Kudremukh National Park

Kudremukh National Park

                     A vacation at the Kudremukh National Park is a different experience from all places to visit in Chikmagalur. This place is located about 96 km from Chikmagalur city. Located in the pristine environs of the Western Ghats, the park is located at an altitude of around 1800 metres above sea level. This high altitude presents multiple benefits. One of them is the climatic condition of this place. The national park has serene and mild weather even during the harshest summers in the state and it is one of the best Chikmagalur tourist spots.There is a hill here that is shaped like the head of a horse. In Kannada, a horse is called Kudre and the Kannada word for face is Mukha. Hence combining these two words, it becomes Kudremukh or horse’s face. The park is big. There are four sub-ranges here. The entire region is thickly covered with dense forests. There are tea and coffee plantations here in equal measure as well.                    This region comes under the aegis of the Global Tiger Conservation Priority-I. Given the impressive wildlife and flora in this place when on a Chikmagalur sightseeing expedition, this comes as no surprise. Three rivers originate at the Kudremukh National Park. They are namely Tunga, Bhadra, and Nethravati. There is an ancient cave in the park that has to be visited by devotees of Goddess Bhagavati. In this cave, her statue has been erected. This cave is visited by hundreds of pilgrims who come here to offer their prayers. When it comes to flora, the park has an impressive boutique of the best species of plants and flowers amongst Chikmagalur tourist places. The medicinal eucalyptus plant is found in abundance here. Grevillea Robusta is yet another flora species found in good numbers in the park. There is no dearth of wildlife too. The park is a complete jungle. Along with tigers, there are several other wild animals such as leopards, bears and gaurs. There are enough numbers of barking deer here. Spotted deer is ubiquitously found too.Best Time to visit: December to February are the best months to visit Kudremukh National Park Timings: The advisable time to visit here is from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm.                   

Read more
Mullayanagiri

Mullayanagiri

The highest peak in Karnataka is at Chikmagalur, called the Mullayanagiri. The height of this peak is close to 2000 metres. This peak is supposed to resemble a trekker’s backyard. Mullayanagiri has amazing trekking trails. Nature walks here are among the best in the country. Located 12 km from Chikmagalur, Mullayanagiri is the highest mountain between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. On top of the peak, there is a small temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, hundreds of Shiva devotees trek all the way up to offer their prayers. There is no doubt that trekking in this place is a memorable experience when compared to other places to visit in Chikmagalur. Even if you have done it once, the memories of it reverberate in your consciousness. The mountain beckons you to scale it yet again no matter where you are. The trekking expeditions have all the ingredients of an adventurous outing. Exotic flora characterises these nature trails. There are plenty of points that offer breathtaking views. As you walk diligently on these precarious hills, the cold wind smacks your face with each passing gradient. Although things can become tougher, they don’t become less enjoyable. In fact, you will relish the challenge. You are determined to make your way to the top. More than fulfilling your ego, it is curiosity that drives you. This mountain makes you curious and brings out the explorer in you. So you head to the top wanting to see more and more of the mountain. The best time to trek here is during the spring season. During the summer, the heat could get slightly exasperating although the region has good climatic conditions. During the monsoon, the trails are inundated with water. In Chikmagalur, it rains heavily during the monsoons. You may be blinded by thick sheets of rain. Worse, you might not be able to come out of your camp at all because of the heavy downpour.The highest peak in Karnataka is at Chikmagalur, called the Mullayanagiri. The height of this peak is close to 2000 metres. This peak is supposed to resemble a trekker’s backyard.Mullayanagirihas amazing trekking trails.Nature walks here are among the best in the country. Located 12 km from Chikmagalur, Mullayanagiri is the highest mountain between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. On top of the peak, there is a small temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, hundreds of Shiva devotees trek all the way up to offer their prayers.Height:Mullayanagiri is at an altitude of 1950 metres above sea levelTime to visit:One can visit here for the best experience from late September till early March.

