One of the most spectacular attractions in Chikmagalur is Mullayanagiri that is known for its jaw dropping natural beauty. With its calming ambience formed by lush greenery, misty weather and rugged rocks, Mullayanagiri is a heavenly place to relish your vacation. Mullayanagiri Peak is a heaven for adventure junkies who wish to partake in a number of thrilling activities like road biking, trekking and mountain biking.This place is also renowned for a small temple dedicated to Tapasvi Mullappa swamy and a trek to the peak takes one through many landmarks like some caves, a stream and a Nandi statue. Mullayanagari is one of the few places to visit in Chikmagalur where you will find yourself at loss of words as you behold the most majestic views of the landscape.
Baba Budangiri is a sacred pilgrimage spot in Chikmagalur for both the Hindu and Muslim communities. It is famous for its shrine of Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalander who was a 17th century Sufi saint. The place is also notable for the caves which are believed to be once the residence of Sri Dattatreya Swamy. Baba Budangiri is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Chikmagalur and also famous among the thrill seekers for its trekking and hiking opportunities.These peaks naturally form in the shape of a crescent moon and makes an idyllic landscape for the photographers and nature lovers in Chikmagalur. The trekking trail between Mullayanagari and Baba Budangiri is an ecstatic experience for many tourists. Another prominent attraction of Baba Budangiri is the famous Manikyadhara Falls and the wild Kurinji flower blooms which happens every 12 years at this mountain. This last spectacle happened in the year 2006.
Offering an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is among the must visit sightseeing places in Chikmagalur. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it is known for being a habitat for diverse flora and fauna. It boasts of a landscape that is filled with lush green forests with the river Bhadra flowing in between. Some of the animals which you can spot here include tigers, leopards, Malabar giant squirrel etc along with a number of rare and exotic butterflies.Tourists can indulge in a number of exciting activities when they are visiting Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. Some of the activities offered here are jeep safari, water sports in River Bhadra, trekking, island camping, rock climbing and bird watching.
Known as one of the most exotic places to visit in Chikmagalur, Hebbe Falls offers a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With an enthralling view, Hebbe Falls is believed to have sacred herbs in its waters that can cure diseases. A dip in the waters at Hebbe Falls is always considered the most refreshing activity here. It is surrounded by the beauty of verdant forests and coffee plantations and makes for a serene trip. The waterfall can be reached after a scenic ride through the picturesque road from Chikmagalur. Along with its postcard perfect views, Hebbe Falls is one of the favoritie places for trekkers who are always looking for the perfect trails replete with breathtaking natural beauty. Otherwise, if you are not so adventurous, a road trip to Hebbe Falls serves as a perfect recipe for fun and excitement.
Escape into the serene surroundings at Kemmangundi in Chikmagalur which is known for its panoramic views. This beautiful hill station is popularly known as KR Hills and was known as the summer retreat for the Mysore King Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. One of the best places to visit in Chikamagalur, this place is known for its beautiful gardens and spectacular views.For the most enchanting visit, Raj Bhawan in Kemmangundi offers a gorgeous view at the time of sunset making it a pure photographer's delight. It is also a hotspot for nature lovers with beautiful waterfalls, gurgling streams and verdant valleys. Some of the famous attractions that one must not visit in Kemmangundi are Z Point, Rose Garden, Hebbe Falls, Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri etc.
Surrounded by the beauty of mountains in the Western Ghats, Hirekolale Lake is one of the most wonderful places to visit in Chikmagalur. This beautiful man-made lake is awe-striking for every spectator in Chikmagalur and must not be missed while visiting Chikmagalur tourist places. It was built as a source to supply water for drinking and irrigation purposes to the town of Chikmagalur. The lake is encompassed by gorgeous surroundings and offers a serene retreat for people coming along with friends and family wishing to have a great time. Hirekolale Lake offers the most mesmerising views of the landscape at the time of twilight when the most number of travelers flock here. It is a delight for photography lovers who are looking to add an idyllic sunset shot to their travel albums. One can also appreciate the exceptional views of Mullayanagiri Hills from Hirekolale Lake.
