BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CHIKKAMAGALURU
Chikmagalur is a district in the state of Karnataka. Coffee was first cultivated in Chikmagalur in India. The Chikmagalur Mountains, which are part of the Western Ghats, are the source of rivers like Tunga and Bhadra. It is located in the Mullayagiri district of Karnataka, the highest peak. Chikmagalur district has a rich history in Hoysala temple in Amritsar. Wildlife enthusiasts are interested in the Kudremukh National Park and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in the district.
Chikmagalur spent the early days of the Hoysala kings and their dynasty. According to a legend, it is in Sussevar, now identified with Angadi in the Mudikere taluk, killing the mythical assassination of the Hoysala dynasty founder Sala Hoysala Crest.
BC Coffee was introduced to India by the Chikmagalur district in 1670 when the first coffee crop was grown in the Baba Budan Giri range. According to the article Origins of Coffee, Saint Baba Budan travelled to Mecca on a pilgrimage through the Mocha port named Yemen, where he found coffee. To introduce its taste to India, he wrapped up seven coffee seeds around his stomach and left them out of Arabia. After returning, they planted beans in the Chikmagalur hills.
Kudremukh National Park
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Kudremukha is a mountain range and the name of a peak located in Chikkamagaluru district, in Karnataka, India. It is also the name of a small hill station cum mining town situated near the mountain, about 20 kilometres from Kalasa.
Kudremukh National Park is popular for its scenic beauty. Designated the status of a national park in the year 1987, the 600-kilometre square area is one of the most well-preserved national parks in the state.
The Kudremukh National Park spans 600.57 square kilometres in the districts of Chikkamagaluru and Dakshina Kannada. It is home to various animals, including the leopard, bear, gaur, sambar, jackal, mongoose, tiger, wild dog, spotted deer, barking deer, and giant flying squirrel. In addition, the park is home to a variety of species, including the Malabar trogon, Malabar whistling thrush, and imperial pigeon.
The grasslands provide a safe home to many animals of the wild, and the Kudremukh National Park is the second-largest protected wildlife area in the entire Western Ghats zone. In Chikmagalur tourism, exploring the Kudremukh National Park is one of the major highlights. With the natural beauty of the place kept intact, the Western Ghats provides excellent details about the land which can be thoroughly enjoyed by any nature lover.
Mullayanagiri Peak
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: The visit to Chikmagalur is incomplete without paying a visit to Mullayanagiri hills. The jaw-dropping cliffs stand in the Western Ghats as the highest peak. It is about 20 Km from Chikmagalur and 23 Km from the famous Baba Budangiri. Mullayanagiri stands tall at the height of 1950 meters above sea level.
The calming ambience of the hills makes tourists relish their visit. The lush green fields, rugged rocks, and misty weather add to the place’s charm.
On the way to the peak, you can enjoy the Nandi statue, a small stream, and a cave with a small water source. Early morning is the best time to soak in the beauty of the gorgeous sunrise and exquisite views of Mullayanagiri and the Western Ghats.
Hebbe Falls
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Hebbe Falls is yet another picturesque Chikmagalur tourist place. The falls are accessed from Kemmangundi hill station. It is located 8 km from this hill station. The falls are surrounded by astonishing greenery. Coffee plantations are sprawled across the expanses around the falls. Descending from a height of 168 metres, the falls are divided into two stages – the Big Falls and the Small Falls. Called Dodda Hebbe and Chikka Hebbe, the waterfall varies in height in these two regions
You reach this waterfall by an 8 km trek from Kemmangundi. The path is narrow and steep. Along the way, you see scenic wonders. But the effort to reach the Hebbe Falls is worth it. From a distance you can hear the sounds of splashing water, heightening your sense of suspense and excitement. Hebbe Falls form an ideal location to experience a calm holiday in the backdrop of nature of all the Chikmagalur tourist places. It is the perfect location to unwind and distress. If you are bored and tired of the daily grinds of the city, visiting these falls every now and then recharges your energies.
One of the best features of these falls is that the water is infused with herbs. It is like a natural jacuzzi with exotic herbs mixed into the water. So take a dip in these healthy waters and feel the difference. Become one with your natural surroundings. During the monsoon, the waterfall becomes voluminous and makes thunderous sounds that can be heard from afar.
