Imagine starting your day with the rich, warm and exotic smell of coffee and views of verdant green hills or dense forests or the sound of a playful waterfall – that’s Chikmagalur for you! At an elevation of 1090 m, this quaint hill station is also known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’. Picturesque trails, lush grasslands, breath-taking waterfalls and lakes, exciting wildlife sanctuaries and architectural beauties dot the length and breadth of Chikmagalur to satiate travellers of every kind. Whether you are seeking a bit of adventure, want to pump up your adrenaline, or hope to unwind and let go of that everyday stress, exploring this hill station will do the trick. So, read on to know more about the top 25 places to visit in Chikmagalur.

Tourist Places in Chikmagalur:

1. Kodandarama Temple

An exemplary piece of Dravidian architecture, the Kondandarama Temple attracts devotees of Lord Rama. Inside the temple, the idol of Rama is flanked by Sita on the right (as the place is believed to be where Rama got married) and Lakshmana on the left. Constructed in three phases (possibly in the 14th, 16th and 17th centuries), the temple’s sukhanasi and garbhagrha structures are reminiscent of the Hoysala style of architecture. The rest, however, is Dravidian. Apart from religious tourists, photography and architecture buffs can look forward to an interesting time here.

  • Best time to visit: February and March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • Timings: 5 am to 12 pm
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Fly to Mangalore Airport and then take a taxi to reach the temple.
    • By Train: Reach Kadur Junction first and then hire a cab.
    • By Road: You will get plenty of government or private buses from Mangalore or Bangalore. Once you reach Chikmagalur, take a cab.

Find out about 30 stunning hill stations in South India

2. Mahatma Gandhi Park

Mahatma Gandhi Park is the perfect example of what happens to a wild forest when a bit of order and aesthetics is introduced in it. Whether you are desperately seeking some quiet me-time or want to have a good time with your partner or don’t know what to do with a bunch of cheeky kids, head to this park. Beautifully maintained lawns, elegant trees, more than 300 kinds of flowers, neatly paved paths and quaint seats make this place a world of delight. The Nehru Rose Garden here is home to more than 250 types of rose plants. Spend some time by the serene lotus pond and click pictures. You can also go for a fun ride on the toy train. 

  • Best time to visit: September to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • Timings: 10 am to 6:30 pm
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Flying to Mangalore Airport and then getting a taxi is the best thing to do.
    • By Train: You can first reach Kadur Junction and hire a taxi next.
    • By Road: Reach Chikmagalur from Mangalore or Bangalore by boarding a state or private bus. Then, you need to take a cab.

3. Coffee Museum

Remember how we told you that Chikmagalur is the place to be if you are a coffee connoisseur and cannot function without this hot, rich and aromatic beverage? This is why the Coffee Museum features on the list of places to visit in Chikmagalur. It will give you a clearer picture of how coffee beans are dried, roasted, tasted, graded, grounded and brewed. You will discover little details like what kind of soil is favourable for coffee and what kind of technology is used to craft the finest blends. A movie-like experience, complete with sets, documentaries and presentations, awaits you here. From unique facts about coffee and ancient traditions to various cultural practices and the story of real farmers who grow this “magic bean”, this cosy museum showcases it all. 

  • Best time to visit: September to March
  • Timings: 10 am to 7 pm (Saturday and Sunday closed)
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: After flying to Mangalore Airport, you can easily get a taxi.
    • By Train: You can reach Birur, Tarikere or Kadur railway stations and then hire a cab.

By Road: Driving down from Mangalore or Bangalore is easy. Or, board a bus from either of these places to reach Chikmagalur and then take a taxi. 

4. Hirekolale Lake

Hirekolale Lake

#4 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

Yearning for tranquillity away from the mad rush of city life? A trip to Hirekolale Lake, surrounded by the charming Western Ghats, can feel like therapy. It was originally built to provide drinking water to Chikmagalur. Though manmade, the expansive lake is a soothing sight, with a bridge projecting across it, so that tourists can walk up to the middle of the lake and click beautiful photos. The gazebo-like structure at the end of the bridge is an especially photogenic spot, from where you can enjoy sunsets and the sight of Mullayanagiri Hills.   

