Trip to Chikmagalur

Monsoon onset on Western ghats called for a quick road trip to Chikmagalur, the queen hill station of Bengaluru.

Hironkale lake

Very close to our lovely homestay, Hironkale Lake is a popular destination spot for picnics and also for early morning serenity. We strolled into the compound to be greeted with peacock squawking, all hidden in the dense jungle surrounding the lake. One can easily pass their time with Bird watching activities , or just breathing in the cool air.

Mullaynagiri

Mullaynagiri is the highest peak of Karnataka and also the second highest peak of Western ghats. A winding road with steps will lead to the top of the peak – basically “sarpadandi” or serpentine roads. The peak is usually covered with mist-like clouds and puffer jackets are most recommended! Car parking, however, is a chaos as mostly everyone parks on the sides of the narrow roads.

Baba Budan Giri

“Baba Budan Giri” is named after Baba Budan, who is said to have brought coffee to India for the first time. Hence this valley is dotted with numerous coffee plantations. Baba Budan’s shrine is visited by Muslims pilgrims. ‘Dattatreya peetha’, which is located at the same place, is visited by Hindu Pilgrims,. Thus this place is unique in all respects!

A lot of trekkers come to enjoy the beautiful view from the peak. The light and shadow drama in the valley is absolutely mesmerizing.

One can trek to Manikya Dhara falls and Jhari falls which are on the way to Baba Budan Giri. Jhari waterfalls is reached by jeep ride (300₹ pax for both ways)

Rani Jhari peak

A tad bit of a journey to Rani Jhari peak away from Chikmagalur, it’s an off beat place, one should not miss. The clouds play hide and seek on the peak and it’s like silence trapped in a moment.

The road to Rani Jhari, especially the last 2 KMs is completely off grid, ie, one will lose network. The road is extremely rocky and only expert drivers can drive up to the peak. Attempting to drive after monsoon or after a heavy downpour day may not be advisable. The place has one tiny shack for maggi and tea. There is where everyone parks their vehicles. Since it’s an offbeat place, it’s not at all crowded.

Hebbe falls

Hebbe falls is the jewel in the crown of Kemmanugudi town. If you stay at Karnataka tourism resort, the travel is close to 9 KM one way on an absolutely rocky road. The jeep ride reminded me of Jurassic park movies to be honest! This is a welcome effort to preserve the natural beauty. Once we reach, we have to hike 2 Km to reach the waterfalls. One can carry bathing trunks and suit to have a dip in the chilly water. Please note that there are no changing rooms and please carry your own water bottles/food. Jeep waits for close to an hour before heading back. Jeep ride costs around 500₹ pax for both ways.

How to reach :

By road: Tourists can travel to Chikmagalur by road. KSRTC ply its frequent bus service in the region. Best way to travel from Bangalore which generally takes close to 5-6 hours.

By air: Nearest airports are in Bangalore. Taxis are available from airports to Bangalore or one can hitch a ride on the bus.

By train: The main train junction is Kadur. Taxis and buses are available to complete the 45 min journey from Kadur to Chikmagalur.

Did you visit Chikmagalur – what places did you like?

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Please travel responsibly and do not litter. Happy Travelling!