Baba Budangiri (Datta Peeta)
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Baba Budan Giri also known as Dattatray Peeta is a mountain in the range of the Western Ghats of India. Located in the Chikmagalur taluk, Chikmagaluru District of Karnataka, Dattatreya Peeta is known for its shrine as a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Muslims. Sangh Parivar organizations started “Datta Jayanti” celebrations in the late 2000s as part of their fight to claim “Sri Guru Dattatreya Swami Dattapit”. People go to have a darshan of the Samadhi. The main peaks in this range are the Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri (height 1895 m). Collectively, these peaks are known as Chandra Drona Parvatha Shrine (Chandradrona Mountain Range)as they naturally form the shape of a crescent moon.
The Baba Budan Mountain range is also famous among trekkers for its snake trails, moraine and rocky patches, grasslands, rolling hills, the blade ridges on the way to Mullayanagiri, camping grounds and cave explorations.
It is also a great photography destination for photography enthusiasts due to its rich indigenous flora and fauna, and the rare kurinji flowers blooming on the low-lying slopes of Nilgiris once every 12 years.
Kallathigiri Falls
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: The Kallathigiri Falls, also known as the Kalhatti Falls, is a magnificent natural abode located 50 kilometres away from Chikmagalur. This waterfall is a perfect destination for leisure mongers and thrill-seekers alike and is popular among both locals as well as tourists. The fall gushes down the majestic Chandra Dona Mountains from a height of about 400 feet.
The Kalhatti Falls is the first major waterfall around Chikmagalur, and easily the most distinctive one. Water drops from an overhanging ledge, allowing people to take showers beneath it. The falls contain the headwaters of the river Sharavathi. Apart from being a natural goldmine, the Kalhatti Falls also has a poignant religious significance. It houses the renowned Veerabhadra Temple, or Veerabhadreshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple welcomes thousands of pilgrims to its shrine throughout the year. Owing to its legendary history, the waters from this waterfall are considered to be holy by locals and are said to cure several diseases.
Then there is Rock Garden which is yet another scenic place with plenty of things to do and see. Hebbe Falls can be visited as this cascade is in this region. It is 10 km from these falls. You can trek all the way if you are fit or opt for some transportation. The natural beauty of the surroundings never makes you feel tired and you are always asking for more.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary)
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: The sanctuary takes its name from the Bhadra River, its lifeline. Popularly known as Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary, after the village on its periphery, it was declared a Project Tiger reserve. But apart from the tiger, it is a great place to sight and observe other animals, reptiles, and more than 250 species of birds, many of which are endemic to the Western Ghats.
It is a stone’s throw away from the northern boundary of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. Muthodi is the southern part of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and is located in one of the most picturesque forest patches here. The sanctuary is also home to the Jagara Giant, the largest teak tree in the state which has a girth of 5.1 m with a height of 32 m and is said to be around 400 years old. Bhadra Tiger Reserve spans about 500 square km, spread across two districts Shivamogga and Chikmagalur districts.
This sanctuary is known for its wildlife safari. You can see tigers in their natural habitat on these expeditions. Private jeep safaris can be arranged. In each safari, accompanying the visitors are forest officials. These professionals entertain guests with interesting anecdotes about forest life. They also explain the behaviour and lifestyle of wild animals. You will be intrigued by the depth of information you get that makes this place a must-visit in your Chikmagalur tour.
There are close to 250 species of birds at the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. You can go on specialised bird-watching expeditions. Ornithologists accompany you. They know which birds are found in which part of the jungle. Although it is difficult to see reptiles you could get lucky and see a king cobra or a pit viper. There are even marsh crocodiles in this sanctuary and you can spot them lying along the banks of small water bodies.
Bhadra Dam
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: The Bhadra dam is constructed on the river Bhadra, which is a tributary of the River Tungabhadra. The dam is surrounded by lush greenery and is a majestic place to be at. The river has many small islands which are home to migratory birds The tourist attraction near the dam in the river and the wildlife sanctuary that accommodates rare species of fauna like red spurfowl, emerald dove, imperial green pigeon, mesh crocodiles, hill mynahs, gaurs, painted bush quail, black woodpecker, wild boar etc.