  • Best time to visit: September to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Fly to Mangalore Airport and then hire a cab to reach the lake.
    • By Train: Once you reach Kadur Junction, take a taxi.
    • By Road: KSRTC buses are available aplenty from different parts of Karnataka to take you to Chikmagalur. Then, you can hire a cab.  

Places to visit near Chikmagalur (within 50 km)

5. Ayyanakere Lake (18 km from Chikmagalur)

Ayyanakere Lake

#5 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

Tired of visiting touristy places? How about you give tranquil Ayyanakere Lake a try? Set against the scenic and conical Shakunagiri Hills, it is comparatively untouched and away from the madding crowd. The ruler of Sakharayapatna village, Rukmangada Raya, is believed to have built this lake. Then the Hoysala Kings renovated it in 1156 A. D. Today, multiple villages depend on this lake for their agricultural needs, and the water supply is more than enough for 1560 hectares of land. There are 10 canals to distribute the lake’s water efficiently. You can camp around this lake, click some wonderful photos or try your hand at fishing. 

  • Best time to visit: September to February
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can hire a cab after you fly to Mangalore Airport.
    • By Train: Once you reach Kadur Junction, you can take a taxi.
    • By Road: Board a government or private bus from Mangalore or Bangalore to reach Chikmagalur. Then, hire a cab.

6. Seethalayanagiri (19 km from Chikmagalur)

Whether you are someone who is always looking for ways to connect with nature, yearning for peace and solitude, or love the high that trekking offers, Seethalayanagiri must feature on your Chikmagalur itinerary. At a height of 1524m, it is a picturesque, green hill that is easy to climb from a designated parking lot. Moreover, this is one of those attractions where the journey is as amazing as the destination. As you drive along the serpentine roads across Chandra Drona Hill to reach Seethalayanagiri, the views around will take your breath away. Once you reach the peak, you will come across pretty wildflowers and vibrant orchids too. You can also seek divine blessings at the Seethala Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, where the Shiv Linga is surrounded by water at all times.    

  • Best time to visit: September to February
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: After you fly to Mangalore Airport, take a taxi to reach Seethalayanagiri parking lot.
    • By Train: Reach Kadur Junction first and then hire a cab.
    • By Road: You can reach Chikmagalur from Mangalore or Bangalore by boarding a private or state-run bus and then hiring a cab.

7. Jhari Waterfalls (22 km from Chikmagalur)

Also known as Buttermilk Waterfalls owing to its appearance, Jhari Waterfalls is a dream-come-true for those who love nature’s virgin beauty. It usually takes a kilometre-long trek to reach the waterfalls from where the actual road ends. However, it adds to the thrill. Surrounded by fragrant tea and coffee plantations as well as cliffs, this waterfall is a scenic retreat. The pool formed at its bottom is ideal for splashing around or unwinding. 

  • Best time to visit: August to January
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You will easily get a taxi from Mangalore Airport, but for the last 5 km stretch, you need to hire a private jeep as the road becomes challenging.
    • By Train: You have to reach Kadur Junction first and then hire a cab. To cover the last 5 km, you can hire a jeep or trek.
    • By Road: You can drive to Chikmagalur from Bangalore or Mangalore and then hire a jeep.

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8. Kavikal Gandi Viewpoint (23 km from Chikmagalur)

Gorgeous views can transform even the dullest of days, and any passionate traveller knows that. This is why Kavikal Gandi Viewpoint or Horse Shoe Viewpoint has earned a special place in Chikmagalur. On the road between Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri, there is a check post, from where you can reach the viewpoint by climbing just 50 steps. The weather here is usually pleasant and the surroundings a vivid green, with a gentle wind blowing in your hair as you scale your way to the top. An idol of Lord Hanuman at the base of the hill and a painting of Swami Vivekananda at the top add character to this tourist hotspot. From the summit, you can view the Chandra Drona mountain range in all its glory. 

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Fly to Mangalore Airport and take a cab from there.
    • By Train: First, reach Kadur Junction, and then hire a cab to reach this viewpoint.
    • By Road: You will get private or state buses from Bangalore or Mangalore to Chikmagalur. Then take a taxi. Or, you can drive down from Bangalore or Mangalore.

