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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CHIKMAGALUR FOR 1 NIGHT 2 DAYS

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CHIKMAGALUR FOR 1 NIGHT, 2 DAYS

Imagine this,  you leave the chaos of Bangalore behind, drive into winding roads flanked by lush green hills, and suddenly, you’re in Chikmagalur, the “Coffee Land of Karnataka.” Just one night and two days, yet it feels like stepping into a world where time slows down, the air smells like fresh coffee, and every corner invites adventure.

From hidden waterfalls to serene coffee estates, Chikmagalur for 1 Night 2 Days is all about making the most of every moment. Whether it’s a quick trekking trail, a peaceful café, or a sunset view that takes your breath away, this guide has got you covered for an unforgettable short escape.



What Makes Chikmagalur Special?

The word Chikmagalur literally means “younger daughter’s town” in Kannada. According to legend, it was given as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the legendary chief of Sakrepatna. Until 1947, this picturesque hill station was known as Kadur.

Today, Chikmagalur is celebrated for its lush coffee plantations, misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity that draws nature lovers from across the globe.

Why Visit Chikmagalur?

  • Highest Peak in Karnataka: Home to Mullayanagiri, standing tall at 1,925 meters
  • Coffee Heritage: Birthplace of coffee cultivation in India
  • Adventure Hub: Perfect destination for trekking enthusiasts and nature explorers
  • Rich Biodiversity: Houses the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary with tigers, elephants, and leopards
  • Sacred Sites: Baba Budangiri mountain range with holy caves revered by both Hindus and Muslims
  • Scenic Beauty: Pristine waterfalls, serene lakes, and sprawling coffee estates
Landscape of Chikmagalur
CHIKMAGALUR (IMAGE CREDITS)

Complete Chikmagalur Itinerary for 2 Days

Planning your Chikmagalur trip becomes effortless with this detailed day-wise itinerary. This 2-day Chikmagalur itinerary ensures you experience the best tourist places while maintaining a comfortable pace.

Day 0: Bangalore to Chikmagalur

Start your journey from Bangalore to Chikmagalur. The scenic drive takes approximately 4.5 hours, covering 243 kilometers. Reach your accommodation by evening, relax, and prepare for an exciting adventure ahead.

Mullayanagiri peak
MULLAYANAGIRI PEAK (IMAGE CREDITS)

Day 1: Mountain Peaks, Lakes, and Waterfalls

Morning: Mullayanagiri Peak Trek

Begin your Chikmagalur adventure with the crown jewel of Karnataka’s peaks. Mullayanagiri, standing at 1,925 meters, is the highest peak in Karnataka and the entire Krishna River basin. The name comes from Mullappa Swamy, a revered saint who meditated in a cave near the summit, where a small temple now stands.

What to Experience:

  • Moderately challenging trek through rugged Western Ghats terrain
  • Breathtaking panoramic views of rolling hills and valleys
  • Ancient temple dedicated to Mullappa Swamy at the summit
  • Perfect sunrise spot for early risers
  • One of South India’s most rewarding trekking experiences

Practical Information:

  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Best Time to Visit: 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM (start early to avoid heat)
  • Duration: 3-4 hours for the complete trek
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: 20 kilometers (45 minutes to 1 hour drive)

Afternoon: Hirekolale Lake

After conquering Mullayanagiri, head to the tranquil Hirekolale Lake. This picturesque man-made lake offers a perfect respite, surrounded by the Western Ghats and verdant coffee plantations. The serene setting makes it an ideal picnic spot and photography location.

Things to Do:

  • Capture stunning sunset photographs
  • Enjoy a peaceful family picnic by the lakeside
  • Bird watching (various species frequent the area)
  • Take leisurely walks around the lake perimeter

Practical Information:

  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden hour photography
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: 10 kilometers (easily accessible)

Travel to Kemmangundi

From Hirekolale Lake, make your way to Kemmangundi, one of Chikmagalur’s most beautiful hill stations. The drive itself is a visual treat with winding roads through coffee estates and forested areas.

Evening: Hebbe Falls

Located inside a sprawling coffee estate in Kemmangundi, Hebbe Falls is nature’s masterpiece. The waterfall cascades down 250 feet in two stages, creating Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls). The journey to Hebbe Falls is an adventure in itself.