Read more
Hebbe Falls

Hebbe Falls

Hebbe Fallsare yet another picturesque chikmagalur tourist places. The falls are accessed from Kemmangundi hill station. It is located 8 km from this hill station. The falls are surrounded by astonishing greenery. Dense forests, thick foliage, rich flora and hills encompass this region.Coffee plantations are sprawled across the expanses around the falls. Descending from a height of 168 metres, the falls are divided into two stages – the Big Falls and the Small Falls. Called Dodda Hebbe and Chikka Hebbe, the waterfall varies in height at these two regions. Moreover, one can enjoy the besthomestays in Chikmagalurwith family and friends.You reach this waterfall by an 8 km trek from Kemmangundi. The path is narrow and steep. Along the way, you see scenic wonders. But the effort to reach the Hebbe Falls is worth it. From a distance you can hear the sounds of splashing water, heightening your sense of suspense and excitement.Hebbe Falls form an ideal location to experience a calm holiday in the backdrop of nature of all the Chikmagalur tourist places. It is the perfect location to unwind and distress. If you are bored and tired of the daily grinds of the city, visiting these falls every now and then recharges your energies.One of the best features of these falls is that the water is infused with herbs. It is like a natural jacuzzi with exotic herbs mixed into the water. So take a dip in these healthy waters and feel the difference. Become one with your natural surroundings. You will also find various adventurous activities around.During the monsoon, the waterfall becomes voluminous and makes thunderous sounds that can be heard from afar.The site of the falls is used by people for family picnics.The dense forests and coffee plantations in the surrounding regions present opportunities for trekking andcamping in Chikmagalur. The weather is serene and mild throughout the year. This aspect makes it an ideal location to escape from the heat and into a much cooler place.Best Time to visit:The winter months from October to January is the best time to visit Hebbe Falls.

Read more
Baba Budangiri (Datta Peeta)

Baba Budangiri (Datta Peeta)

Datta Peeta is also known as Chandra Drona Parvatha. It has several high mountain rises. This place is among the most important tourist places in the Baba Budan Giri range. The mountain got the name of the Muslim saint who is believed to have offered prayers at this place. This range is very prominent in Chikmagalur's list of places to visit. It is an attractive sightseeing beautiful place. Among these, Mullayanagiri is the highest peak. The place rises to about 1900 meters. Three caves can be seen here. The Earth has three Siddhas buried in it who are said to be religious prophets. A yearly ritual is conducted in these caves. When at the Baba Budan Giri mountain range, visit these caves. The landscape of this place is incredible. This place, the temple, and the Caves are beautiful and attract many visitors. A lamp is lit on the occasion of Deepawali or in the Dussehra and Ramnavami festive seasons.Here stands the lamp. The Sri Guru Dattatreya Bababudanswamy Darga can also be frequented. Dargah is a quite ancient establishment. It was the best during its Time.. Hindus and Mohammedans gave the highest accord to this darga. Dattatreyaswamy considers a cave in this locality to be consecrated. He claims that he and Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalandar used to reside in this cave. This cave. Thus, this place is considered sacred, and individuals tend to come here to pray. The Datta Peeta, as it is referred to along with other locations, is devotedly worshipped. An unmarried man performs it. In the Peeta, an annual ceremony called the Urs is performed. The Time of the Peeta is normally after the holy festival. The Baba Budangiri range has a special distinction. The first coffee plantation on this mountain was grown in the Chikmagalur region. On these sylvan slopes, many coffee plantations still exist. You can indulge in several adventurous activities which you can perform in Chikmagalur. Height: It is at an altitude of 1895 meters. Best Time to Visit: Visiting here from September to March is best.

Read more
Kallathigiri Falls

Kallathigiri Falls

TheKalhatti Fallsis where nature wraps you in its charm. Over here you experience the elements of nature as pure, refreshing and charming as they come. The magnetism of this waterfall is evident when you see it at close quarters. The surrounding regions of the falls are revitalizing. It makes for a refreshing round of nature walks.There is so much possible here and it is one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur. You are in nature’s most verdant backyard. Located near Kemmanagundi, the Kalhatti Falls have all the blessings of nature. They are located in a pristine environment. The backdrop is numerous mountains and dense foliage.You visit this place to make a pilgrimage of relaxation and fun. This is the best place for such activities amongst places to visit in Chikmagalur. There is a small temple in the vicinity. This temple is sandwiched in the waterfalls. The temple has idols and stone structures. Throughout the year, devotees visit this place and offer their prayers here.Not only are the falls a place for fun and devotion, they are full of trekking trails as well. Trekking in Chikmagalur is a very popular activity. There are impressive trekking trails that meander through dense foliage. Offering plenty of sightseeing attractions, the regions around the falls make for ideal locations for camping too.There is a trail around the cascade that lets you trek all the way up and atop the falls. This is the perch point from where you can see the waters descend at full throttle.There are adjoining attractions around the Kalhatti Falls. Z point is oneThen there is Rock Garden which is yet another scenic place with plenty of things to do and see.Hebbe Falls can be visited as this cascade is in this region. It is 10 km from these falls. You can trek all the way if you are fit or opt for some transportation. The natural beauty of the surroundings never makes you feel tired and you are always asking for more.Best Time to visit:Tourists are recommended to visit this place from September to February