9. Mullayanagiri Peak (23 km from Chikmagalur)

Trekking to the highest peak in Karnataka (at 1930 m) is sure to be a thrilling experience, especially if you like challenges, and are ready to take the old Sarpadari trail. Or, if you want, a flight of 464 steps made of stone and concrete can take you to the summit. Mullayanagiri Peak is dedicated to Mulappa Swamy, who supposedly meditated in the caves that are a few feet below the peak. As you climb the hill, you will get the chance to admire the lively greenery all around and breathe clean air. Try and catch the sunset from the top and treasure the moment on your camera.

  • Best time to visit: September to April
  • Ideal duration: 3 hours (approx.)
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Fly to Mangalore Airport (157 km away) and then hire a taxi.
    • By Train: Board a train from KSR Bangalore to reach Birur Junction and then hire a cab.
    • By Road: Hire a taxi from Bangalore, or board a bus from Bangalore to reach Shimoga and then hire a taxi.   

10. Belur (26 km from Chikmagalur)

Belur Math

#10 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

A prominent stronghold of the Hoysala Empire from the 11th to 14th century, the small town of Belur fascinates tourists with its history and legends. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Chennakeshava Temple is the chief attraction here. Often compared to Khajuraho, the towering temple is intricately carved and a photographer’s delight. Inside it, the Narasimha Pillar, 30 feet tall, is especially eye-catching. Also known as Velapuri or Velur, Belur is home to Vishnu Samudra as well, which deserves a visit, especially if you are a nature lover.

  • Best time to visit: October to April
  • Ideal duration: 1 day
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Get a taxi after you fly to Mangalore Airport.
    • By Train: Once you reach Hassan Railway Station, hire a cab to reach Belur.
    • By Road: Buses ply regularly from Chikmagalur, Hassan, and Kadur to reach Belur.

11. Belavadi (29 km from Chikmagalur)

Belavadi

#11 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

This quiet and quaint village, according to legend, is where Bheema (one of the Pandava princes) vanquished and killed Bakasura, a demon. Today, it draws architecture and history buffs with its ornately carved and sprawling Veera Narayana Temple that dates back to a time when the Hoysalas were in power. Made of soapstone, this gorgeous Vaishnava temple has three shrines, each boasting a different image of Lord Vishnu. Intricate carvings, life-like sculptures, elaborate lintel decorations and unique ceiling arts make this temple Insta-worthy.  

  • Best time to visit: October to April
  • Ideal duration: 1 day
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Fly to Mangalore Airport and then hire a cab.
    • By Train: Reach Devanur Railway Station first and then take a taxi.
    • By Road: Board a bus from Mangalore or Bangalore to reach Chikmagalur and then hire a taxi.

12. Baba Budangiri (33 km from Chikmagalur)

Does a challenging trek give you the high you need to move ahead in life? Then your Chikmagalur sightseeing itinerary must include a trek to Baba Budangiri’s peak (at 1895m). You can start from Attinagundi or Sarpadhari and then find your way through dense shola forests, gorgeous grasslands and some harsh rocky stretches. Apart from clicking amazing pictures, you can explore ancient caves, admire waterfalls, and camp under the sky along your trail. If you plan your trip between July and December, you might get lucky enough to see kurinji flowers in full bloom. However, they flower only once in 12 years, but, when they do, they cloak the hillside in stunning shades of blue. Even religious tourists, both Hindus and Muslims, trek to Baba Budangiri shrine at the top, for a unique spiritual experience.    

  • Best time to visit: September to April
  • Ideal duration: 3 hours (approx.)
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Hire a taxi after flying to Mangalore Airport.
    • By Train: Reach Birur Junction from KSR Bangalore and then hire a taxi.
    • By Road: Hire a taxi or board a bus from Bangalore, to reach Shimoga, and take a taxi then.   

13. Manikyadhara Falls (33 km from Chikmagalur)

If anyone says they are not enchanted by nature, they haven’t had a look at Manikyadhara Falls yet. When the sun kisses this gorgeous waterfall, its droplets sparkle like pearls, and hence, the name. All you have to do is climb down a flight of 200 steps to admire the dazzling beauty of these falls and take a dip in the cool waters that locals and pilgrims believe to be holy and curative. In fact, according to legend, Baba Budan, the Sufi Saint, was searching and praying for water, when this waterfall came into being. 30 feet in height, it soothes your soul with its Insta-worthy surroundings. You can also enjoy breathtaking views of the Western Ghats from the falls. 

