Nestled in the Baba Budan hills, Chikmangalur is a calm, serene town full of scenic surprises hills, valleys, streams and snow-white coffee blossoms. Situated 251 kms from Bangalore, Chikmagalur is a trekker's delight, with its rugged mountain trails. The district takes its name from the headquarter town of Chikmanglur which literally means youngest daughter's town. The chikmagalur district is full of scenic surprises hills, valleys, streams and snow-white coffee blossoms. It is also trekker's territory.
Location:
Located 251 km from Bangalore, the name literally means 'Younger Daughter's Town'. It is said that have been given as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the legendary chief of Sakrepatna. The town enjoys a salubrious climate and is famous for the sprawling tea and coffee estates. Some interesting excursions include Sringeri, Kemmannagundi, Amrithapura, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and Kudremukh.
(54 km) An ideal retreat of solitude and natural beauty, located in Baba-Budam range. Placed at a height of 4,702 ft. above sea level, Kemmanagundi has a bracing climate, mineral-enriched water and a tranquil verdant mountains cape. The two waterfalls Kalahasti and Hebbe are ideal picnic spots. Bababudan Mountains, 30 km from Kemmanagundi, are the loftiest range of hills with a stupendous ridge. The Dattatreya Peetha here is a well Known pilgrimage shrine both for the Hindus and the Muslims.
(98 km) This well-known pilgrim centre is situated on the banks of Tunga river. Adishankara, exponent of the Advaita philosophy had founded this monastery.The chief attraction being the 12 zodiac pillars in the Vidya Shankara temple, which are so arranged that the Sun's rays fall on the particular pillar corresponding to the month.
95 km southwest of Chilmagalur is the secluded hill station of Kudremukh. Situated 1894 m above sea level, the Kudremukh hills overlook the Arabian Sea and are chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices. There is rich flora and fauna here, waiting to be discovered. Caves asking to be explored. Ruins and traces of old civilization inviting a study. Lonely, unspoilt places to camp can any trekker resist Kudremukh? This place is also rich in iron-ore deposits.
38kms north-west, this sanctuary is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. Gaur, chital, sambar, elephants and tigers are some of the wildlife found here.
Located in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range, the town of Chikmagalur with its favorable climate is best for the plantations of coffee which are found in abundance here. These coffee estates attract tourists from far and wide.