Chikmagalur itinerary: What to see and do on a weekend trip

Think of weekend getaways from Bangalore, and I am sure that Chikmagalur would be one of the first couple of names on the list. Known for its coffee plantations and scenic beauty, this hill station is a must-visit – whether you are an adventure-seeking solo traveller or a family looking for a relaxing vacation. Having enjoyed my Chikmagalur trip to the hilt, I can’t wait to share my travel tips with you. Read on for suggestions on how to plan your Chikmagalur itinerary, the must-visit places, and more. 

Planning your Chikmagalur itinerary 

There are many places to visit in Chikmagalur, not all of which can be visited over one weekend. I will therefore give you some suggestions based on the duration of your trip. If, like me, you prefer unhurried vacations, you should also build in some time for doing nothing. Someday I plan to return just to do nothing other than enjoy the weather with a book and some coffee!

I am listing below some of the main places to visit in Chikmagalur, followed by a suggested Chikmagalur itinerary for one, two, and three days.

Places to visit in Chikmagalur

Here is my list of places to visit in Chikmagalur, in alphabetical order to make it easier for you to scan. 

Ayyanakere Lake

Another beautiful and calm lake near Chikmagalur, Ayyanakere Lake is larger than Hirekolale Lake but equally scenic. Early morning and evening would be the best time to get some pretty shots here. This is supposed to be the second-largest lake in Karnataka. It is about 18 km from Chikmagalur, but you can combine a visit here with a trip to Kemmangundi, etc. 

Baba Budangiri

Baba Budangiri, a popular peak and tourist spot in Chikmagalur, is named after the Sufi saint Baba Budan. Legend has it that he was the one who first brought coffee beans to this part of the world, in the 17th century. The Sufi shrine here still attracts a lot of believers. 

Baba Budangiri is the second-highest peak in Karnataka, after Mullayanagiri. The drive here is one of the most scenic in this region, and you can also enjoy some amazing views from the top. Plan to spend some time here, and remember to carry all your trash back with you. 

From the parking area here, jeeps are available to go further up to Manikyadhara Falls and beyond. 

If you enjoy trekking, there is a trek route to Baba Budangiri from Mullayanagiri which takes approximately 6 hours. 

Belavadi Temple

Much smaller than the more famous Belur and Halebidu temples, the Veera Narayana Temple at Belavadi dates to the 13th century and sits in the middle of a neat and clean village. Dedicated to three different forms of Vishnu, it is a beautiful and peaceful temple to visit. It’s a short 11 km drive from Halebidu and 30 km from Chikmagalur. If you are interested in history and architecture, you must include this spot in your Chikmagalur itinerary.

Belur Temple

The 12th-century Chennakeshava temple of Belur is one of the most famous Hoysala temples in the region and a must-see sight. If driving to Chikmagalur from Bangalore, you can visit this temple on the way. The temple dedicated to Vishnu took over 100 years to complete and has some incredible workmanship to be seen. I recommend taking a guide (Rs. 500) to truly understand everything you will be seeing.

Bhadra Dam

Built across the Bhadra River, this dam is located about 80 km from Chikmagalur. You can visit here for photography and to enjoy water sports. Boating and kayaking activities are available at the reservoir. You could pack a picnic with you – just remember to leave no trash behind. 

Gallikere

This small but pretty lake is just a short walk ahead of the Baba Budangiri parking area. You will get some breathtaking views from the cliff edge here. I was sad to see the area overflowing with trash though. 

Halebid Temple

The Hoysaleshwara Temple in Halebidu is another 12th-century Hoysala construction that will leave you in awe. A twin-shrined temple, it is said to be the largest Shiva temple built by the Hoysalas. There are two huge Nandis here, one in front of each of the twin shrines. There is also a museum and experience centre here, which will give you a deeper insight into the history and architecture of the place. I would also recommend having a guide here. 

Hebbe Falls

A two-level waterfall, Hebbe Falls is close to Kemmangundi and is very popular with tourists. Getting here is not very simple; the last few kilometers have to be covered by jeeps, after which you have to trek to the actual falls. If you are up to it, it can be quite an adventure. The water here is also supposed to have medicinal value. 

Hirekolale Lake

Not far from the main town, Hirekolale Lake was one of my favourite places to visit in Chikmagalur. It is scenic and peaceful since it is not crowded — hope this never changes! A man-made lake, it was built to serve as a water source for the town. The lake is a beautiful sight, surrounded by hills and dense forest. If you like photography, do visit the place close to sunset. There is also a small Shiva temple here.

