as the “Coffee Land” of Karnataka, as it is the birthplace of coffee cultivation in India. Baba Budan, a Sufi saint, is said to have brought seven coffee seeds from Yemen and planted them in the hills of Chikmagalur in the 17th century.
- Chikmagalur is home to the highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri, which stands at an altitude of 6,330 feet.
- The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Chikmagalur, is home to the endangered lion-tailed macaque, which is found only in the Western Ghats.
- The famous Hoysala temple, the Hoysaleswara Temple, is located in Halebeedu, which is about 85 km from Chikmagalur.
- Chikmagalur is also known for its historical significance, as it was ruled by various dynasties like the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas, and the Vijayanagara Empire.
- The town of Chikmagalur gets its name from the Kannada words “Chikkamagala” which means “younger daughter’s town”.
- Chikmagalur is a popular destination for birdwatchers, as it is home to over 200 species of birds, including rare and endemic species.
These are some of the lesser-known facts about Chikmagalur. It is a beautiful hill station with a rich history and natural beauty that is worth exploring.
FAQ about Chikmagalur
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Chikmagalur:
Q: Where is Chikmagalur located?
A: Chikmagalur is a hill station located in the state of Karnataka, India.
Q: What is the best time to visit Chikmagalur?
A: The best time to visit Chikmagalur is from September to May, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Chikmagalur?
A: Some popular tourist attractions in Chikmagalur are Mullayanagiri Peak, Kudremukh National Park, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
Q: What is the nearest airport to Chikmagalur?
A: The nearest airport to Chikmagalur is Mangalore International Airport, which is about 150 km away.
Q: How far is Chikmagalur from Bangalore?
A: Chikmagalur is located about 245 km from Bangalore, and it takes about 4-5 hours to reach by road.
Q: What are some popular activities to do in Chikmagalur?
A: Some popular activities to do in Chikmagalur are trekking, coffee plantation tours, wildlife safaris, waterfall visits, sightseeing, and yoga and meditation.
Q: What is the famous food of Chikmagalur?
A: Chikmagalur is known for its traditional Kannada cuisine, including dishes like akki roti, neer dosa, idli, vada, and sambar.
Q: What is the temperature in Chikmagalur?
A: The temperature in Chikmagalur ranges from 15-25 degrees Celsius, depending on the season. It can get quite chilly during the winter months (December-February).
