Top 5 Tourist Places in Chikmagalur
Below are the must-visit spots in Chikmagalur, with details to help you plan well. Each entry includes distance from Chikmagalur town (where relevant), what to expect, best visiting time, and special tips.
Mullayanagiri is the tallest peak in Karnataka, standing proudly at around 1,930 meters above sea level. It’s a part of the Baba Budan Giri mountain range in the Western Ghats. Known for its stunning beauty and peaceful surroundings, it’s one of the most visited Chikmagalur tourist places and a dream spot for trekkers, bikers, and nature lovers.
Distance from Chikmagalur town:
Around 16 km from Chikmagalur (takes about 40–45 minutes by road). Depending on the route you choose, it may range between 10 to 16 km. The drive is scenic, filled with sharp bends, cool breeze, and greenery on both sides.
Highlights:
Short trek (about 3–4 km from the parking point)
Panoramic view of the valleys, coffee estates, and nearby peaks
Beautiful sunrise and sunset points
Pleasant weather throughout the year
Small temple of Lord Shiva (Mullappa Swamy Temple) on top of the hill
Best time to visit:
October to March – The weather is clear, the view is breathtaking, and the temperature stays between 15°C to 25°C.
If you love misty clouds, you can also visit during monsoon (June–September), but the roads might be slippery.
Trek details:
The Mullayanagiri trek is short and beginner-friendly. You can park your vehicle near Sitalayanagiri temple and trek up about 3–4 km to reach the peak. The trail is well-marked and takes around 1–1.5 hours to reach the top.
Tips for visitors:
Carry water and light snacks; there are no shops at the top.
Wear proper shoes as the rocks can be slippery.
Start early morning to catch the sunrise (between 6–6:30 AM).
Avoid visiting during heavy rain due to fog and narrow roads.
On very clear days, you can even spot the Arabian Sea far in the distance!
Nearby attractions:
Sitalayanagiri Temple – A small temple halfway up the hill.
Baba Budangiri Hills – About 15 km away.
Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls) – Around 12 km away.
Hirekolale Lake – A peaceful sunset point 10 km from town.
Entry & Parking:
No entry fee is required to visit Mullayanagiri. Free parking is available at the base, but space is limited.
Why you should visit:
If you want to experience fresh mountain air, scenic views, and a short adventure, Mullayanagiri is the first place you should visit in Chikmagalur. It’s not only one of the top Chikmagalur tourist places, but also a perfect start to explore other nearby attractions in the region.
What it is:
Baba Budangiri, also known as Dattagiri Hill, is one of the most peaceful and scenic chikmagalur tourist places. It is named after Baba Budan, a Sufi saint who is believed to have brought the first coffee seeds to India from Yemen in the 17th century. Because of him, Chikmagalur became famous as the Coffee Land of India.
The hills are special because they are visited by people of all religions both Hindus and Muslims consider this place sacred. The mountain range is a perfect mix of nature and faith, offering a calm and soulful experience.
Distance from Chikmagalur town:
Around 33 km (takes about 1.5 hours by car). The journey passes through winding mountain roads filled with greenery, making the drive one of the best experiences in Chikmagalur.
Highlights:
Home to the shrine of Baba Budan / Dattatreya Peetha
Surrounded by green hills and coffee plantations
Perfect spot for sunrise and sunset views
A good destination for short treks and photography
Pleasant weather throughout the year
Nearby attractions:
Manikyadhara Falls: Just 3 km from the shrine, famous for its cool and clear water that is believed to have healing properties.
Mullayanagiri Peak: Around 12 km away, can be covered in the same trip.
Jhari Falls: Another scenic waterfall located nearby.
Best time to visit:
October to March – The weather stays pleasant and clear, ideal for sightseeing and photography.
Travel tips:
Carry warm clothes as it can get chilly in the evenings.
Try local coffee and snacks from small shops near the viewpoint.
Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit for misty views.
You can rent jeeps from Chikmagalur town for a comfortable ride.
If you’re looking for a place that combines natural beauty with spirituality, Baba Budangiri is a must-visit. The peace you feel here, along with the cool breeze and breathtaking views, makes it one of the top places to visit in Chikmagalur.
What it is:
Hebbe Falls is one of the most famous and breathtaking tourist places near Chikmagalur, located inside the beautiful Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. This stunning waterfall is hidden deep inside the forest and drops from a height of about 550 feet in two stages known as Dodda Hebbe (big fall) and Chikka Hebbe (small fall).
The water flows through thick forests and coffee plantations, making the journey as exciting as the destination itself. It’s one of those spots where nature feels completely untouched.
Distance from Chikmagalur town:
Around 65 km (takes about 2–2.5 hours by road).
How to reach:
Private vehicles are not allowed inside the forest area. You can take a forest jeep from the checkpoint (available near Kemmanagundi) to reach the falls. The jeep ride takes about 40 minutes through narrow forest paths and streams a real adventure!
Highlights:
Two-level waterfall surrounded by dense forest
Cool water and refreshing mist all around
Great spot for photography and short treks
Calm and pollution-free environment
Best time to visit:
October to February After the monsoon, the waterfall is full and the forest turns lush green. Avoid visiting during heavy rains as the roads may be slippery.
Tips for visitors:
Wear trekking shoes or sandals that grip well.
Carry a towel and extra clothes if you plan to play in the water.
Keep your camera safe as the area near the falls stays wet.
Jeep service charges are around ₹500–₹800 per person (both ways).
Don’t litter help keep this beautiful spot clean.
Nearby attractions:
Kemmanagundi Hill Station: Just 8 km away, great for sunset views.
Kalhatti Falls: Another waterfall you can visit on the same route.
If you want to see the wild side of Chikmagalur, Hebbe Falls is the place to go. Surrounded by green forests, it gives you the real feel of adventure and nature’s beauty. It’s one of the most popular chikmagalur famous places for both families and nature photographers.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply love being close to nature, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit near Chikmagalur. Spread across lush green forests and hilly terrains, this sanctuary is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. You might spot tigers, elephants, spotted deer, leopards, gaurs, and a wide range of colorful bird species, including hornbills and paradise flycatchers.
For adventure lovers, the jeep safaris conducted in the early morning and late evening are a thrilling way to explore the wild. The dense forests, misty hills, and sounds of nature create an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Apart from wildlife spotting, the sanctuary also offers scenic viewpoints, river streams, and trekking trails, making it a great destination for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Pro Tip: Always book your safari in advance through authorized operators to avoid last-minute hassle. Early morning rides offer the best chance to spot animals.
Located on the serene banks of the Tunga River, Sringeri Sharada Peetham is one of the most ancient and revered temples in South India. Established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, this temple town is a major spiritual center dedicated to Goddess Sharadamba, the goddess of wisdom and learning.
The temple’s architecture beautifully combines tradition with tranquility, offering visitors a peaceful and divine atmosphere. Surrounded by lush green hills and calm river waters, Sringeri is a perfect place to unwind your mind and soul.
Pilgrims and tourists alike are drawn to its ancient rituals, the stone carvings, and the soothing chants that echo through the temple premises. You can also sit by the riverbank and feed the sacred fish that are considered a symbol of prosperity.
Nearby Attraction: Don’t miss the hanging bridge near the temple it offers a scenic view of the river and the temple complex, especially during sunrise and sunset.
