Tired of city life in Bangalore? A two days trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur is one of the easiest ways to get cool weather, green hills, and waterfalls in one weekend.
Chikmagalur is about 245 km from Bangalore. The drive takes around 5 hours via NH75. In 2 days, you can see Mullayanagiri Peak, Jhari Falls, Hebbe Falls, Kemmangundi, Z Point, and Hirekolale Lake. It works for friends, couples, and families. September to February is a good time to go. For Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri, online vehicle booking is mandatory.
This guide gives you a simple 2 days trip from Bangalore with tourist places for 2 day, travel tips and current rules. If you are looking for places to visit for the weekend near Bangalore, this plan is a good start.
Why Choose Chikmagalur for a Two Days Trip from Bangalore?
Chikmagalur is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Karnataka. It is a paradise for travellers and nature lovers, with misty mountains, stunning waterfalls, beautiful lakes, and many tourist places. It is also known as the Land of Coffee, and the story of Indian coffee is linked with the Baba Budangiri hills nearby.
The town is about 242–245 km from Bangalore, so it fits well in a weekend. Whether you go with family, friends, or as a couple, this place suits everyone. All the places in this guide are in the Baba Budangiri and Kemmanagundi areas, which are easy to cover in two days if you plan well.
Bangalore to Chikmagalur Distance and How to Reach
Chikmagalur is about 245 km from Bangalore. The fastest road is NH75 through Nelamangala, Kunigal, Hassan, and Belur. The drive usually takes 5 to 5.5 hours, based on traffic.
Ways to Reach Chikmagalur
| Way | What to know |
|---|---|
| Car | Most flexible. You can stop on the way and visit many places. |
| Bus | KSRTC and private buses run from Bangalore. The district website says it takes about 5 to 5.5 hours. |
| Train | Kadur is the nearest railway station, about 40 km away. From Kadur, take a bus or taxi (about 45 minutes). Birur is the next option. |
| Flight | Chikmagalur has no airport. The nearest big airport is Mangalore, about 150 km away. |
Tip for the Drive
Leave Bangalore by 5 or 6 AM. You will miss the city traffic and reach Chikmagalur before the afternoon. Belur and Halebidu are on the way if you want a short temple stop.
Best Time for a Two Days Trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur
September to February is a good time. The weather is cool, and the roads are clearer. In the monsoon (July to September), waterfalls look full and strong. But the paths can be slippery, and leeches can be there. Check the weather and road news before you leave in heavy rain.
Tourist Places for 2 Day: Quick Plan
| Days | Places | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, Jhari Falls, Manikyadhara Falls, Honnammana Halla Falls | Peaks and waterfalls |
| Day 2 | Hebbe Falls, Kemmangundi, Z Point, Kallathigiri Falls, Hirekolale Lake | Hills, views and sunset |
Be Realistic About Time
On a two days trip from Bangalore, the 5-hour drive takes a big part of Day 1, so you will not have the full day for sightseeing. This is a suggested plan, not a fixed rule.
- Before you start: Book your Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri vehicle pass online. It is the first thing to do for Day 1.
- Day 1: Reach by late morning. See Mullayanagiri, then one waterfall (Jhari or Manikyadhara). Stay the night near Chikmagalur town.
- Day 2: Start by 7 AM. Visit Hebbe Falls, then Kemmangundi and Z Point. Stop at Hirekolale Lake on the way back. Skip Kallathigiri if you are short on time.
Day 1 Places: Baba Budangiri Hills
Distances below are approximate and come from the original plan. Different websites give slightly different numbers, so check Google Maps for your exact route.
Mullayanagiri Peak
Mullayanagiri is the tallest peak in Karnataka. It lies in the Baba Budangiri range, about 33 km from Chikmagalur. Most sources give its height as 1,925 metres (6,316 ft), and Karnataka Tourism rounds it to 1,930 metres. The road passes dense forest, high hills, and misty bends.
From the parking area, a short climb of around 500 stone steps (one source counts 464) takes you to the top. A small temple stands at the summit, and the little hillock inside the temple compound is the highest point in the state. On clear days, the district website says the Arabian Sea can be seen from the top. Sunrise and sunset are the popular times. There are very few shops on the way, so carry water and snacks.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: trekking, hiking, sightseeing, photography, camping
- Best time: September to May
- Entry fee: free for the peak itself (a vehicle pass is needed; see below)
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Time needed: 2–3 hours
- Distance: about 33 km from Chikmagalur and 275 km from Bangalore
- Nearby: Seethalayyanagiri peak and the Baba Budangiri shrine
Online Booking for Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri (Vehicle Pass)
Since 1 September 2025, you must book online before you drive to Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri. The district started this system to control the crowd on the narrow hill road. The rule covers the Chandradrona hill range, which includes Mullayanagiri, Seethalayyanagiri, the Hazrat Baba Budan Dargah, and Manikyadhara Falls. The booking is for your vehicle, not for each person. The Chikkamagaluru district website lists an online toll booking portal for Mullayanagiri and Inam Dattatreya Peeta.
