Are you looking for the best places to visit in Chikmagalur? Then this guide is for you. Chikmagalur (also written Chikkamagaluru) is a hill town in Karnataka, South India. It is famous for coffee estates, misty hills, waterfalls, and forests. I wrote this guide in simple words to help you choose the right places and plan your trip with confidence.
Best Places to Visit in Chikmagalur
- Top places: Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri, Kemmanagundi, Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls, Manikyadhara Falls, Hirekolale Lake, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Best time: September to February. This is the best time to visit Chikmagalur for clear weather.
- How many days: 2 to 3 days are enough for the main places.
- Distance: Chikmagalur is about 240 km from Bangalore (5–6 hours by road).
- Good for: friends, couples, families, nature lovers, and light trekkers.
About This Guide and Me
Hello, I’m Ahetesham Sait, a passionate traveler. This guide shares my experience of these places and gives you simple steps to plan your trip. Travel rules, fees, and timings change often, so I have updated them from official and trusted sources. Please check once more before you leave.
Chikmagalur at a Glance
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Known as | Land of Coffee |
| Location | Western Ghats, Karnataka, South India |
| From Bangalore | About 240 km by road |
| Nearest railway station | Kadur (about 40 km) |
| Nearest major airport | Mangaluru (about 165 km) |
| Best time | September to February |
| Days needed | 2–3 days for main places |
Best Tourist Places in Chikmagalur (Quick List)
Here are the best tourist places in Chikmagalur at a glance. Distances are from Chikmagalur town.
| Place | Type | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Baba Budangiri | Hill, holy place | 33 km |
| Mullayanagiri | Highest peak | about 22 km |
| Kemmanagundi | Hill station | 64 km |
| Rani Jhari | Viewpoint | 70 km |
| Kyatanamakki | Hill | 92 km |
| Devaramane | Hill and temple | 51 km |
| Jhari Falls | Waterfall | 23 km |
| Manikyadhara Falls | Waterfall | 33 km |
| Honnammanahalla Falls | Waterfall | 22 km |
| Hebbe Falls | Waterfall | 62 km |
| Kallathigiri Falls | Waterfall | 53 km |
| Soormane Falls | Waterfall | 92 km |
| Kodige Falls | Waterfall | 68 km |
| Hirekolale Lake | Lake | 9 km |
| Samse Tea Estate | Tea estate | 95 km |
| Kelagur Tea Estate | Tea estate | 63 km |
| Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary | Wildlife | 32 km (Muthodi) |
| Kudremukh National Park | National park | 106 km |
Places to See in Chikmagalur by Category
These are the places to see in Chikmagalur. I have grouped them so you can plan your days easily.
Hills in Chikmagalur
These hills in Chikmagalur give you cool air, green views and mist. Some need a short walk, and some you can reach by car.
Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri, also called Chandradrona, is a hill range about 33 km from Chikmagalur town. The road to the top has green hills, mist and small waterfalls, so the drive itself is a joy. The hill is named after the Sufi saint Baba Budan and is holy for both Muslims and Hindus. Karnataka Tourism says Baba Budan brought coffee seeds to India in 1670 and planted them on these hills. That is why many people call this the birthplace of Indian coffee. News reports from 2025 say online booking became compulsory here, so check the latest rule before you go.
Quick facts: 33 km (about 1 hr 7 min) | Hill open 24 hours | Religious place 8 AM–5 PM | Entry fee: none in the past, but booking may now apply.
Mullayanagiri Peak
Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka, at 1,925 metres (6,316 ft), in the Baba Budangiri range. It is about 22 km from Chikmagalur town. At the top there is a small Shiva temple and wide views of hills and coffee land. The last part is a climb of around 450–500 steps, so walk slowly and rest on the way. Clouds can hide the view in the monsoon, so September to February is better. Rules have changed: a slot-based vehicle system and online booking were introduced in 2025. Visitors say private vehicles stop at Seethalayyanagiri, and from there you take a shared jeep or walk. Check the latest rules before you travel.