It is located 30 km from Shimoga in the Chikmagalur district. It is a popular attraction and acts as a means of electricity and irrigation for the locals. There are many popular water activities here like kayaking, boating and more. There are many other tourist locations and destinations that are closely located to the dam like Kudremukh, Mullayanagiri and much more. There are no specific timings to visit the dam though there would be some definite timings to enter the wildlife sanctuary. Before you plan to visit the sanctuary, make a quick inquiry about the timings to avoid last-minute confusion.
Hanumana Gundi Falls
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: The Hanumana Gundi Falls, also known as Suthanabbe Falls or Soothanabbi Falls is located in the hilly surroundings of the Kudremukh National Park in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, India. Hanumanagundi Falls is situated between Karkala and Lakya Dam in the Kudremukh national park. Hanumanagundi Falls is situated at a distance of 79 km from Mangalore.
With the Western Ghats running along its length, Karnataka boasts of numerous stunning waterfalls. One of the less talked about waterfalls is the Hanuman Gundi falls. Water cascades over a height of 77 feet foaming on rock edges and creating rainbow-like effects as the mist distorts the sunlight.
There are about 300 well-laid steps to reach the falls after a little walk from the main road. It is a very safe place to take bath and it’s possible to go directly under the falls. The falls are maintained by Forest Dept. and an entry fee is charged at the gate. This place is relatively less crowded.
Sringeri Sharadamba Temple
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Sri Sharadamba Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Saraswati in the holy town of Sringeri in Karnataka, India Sri Adi Shankaracharya founded the Sringeri Sharada Temple in the eighth century. It housed a standing sandalwood statue of Shardamba installed by Adi Shankaracharya until the 14th century when the Vijayanagara rulers and Sri Vidyaranya (12th Jagadguru) installed a seated gold statue of Sri Shardamba.
Parents bring their children to seek the blessings of the goddess. Students attempting important examinations come here to seek blessings. Anyone in the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge can come here and seek the blessings of the goddess. This is a relevant activity since this place was originally used to teach disciples. Hence this place is all about religion and learning.
Sri Adi Shankara Bhagavatpada was referred to as Jagadguru or the teacher of the world. Sringeri Mutt is the first of the four Amnaya Peethams, which means the throne of the Vedas, established over twelve centuries ago in honour of the sacred traditions of Santana Dharma. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, who is the Goddess of Knowledge. The setting of the Sringeri Mutt on the banks of a gently hustling river as the Western Ghats combined with the soft distant murmur of waterfalls.
Kemmangundi
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Kemmangundi is at a distance of 60 kilometres from Chikmagalur. Located at approximately 1434 meters above sea level, Kemmanagundi is the most popular hill station in Tarikere taluk of Chikmagalur district, known among tourists for the scenic views it offers. It is also known as KR Hills or Krishna Rajendra Hill Station in reference to the king.
When Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV first came here, he was awestruck at the magnificent Baba Budan Hills in the backdrop and it is one of the most amazing places to see in Chikmagalur. He wished to build a resort in Chikmagalur. He then handed over this resort to the Government of Karnataka. In fact, it was donated to the government as an act of generosity. The Department of Horticulture now oversees and maintains this place. Given this fact, Kemmangundi is a beautiful and outstanding hill station. The gardens laid out in this region are landscaped to perfection. Surrounding Kemmangundi are magnificent mountains, hills and valleys. The scenic beauty on offer is spectacular. You cannot ask for anything better.
There is a guest house named Raj Bhavan in the vicinity. A must-visit attraction is the Rose Garden. The Raj Bhavan is used by visitors to experience beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The view of this magnificent routine of nature is best observed from here.
If you went uphill, then you need to go downhill to the Hebbe Falls. 8 km from Raj Bhavan, these falls are two-tiered. Descending from a height of over 150 metres, the falls are a sight to remember and cherish. You can also visit the Kallathi Falls, found about 10 km from the hill station. These falls have religious significance.