How to Book Online, Step by Step
- Open the official Chikkamagaluru district tourism website: https://chikkamagaluru.nic.in/en/tourism
- Go to the booking portal: https://pgbiz.omniware.in/chikkamagalurutourism
- Enter your name, mobile number, travel date, and vehicle number.
- Choose the place (Mullayanagiri and/or Baba Budangiri), your vehicle type, and a time slot.
- Pay online.
- Save a screenshot or PDF of your confirmation. Mobile network is weak near the check post.
Time Slots and Fees
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Slot 1 | 6 AM to 12 noon |
| Slot 2 | 1 PM to 6 PM |
| Bike | ₹50 |
| Car | ₹100 |
| Larger motor vehicle | ₹150 |
| Tempo Traveller | ₹200 |
These fees were reported when the system started. The portal shows the exact amount before you pay, so please trust the portal.
Booking Tips
- Book before you leave Bangalore, especially for Saturday, Sunday, and long weekends.
- Your vehicle number must match the booking exactly.
- The pass is for one date and one slot, so arrive within your time.
- Entry can stop in heavy rain or bad weather.
- Many visitors park at Seethalayyanagiri and take a shared local jeep for the last part. This jeep fare (reported around ₹200 per jeep one way) is separate and paid locally.
- If you go with a taxi or tour operator, ask them who will book the pass.
Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri, also known as Chandradrona Parvatha, is famous for green mountains, waterfalls, and misty trails. It is sacred to both Hindus and Muslims. The range is named after the Sufi saint Baba Budan, and the main shrine is the Guru Dattatreya Baba Budan Swamy Dargah, also called Inam Dattatreya Peeta. The place is also linked with the history of coffee in India.
A popular story says the saint brought seven coffee beans from a pilgrimage and planted them in these hills. Most sources place him in the 17th century. The district website calls the range one of the highest between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. From here, you can easily explore Mullayanagiri Peak, coffee estates, and Jhari Falls. Book your vehicle pass online first.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: sightseeing, trekking, camping, shrine visits, photography
- Best time: September to February (March–April is the flowering season, as per one trekking site)
- Entry fee: free
- Online vehicle booking is needed (see the booking steps under Mullayanagiri above)
- Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- Distance: about 33 km from Chikmagalur and 277 km from Bangalore
- Tip: dress modestly and remove footwear at the shrine
Honnammana Halla Falls
Honnammana Halla Falls lies in the Baba Budangiri range, around 22 km from Chikmagalur and 10 km from Baba Budangiri Peak. It sits among coffee plantations and forest, and you can see it from the roadside. This makes it an easy stop, even for children and older people. The water comes down over rocky steps from a height of about 30 feet, and many visitors enjoy the stepped flow. The falls are on the way to Baba Budangiri, so most people stop here for a short time.
One travel site shares a local story that Baba Budan and his disciples came here in search of water. Some visitors reach it from the shrine by shared cab, and a few walk. The flow is best in the monsoon (July to September) and calmer after it.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: sightseeing, trekking, photography, waterfall viewing, picnic
- Best time: July to September for strong flow; after the monsoon for calm water
- Entry fee: free
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Time needed: about 1 hour
- Distance: about 22 km from Chikmagalur and 264 km from Bangalore
- Good for: children and older people, because it is easy to see from the road
Jhari Falls
Jhari Falls, also called Buttermilk Falls, is a two-tiered waterfall about 23 km from Chikmagalur, in the Baba Budangiri range. It gets this name because the water flows in a thin, milky-white layer over steep rocks. Forest and coffee plantations surround it, and the cascades are around 50–70 metres high. Karnataka Tourism says the pool at the base is good for a dip or a short swim, where it is safe. The last 5 km can be covered only by private jeep.
The jeep ride costs around ₹600 for six people, and some recent reports say ₹600 to ₹700. After the jeep ride, there is a short trek, or you can trek from the main road. In the monsoon, the path may be slippery, and leeches may be present. August to January is a good time.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: jeep ride, trekking, swimming where safe, picnic
- Best time: August to January
- Entry fee: free; optional jeep ride around ₹600 for six people (recent reports: ₹600–700)
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Time needed: about 1 hour
- Distance: about 23 km from Chikmagalur and 265 km from Bangalore
- Stay: homestays are available near and on the way to the falls
Manikyadhara Falls
Manikyadhara means “stream of pearls”. When sunlight falls on the water, the drops look like sparkling pearls. This waterfall is on Baba Budangiri Peak, about 33 km from Chikmagalur, and the water falls from around 30 feet. Local tradition connects it with the Sufi saint Hazrat Dada Hayat Mir Qalandhar, and many pilgrims consider the water holy.