Hop on to witness the journey of your favourite beverage right from the plantations to the delicious cuppa that you enjoy every day at Coffee Museum in Chikmagalur. One of the most intriguing places to visit in Chikmagalur, Coffee Museum and offers an interesting depiction of the history, processes and varieties of coffee. The museum uses exciting ways to narrate the story of coffee like movies, songs and interesting visuals and the friendly staff gives the tourists all the information about the displays here. It is surrounded by an exquisite scenery of coffee plantations. This thematic museum offers an interesting insight shown by an inhouse expert through various demonstrations and presentations. A visit to this museum in Chikmagalur is both an educational and recreational for all the coffee lovers. It is for sure that you will return from Coffee Museum knowing more than ever.
Also famous as Buttermilk Falls, this beautiful waterfall is one of the most mesmerising tourist attractions in Chikmagalur. Encompassed by serene coffee and tea plantations, Jhari Falls is a delight for everyone who wish to bask in the luxury of nature. This waterfall is formed naturally by the springs in the mountains. The monsoons accentuate the beauty of this place and makes it a place worth visiting in Chikmagalur. Tourists here can indulge in a cool dip in the pool formed by the waters of the fall. For the people visiting here, it should be remembered that the private vehicles are not allowed and one has to take a jeep ride due to the bad condition of roads there.
Take a dive into the past with a visit to Ballalarayana Durga Fort when you are in Chikmagalur. It is known amongst the most popular Chikmagalur tourist places for history lovers and boasts of an exciting adventure for thrill seekers. This isolated but intriguing fort in Chikmagalur was built in the 12th century by the wife of Veera Ballala l who was the king of Hoysala empire. Today, this fort is nothing but ancient wonder standing in ruins and testifies to the history of the region. The most outstanding feature of Ballalarayana Durga Fort is its soothing ambience where one is away from the clamour of city life and surrounded by lush greenery. Trekking to Ballalarayana Durga Fort is one of the most sought after experiences in Chikmagalur due to its panoramic views and challenging nature. One must look forward to visiting Ballalarayana Durga Fort at the time of sunset to behold the most captivating views of your vacation.
If you're a fan of natural beauty then you will find yourself spellbound at the gorgeous vista of Kallathigiri Falls in Chikmagalur. It is one of the most panoramic Chikmagalur tourist places and offers an unforgettable trip for everyone. Kallathigiri Falls is surrounded by serene valleys and has a small temple called Veerbhadra Temple that attracts a number of tourists to this place. This temple adds to the serene ambience of this place in Chikmagalur.The waters of Kallathigiri Falls are believed to cure diseases and one of the popular legend says that the sage Agastya prayed at this location for a long time. KallathigirI Falls is also popular among trekkers who want to discover the exquisite trail replete with breathtaking vistas of the mountains and valleys.
Situated on the serene river banks of Tunga, Sringeri Sharada Peetha is one of the important Advaita mathas in the city of Chikmagalur. It was established by Adi Shankaracharya and draws tourists from all over the world. There is a famous legend that when Adi Shankaracharya was wandering around the banks of river Tunga, he came across an interesting sight where he saw a cobra spreading its hood to offer protection to a pregnant frog against the sunlight. He was overwhelmed at the kindness of the cobra towards his natural enemy and built the temple on this unique land. Sringeri Sharada Peetha is celebrated because of the picturesque town of Sringeri that boasts of many legends and historic temples. Also known as Dakshinamnaya Sringeri Sharada peetam, this place is one of the most popular Chikmagalur tourist attractions for pilgrims.
Brace yourself for some sweeping views of the Western Ghats at Z Point when you are visiting Kemmangundi. The vantage point can be reached after an exhilarating steep trek which makes this place is favourite among the adrenaline junkies. The hike is a little challenging and surrounded by beautiful surroundings that are replete with lush green valleys. The trek to Z point comprises of some deep gorges and is known for having the best views of Kemmangundi. Z Point is often counted among the most picturesque places to visit in Chikmagalur. With the cool breeze rubbing against your face and the sun meeting the land on the horizon, Z Point will leave you with a feeling that can't be expressed literally. The serene ambience of this place is worth every sweat of the thrilling trek to Z Point and add the views which makes this place unforgettable.
