Best Time to Visit
Chikmagalur in Winter Season: Chikmagalur's winter season lasts from December to February, when temperatures hover around 14°C. Winter is the busiest season for tourists in Chikmagalur, bringing in the most visitors. Although the evenings may become cooler, the weather is pleasant now, making it ideal for a local town tour. Visits to coffee plantations are very popular during the winter season in Chikmagalur.
Chikmagalur in Monsoon Season: Chikmagalur's monsoon season lasts from June to September, with an average annual rainfall of 1886 mm. Because this is the lean season in Chikmagalur, it is a perfect time to visit for anyone searching for deals and wanting to spend some time away from the tourist horde. If you don't like rain, now is the best time to visit the hill station, which has beautiful green meadows, meandering streams, tumbling waterfalls, and mist-clad summits.
Chikmagalur in Summer Season: Summer lasts from March to May; visiting Chikmagalur is a fantastic season since the weather is nice and the temperature does not surpass 35°C. While these may appear to be high temperatures, it should be emphasized that Chikmagalur is significantly cooler than its neighboring towns due to the mountainous topography and the cool air that sweeps in through the Palakkad gap of the Western Ghats. Its mild climate encourages people to stroll or hike the paths leading to stunning picturesque sites in Chikmagalur to avoid the plains' blistering heat.
How To Reach
By Air: The closest airport to Chikmagalur is Mangalore Airport, 150 kilometers away. Most Indian airports, including Chennai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Jaipur, Kolkata, Udaipur, and Mumbai, have direct flights to Mangalore. You may take a cab or bus from Mangalore to Chikmagalur.
By Train: Chikmagalur has its railway station (CMGR); however, it is well connected to other surrounding cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mangalore. As a result, the nearest railway stations to Chikmagalur are Kadur (45 kilometers), Hassan (56 kilometers), and Birur (51 kilometers). Passenger and express trains frequently run to Chikmagalur between Bangalore and Chennai.
By Road: Chikmagalur connects adjacent cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore, Belur, Kadur, Hubi, and Hassan. Frequent state government and private buses connect these cities. You can either use a taxi service or drive your vehicle.
Major Tourist Attractions
Z Point: Z Point in Chikmagalur is one of the top trekking locations in Karnataka, offering breathtaking views over the western ghats. It is 3 kilometers long and offers spectacular dawn and sunset views. Kemmagundi Raj Bhavan is the starting point, and Shanti waterfalls are located on the way to the peak.
Kemmangundi: Kemmangundi is a popular hill station in Chikmagalur, known for its panoramic vistas and gardens. It is also a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, with stunning waterfalls, bubbling streams, and green valleys. Raj Bhawan provides a stunning sunset vista, making it a photographer's dream.
Hebbe Falls: Hebbe Falls are the largest waterfalls in Chikmagalur, located 10 kilometers from Kemmangundi. They are divided into two sections: Dodda Hebbe, or Large Waterfall, and Chikka Hebbe, or Little Falls. Coffee farms can be seen on all sides, making for an ideal walking track up to the waterfalls. You can drive to the bottom if you travel with old individuals or little children.
Ballalarayana Durga Fort: A trek up to the secluded Ballalarayana Durga Fort, which sits on a lovely hill, is one of the most beautiful things to do in Chikmagalur. One of the best attractions in Chikmagalur is the charming settings, rolling hills, and vistas of the spectacular Western Ghats as you cross the countryside.
Belur: Belur is famed for its architectural magnificence, which will transport you back in time to experience the wonders of the Hoysala kingdom. The ancient city is located on the banks of the Yagachi River and is most known for its temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Chennakesava.
Baba Budangiri: Baba Budangiri is a revered mountain range named after the Sufi saint Baba Budan. Known for its stunning natural beauty, it offers trekking opportunities and scenic views of the surrounding hills. The Manikyadhara Falls nearby add to the allure.
Mullayanagiri: Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka, standing at 1,930 meters. This trekking destination offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The peak is known for its serene atmosphere, lush greenery, and the small temple at its summit.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to tigers, elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species. Visitors can enjoy safari rides, birdwatching, and exploring this protected area's rich flora and fauna.
Kudremukh National Park Kudremukh National Park is known for its bio-diverse ecosystem and rolling meadows. The park is a popular spot for trekking, with trails offering breathtaking views. The Kudremukh Peak is a prominent trekking destination within the park.
Hirekolale Lake Hirekolale Lake is a picturesque artificial lake surrounded by the Western Ghats. It's an ideal spot for picnics, photography, and witnessing stunning sunsets. The tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty make it a must-visit attraction in Chikmagalur.
Waterfall Rappelling Challenge yourself with waterfall rappelling adventures at places like Hebbe Falls. Descend the cascading waterfalls amidst lush greenery, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience.
Rock Climbing Engage in rock climbing expeditions at Mullayanagiri or nearby hills. Climb up challenging rock faces while enjoying panoramic views of Chikmagalur's landscapes.
Mountain Biking Explore Chikmagalur's scenic trails on a mountain biking adventure. Ride through coffee plantations, rugged terrains, and rolling hills, experiencing the thrill of off-road cycling.
Wildlife Safari at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Enjoy wildlife spotting tours in addition to forest safaris. Look out for diverse wildlife species like elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Night Safari Embark on a unique night safari experience in the jungles of Chikmagalur. Witness nocturnal wildlife activities and explore the wilderness under the starlit sky, offering a different perspective of the sanctuary's ecosystem.