Around 200 steps lead down from the jeep parking area, with watchtowers and rest points on the way. The view of the Western Ghats from here is lovely. Karnataka Tourism says the falls do not dry up even in summer, and that August to March is the best time. Use caution in heavy monsoon flow. There is no stay near the falls, so most visitors stay in Chikmagalur town.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: sightseeing, trekking, photography, waterfall viewing, picnic
- Best time: August to March (post-monsoon is pleasant)
- Entry fee: ₹5 (as listed in the original plan; may have changed)
- Online vehicle booking is also needed for this hill range
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- Distance: about 33 km from Chikmagalur and 277 km from Bangalore
- Tip: The way back is uphill (200+ steps), so rest along the way
Day 2 Places: Kemmangundi Side and Lake
Hirekolale Lake
Hirekolale Lake is a man-made lake just 9 km from Chikmagalur. It was built to provide drinking water and to help with irrigation, and today it is a calm spot surrounded by green mountains. The view is best at sunset, when the sky is reflected in the water. On a clear day, Mullayanagiri can be seen in the background.
It is a good place for a slow walk along the shore, photography, and a small picnic. Many photographers like it, so go early or late for a quieter time. There is no entry fee, and parking is usually available near the lake. September to March is a good time. Please take your plastic back with you, because the lake has little monitoring and the area is fragile.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: sightseeing, photography, picnic, relaxation
- Best time: September to March; sunset is the best hour
- Entry fee: free
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Time needed: about 1 hour
- Distance: about 9 km from Chikmagalur and 253 km from Bangalore
- Tip: In this plan, it is the last stop on Day 2, before the drive home
Hebbe Falls
Hebbe Falls is near Kemmanagundi, surrounded by forest and coffee plantations inside the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary area. The water falls around 551 feet (168 metres) in two stages, called Chikka Hebbe (small) and Dodda Hebbe (big).
The falls are inside a coffee estate, about 10 km from Kemmanagundi. To reach them, you take an off-road 4×4 jeep ride of around 8 km, arranged through the forest department, and then a short trek that may cross streams. The path is rough, and it can be slippery after rain. Leeches are common in the monsoon. There are no food stalls or changing rooms at the falls, so carry water and snacks. Check local access and conditions before you go.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: sightseeing, jeep ride, trekking, photography, swimming only where permitted and safe
- Best time: after the monsoon for safer paths; the flow is strong in the rains
- Entry fee: no entry fee listed; jeep around ₹400 in the original plan (2026 visitor reports: ₹400 to ₹700 per person, so confirm at the counter)
- Timings: 8 AM to 3 PM (reach early)
- Time needed: 2–3 hours
- Distance: about 65 km from Chikmagalur and 277 km from Bangalore
- Carry: water, snacks, and a change of clothes
Kemmangundi
Kemmanagundi, also known as Krishna Rajendra Hill or K.R. Hills, is a hill station around 61 km from Chikmagalur (the district website says about 55 km). It was a favourite summer camp of Krishnaraja Wodeyar. Today it is known for cool weather, valley views, ornamental gardens and a rose garden. It stands at about 1,434 metres and is surrounded by thick forest and the Baba Budan Giri range.
Sunsets are very popular here, even from the Raj Bhavan area. The place is around 3 km from the Hebbe Falls vehicle check post. Kemmanagundi is also the base for Z Point, Hebbe Falls, and Kallathigiri Falls, so it works well as the main stop of your Day 2.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: sightseeing, trekking, photography, sunset views, garden walk
- Best time: cool weather all year; September to February is comfortable
- Entry fee: free
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Time needed: about 2 hours
- Distance: about 61 km from Chikmagalur and 275 km from Bangalore
- Tip: sunset from the Raj Bhavan area is a popular viewpoint
Z Point
Z Point is near Kemmanagundi, around 57 km from Chikmagalur. A short walk through forest and hills leads to wide views of mountains, valleys and forests. The district website says it is about a 10-minute walk from the main Kemmanagundi area and gives a nice view of the shola grasslands of the Western Ghats.
