Chikmagalur, known as the “Coffee Land of Karnataka,” is a serene hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers, offering scenic landscapes, coffee plantations, and trekking trails. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Chikmagalur has something for everyone.
At Weekend Yaari, we organize weekend trips from Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Vijayawada, and Chikmagalur is one of our top picks. Here are the best places to visit in Chikmagalur:
1. Mullayanagiri Peak
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka, offering stunning panoramic views of the Western Ghats. It’s a popular spot for trekking, and the view from the top is truly mesmerizing. The cool breeze and misty surroundings make it a great place for adventure seekers.
2. Baba Budangiri
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
Baba Budangiri is another beautiful hill and is famous for its scenic beauty and caves. It’s named after the saint Baba Budan, who brought coffee to India. The caves are a sacred pilgrimage site, and the trek offers breathtaking views.
3. Hebbe Falls
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹400 for a jeep ride from Kemmangundi to the falls
- Best Time to Visit: October to February (Post-monsoon for the best waterfall view)
Hebbe Falls is a beautiful waterfall hidden deep in the forest. The waterfall cascades down in two stages and is surrounded by lush greenery. You’ll need to take a jeep ride through the forest to reach the falls, making the journey an adventure in itself.
4. Z Point
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
Z Point is a scenic trekking destination offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The trek to Z Point is moderate and passes through lush green valleys and steep cliffs, making it ideal for adventure lovers.
5. Kudremukh National Park
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹200 per person (Trekking permit additional)
- Best Time to Visit: November to May
Kudremukh National Park is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. The park is home to several species of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and deer. You can enjoy a peaceful trek while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding forests and rivers.
6. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:30 AM, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Jeep Safari)
- Entry Fee: ₹400 per person for the jeep safari
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to experience the wilderness. You can take a jeep safari and spot elephants, leopards, and various species of birds. The sanctuary is also famous for its beautiful landscape with rivers and forests.
7. Hirekolale Lake
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Hirekolale Lake is a peaceful and scenic spot perfect for a relaxing evening. Surrounded by hills and greenery, the lake offers beautiful views, especially during sunset. It’s a great place for photography and nature lovers.
8. Jhari Waterfalls
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹600 for a jeep ride to the falls
- Best Time to Visit: September to January
Jhari Waterfalls is a hidden gem surrounded by coffee plantations and dense forests. You need to take a jeep to reach the falls, which makes the journey exciting. The water cascades down from a height, and the pool below is perfect for a refreshing dip.
9. Belur Temple
- Timings: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
Belur Temple is a historic site known for its intricate architecture and sculptures. It’s one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture and is a must-visit for those interested in history and art. The detailed carvings on the temple walls are impressive.
10. Yagachi Dam
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (₹200 for water sports)
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Yagachi Dam is a great spot for water sports and adventure activities like kayaking, jet-skiing, and banana boat rides. The dam is surrounded by beautiful scenery, and it’s a fun spot to spend some time with family and friends.
Plan Your Chikmagalur Trip with Weekend Yaari
At Weekend Yaari, we offer weekend trips to Chikmagalur from Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Vijayawada. Our trips are designed to showcase the beauty of Chikmagalur while ensuring you have a memorable and hassle-free experience.
Contact us today to plan your next weekend’s adventure and explore the beauty of Chikmagalur!