Top five places to visit in Chikmagalur

Of the many mountain resorts in Karnataka, Chikmagalur is undoubtedly one of the most popular places. During the summer months, many tourists visit the premises. The place offers so much variety that a visit to the mountain resort will be one of the most memorable trips of your life. There are the hills of the Western Ghats, lush vegetation, coffee plantations, etc. It is also called the coffee hub of Karnataka thanks to the magnificent coffee plantations. 

There are also pilgrimage centers, wildlife viewing sites and even many opportunities to practice adventure sports. When you visit Chikmagalur, among the many places, there are 5 must-see places, as shown below.

Kudremukh

The Kudremukh mountain ranges were turned into a national park in 1987 to protect the region's wildlife. Kudremukh means the face of a horse and names it because the Kudremukh hills look like a horse face. Karnataka's third largest peak, Kudremukh, offers breathtaking views of nature with its combined vegetation and wildlife. There are many trails surrounded by picturesque nature and offers a variety of trekking options for adventure seekers.

Trails crossing riverbeds and thick forests can be challenging, but for those who love adventure, it's a perfect hiking experience. Hikers will have to take the help of a local guide and get prior permission from the authorities.

Baba Budangiri

Named after a Sufi saint Baba Budan, it is the second highest peak of the state. The Chandradrona Parvatha Shreni or the summit of the crescent moon mountain is a sight to behold at the summit. It is the point of contact between Baba Budangiri Peak and Mullayanagiri Peak and resembles the shape of the crescent moon, hence its name.

You can also visit three caves that are actually the tombs of three saints. It is also a popular pilgrimage center. Hindus and Muslims go to Baba Budangiri to pay homage to these saints.

Mullayanagiri

Situated between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris, Mullayanagiri is the tallest mountain of the region and it is also the highest peak in the state with a height of 1,930 m. When you stand at the top and look around, you can view a breathtaking scene. It is a magical feeling to see the world from such a height and that too, an amazing view of the scenic beauty that surrounds the peak.

Mullayanagiri  is also a favourite destination for trekkers and many trekking enthusiasts visit the place for its amazing experience. The trekking to Mullayanagiri can be a little tricky and challenging as you will have to face strong winds that seem to be increasing at each gradient as you climb.

Kemmangundi

Watching gushing waters fall forcefully is something that every nature lover will adore and that is why a visit to Hebbe falls in Chikmagalur is something you should not miss. There are two phases in which the Falls have been divided into, one is the Big Falls referred to as Dodda Hebbe and other is the smaller Fall called as the Chikka Hebbe. With aromatic coffee plantations and lush green vegetation surrounding the Hebbe Falls, it is a great place to enjoy a lovely picnic with family and friends.

You can reach Hebbe Falls either by taking a vehicle or by a trek that lies at a distance of 8 kms. You start the trek at Kemmagudi. Since it is during the rainy season that Hebbe Falls can be found in their superb glory, that is the best time to visit it.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary 

Situated near the Bhadra River which flows through it, the Bhadra Wildlife sanctuary is most suited for spotting a variety of wildlife as it is home to many species of both flora and fauna. Since it is also a protected tiger reserve, you may also get to spot some majestic tigers at the sanctuary. You can also get to see many species of birds and reptiles as well.

Another sight that could captivate you are the abundant trees ranging from teak, rosewood and more. The sanctuary offers wildlife safaris for visitors, which is a great way to enjoy nature while spotting many wild animals and birds in their natural habitat. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is also known as the Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary which refers to the village located on its side.

It is not just birds and animals that attract tourists, but a variety of butterfly species too can be spotted at the sanctuary. No wonder, it is a very popular place for biologists and nature lovers alike. October to February is the best time to visit the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.