Quick facts: about 22 km (around 50 min) | 6 AM–6 PM | Entry: a small vehicle or entry charge (about ₹100) is reported, plus jeep fare.
Kemmanagundi
Kemmanagundi is a hill station about 64 km from Chikmagalur. It is also called K.R. Hills, after Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, who used it as a summer retreat. You can see the Raj Bhavan viewpoint, the rock garden, rose gardens and Z Point, a popular sunset spot. The Z Point trek is about 3 km from Raj Bhavan and passes Shanti Falls. Hebbe Falls and Kalhatti Falls are close by, so Kemmanagundi works well for a full day. Visitors mention an entry charge of about ₹100 per person, with no separate fee for Z Point.
Quick facts: 64 km (about 1 hr 53 min) | 6 AM–6 PM | Entry: about ₹100 per person reported.
Rani Jhari
Rani Jhari is a viewpoint about 70 km from Chikmagalur. You get green slopes, tall mountains, and nice views of the valley. To reach the viewpoint, you walk about 500 metres, and 4×4 vehicles may also be available. Go in the morning for the best view, because mist and rain can hide the valley later in the day. Kodige Falls and Kelagur Tea Estate are close to Rani Jhari, so you can see all three in one trip. Wear shoes with a good grip, as the path can be slippery after rain.
Quick facts: 70 km (about 2 hr) | 8 AM–5 PM | Entry fee: none.
Kyatanamakki
Kyatanamakki is a hill near Kalasa, about 92 km from Chikmagalur. You can reach the top by trekking or by a 4×4 jeep. The top is about 3 km from the parking area, and you may see small waterfalls on the way. This hill suits people who like a mix of walking and open views. Since it is near Kalasa, you can combine it with Soormane Falls and Samse Tea Estate. Start early, because the drive is long. Carry water and a rain jacket, as the weather can change fast in the Ghats.
Quick facts: 92 km (about 2 hr 38 min) | 6 AM–6 PM | Entry fee: none.
Devaramane
Devaramane Hill, also called Devaramane Betta, is in Mudigere taluk, about 51 km from Chikmagalur. It has mountain views and the Kalabhairaveshwara Temple. A travelogue says the temple is very old and dates to the 11th century. You can drive to the top without a trek or a jeep, but the road can be rough, so drive slowly. There is also a viewpoint near the temple, where clouds often cover the valley. If you wait a little, the clouds may clear and show the view. This is a good stop if you like a quiet place with fewer crowds.
Quick facts: 51 km (about 1 hr 25 min) | 6 AM–6 PM | Entry fee: none.
These are the main hills in Chikmagalur you can add to your trip.
Waterfalls in Chikmagalur
The waterfalls in Chikmagalur are at their best after the monsoon, when water is high but trails are safer. Many waterfalls near Chikmagalur have slippery rocks, so wear good shoes and stay out of strong flow.
Jhari Falls
Jhari Falls, also known as Buttermilk Falls, is about 23 km from Chikmagalur. It lies between the Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri route, inside a dense forest. You can reach it by trekking or by jeep. The white, milky water falling through the green forest makes this a nice place for photos. The original jeep price I noted was around ₹600 for six people, but prices change, so ask before you start. Keep your phone and camera in a plastic cover, as spray from the falls can wet everything. Do not go close to the edge, because the rocks are slippery.
Quick facts: 23 km (about 40 min) | 8 AM–5 PM | Entry: none; jeep about ₹600 for six people (may change).
Manikyadhara Falls
Manikyadhara means “string of pearls”. The waterfall is about 33 km from Chikmagalur, on the upper side of Baba Budangiri Hill, with views of the mountains and valley. Many devotees walk down about 200 steps to the base and take a dip in what they see as holy water. The place is open 24 hours, but I suggest visiting in daylight for safety. It is easy to combine with Baba Budangiri, as both are on the same hill road. The entry fee is very small, so keep some cash and change with you. Do not go down the steps when it is raining heavily.