Read more
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

A protected area and Project Tiger area, this wildlife sanctuary is home to a number of wild animals and birds. The flora and fauna that you find here is exotic and worth watching.Every minute at theBhadra Wildlife Sanctuaryis value for time and money and it is one of the best Chikmagalur tourist places. The sanctuary is located between the Chikmagalur and Shimoga districts. It is about 35 km from Chikmagalur town. The sanctuary has a large tiger population. Once inside the sanctuary, you can visit the Kallahathigiri Mountain. This peak is at a height of 1800 metres. Some other hills in the sanctuary are Kemmannugundi and Bababudan Hills. All around you are impressed with unparalleled beauty.The uninterrupted splendour of this place is evident from the lush greenery that pervades the sanctuary. The Bhadra River flows through the sanctuary and hence the name Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.Deciduous trees are found in abundance over here. The forests are usually damp at most times. They reverberate with vitality. On location are more than a hundred species of tree. Some of the trees found here are teak, rosewood, mathi and kindal. The lofty hills and unending vegetation never cease to amaze you.Also called the Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary, this sanctuary is known for its wildlife safari. You can see tigers in their natural habitat on these expeditions. Private jeep safaris can be arranged. In each safari, accompanying the visitors are forest officials.These professionals entertain guests with interesting anecdotes about forest life. They also explain about the behaviour and lifestyle of wild animals. You will be intrigued with the depth of information you get that makes this place amust visit in your Chikmagalur tour.There are close to 250 species of birds at the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. You can go on specialised bird watching expeditions. Ornithologists accompany you. They know which birds are found in which part of the jungle.Although it is difficult to see reptiles you could get lucky and see a king cobra or a pit viper. There are even marsh crocodiles in this sanctuary and you can spot them lying along the banks of small water bodies. Best Time to visit:October to March is the best time to visit Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Read more
Bhadra Dam

Bhadra Dam

A major landmark in Chikmagalur, Karnataka is theBhadra Dambuilt on the river Bhadra, a tributary of the famous Tungabhadra River. The dam became more powerful after people in the region started using the water for irrigation purpose as well as producing electricity to the towns and the villages nearby. The dam was commissioned in 1965. The river originates at Samse in the mighty Western Ghats and then it starts flowing towards east across the Deccan Plateau and it is one of the finest places to see in Chikmagalur.Its major tributaries of it are the Somavahini, Thadabehalla and Odirayanahalla. Bhadra flows through the city of Bhadravathi and the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. Then it meets the Tunga at River at good and the combined river flows to the east as Tungabhadra.The Bhadra Dam constructed on the river is 1.5 kilometres from Lakkavalli village and 50 kilometres upstream of the confluence of the Bhadra and Tungabhadra Rivers.Shimoga city is located very close to the dam and it drains a catchment area of 1968 square kilometres. The water from the dam helps several industries and urban and rural settlements sustain themselves. Bhadra River basin receives an average rainfall of 2320 mm annually. The tourist attraction near the dam is the river and the wildlife sanctuary that accommodates rare species of fauna like red spurfowl, emerald dove, imperial green pigeon, mesh crocodiles, hill mynahs, gaurs, painted bush quail, black woodpecker, wild boar etc. Many other tourist locations and destinations are closely located to the dam like Kudremukh, Mullayanagiri and much more.There are no specific timings to visit the dam though there would be some definite timings to enter the wildlife sanctuary. Before you plan to visit the sanctuary, make a quick inquiry about the timings to avoid last-minute confusion. Best Time to visit:The best time to visit here is during the monsoon months of the year Timings:It is advised to visit here from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Read more
Sharadamba Temple

Sharadamba Temple

Sharadamba Templededicated to the deity believed to be the goddess of knowledge. This goddess, it is said, improves one's ability to gather information. People of all age groups come to offer their prayers, and places like these to visit in Chikmagalur are deemed the best. Until the early 20th century, the temple was completely built of wood. However, after a fire broke out and damaged the structure, the Sharadamba Temple became a typical South Indian temple. There was an old image of the goddess made of sandalwood. It was replaced by a golden version and kept inside the Sharadamba Temple. It was the simple shrine at the Time of Adi Shankaracharya, and the Sharadamba Templeserves thousands of devotees nationally and internationally who come here to worship today. Initially, Adi Shankaracharya decided to take this place as a gurukul. He taught the tenets of Hinduism from this location to his disciples. Once, he was walking on the Tunga River when he saw a cobra. The serpent’s head was raised. The serpent was providing shelter to a spawning frog from the hot sun. This was an amazing sight. He decided to stay here, and he did stay for twelve long years. The Sharadamba Templeis one of the holiest in the state amongst places to visit in Chikmagalur. Parents bring their children to seek the blessings of the goddess. Students attempting important examinations come here to seek blessings. Anyone in the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge can come here and seek the blessings of the goddess. This is a relevant activity, considering that this place was originally used to teach disciples. Hence, this place is all about religion and learning. Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit this temple is during the Navratra festival.