How to Reach:

  • Option 1: 8-kilometer trek through scenic trails (for adventure enthusiasts)
  • Option 2: Four-wheeler ride through the coffee estate (easier route)

What to Experience:

  • Stunning cascading waterfalls amidst coffee plantations
  • Refreshing natural pool at the base (perfect for a dip)
  • Lush greenery and pristine environment
  • Wildlife spotting opportunities

Accommodation Options: You can either stay overnight at Kemmangundi to explore the area further or return to Chikmagalur town for your accommodation

Hebbe falls
HEBBE FALLS (IMAGE CREDITS)

Day 2: Spiritual Sites and Scenic Waterfalls

Morning: Baba Budangiri Trek

Start your second day with the sacred and scenic Baba Budangiri mountain range. This location is unique as it holds spiritual significance for both Hindu and Muslim communities, making it a symbol of religious harmony.

Historical Significance:

  • Named after Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalander, a 17th-century Sufi saint
  • Houses his shrine in a sacred cave on the hill
  • Also associated with Sri Dattatreya Swamy, believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva
  • Legend says Baba Budan brought coffee seeds to India from Yemen in the 17th century

What to Experience:

  • Moderate to challenging trekking trails
  • Visit the sacred shrine and caves
  • Panoramic views of the Western Ghats
  • Explore the historical and spiritual significance

Practical Information:

  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6:00 AM onwards)
  • Duration: 2-3 hours including trek
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: 35 kilometers northwest

Mid-Morning: Manikyadhara Falls

Just a short distance from Baba Budangiri, discover the enchanting Manikyadhara Falls. The name translates to “Stream of Pearls” in Kannada, perfectly describing how sunlight transforms water droplets into sparkling pearls.

Why It’s Special:

  • Considered holy by devotees visiting Baba Budangiri
  • Crystal-clear water cascading down rocky terrain
  • Spectacular natural beauty enhanced by sunlight
  • Peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation and reflection

Things to Do:

  • Take a holy dip in the sacred waters
  • Capture stunning photographs of the waterfall
  • Enjoy the serene natural surroundings
  • Experience the spiritual ambiance

Afternoon: Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls)

Conclude your Chikmagalur sightseeing with the magnificent Jhari Falls, locally known as Buttermilk Falls. Located 12 kilometers from Baba Budangiri, this natural wonder is surrounded by dense forests and aromatic coffee plantations.

What Makes It Unique:

  • Fed by multiple mountain springs
  • Surrounded by thick forest cover and coffee estates
  • Lesser-known gem with fewer crowds
  • Perfect spot for nature photography
  • Requires a short trek through scenic trails

Practical Information:

  • Entry Fee: Nominal (helps maintain the natural environment)
  • Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Distance from Baba Budangiri: 12 kilometers

Day 3: Chikmagalur to Bangalore

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Bangalore, carrying unforgettable memories of this enchanting hill station.

Complete List of Chikmagalur Tourist Places

While the 2-day itinerary covers the highlights, Chikmagalur has numerous other attractions worth exploring if you have more time:

Natural Attractions

  1. Mullayanagiri – Highest peak in Karnataka
  2. Kudremukh National Park – UNESCO World Heritage Site
  3. Hebbe Falls – Picturesque waterfall in coffee estate
  4. Baba Budangiri – Sacred mountain range
  5. Kallathigiri Falls – Serene waterfall with ancient temple
  6. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary – Tiger reserve and biodiversity hotspot
  7. Bhadra River – Perfect for fishing and riverside relaxation
  8. Kemmangundi – Hill station with stunning viewpoints
  9. Jhari Waterfalls – Hidden gem among coffee plantations
  10. Hirekolale Lake – Man-made lake with scenic beauty
  11. Z Point – Trekking destination with panoramic views
  12. Ayyanakere Lake – Largest lake in Chikmagalur

Cultural and Historical Sites

  1. Sharadamba Temple – Ancient temple in nearby Sringeri
  2. Coffee Museum – Learn about coffee history and processing
  3. Belavadi – Village with ancient Hoysala temples
  4. Sringeri Mutt – Important spiritual center
  5. Belur and Halebidu – UNESCO-listed Hoysala architectural marvels

Adventure Activities

  1. Yagachi Dam – Water sports and adventure activities
Jhari falls
JHARI FALLS (IMAGE CREDITS)

BEST TIME TO VISIT CHIKMAGALUR

It has a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit would be from September to May.
Average Temperature: March to June: 27-35°C, July to September: 18-26 °C, September to February: 14-32°C. 

PLACES TO VISIT IN CHIKMAGALUR

  1. Mullayanagiri
  2. Kudremukh National Park
  3. Hebbe Falls
  4. Baba Budangiri
  5. Kallathigiri Falls
  6. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
  7. Bhadra River
  8. Kemmanagundi
  9. Jhari Waterfalls
  10. Sharadamba Temple
  11. Coffee Museum
  12. Yagachi Dam
  13. Hirekolale Lake
  14. Belavadi
  15. Sringeri Mutt
  16. Z Point.