Coffee Museum
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Coffee Museum in Chikmagalur is a haven for experiencing the fresh aroma of the original coffee. Chikmagalur is a picturesque spot in Karnataka embraced by the limitless coffee plantations. The coffee Museum is one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur. It is here the quality of coffee is tested and analysed. From the first step of plucking the beans to powdering them, all the processes in the coffee-making can be observed and studied at this museum. Training materials are prepared to grow and manufacture the finest coffee.
The building is amidst lush greenery and it is surrounded by small coffee plant pots. You can walk around and find the beauty of the place inviting you to a peculiar world of an irresistible aroma of coffee. The staff at the museum will explain everything related to coffee making. The museum also presents many documents and maps that will provide you with insights into the processes and other coffee-growing regions in India.
They also have a coffee movie showcasing real farmers who grow coffee narrating their version of cultivation. Who would have imagined all this with just a tiny coffee bean!
The timings may differ according to the season but normally the museum will be open on all days from 10:00 am to 05:00 pm. But it is always advised to plan your trip to the museum after checking the official website of the museum to know the opening times.
Manikyadhara Falls
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: At a distance of 7 km from Baba Budangiri Dattatreya Peetha, 36 km from Kemmangundi & 29 km from Chikmagalur, Manikya Dhara Falls is situated in the dense forest of Baba Budangiri hills in Western Ghats of India. Most pilgrims visiting Bababudangiri shrines ensure they also visit Manikyadhara Falls and consider the water holy.
Accessing Manikyadhara Waterfalls involves getting down 200+ steps. The view of the Western Ghats from the Manikyadhara waterfalls area is captivating. Watchtowers and resting areas are available along the steps. Locals sell herbs and food products. The height of Manikyadhara Falls is 30 ft.
There is a legend behind the Manikyadhara Falls. Saint Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalandar came to this region. Accompanying him were four disciples. They were in search of water. On finding no water, they prayed to the almighty to help them. Suddenly, their prayers were answered. A waterfall cascaded down. This is the reason why this cascade is considered holy by many people. When people visit this place, they also offer a silent prayer to Saint Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalandar. Locals bathe in the water as it is believed to have divine therapeutic powers.
Pilgrims, who bathe in the Manikyadhara Waterfall, leave behind one item of their clothing as per a local belief. Muslims believe that if a daughter of marriageable age is not finding a suitable groom, then offering bangles here will help. The girls wear these bangles and it is believed that this helps them to find good alliances. Muslim worshippers have carved out a cave here from where they collect mud. This mud is supposed to have curative powers to heal many ailments. It is also believed to bring good fortune.
Kadambi Falls
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Kadambi Waterfalls is one of the spectacular natural attractions of Karnataka. The falls are located inside the Kudremukh National Park in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. The waterfall has a height of about 30 feet.
The Kadambi Waterfalls are a major draw for tourists who want to experience the beauty of nature in the lush green Western Ghats and especially in the Kudremukh range. It lies close to the main road between Sringeri & Kudremukh. As it is very close to the main road, it can be seen from a bridge situated nearby. However, most visitors prefer to go near the falls after overcoming a few minor hurdles. The adventurous visitors even get down to the waterfall to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings and the water.
One of the highlights of this region is the orchids. There are several varieties of them. You can visit any of these orchids with permission from their owners. See and experience how these orchids are maintained. Kudremukh is also a place of dense jungles when on Chikmagalur sightseeing. Several wild animals are found in these jungles. After you visit the Kadambi Falls, you can visit Rajendra Hill which is in close vicinity. The hill is enveloped in coffee plantations. It presents an idyllic setting for trekking, camping and relaxation.
Z point
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Considered one of the best trek points not just in Chikmagalur but in Karnataka, Z Point is enchanting views of the western ghats. Z point stands at an elevation of 1400 meters and getting to the top is a short trek of 3 kilometres. The walk is a pretty thrilling one but comes at the cost of scenic views of lush green valleys and it is one of the best Chikmagalur places to see.
Kemmagundi Raj Bhavan is the start point of this adventurous trek to Z point which also provides the best sunrise as well as sunset skies. The trek from Raj Bhavan to Z Point usually takes about 1 hour. Camping at the Z Point is possible. Moreover, Shanti waterfalls are en route to the top, so tourists can stop by to take a dip into the chilly waters of this fall.