Quick facts: 33 km (about 1 hr 6 min) | Open 24 hours | Entry fee: ₹5.
Honnammanahalla Falls
Honnammanahalla Falls is a small waterfall on the way to Baba Budangiri, about 21–22 km from Chikmagalur. It is a roadside waterfall, so you do not need a long walk. You can enjoy flowing water, green hills and mist, and there is a small temple nearby. Because it is right on the route, it makes a good quick stop on your way to the hills. It looks best in and just after the monsoon, when the water flow is strong. Park carefully, as the road is narrow with many turns, and avoid blocking other vehicles.
Quick facts: 22 km (about 42 min) | Open 24 hours | Entry fee: none.
Hebbe Falls
Hebbe Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Chikmagalur. It lies about 62 km from Chikmagalur, in a dense forest near Kemmanagundi. Karnataka Tourism says the water drops from about 168 metres (around 551 feet) in two stages, called Dodda Hebbe and Chikka Hebbe. You need a forest-department jeep, and then you walk the last stretch and may cross small streams. A visitor review from April 2026 mentions a jeep price of about ₹708 per person, while my original note was ₹400 per person or ₹4,000 per jeep. Prices have changed over time, so confirm at the counter. In the rainy season, leeches can be a problem.
Quick facts: 62 km (about 1 hr 36 min) | 6 AM–6 PM | Jeep fee varies; confirm at Kemmanagundi.
Kallathigiri Falls
Kallathigiri Falls, also called Kalhatti Falls, is about 53 km from Chikmagalur and lies on the way to Hebbe Falls. It is surrounded by greenery and temples. The Veerabhadreshwara Temple is right beside the falls, and Karnataka Tourism says it is believed to date from Vijayanagara rule. There are also stone elephants near the temple. The falls are easy to reach and the water is shallow near the base, but the steps can be slippery, so walk slowly and keep children close. It is a good stop if you want nature and a little culture in one place.
Quick facts: 53 km (about 1 hr 18 min) | 7 AM–6 PM | Entry fee: none.
Soormane Falls
Soormane Falls is near Kasala (Kalasa) village, about 92 km from Chikmagalur. It is known for calm surroundings, green views and a natural pool at the base. The entry fee is ₹50, and it is open from 8 AM to 5 PM. Because it is far, start early and combine it with Kyatanamakki and Samse Tea Estate, which are in the same Kalasa area. Check local rules before you enter the water, as conditions change in the rainy season. You can read my full guide here: Soormane Falls near Kalasa.
Quick facts: 92 km (about 2 hr 34 min) | 8 AM–5 PM | Entry fee: ₹50.
Kodige Falls
Kodige Falls, also called Durgadahalli Falls, is a lesser-known waterfall about 68 km from Chikmagalur, near Rani Jhari. It is on private property. You reach it by a 500-metre trek or a pickup vehicle. Because it is quiet, it suits travelers who want to avoid crowds. The entry fee is ₹30, so carry some cash. Visit it along with Rani Jhari and Kelagur Tea Estate to save time and fuel. The trail can be muddy after rain, so wear shoes with a good grip.
Quick facts: 68 km (about 1 hr 47 min) | 8 AM–5 PM | Entry fee: ₹30.
These are the waterfalls near Chikmagalur that I suggest for your list.
Lakes in Chikmagalur
Most visitors come for hills and waterfalls, so the list of lakes in Chikmagalur is short. Hirekolale Lake is the main one on this list.
Hirekolale Lake
Hirekolale Lake is a man-made lake about 9 km from Chikmagalur, so it is easy to visit from town. It is surrounded by mountains, and the view is best around sunset. It suits nature lovers and photographers. Because it is close, it is a good first or last stop of the day, or a calm break between longer drives. Visitors say it is about a 20-minute drive from the town. Carry your own water and take your waste back with you, because the area needs to stay clean.