TREKS TO DO IN CHIKMAGALUR

The Western Ghats is one of the most beautiful places ever. It is known for its trekking spots. The Western Ghats are a paradise for a trekker. There is so much to explore. Trekking places in Chikmagalur are very scenic and blissful. There is an exotic collection of flora and fauna and you will love trekking amongst them.  Some of the great treks are:

  1. Mullayanagiri Trek
  2. Sakleshpur trek
  3. Kumara Parvatha trek

Kumara Parvatha Trek - Plan The Unplanned 12

HOW TO REACH CHIKMAGALUR

Bangalore to Chikmagalur: Google Map.

BY RAIL:
From Bangalore to Chikmagalur:

  1. Route : Bangalore- Tumkur – Arsikere – Kadur.
  2. Kadur is the nearest railway station to Chikmagalur.
  3. By Express Train 3 hours running time to Kadur.
  4. From Kadur, a 45 minutes journey by bus/taxi to Chikmagalur.
  5. If the train is off non-stop at Kadur, then Birur is the next nearest railway station.

BY ROAD:
Bangalore is connected with Chikmagalur via National Highway as well as State Highways. It takes 4 hr 27 min (243.2 km) via NH75, which is the best route to travel considering the time and traffic. 

BY AIR:

There is no direct flight connectivity from Bangalore. You have to take a flight to Mangalore (110 kilometres from Chikmagalur) and then the onward journey can be made via a prepaid taxi and will take about 3 hours to commute. 

WHAT TO EAT IN CHIKMAGALUR

The food here is yummy. Some of the most popular foods are, The Malnad version of the Akki roti, Kakadu, and other dishes prepared with coconut milk are the favourites among people. Some of the budget-friendly restaurants are Mysore Foodz, Mangala Family Restaurant and OneBite.

Plenty of luxury hotels are also available.

SHOPPING IN CHIKMAGALUR

The four best places for Shopping here are:

  1. Nature Craft- You can find artefacts fashioned from Coffee wood here.
  2. Panduranga Coffee 1938- You can buy the most authentic South Indian coffee powders here.  
  3. Market Road 
  4. The Spice Hub. 
  5. Along with coffee, the hill station is also famous for its rich and fragrant sandalwood, so make sure you buy some sandalwood idols or perfumes packed in cute little wooden boxes.

PLACES TO STAY IN CHIKMAGALUR

Budget-friendly options: 

  1. Hotel New Empire
  2. Chalukya Comforts
  3. OYO 9918 Sri Venkatesha Residency
  4. Manjunatha Residency
  5. Vishwas Guest Inn

Homestays: 

  1. Chikmagalur Homestay
  2. MOONMIST HOMESTAY
  3. Foothills homestay

Affordable holiday rentals: 

  1. TripThrill Kaveri Service Apartment.
  2. Bluebell Homestay.
  3. Holiday inn home

Luxury Hotels:

  1. The Serai.
  2. The Vintage
  3. Biranji- also has a dormitory.
  4. TRESCA
  5. Cherry House B&B
  6. Aura Homestays

HOW LONG SHOULD A TRIP TO CHIKMAGALUR BE?

2 days is sufficient for sightseeing but if you want to visit more places mentioned above or go on treks, you can stay back for a day or two. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

MAPS FROM MAJOR CITIES TO CHIKMAGALUR 

  1. From Mumbai to Chikmagalur
  2. Pune to Chikmagalur
  3. Bangalore to Chikmagalur

CLIMATE IN CHIKMAGALUR

It generally has a moderate to cool climate. The temperature however varies from 11-20 °C during winter to 25-32 °C during summer.

SPECIFIC THING THAT HAPPENS HERE OCCASIONALLY

The Neelakurinji or Strobilanthes Kunthiana is a shrub that is found along the Western Ghats in the Shola forests of South India. It is special because this flower only blooms once in 12 years.  It is very phenomenal and a beautiful sight to behold. They bloom in 40 different varieties, and a majority of them are blue (Neel) in colour. 

READ MORE:

  1. Kudremukh New Year Trek | Weekend Getaway by Plan The Unplanned 
  2. Neelakurinji Plant: 7 Reasons Why It Needs Our Attention at the earliest! 
  3. 10 Facts About the Western Ghats That You Didn’t Know 
  4. Ballalarayana Durga Fort and Bandaje Falls Trek Guide 
  5. 10 Best Offbeat Treks From Bangalore
  6. Plan A Trek to Kudremukh | Travel Blogs by Plan The Unplanned 
  7. 50 Amazing Weekend Getaways Around Bangalore To Explore 



2 Responses
  1. Coorg resorts

    Nice blog about How to reach chikmagalur and places to visit and things to do, very useful information.

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