Also known as Nellikayi Theertha, this beautiful waterfall is amongst the most picturesque attractions in Chikmagalur and offers a great retreat for everyone. The name Manikyadhara means 'string of pearls' and derives its name due to the natural phenomenon where its water falls in droplets shining bright in sunlight. It makes for a serene landscape and a wonderful spot for picnicking and photography. This place is considered as a paradise for bikers, trekkers and die-hard nature lovers.There is a popular legend that says saint Baba Budan came here in search of water and after his prayers the place was blessed with water that flows from this waterfall. This place is a sacred spot for both Hindus and Muslims and it is believed that a bathe in its waters can cure one of ailments. Tourists can also find many shops in the vicinity which sell herbal medicines.
The small town of Belur is famous as one of the most prominent sightseeing places in Chikmagalur and a must visit for the tourists. This ancient city is a sheer delight for history buffs who wish to visit the past remains of Hoysala empire. This temple town is located on the banks of River Yagachi and was once famous as Velapuri. This historic place is renowned for its intriguing history and legends and a relishing trip for photography lovers. The most prominent attraction here is Chennakesava temple that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and boasts of some outstanding architecture. The temple complex also has two other temples known as Kappe Chennigaraya temple and Andal or Ammanavara temple. The architectural brilliance of these temples is often compared to the exquisite craftsmanship that one sees in Khajuraho. The other notable places not to be missed on a tour of Belur are Narasimha Pillar, Madanikas, Vishnu Samudra and the sculpture of Shantala Devi.
Nestled in the midst of thick evergreen forests and verdant valleys, Annapurneshwari Temple is one of the most popular places of pilgrimage in Chikmagalur. It is dedicated to Goddess Annapporani who is Goddess of all nourishment. Located on the banks of River Bhadra, it is one of the most revered Chikmagalur tourist attractions which is surrounded by exquisite nature. The temple is believed to be constructed about 400 years ago by Agasthya Maharishi and is famous for offering food and shelter to everyone with its premises always kept open. A visit to the temple is a spiritually satisfying experience and one of the most sought-after activities in Chikmagalur for those who are in search of peace and relaxation. Annapurneshwari Temple offers the most amazing experience when visited during the festivals of Rahotsava, Akshaya Thadige and Navaratri.
Hanumana Gundi Falls is situated in Kudremukh National Park between Kudremukh Road and Lakya Dam. The site featuring this beautiful waterfall is a popular hiking spot. The 100 ft waterfall can be accessed from 400 steps that are climbed down from the main road to reach the site. Hanumana Gundi Falls is managed and maintained by forest department of the state government. Visitors can indulge in exploring and hiking activities in the region along with witnessing the beautiful waterfalls. Besides, tourists can also take bath under its water stream. Along with the fall, tourists can also visit Bhagavathi Nature Camp that offers an opportunity to engage in activities like trekking and camping.
Sirimane Falls is located at a distance of 5 km from Kigga near Sringeri, a popular pilgrim center. Nearest Airport is Mangalore and nearest Railway stations are Udupi (96 KM) and Shimoga (114 KM).Kigga, a small village which houses to beautiful waterfalls. Kigga is about 16 kms from Sringeri. Water from falls feeds coffee estates and paddy fields in the downstream. A moderate entry fee is collected to maintain the walkways and viewpoints. The money collected also supports a small hydraulic power plant which is built adjacent to falls which lights Kigga houses. The entire activity is controlled and maintained by local bodies.
Yagachi Dam is built across the river Yagachi, a tributary of river Kaveri. The dam is situated at a distance of 3 km from the town of Belur and is a popular tourist destination. The natural beauty of the landscape mesmerizes visitors. Tourists flock in large numbers to enjoy the beauty of the dam and the surrounding areas. The place is ideal to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The cool breeze of the dam rejuvenates the mind and the body. Just sitting near the reservoir and watching the calm water makes one feel relaxed. As the dam is just outside the town, it can be easily reached by public transport. This factor has also acted as a contributing aspect in the dam's popularity among the tourists and the locals alike.
Ayyanakere is a lake near Sakharayapatna village of Karnataka, India and it is located at a distance of 18 km from Chickmagalur. The lake is a major water source for agricultural activity for several villages up to a distance of 15 km The lake has 10 canals to distribute water. It is believed that the lake was constructed originally by Rukmangada Raya, the ruler of Sakharayapatna village and later renovated during 1156 A.D. by Hoysala Kings. It feeds 1560 hectares of agricultural lands.[2] The lake is known for its beautiful landscape with Shakunagiri hill in the background, but lack of facilities discourage tourists to visit this lake.