Tucked away in the heart of Karnataka’s Western Ghats, Chikmagalur is where time slows down and nature takes over. Whether you’re chasing misty mornings in coffee estates or craving quiet moments by a hidden waterfall, this hill town is a soulful retreat for travelers who seek more than just a destination.
☕ A Quick Overview: Why Visit Chikmagalur?
Chikmagalur (literally “Young Daughter’s Town”) is best known as the coffee capital of Karnataka. Its rolling hills, peppered with plantations, forests, and secret viewpoints, make it a perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore, Mangalore, or Mysore.
- 📍 Location: ~240 km from Bangalore
- 🗓️ Best time to visit: September to March (cool & pleasant)
- 🧳 Ideal for: Couples, families, photographers, solo seekers
🌄 Top Places to Visit in Chikmagalur
1. Mullayanagiri Peak
- 🏞️ Highest peak in Karnataka (1,930 meters)
- Stunning sunrise views, cloud-kissed trails
- Mild climb – accessible for most age groups
2. Baba Budangiri Hills
- A sacred place named after a Sufi saint who brought coffee to India
- Trekking, caves, and panoramic views
- Great for sunset photography
3. Jhari Waterfalls (Buttermilk Falls)
- Tucked inside a private estate
- A short jeep ride through forested paths
- Ideal for families and couples alike
4. Hirekolale Lake
- A peaceful, crowd-free spot for sunsets
- Surrounded by misty hills
- Great for a quiet walk or picnic
5. Coffee Museum
- Run by the Coffee Board of India
- Discover how your favorite brew is grown, harvested, and roasted
- Perfect short stop for coffee lovers
🌿 Hidden & Offbeat Places
➤ Ballalarayana Durga Fort
- A 9th-century hilltop fort, relatively unknown
- Stunning trek with panoramic views and old ruins
- Ideal for photography and peace seekers
➤ Devaramane
- A less explored village near Mudigere
- Lush landscapes, temples, and calm – untouched by tourist rush
➤ Kyatanamakki Hills
- Off-roading paradise with 360° views
- Go early morning for fog-draped scenery
🏡 Where to Stay in Chikmagalur
Travishta partners with charming coffee estate stays, boutique resorts, and peaceful retreats for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re sipping freshly brewed filter coffee in a heritage bungalow or unwinding in a forest-side villa, every stay is handpicked for comfort and authenticity.
✨ Want our curated stay recommendations? Contact us here for all-inclusive Chikmagalur travel packages from Bangalore.
🍛 Must-Try Food in Chikmagalur
- Traditional Malnad cuisine (akki roti, pandi curry, jackfruit dosa)
- Local filter coffee (try it at estate-run cafés)
- Bamboo shoot curry and pathrode (seasonal dishes)
🚗 How to Reach Chikmagalur
- From Bangalore: ~5–6 hour drive via NH75
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore (150 km)
- By Train: Kadur (40 km) or Birur (50 km), then cab/taxi
🧘 Slow Travel Tips from Travishta
- Stay at least 2–3 nights to soak in the rhythm of estate life
- Wake up early for golden-hour plantation walks
- Carry a book, binoculars, and your favorite playlist
- Avoid rushing – Chikmagalur is best experienced slowly
🌟 Plan Your Soulful Chikmagalur Trip with Travishta
We believe travel is more than just sightseeing — it’s a journey that speaks to your soul. Our Chikmagalur travel packages from Bangalore include curated stays, local guides, meals, transport, and hidden gems most tourists miss.
Ready to unwind in Chikmagalur’s quiet charm?
👉 Explore our packages or talk to us for a custom plan.
Chikmagalur Trip Packages