The cool breeze and sunset views make it a favourite with nature lovers. Shanti Falls, a small waterfall, is reported to be on the way, so you can stop there for a short photo break. Wear shoes with good grip, because the path can get slippery after rain. Try to reach before sunset, and do not walk back in the dark.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: sightseeing, short trek, photography, sunset views
- Best time: late afternoon for sunset; clear days after the monsoon
- Entry fee: free
- Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
- Time needed: about 2 hours
- Distance: about 57 km from Chikmagalur and 271 km from Bangalore
- Tip: jeep rides are also available for people who do not want to walk (fares vary)
Kallathigiri Falls
Kallathigiri Falls, also called Kalhatti Falls, is around 53 km from Chikmagalur and about 10 km from Kemmanagundi, according to Karnataka Tourism. It is surrounded by greenery and a temple, and the water cascades over rocky cliffs near the temple.
Some sources list the fall at about 122 metres. Many visitors see the place as spiritually important, and a short walk from the road leads to the falls. Nearby trekking routes may lead to more waterfalls and viewpoints. The flow is strongest in and just after the monsoon. Plan your route according to local access and conditions, and ask locally before you go. If your time is short, this is the first stop to skip on Day 2.
Quick Facts
- Things to do: trekking, photography, temple visit, picnic, swimming only where safe
- Best time: during and just after the monsoon
- Entry fee: free
- Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- Distance: about 53 km from Chikmagalur and 265 km from Bangalore
- Tip: ask locally about road and path conditions before you start
At a Glance: 10 Places for a Two Days Trip from Bangalore
| Place | Day | Time needed | Entry | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullayanagiri Peak | 1 | 2–3 hours | Free (vehicle pass) | Highest peak, views |
| Baba Budangiri | 1 | 1–2 hours | Free (vehicle pass) | Shrine, coffee history |
| Honnammana Halla Falls | 1 | About 1 hour | Free | Easy roadside stop |
| Jhari Falls | 1 | About 1 hour | Free (jeep extra) | Swim, short trek |
| Manikyadhara Falls | 1 | 1–2 hours | ₹5 | Steps, holy water, views |
| Hebbe Falls | 2 | 2–3 hours | Jeep fare | Big waterfall, jeep ride |
| Kemmangundi | 2 | About 2 hours | Free | Gardens, sunset |
| Z Point | 2 | About 2 hours | Free | Valley views |
| Kallathigiri Falls | 2 | 1–2 hours | Free | Temple and waterfall |
| Hirekolale Lake | 2 | About 1 hour | Free | Sunset, relaxing |
2 Days Trip from Bangalore for Couples
For couples, choose fewer places and enjoy them slowly. These are suggestions, not a personal story:
- Go to Mullayanagiri early in the morning for mist and fewer people. Book the 6 AM slot online.
- Keep sunset time for Hirekolale Lake or Z Point.
- Choose a quiet estate stay or homestay away from town.
- Do not trek in the dark. Keep a torch and a power bank.
2 Days Trip from Bangalore with Family
A 2 days trip from Bangalore with family needs an easier plan:
- Easy stops: Honnammana Halla Falls (seen from the roadside), Hirekolale Lake, and Kemmangundi gardens.
- Harder stops: Mullayanagiri has about 500 stairs. Hebbe Falls needs a rough jeep ride and a walk. Think about children and older people before you decide.
- Monsoon: Slippery paths and leeches. Carry rainwear and wear shoes with grip.
- Food: Carry water and snacks, because some places have no shops.
- Driving: Do not drive hill roads at night with small children.
Places to Visit for Weekend: Extra Stops If You Have Time
If you start early or can add half a day, these are good places to visit for the weekend near this route:
- Belur (Chennakesava Temple) and Halebidu (Hoysaleswara Temple): Hoysala temples on the way, about 26 km and 35 km from Chikmagalur.
- Kalasa and Soormane Falls: If you want a longer, quieter trip in the same district.
Known Fees for Your Two Days Trip from Bangalore
Fuel, stay, and food costs depend on you, but these small fees are good to know. Amounts change, so treat them as a guide and confirm on the spot.
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Mullayanagiri / Baba Budangiri vehicle pass | ₹50 to ₹200 | Depends on vehicle type; pay on the portal |
| Shared jeep from Seethalayyanagiri | About ₹200 per jeep | Reported by visitors; paid locally |
| Jhari Falls jeep | ₹600 to ₹700 | About ₹600 for six people in the original plan |
| Manikyadhara Falls | ₹5 | From the original plan |
| Hebbe Falls jeep | ₹400 to ₹700 per person | Original ₹400; 2026 reports are higher |
| Other places in this plan | Free | Parking or small local charges may apply |
Where to Stay for a 2 Days Trip from Bangalore
Most visitors stay in or near Chikmagalur town, because it is a good base for both days. Karnataka Tourism says the town has budget and mid-range hotels, and that luxury resorts and homestays are spread across the district. Homestays are also available near Jhari Falls and on the way to Baba Budangiri. There is no stay close to Manikyadhara Falls.