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 adds the views which make this place unforgettable.
Hirekolale lake
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: At a distance of 10 km from Chikmagalur & 50 km from Kemmanagundi, Hirekolale Lake is a beautiful man-made lake situated in Chikmagalur. Here, tourists can sit by the lake and enjoy views of the beautiful sun setting in between the surrounding hills. This lake is your ideal choice of picnic spot if you are looking for a peaceful environment with relatively fewer tourists in comparison to any other Chikmagalur tourist place. It was built as a source to supply water for drinking and irrigation purposes to the town of Chikmagalur.
It also offers the most fascinating views of the landscape during sunset and is a delight for photography lovers who are looking to add an idyllic sunset shot to their travel albums. The famous hills of Mullayanagiri can be viewed from here.
It is recommended to carry some food and water here, as there are no restaurants until a few kilometres from the lake. There is no boating facility at the lake.
Jhari Waterfalls
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Jhari Waterfalls, also known as the Buttermilk Falls, is situated near Attigundi at a distance of 12 km from Baba Budangiri. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Chikmagalur district and one of the best tourist places in the district.
These mesmerising falls surrounded by dense forests and coffee plantations are created by the springs which originate in the mountains. There is a pool too which has been naturally formed in the lower part of the waterfall for the tourists to swim and play in the water and relax. It is a perfect place to break away from the busy life of the city and unwind amidst nature’s beauty.
For the people visiting here, it should be remembered that private vehicles are not allowed and one has to take a jeep ride due to the bad condition of roads there.
Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: The Annapoorneshwari Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddessAnnapoorneshwari, located at Horanadu, Karnataka, India, 100 km from Chikmagalur in the thick forests and valleys of the Western Ghats of Karnataka. It is situated on the banks of river Bhadra.
The Annapoorneshwari temple was constructed by Agasthya Maharishi about 400 years ago. Goddess Annapoorneshwari can be seen here standing on a Peeta. She is holding Shanku, Chakra, Sri Chakra and Devi Gayatri in her four hands. The idol is covered in gold from head to toe, and it is believed that those who come to the temple and pray to the Goddess will never go hungry in their life.
The word Annapoorna is made of two words Anna meaning grains or food and poor means perfect and complete. Hence, Annapoorna means complete or perfect food. This is to be believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva.
The temple management has been offering free food or prasadam and shelter to pilgrims and devotees since the time the temple was built centuries ago; hence keeping the motive of the temple alive.
Kavikal Gandi View Point
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: The Kavikal Gandi viewpoint is situated 11 km from Baba Budangiri, 11 km from Mullayanagiri and 18 km from Chikmagalur. The Horse Shoe View Point is another name for this viewpoint. It is a well-known viewpoint in the Chikmaglur district of Karnataka state.
Kavikal Gandi viewpoint is located on Mullayanagiri – Baba Budangiri road, Kavikal Gandi is a prominent hill viewpoint in the Chikmagalur region. There is a check post on the road. The horseshoe viewpoint can be easily reached by climbing up about 50 steps from this check post.
At the foot of the hill, there is also a small statue of the god Hanuman. You will see a painting of Swami Vivekananda on the top of the hill if you go to the Kavikal Gandi Viewpoint. From this viewpoint, one can get a breathtaking view of the Chandra Drona mountain range. You can also get a stunning view of the surrounding nature from this vantage point. This Viewpoint takes about 30 minutes to an hour to reach.
Kavikal Gandi Viewpoint is gaining popularity as a trekking destination, similar to Chikmaglur, which offers some stunning views of nature and hiking trails. So, if you’re a nature lover, make your way to the Kavikal Gandi Viewpoint, and don’t forget to bring your camera so you can take some amazing photos.
Ayyanakere Lake
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Ayyanakere is a lake near Sakharayapatna village of Karnataka, India and it is located at a distance of 18 kilometres from Chickmagalur. The lake is a major water source for an agricultural activity for several villages up to a distance of 15 kilometres. The lake has 10 canals to distribute water.
A pyramid-shaped peak that is located in the vicinity of the reservoir is renowned among tourists. Upon reaching the destination, tourists get a chance to watch the beautiful view of sunrise and sunset. This site acts as an ideal place for tourists who are interested in recreational activities such as camping and fishing.