Read more
KEMMANAGUNDI

KEMMANAGUNDI

Kemmangundihill station is located in the Tarikere Taluk.Kemmangundihill station is situated at an elevation of about1400 metres. Also known as the Sri Krishnarajendra Hill Station, Kemmangundi was frequented by kings as a summer retreat centre. Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV started this trend during his time of visiting this place in the summers.When Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV first came here, he was awestruck at the magnificent Baba Budan Hills in the backdrop and it is one of the amazing places to see in Chikmagalur.He wished to build a resort in Chikmagalur. He then handed over this resort to the Government of Karnataka. In fact, it was donated to the government as an act of generosity.The Department of Horticulture now oversees and maintains this place. Given this fact,Kemmangundiis a beautiful and outstanding hill station.The gardens laid out in this region are landscaped to perfection. Surrounding Kemmangundi are magnificent mountains, hills and valleys. The scenic beauty on offer is spectacular. You cannot ask for anything better. There is a guest house named Raj Bhavan in the vicinity. Amust-visit attractionis the Rose Garden. The Raj Bhavan is used by visitors to experience beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The view of this magnificent routine of nature is best observed from here.Another interesting place of visit is the Z point. Being a vantage point, you need to trudge upon an inclined plane for close to an hour to get here. This is yet another place to view the sunrise and sunset.If you went uphill, then you need to go downhill to the Hebbe Falls. 8 km from Raj Bhavan, these falls are two-tiered.Descending from a height of over 150 metres, the falls are a sight to remember and cherish.You can also visit the Kallathi Falls, found about 10 km from the hill station. These falls have religious significance.Height:It is at a height of 1434 metres above sea level Best Time to visit:The months from September to May remain the most pleasant time to visit here

Read more
Manikyadhara Falls

Manikyadhara Falls

Manikyadhara Falls is a very popular tourist place. The Baba Budan Giri Hills being nearby, theManikyadhara Falls is perfect for some quality time with your family.. The beauty of trekking trails surrounds this entire area. Open grounds provide camping sites as well. Manikyadhara Falls are in Shola Forest. It is a perennial water cascade. Manikyadhara Falls is always available at all times of the year. This is characterized with beautiful surroundings and greenery. There is a legend behind Manikyadhara Falls. Saint Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalandar came to this place. He had four disciples with him. They were searching for water. Because they did not find even a drop of water there, they requested the almighty to help them. Suddenly, their prayers were fulfilled. A cascade fell from a great height. This is the reason why that cascade is held holy by many people. The devotees make a silent prayer in front of Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalandar during the visit. The people of the area bathe in the water, believing it to have curative powers. A special feature about this Manikyadhara Falls is the temperature of the water. Even during the summer season, the temperature of the water is cold. If you want to experience waterfall water at its coldest, then take a dip in the pond here. The experience is rejuvenating. The Manikyadhara Falls are frequented by Muslims from all over the country. It is considered a pilgrimage site for Muslims. Everyone who bathes in these waters leaves back a piece of their garment. They do this so that their wishes are fulfilled by the saint God. Pilgrims offer prayers here for a variety of reasons. One among them is to find alliances for unmarried girls who are finding it difficult to get good grooms. The falls are a fantastic place amongst places to visit in Chikmagalur given that it is holy and at the same time a fun place to be in. So you get a unique experience when you visit this place. Best Time to visit: September to May is the best time to visit here

Read more
Kadambi Falls

Kadambi Falls

The Kadambi Falls is the essence and mood of Chikmagalur. This mystic area is full of naturalistic splendors. The Kadambi Fallsare a place to visit and encounter. You must feel the pure water touch your skin. Experience the purest elements of nature in a world surrounded by great greenery. These attributes of Kadambi Falls have engrossed local and international visitors. What is famous in Chikmagalur is the mineral content available in this hill station of Kudremukh. Therefore, this town is more famous for its iron ore mining than a place that has a national park. Kudremukh is where three rivers have their tributaries. They are the Bhadra, Tunga, and Nethravati Rivers. There are impressive trekking trails in this hill station. If you do come to the Kadambi Falls, make sure to visit the Kudremukh region. One of the highlights of this region is the orchids. There are several varieties of them. You can visit any of these orchids with permission from their owners. See and experience how these orchids are maintained. Kudremukh is also a place of dense jungles when on Chikmagalur sightseeing. Several wild animals are found in these jungles. Some are leopards, tigers, Malabar barking deer, and wild dogs. When at the Kadambi Falls, don’t be surprised if you see jackals in and around the region at dawn or dusk. Generally, these wild animals won’t come near human beings. Still, it is best to stay in groups when at the waterfall. After you visit Kadambi Falls, you can visit Rajendra Hill, which is nearby. The hill is enveloped in coffee plantations. It presents an idyllic setting for trekking, camping, and relaxation. Height: 30 feet

Read more