Quick facts: 9 km (about 22 min) | 6 AM–6 PM | Entry fee: none.
Tea Estates in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is more famous for coffee, but you can also visit a tea estate in Chikmagalur. Two options are below.
Samse Tea Estate
Samse Tea Estate is near Kalasa village, about 95 km from Chikmagalur, and has appeared in Kannada movies. You can see tea-covered hills and a Ganpati temple. Visitors may also see the tea factory and how tea is made. It is the farthest stop in this section, so plan it with Soormane Falls and Kyatanamakki on one Kalasa-side day. Early morning is a good time, when the air is cool and the hills are clear. Ask politely before taking photos inside the factory.
Quick facts: 95 km (about 2 hr 33 min) | 6 AM–5 PM | Entry fee: none.
Kelagur Tea Estate
Kelagur Tea Estate is near Rani Jhari, about 63 km from Chikmagalur. It is known for rolling green hills, tea making and a calm mood. If you like quiet walks and slow travel, this is a good place to relax. A visit takes about an hour, so it fits well in a day with Rani Jhari and Kodige Falls. Another tea estate in Chikmagalur may be added by locals from time to time, so ask your homestay host for the latest list. Carry small cash for the entry fee.
Quick facts: 63 km (about 1 hr 34 min) | 8 AM–5 PM | Entry fee: ₹10.
National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Chikmagalur
If you like wildlife, add a national park and wildlife sanctuary in Chikmagalur to your plan. Two main choices are below.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is at Muthodi, about 32 km from Chikmagalur. It is part of Bhadra Tiger Reserve and covers about 490–500 square kilometres. It is known for rivers, forest and birdwatching, and Karnataka Tourism says it has over 30 tigers and 20 leopards. The forest department runs jeep or bus safaris from Muthodi. One trip guide says a minimum of seven people is needed to start a safari, and that tiger sightings are very rare, so enjoy the forest and birds and do not expect a tiger. Safari prices differ by source (about ₹400–500 per person). Book at the counter and go early.
Quick facts: about 32 km to Muthodi | Safari usually has morning and evening slots | Fees change; confirm on arrival.
Kudremukh National Park
Kudremukh means “horse face”. The national park covers about 600 square kilometres and is around 106 km from Chikmagalur, on the route that connects to Dakshina Kannada. It has mountain and waterfall views, and animals such as leopards, bears, gaur, sambar and giant flying squirrels live here. If you want to trek to the peak, you need a forest permit. A trekking guide from August 2026 says only 50 trekkers are allowed per day, a guide is needed, entry starts after 6:30 AM, you must exit by 5:30 PM, and camping is banned. The park may also close in late summer due to fire risk. Always check the latest rules with the forest department.
Quick facts: about 106 km | Trek by permit only | Plan early.
These are the places to see in Chikmagalur. Pick the ones that match your interest and the season.
Best Time to Visit Chikmagalur
The best time to visit Chikmagalur is September to February. The weather is pleasant, and hills and waterfalls are easier to enjoy. June to August (monsoon) is good for waterfall lovers and adventure seekers. However, I do not suggest the peak monsoon, because roads and steps get slippery and some waterfalls can be closed or unsafe. March to April is the coffee flowering season, when the estates smell sweet.
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Sept–Feb | Pleasant weather, clear views, good for all places |
| Mar–Apr | Coffee flowers; getting warmer |
| Jun–Aug | Strong waterfalls, but slippery roads and closures |
How Many Days Are Required to Visit Chikmagalur
How many days are required to visit Chikmagalur depends on your interests:
- 2–3 days: main places like Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls, and Kemmanagundi.
- 3–4 days: more places, including Kalasa-side spots and Bhadra.
- About a week: offbeat and adventure places, including treks.
If you only have a weekend, read my two-day Chikmagalur trip plan from Bangalore.