Tourists who are planning to visit this site can also explore the nearby Shakhuni Ranganatha Temple. Ayyanakere Lake is used for irrigation purposes by farmers of nearby regions.
Seethalayanagiri
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: At a distance of 3 km from Mullayanagiri and 19 km from Chikmagalur, Seethalayanagiri is a mountain peak located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Situated at an altitude of 5000 feet, Seethalayanagiri is one of the top tourist places to visit in Chikmagalur.
Seethalayanagiri is situated on the way to Mullayanagiri from Chikmagalur. The drive up the winding roads of Chandradrona hill on the way to Seethalayanagiri is very scenic. One can get some mesmerizing views from the top of the peak which is easily walkable from the parking area. Several visitors park their vehicles at Seethalayanagiri and trek to Mullayanagiri which is about 3 km from here.
There is also a small quiet temple dedicated to Seethala Mallikarjuna Swamy. The Shivlinga is always surrounded by water. This is a pilgrimage centre for the people living around this region. Apart from the temple, there is a cave on the left-hand side of the temple. The trees around the peak are home to many orchids and wildflowers.
Kodandarama Temple
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: At a distance of 5 km from Chikmagalur, 66 Km from Kemmangundi, and 81 km from Sringeri, the Kodanda Rama Temple is located in Hiremagalur near Chikkamagaluru, in Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka, India.
Kodandaramaswami Temple, popularly known as the Kodandarama temple is a Hindu shrine which gets its name from the fact that the idols of Lord Rama and Lakshmana are depicted holding arrows. The beautiful temple is a treat to the eyes and has been constructed following the Hoysala and Dravidian architectural styles.
The temple is State protected and appears to have been constructed in three stages, with its garbhagrha and sukhanasi structures in the Hoysala style. The remaining portions are additions in Dravidian style. The navagrahas were added in14th century & Mukhamantapa was added in the 16th century. The temple is steeped in local legend and is known as the place where Lord Parshurama once lived. The beautiful idols of Sita, Rama and Lakshmana positioned inside the temple have inspired poets for centuries and are a sight to behold.
Ballalarayana Durga Fort
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Ballalarayana Durga Fort Trek and Bandaje Arbi Trek are two treks, covered in a single stretch. Studded in the Nilgiris in the western ghats of Karnataka, the trek leads you to a landscape of rolling hills, gushing waterfalls, a canopy of dense trees, boulder-filled paths, vast laid out grasslands and then finally, a dilapidated fort that in the past overlooked at everything to protect. Today, only the broken walls of the fort remain.
The fort dates as far back as the 12th century and once belonged to the Hoysala Empire. It follows the Karnata Dravida architectural style and forms an excellent backdrop for photographs. While at the fort, you can also enjoy picturesque sunsets where the sky changes colour every few minutes, shedding light on the surrounding forest.
In Ballarayanadurga Fort, you will not find any remains except some broken walls. Plus in the past, the entire fort was converted to rubble and got submerged under mud and trees. Undoubtedly, the fort is destroyed by nature over the years, but the view from the highest point will blow your mind away.
The Bandaje Falls or Bandaje Arbi falls from a height to a depth of 200 feet. If you have never experienced skipping a heartbeat, try looking from the chute of the waterfall. You will sit dumbstruck and wonder about the dwelling of these viewpoints in India.
Mahatma Gandhi Park
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Mahatma Gandhi Park, also known as Ratnagiri Bore or M G Park is located in the northern part of Chikmagalur. This park was inaugurated on 1st January 1967 by the then Vice President of India, Mr Zakir Hussain. It is a beautiful garden located against the backdrop of Mullayanagiri Hill. You can experience the charm of lush greenery and tranquillity which makes this place a peaceful site.
At the entrance gate of Mahatma Gandhi Park, there is a big statue of Mahatma Gandhi. The park has beautifully designed pathways, steps, and well-maintained lawns. Various types of colourful flowers and plants are well placed to enhance the beauty of the park. There is a pond in the park embellished with some statues and a beautiful fountain.