  • Best time to visit: September to May
  • Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Take a taxi after flying to Mangalore Airport to reach this waterfall.
    • By Train: Reach Kadur Junction and then hire a taxi.
    • By Road: You can board a KSRTC bus from any part of Karnataka to reach Chikmagalur, and then hire a taxi.

14. Doddabale Siddaragudda Peak (50 km from Chikmagalur)

If the thought of trekking through fragrant coffee plantations and beautiful green forests sets your heart racing, Doddabale Siddaragudda Peak deserves your attention. From the summit, which is 1676m above sea level, it offers mesmerising views of Bhadra Lake, Baba Budangiri Hills, Yemmdedoddi Village and Lakeville Dam. You can also admire an 800-year-old Shiva Temple once you reach the top. The peaceful surroundings make this an ideal spot for admiring sunsets and photographing nature’s untouched beauty as well.              

  • Best time to visit: November to March
  • Ideal duration: 3 – 4 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: After flying to Mangalore Airport, get a cab.
    • By Train: First reach Kadur Railway Station and hire a taxi then.
    • By Road: Reach Chikmagalur from Bangalore or Mangalore via a private or state bus and then take a taxi.

Read about 22 best waterfalls to see in India

Places to visit near Chikmagalur (above 50 km)

15. Kemmangundi (53 km from Chikmagalur)

Kemmangundi

#15 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

At an elevation of 1434m, Kemmangundi once acted as the summer getaway for Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. A paradise for nature lovers, this hill station is surrounded by Baba Budangiri Range, and is a delightful concoction of mountain streams, untamed greenery, gently undulating valleys and ornamental gardens. You can soak in unforgettable sunsets from Raj Bhavan or go for a steep trek to reach Z Point if you want to watch the sun come up. From Z Point, you can also photograph the Western Ghats in all its panoramic glory, while a cool breeze kisses your face. No wonder, it is counted as one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur for 2 days.    

  • Best time to visit: September to May
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 days
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: First you need to fly to Mangalore Airport. Then, hire a cab.
    • By Train: Once you reach Tarikere Railway Station, take a taxi.
    • By Road: Board a private or state-run bus to reach Chikmagalur from Mangalore or Bangalore. Then, hire a taxi.

16. Kallathigiri Falls (53 km from Chikmagalur)

You can soak in nature’s magnificence, quite literally, at Kallathigiri Falls, which is one of the most intriguing places to see in Chikmagalur. With water rushing wildly from about 400 feet and down the Chandra Drona Mountains, this waterfall is a marvel indeed. An overhanging ledge is the best part here, as you can stand right under it and feel the water pound on you. Locals believe that these waters have healing powers as well. The surrounding rocks and lush flora appeal to photography enthusiasts, peace-lovers and even trekkers. You can seek divine blessings at the Veerabhadra Temple here, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and creates a unique setting.

  • Best time to visit: April to June
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can fly to Mangalore Airport and then board a direct bus or hire a taxi.
    • By Train: Reach Birur Junction and then hire a taxi, auto, or board a bus.
    • By Road: You can simply drive from Chikmagalur or even Mangalore or Bangalore.

17. Hebbe Falls (65 km from Chikmagalur)

Hebbe Falls

#17 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

Nestled in a beautiful coffee estate, Hebbe Falls is a sensory delight, with water gushing from a dizzying height of 551 m. The earthy smell of coffee plantations and the sight of intensely green forests are sure to overwhelm nature lovers. A trek to the two-stage falls can make for a fun and adventurous experience, after which you can sit on a rock and relax, take a rejuvenating dip in the water, or click memorable pictures. 

  • Best time to visit: October to January
  • Ideal duration: 3 – 4 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Fly to Mangalore Airport and then hire a taxi.
    • By Train: Take a train to reach Birur Junction from Bangalore and then hire a taxi.
    • By Road: Board a bus from Bangalore to reach Birur town and then hire a local taxi. Or, you can drive from Bangalore too.

18. Madu Gundi Falls (70 km from Chikmagalur)

Are you eager to experience the thrill of off-roading against Chikmagalur’s vivid green backdrop? Then a trip to Madu Gundi Falls is recommended. The rhythmic gurgle of this scenic waterfall will calm your senses after that exciting jeep ride you take to reach it. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool it forms, have a picnic (without littering), and spend quality time with your loved ones in a lush setting. Don’t forget to take some stunning pictures with the waterfall in your background. A visit during the monsoon season or right after will help you admire the true power of the falls. 

