Chikmagalur

CHIKMAGALUR – KARNATAKA TRAVEL GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

Perched at a height of over 1900 meters in the lush green valley south of the Baba Bundan range, the tranquil town of Chikmagalur is decked with picturesque hills, emerald green forests, valleys, streams, stunning waterfalls and impressive temples nestled in the mountains. This well-known coffee town is ideal for trekking.

Situated in the southwestern part of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is 240 km from Bangalore, 170 km from Mangalore, 60 km from Hassan, and 40 km from Kadur.

History

Chikmagalur literally means The Younger Daughter’s Town. According to popular legend, this town was presented as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the famed chief of Sakrepatna.

How to Reach :

1.By Road :

Chikmagalur is well-connected by a vast network of roads to Bangalore and Mangalore.

2.By Train :

The closest railheads are at Kadur and Hassan.

3.By Air :

The nearest airports are at Bangalore and Mangalore.

Best Time to Visit :

The best time to visit Chikmagalur is between the months of September and March.

Places to Visit :

Baba Budan Range:

Situated north of Chikmagalur, this range, named after the Muslim saint Baba Budan, has one of the highest mountain peaks between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris.

Kondadarama Temple:

This temple is a gorgeous mix of Hoysala and Dravidian architectural styles.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral:

The prime attraction of this church is its eye-catching shell-shaped portico.

Sringeri:

This pilgrim center is known for the Vidyashankara Temple, which has 12 zodiac pillars. Sun’s rays fall on each pillar according to the time of the year.

Places around Chikmagalur

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthodi):

Located 38 km northwest, this sanctuary is home to animals like Gaur, Chital, Sambar, Elephants, Tigers, etc.

Kemmanagundi:

This scenic hill-station, 55 km north of Chikmagalur, is situated on the Baba Budan range at a height of 1,434 m. Positioned 8 km from Kemmanagundi are the Hebbe Falls, where the water cascades down a height of 168 m in two stages, and 10 km away is the Kalhatti Falls, gushing down from a height of 122 m. A local temple, built in a gap between rocks, can also be seen.