Suggested 3-Day Route (Not a Personal Itinerary)
This route is a suggestion made from the distances above, so you can avoid long back-and-forth drives.
- Day 1 (hill road): Mullayanagiri, Jhari Falls, Honnammanahalla Falls, Manikyadhara Falls, Baba Budangiri.
- Day 2 (Kemmanagundi side): Kallathigiri Falls, Hebbe Falls, Z Point or Raj Bhavan, Devaramane if time allows.
- Day 3 (Kalasa side): Kyatanamakki, Soormane Falls, Samse Tea Estate. Or choose Rani Jhari, Kodige Falls and Kelagur Tea Estate.
How to Reach Chikmagalur
- By road: Bangalore to Chikmagalur is about 240 km and takes 5–6 hours. KSRTC buses and taxis run from Bengaluru, Mangaluru and Mysuru.
- By train: Kadur (about 40 km) is the nearest major station. From there, take a taxi or bus.
- By air: Mangaluru airport (about 165 km) is the nearest major airport. Bengaluru airport is about 260 km away.
Simple Travel Tips
- Start early. Hills look clearest in the morning.
- Carry cash for small entry fees and jeep rides.
- Check the latest entry rules for Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri before leaving.
- Wear shoes with a good grip, and carry a rain jacket.
- Do not litter, and follow forest rules, especially in Bhadra and Kudremukh.
- Fees and timings change, so call or check locally.
FAQ
What are the best places to visit in Chikmagalur?
The most popular places are Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, Kemmanagundi, Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls, Manikyadhara Falls, Kallathigiri Falls, Hirekolale Lake, Rani Jhari, Soormane Falls, Kodige Falls, Samse and Kelagur tea estates, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and Kudremukh National Park.
Which are the best tourist places in Chikmagalur for first-time visitors?
Start with Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls, Kemmanagundi and Hirekolale Lake. They are easy to plan and give a good mix of views and waterfalls.
What is the best time to visit Chikmagalur?
September to February is generally the best time. Monsoon is good for waterfalls, but peak monsoon can make roads and trails unsafe.
How many days are required to visit Chikmagalur?
Two to three days cover the main places. Use three to four days for more places, and about a week for offbeat spots.
What is the highest peak in Chikmagalur?
Mullayanagiri, at 1,925 metres, is the highest peak in Karnataka.
Which waterfalls in Chikmagalur are worth visiting?
Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls, Manikyadhara Falls, Kallathigiri Falls, Soormane Falls and Kodige Falls are popular choices.
How far is Chikmagalur from Bangalore?
About 240 km, or 5–6 hours by road.
What is the nearest railway station and airport to Chikmagalur?
Kadur is the nearest major railway station (about 40 km). Mangaluru is the nearest major airport (about 165 km).
Do I need to book online for Mullayanagiri?
News reports from 2025 say online booking became mandatory for Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri. Rules can change, so check the latest rule before you go.
How do I reach Hebbe Falls?
Go to Kemmanagundi, take a forest-department jeep, and walk the last stretch. Jeep prices vary, so confirm at the counter.
Can I see a tiger at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary?
It is possible but rare. Go for the forest, birds and other animals, and treat a tiger as a bonus.
Can I trek to Kudremukh without a permit?
No. A forest permit is needed, daily numbers are limited, and camping is banned.
Which rivers flow in Chikmagalur?
The Bhadra, Tunga, Netravati, Hemavati and Vedavathi rivers are listed in my original guide.
Is Chikmagalur worth visiting?
Yes. It is known for hills, waterfalls, views and cool weather, and it suits friends, couples and families.
Conclusion
Chikmagalur is a great mix of hills, waterfalls, lakes, tea estates, and forests. Use this list of best tourist places in Chikmagalur and places to see in Chikmagalur to build your own plan. If you are short on time, start with Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, and Hebbe Falls. Whatever you choose, check the latest rules and go early in the day. I hope this guide to places to visit in Chikmagalur helps you plan a calm and happy trip.