- Day 1 night: Stay near Chikmagalur town, so the Day 2 drive to Kemmangundi (about 55–61 km) is easier.
- Weekends: Book early, because Chikmagalur is busy on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
- Check: Ask the stay if they can help with the Mullayanagiri vehicle pass and local jeeps.
What to Carry for a Two Days Trip from Bangalore
- Water, snacks, a first aid kit
- Rain jacket and a spare pair of clothes
- Shoes with good grip
- Power bank and a torch
- Cash for jeeps and small shops (network can be weak)
- A screenshot or PDF of your online vehicle pass
Safety Tips for Your Two Days Trip from Bangalore
- Check weather and road status, especially in heavy rain.
- Do not enter a waterfall pool if the water is fast or the rocks are slippery. Swim only where it is allowed and safe.
- Take permission and use the official jeep where required, especially for Hebbe Falls.
- Respect the forest area and take your plastic back with you.
Conclusion
A two days trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur gives you hills, waterfalls, lakes, and cool views in one weekend. Go by car if you can, start early, and pick fewer places so you are not tired. Before you leave, book your Mullayanagiri vehicle pass online, and check Hebbe Falls jeep access and the weather.
FAQ
Is 2 days enough for Chikmagalur?
Yes, for the famous places. Two days are enough for Mullayanagiri, a few waterfalls, Kemmangundi, and Hirekolale Lake. Offbeat places need extra time.
Is a two days trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur worth it?
Yes, if you like hills, mist, and waterfalls. The drive is about 5 hours each way, so keep the plan light.
What is the best month to visit Chikmagalur?
September to February is usually good. July to September has stronger waterfalls but more rain and leeches.
How far is Chikmagalur from Bangalore?
About 245 km by road. It takes about 5 to 5.5 hours via NH75.
Is it safe to drive from Bangalore to Chikmagalur?
The route is commonly used. Check road and weather news first, avoid night driving on hill roads, and take care in heavy rain.
Can we go to Chikmagalur by car?
Yes. A car is the easiest way and lets you stop on the way. For Mullayanagiri, you need to book a vehicle pass online and may need to park and take a jeep.
How do I reach Chikmagalur by train or bus?
Buses run from Bangalore. For train, get down at Kadur (about 40 km) or Birur, then take a bus or taxi.
Can we get cabs in Chikmagalur?
Ola and Uber may be limited. Private cabs and shared taxis are available, so arrange local transport in advance.
What are the best tourist places for 2 day in Chikmagalur?
Mullayanagiri, Jhari Falls, Hebbe Falls, Kemmangundi, Z Point and Hirekolale Lake are the most popular for a short trip.
Is this good for a 2 days trip from Bangalore for couples?
Yes. Choose sunset spots like Hirekolale Lake or Z Point, start early for Mullayanagiri, and stay in a quiet estate or homestay.
Is it suitable for a 2 days trip from Bangalore with family?
Yes, with an easy plan. Honnammana Halla Falls, Hirekolale Lake and Kemmangundi are simpler. Mullayanagiri’s 500 stairs and the Hebbe Falls jeep ride may be hard for small children and older people.
Is online booking compulsory for Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri?
Yes. Since 1 September 2025, you need to book your vehicle online and choose a date and time slot.
Where can I book the Mullayanagiri vehicle pass?
Use the official Chikkamagaluru district tourism website (chikkamagaluru.nic.in/en/tourism) and its booking portal (pgbiz.omniware.in/chikkamagalurutourism). Save your confirmation before you reach the check post.
Do I need a permit for Hebbe Falls?
Hebbe Falls needs forest department permission and the official jeep is advised. Check with the forest department counter on the day.
Which is the highest peak in Karnataka?
Mullayanagiri, in the Baba Budangiri range near Chikmagalur. Most sources give its height as 1,925 metres (6,316 ft), and Karnataka Tourism lists about 1,930 metres.
How many steps are there at Mullayanagiri?
The original plan says around 500 steps from the parking area. One source counts 464 stone and concrete steps, so expect roughly 450 to 500.
Where should we stay for a two days trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur?
Chikmagalur town is a good base. It has hotels, resorts, and homestays. Book early for weekends.
Which places can I skip if I have less time?
Skip Kallathigiri Falls and Honnammana Halla Falls first. Keep Mullayanagiri, one waterfall, and either Hebbe Falls or Z Point.