2 Days in Chikmagalur for a Nature Trip

Kick off your Chikmagalur trip with its most famous spots—coffee plantations, misty hills, and stunning viewpoints. Today is all about soaking in the natural beauty and getting a taste of the local coffee culture.

Activities

Mullayanagiri Peak Sunrise Trek

Start your day early with a trek to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka. The 3 km trek is moderately challenging but rewards you with breathtaking sunrise views over the Western Ghats. The cool morning breeze and the sight of rolling hills covered in mist make it worth the effort.

Mullayanagiri Peak, about 20 km from Chikmagalur townStart at 5:00 AM to catch the sunriseFree (if self-guided); around ₹500-800 for guided treks

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes—the trail can be slippery.
• Carry water and a light jacket; it gets chilly at the top.

Coffee Plantation Tour

Chikmagalur is the birthplace of Indian coffee, and no visit is complete without a plantation tour. Walk through lush estates, learn about coffee processing, and sample freshly brewed local coffee. Many plantations also offer homestays with authentic Malnad-style meals.

Popular plantations: Tata Coffee Plantation or Hoysala Village10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (best after the trek)₹200-500 per person (includes tasting)

Tips:

• Ask about 'peaberry' coffee—a rare local variety.
• Buy beans directly from the estate for the freshest take-home coffee.

Baba Budangiri Drive & Manikyadhara Falls

After lunch, take a scenic drive to Baba Budangiri, a serene mountain range dotted with caves and shrines. Stop by Manikyadhara Falls, where legend says the water has healing powers. The short walk to the falls is lined with stalls selling roasted corn and fresh fruit.

Baba Budangiri Hills, about 30 km from Chikmagalur2:00 PM - 6:00 PMFree (nominal parking fee)

Tips:

• Try the local 'kadlekai' (peanut) chutney sold near the falls.
• The drive is winding—motion sickness pills help if you’re prone to it.

Must Try Foods

A mix of scenic spots and local experiences, from waterfalls to village life, wrapping up your Chikmagalur trip with its quieter charms.

Activities

Hike to Hebbe Falls

A steep but rewarding trek through dense forest leads to this two-tiered waterfall, where the water is said to have medicinal properties. The misty plunge pool is perfect for a quick dip (if you don't mind cold water!). Best visited early when the light filters magically through the trees.

Hebbe Falls, near Kemmangundi (45km from Chikmagalur town)Start by 8:30am to avoid afternoon crowds₹50-100 per person for forest entry, ₹300-500 for jeep ride to trailhead

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes - the trail has loose rocks
• Carry snacks; only basic tea stalls at the starting point

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Safari

Spot tigers, leopards, and elephants in this lush sanctuary along the Bhadra River. The afternoon safari increases chances of sightings near watering holes. Local guides share fascinating tidbits - like how to identify pugmarks or the alarm calls of langurs.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, 38km northwest of Chikmagalur3:30pm safari slot (book a day prior)₹400-600 per person (includes guide and jeep)

Tips:

• Binoculars are handy for birdwatching
• Wear muted colors to blend in

Evening at Hirekolale Lake

Wind down at this serene lake framed by coffee estates and the Western Ghats. Locals come here to picnic at sunset when the water turns golden. Try your hand at fishing with the villagers (they'll gladly show you how!), or just sip chai from the stall near the bund.

Hirekolale Lake, 10km from Chikmagalur town5:00pm onwards for sunset viewsFree (chai costs ₹10-20)

Tips:

• Weekends get crowded with photographers
• The lake's edge gets muddy - avoid white shoes!

Must Try Foods