The park has a treehouse which is a popular attraction alongside the well-sculpted caves. An amphitheatre is also built on the premises to support a totally new concept of mini outdoor stage activity. For the kids, the park has swings, slides, and many other outdoor games. Other attractions of MG Park are an open-air gym and a toy train track.
Doddabale Siddaragudda Peak
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Doddabale Siddaragudda Peak, which is 5,500 feet high. From the peak of Doddabale Siddaragudda Peak, Lord Shiva Temple can be seen, which is said to be about 800 years old. Near the small village of Yemmedoddi, there is a lake, Madagadakere, which according to folklore is said to be filled with magic rain. About 45 km from Shivgiri is the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to many endangered species of animals and birds.
You will pass through lush, green forests, manicured plantations and views of the cloud-covered mountains. You can also make a detour to the many nature-based attractions in Chikmagalur that fall on the way, including Lakeville Dam, Baba Budangiri Hills, Bhadra Lake, and Kebbedoddi Village.
Sri Veeranarayana Temple
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: This is a beautiful Hoysala-style temple located 28 km south of Chikmagalur town in the small village of Belavadi Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Belavadi is very near to the famous temple towns of Belur and Halebid. This temple was built in the 13th century by Veera Ballala II.
Belavadi Sri. Veera Narayana Temple is one the classical example where in unique temple plan is executed. The temple is a trikuta having Sri. Veera Narayana in the centre facing East, Sri. Venugopala faces North and Sri.Yoga Narasimha facing South; all three of which are avatars of Lord Vishnu.
This temple also has its mentioned in Mahabharata as the place where Bheema killed Bakasura and protected the villagers.
The temple is believed to be constructed in two phases, earlier the central shrine was constructed and later on, the additions were made, but truly this temple is a marvel and possesses the most beautiful images of Sri. Venugopala is Certified by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Sri Kalaseshwara temple
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: The Kalaseshwara Temple is located in Kalasa town in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Kalasa town is located on the banks of the river Bhadra. From the inscriptions, it is known that this temple was built during the reign of Vidarbha King Srutha Bindu. Temple exists between 1154 -1157 AD and locals used to worship the deity. This temple received huge contributions from Somashekhar Nayak.
Tradition traces the origin of this town to events related to the Skanda Purana. The wedding of Parvati and Parameshwara was held in Kasi, and all the gods and Rishis and celestials assembled there. The legends say that a visit to Kalasa pays greater religious importance than a visit to Varanasi. A visit to Kalasa can be clubbed with a visit to Horanadu which is popular for Annapoorneshwari temple.
The Sage Agasthya halted at Kalasa and saw the wedding from here. A Shiva Linga appeared out of his Kalasha, the pot. He built a temple here and installed the Linga in it. This is the temple now called Kalaseshwara. The Linga is enshrined in a silver mandapa. The Devi in this temple is known as Sarvanga Sundari.
Devaramane
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Located in the coolest terrain of the rich Western Ghats from the evergreen forest. It is also a fascinating spot to see how beautiful this place is located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka. The small village may be smaller than the Murthy shrine, but the glory of the temple, the legend that it is adorned with, and some of the most fascinating tourist attractions around it, besides the creation of the beauty, make this area a tourist attraction.
At the top of the hill, you can find a simple but beautiful 800-year-old Kala Bhairaveshwara temple. This is a nice small temple. You can find a beautiful pond in front of the temple. The historical temple of Kala Bhairaveshwara is very popular among the locals and is ‘Mane Devaru’ for many of them. Here you can see haarlu (Neelakurinji) flowers which blossom once every 12 years. Devaramane is a valley of small hills and its lush green valleys are a paradise for photographers.
Sirimane Falls
Best places to visit in Chikkamagaluru: Sirimane waterfalls are at a distance of 18 km from Sringeri Sharamba temple in the Chikmagalur district. Also known as Kigga Falls, it is one of the popular waterfalls in Karnataka, and the road to the falls passes through Kigga village which is famous for the Rishyashringa temple.
It is at a height of 40 feet, this waterfall is located in serene surroundings with dense forest all around. A little walk is required from the parking place to reach the falls through well-laid steps. One can also get to the bottom and enjoy the falls, although this might not be possible in heavy force during the rainy season.