  • Best time to visit: June to September
  • Ideal duration: 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can fly to Mangalore Airport and then hire a taxi to reach Sunkasaale. Then hire a jeep.
    • By Train: Reach Kadur Junction first and then take a taxi to reach Sunkasaale. Next, hire a jeep.
    • By Road: Reach Chikmagalur by boarding a bus (state or private) from Mangalore or Bangalore. Hire a taxi to reach Sunkasaale and then hire a jeep.

19. Ballalarayana Durga Fort (70 km from Chikmagalur)

When the only way to reach a lonely, ancient, and mysterious hilltop (1509m) fort is by trekking, the excitement is almost palpable. And there lies the allure of Ballalarayana Durga Fort, which is usually shrouded in mist and bears testimony to the Hoysala Empire. It will take you about 4 hours to trek through the dense forests that grow on the slopes of the Western Ghats, to reach the unique fort. The once-gorgeous structure, built as per the Karnata Dravida architectural style, is now completely dilapidated. However, you can cherish the panoramic views of Sunkasaale town from here. The peace, quiet and lush greenery around the fort make for amazing pictures. If you can, try and watch the sun go down from here and camp for a night. 

  • Best time to visit: Mid-November to May
  • Ideal duration: 6 – 8 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: First fly to Mangalore Airport, then take a taxi to reach Sunkasaale, from where the trek starts.
    • By Train: After you reach Kadur Junction, hire a taxi to reach Sunkasaale.
    • By Road: You can board a state or private bus from Mangalore or Bangalore to reach Chikmagalur. Then get a taxi to reach Sunkasaale.

20. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (79 km from Chikmagalur)

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

#20 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

Surrounded by beautiful hills like Bababudangiri, Hebbegiri, Mullayanagiri and Gangegiri, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is where you can say hello (without getting close, of course) to majestic tigers. Its name is derived from the serene Bhadra River, whose tributaries meander through the sanctuary. Boasting rich biodiversity, this sanctuary is home to green, wet deciduous and moist deciduous forests, apart from grasslands. Thorny bamboo, indigo berry, teak, fig tree, rosewood, Ceylon oak and various medicinal plants make the flora interesting here. Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for spotted deer, elephants, gaurs, wild boars, jackals, pangolins, and black leopards. Colourful birds, flighty butterflies and slithery snakes have made this place their home too.       

  • Best time to visit: October to February
  • Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Hire a taxi after you fly to Mangalore Airport.
    • By Train: After reaching Kadur Railway Station, hire a taxi.
    • By Road: You can reach Chikmagalur by taking a bus from Bangalore or Mangalore, and then take a taxi to reach this sanctuary.

21. Sringeri Sharada Peetham (86 km from Chikmagalur)

Also known as Sri Sri Jagadguru Shankaracharya Mahasamsthanam, Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetham, this is among the chief Hindu monastic institutions that treasure and propagate the non-dualism doctrine, or Advaita Vedanta and Sanatana Dharma. Established by Sri Adi Sankara, an 8th-century saint and philosopher, the Peetham has witnessed many eras and reigns – including Vijayanagara, Keladi, Maratha, and British. Apart from its rich heritage, it draws tourists with its melting pot of different architectural styles, though Vijayanagara and Hoysala ones are dominant. The Peetham features two main temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Saraswati. Intricate sculptures and carvings depicting gods and goddesses from the Vedic age and stories from Puranas, impressive pillars, and ancient antechambers make for a stunning look here. Goddess Saraswati sits in a beautiful golden chariot inside the Vidya Shankara Temple and is a memorable sight.   

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Timings: The timings for Sri Sharadamba Temple, Sri Vidyashankara and Sri Torana Ganapati Temples, Sri Malahaneekareswara Temple, and temples inside the Srimath Complex vary. Please check the website. 
  • Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can fly to Mangalore Airport and then hire a cab to reach Sringeri.
    • By Train: Reach Udupi Railway Station first and then take a taxi.

By Road: Board a KSRTC bus from Mangalore, Bangalore, Shimoga, Udupi or Chikmagalur to reach Sringeri.

