Here’s a detailed 3-day itinerary for exploring Chikkamagaluru (Chikmagalur), along with a comprehensive table of top attractions, their popularity, average time spent, and entry fees.
Day 1: Peaks, Waterfalls & Coffee Culture
- Morning:
- Mullayanagiri Peak
- Start your day early with a trek to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka. The hike offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and is a serene spot for sunrise.
- Baba Budangiri
- Visit this sacred mountain range known for its coffee plantations and the shrine of Sufi saint Baba Budan. The area offers panoramic views and is a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.
- Mullayanagiri Peak
- Afternoon:
- Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls)
- A short trek leads to this perennial waterfall, believed to have healing properties. It’s a tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery.
- Hirekolale Lake
- Conclude your day with a visit to Hirekolale Lake, a serene spot perfect for relaxation and photography, offering views of the surrounding hills.
- Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls)
- Evening:
- Coffee Museum
- Explore the Coffee Museum to learn about Chikmagalur’s rich coffee heritage and processing techniques.
- Coffee Museum
Day 2: Waterfalls, Wildlife & Hill Stations
- Morning:
- Hebbe Falls
- Begin your day with a visit to Hebbe Falls, located inside a coffee estate. The waterfall cascades from a height of 551 feet and is surrounded by dense forests.
- Kemmangundi
- Visit Kemmangundi, a hill station near Chikmagalur, known for its scenic gardens, waterfalls, and trekking trails.
- Hebbe Falls
- Afternoon:
- Z Point
- After Hebbe Falls, head to Z Point for a moderate trek that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Ayyanakere Lake
- Visit Ayyanakere Lake, one of the largest lakes in the region, known for its serene environment and boating opportunities.
- Z Point
- Evening:
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- End your day with a visit to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area and tiger reserve offering opportunities for jeep safaris and wildlife spotting.
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 3: Historical Temples & Scenic Views
- Morning:
- Kudremukh National Park
- Explore Kudremukh National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
- Hanuman Gundi Falls
- Visit Hanuman Gundi Falls, a beautiful waterfall located within the Kudremukh National Park.
- Kudremukh National Park
- Afternoon:
- Veera Narayana Temple, Belavadi
- Visit the Veera Narayana Temple in Belavadi, an exquisite example of Hoysala architecture.
- Sringeri Mutt
- Conclude your trip with a visit to the Sringeri Mutt, an ancient Hindu monastery located on the banks of the Tunga River.
- Veera Narayana Temple, Belavadi
Top Attractions in Chikmagalur
| Place | Popularity | Avg. Time Spent | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mullayanagiri Peak | Very High | 2–3 hours | Free |
| Baba Budangiri | High | 1–2 hours | Free |
| Jhari Falls | High | 1–2 hours | Free |
| Hirekolale Lake | High | 1 hour | Free |
| Coffee Museum | Moderate | 1 hour | ₹20–₹50 |
| Hebbe Falls | Very High | 1.5–2 hours | ₹50 (entry) + ₹590 (jeep) |
| Kemmangundi | High | 2 hours | Free |
| Z Point | High | 1.5 hours | Free |
| Ayyanakere Lake | Moderate | 1.5 hours | Free |
| Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary | Very High | 2 hours | ₹300–₹400 (jeep safari) |
| Kudremukh National Park | High | 3–4 hours | ₹100–₹200 (entry) |
| Hanuman Gundi Falls | Moderate | 1 hour | Free |
| Veera Narayana Temple | Moderate | 1 hour | Free |
| Sringeri Mutt | High | 1.5 hours | Free |
Notes:
- Hebbe Falls requires a jeep ride from Kemmangundi, which costs approximately ₹590 per person.
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary offers jeep safaris at ₹300–₹400 per person.
- Kudremukh National Park requires an entry fee of ₹100–₹200 per person.
- Coffee Museum provides insights into Chikmagalur’s coffee heritage and is a great spot for enthusiasts.