22. Adhishakthyathmaka Sri Annapoorneshwari Temple Horanadu (90 km from Chikmagalur)

A well-known pilgrimage among Hindus and among the top places to see in Chikmagalur, Annapoorneshwari Temple promises a unique spiritual experience, owing to its position on River Bhadra and the verdant beauty of Western Ghats all around. As the legend goes, in 8th-century, Agastya – the sage, established the icon of Goddess Annapoorneshwari (one of Goddess Parvati’s incarnations) here. What catches the eye is the way the entire idol is clad with gold, and devotees also believe that whoever pays a visit to the goddess will never go hungry. That’s because, Anna means rice and Poorna means complete or perfect. The intricate carvings of the temple are awe-worthy, especially those on the gopuram, mandapam and ceilings. Festivals like Akshaya Tritya, Navratri and Rathotsaya are celebrated with a lot of splendour here.    

  • Best time to visit: October to February
  • Timings: 7 am to 8:30 pm (Days for different Sevas might vary. Please check the website)
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Once you fly to Mangalore Airport, hire a taxi to reach the temple.
    • By Train: Reach Shimoga Railway Station and then take a taxi.
    • By Road: You will get buses from Bangalore and Mangalore to Horanadu. Then, take a taxi.

23. Kudremukh National Park (107 km from Chikmagalur)

Kudremukh

#23 Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

Indulge your wild side at Kudremukh National Park, where tigers, leopards, wild pigs, gaurs, common langurs, lion-tailed macaques, and sambars abound. Thick shola forests, resplendent green grasslands, and rolling hills make for an eye-catching landscape here. The Kudremukh Peak (1892m) draws trekkers in droves and is the reason behind the name of the national park. A fun fact – Kudremukha translates to horse-face in Kannada, which is how the peak is shaped! This sprawling park receives abundant rainfall and is home to the gently flowing Bhadra and Tunga rivers.

  • Best time to visit: December to February
  • Ideal duration: 4 – 5 hours (especially if you are trekking to Kudremukh Peak)
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Fly to Mangalore Airport and take a taxi to reach the park.
    • By Train: You can reach Mangalore Central and then hire a taxi.
    • By Road: You can either drive from Mangalore or Bangalore, or board a bus to reach Chikmagalur and then hire a taxi.

24. Hanumanagundi Falls (117 km from Chikmagalur)

Flanked by Lakya Dam and Karkala on either side, picture-perfect Hanumanagundi Falls is situated in Kudremukh National Park. The tiered waterfall cascades from a height of 72 feet and is a sight for sore eyes. It forms a tranquil pool surrounded by craggy rocks and soul-soothing greenery. Wash away your worries in the cool waters after you descend a flight of around 300 steps to reach it. In fact, you can stand right under the waterfall, if taking a “natural shower” is on your mind.   

  • Best time to visit: October to May
  • Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: After flying to Mangalore Airport, hire a taxi.
    • By Train: Reach Mangalore Central and then hire a taxi.
    • By Road: Board a bus from Mangalore or Bangalore to reach Chikmagalur and then take a taxi.

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25. Kadambi Falls (123 km from Chikmagalur)

Don’t let the modest height of 30 feet fool you into thinking that this waterfall is not as dramatic as the others. Monsoons especially transform it into a vivacious beauty. Nestled cosily inside Kudremukh National Park, Kadambi Falls can be admired from the main road between Kudremukh and Sringeri, which is a major plus. However, if nature is your elixir, you will definitely want to get closer to the waterfall and soak in the lush green and rocky environment. Take a few dips in the pool it forms, to refresh your senses and bid adieu to exhaustion. Remember to take pictures and breathe in the pure air.

  • Best time to visit: June to September
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can take a taxi after you reach Mangalore Airport.
    • By Train: First reach Mangalore Central and then take a taxi to reach this waterfall.
    • By Road: You can drive to Kudremukh from Mangalore or Bangalore or hire a taxi. Then, you can board a bus or take a taxi to reach Kudremukh National Park and the waterfall.

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So, did this list of places to see and love in Chikmagalur give your traveller spirit the boost it needs to explore new things, embrace adventures and live the good life? Then plan in advance, chart out a doable itinerary, and get ready to grab the best deals on flights and hotels in Chikmagalur, so that you can have that perfect holiday!