Jhari Falls

Also called Buttermilk Falls, this is probably the most famous waterfall in Chikmagalur. You can visit Buttermilk Falls along with Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri. Getting here is an adventure in itself as you have to leave your car on the main road and take a jeep ride over 3-4 km of very bumpy and muddy terrain to get to the falls. I had to give this a miss as the rain had turned everything into slush in the area. However, I hope to visit again someday in better weather.

Kemmangundi

Also called KR Hills, Kemmangundi was established as a summer retreat for the Maharaja of Mysore. Today it is a popular place to visit from Chikmagalur. It is a very pleasant drive and affords some truly picturesque views. There are also some waterfalls and temples in the area for those who want to explore. 

Manikyadhara Falls

A short drive from Baba Budangiri over some bumpy and rather hair-raising stretches of road, Manikyadhara Falls is popular both for its views as well as its religious significance. People believe that the water here has healing properties. 

Apart from enjoying the view from the viewpoint, you can also go down about 200 steps to the pool at the base of the falls. Unfortunately, it was raining hard when I visited, and I couldn’t enjoy a proper view of the falls. 

Mullayanagiri

The highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri is very popular with tourists for its views and breezy weather. A climb of about 500 steps from the parking area takes you to the summit which has a small Shiva temple. You’ll be able to catch a superb view from the top if it isn’t misty. This place is one of the most famous spots to include in your Chikmagalur itinerary.

It is believed that there is an ancient cave under this temple, connecting it to the Seethalayyanagiri Temple close by. However, this is no longer open for tourists. 

If you prefer something more adventurous, you can also opt to trek to Mullayanagiri Peak. The trek starts from a point about 3-4 km away and is moderately difficult. 

Muthodi Forest Reserve

Muthodi Forest Reserve is a part of the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and is about an hour’s drive from Chikmagalur. The drive in itself is worth it, passing through dense forests. The forest department runs morning and evening jeep safaris here. Don’t expect to see tigers but other wildlife views are common. The safari costs Rs. 400 per person, and it can be cancelled in case of rain or if there aren’t sufficient people to fill up a jeep. 

Yagachi Dam

A short drive away from Belur temple, this gravity dam on the Yagachi River (a tributary of the Tungabhadra) is popular for water sports. Available activities include speed boat rides, kayaking, and jet ski rides. 

Z Point

Looking for a moderate trek in the Kemmangundi area? Try the 3 km trek to Z Point from Raj Bhawan. You will also be able to visit Shanti Falls on the way. Z Point affords some amazing views of the green valleys from the top. Most people visit here to catch a sunrise or sunset. 

Other things to do in Chikmagalur

Explore a coffee plantation

You cannot visit a coffee town and not tour a coffee plantation. I was able to do this for free within the coffee estate homestay I was staying at. However, if you are not staying in a coffee estate, you can sign up for a tour through your hotel or homestay.

Visit the coffee museum

This museum will tell you about the history of coffee and how it is produced. It is located in the main town and is easy to access. However, note that it remains closed on weekends. I would only recommend this if you have spare time and have covered everything else. 

Experience the World of Coffee

This place starts out as a cute cafe for coffee and baked goodies, but you must also explore its interactive coffee exhibit. You’ll learn about types of coffee, how they are made, and a lot more. 

Go for a trek

The hilly terrain around Chikmagalur offers a range of trekking opportunities ranging from single to multiple days. Popular treks include Baba Budangiri, Mullayanagiri, Kudremukh, Kemmangundi or KR Hills, Jenukal Gudda, and Sakleshpur. Check with your accommodation provider for more details. 

Try river rafting

If you are visiting between June and October, you can go river rafting on the Bhadra River. Trips can be booked via online portals or through your accommodation provider. 

Shopping

You must bring back some local products as memories of your trip. You can buy coffee powder, whole beans, coffee liqueur, locally made wine, spices, handmade chocolates, sandalwood products, dry fruits, and a lot more. 

Day-wise Chikmagalur itinerary for your trip

Chikmagalur itinerary for 1 day

If you are in Chikmagalur for one day only (why??), then you will have to strictly prioritize your sightseeing to cover the main places to visit. Assuming that you have a full day available, here is a suggested plan for a one-day sightseeing tour around Chikmagalur.

• Baba Budangiri
• Gallikere
• Manikyadhara Falls
• Jhari Falls
• Mullayanagiri
• Hirekolale Lake

Chikmagalur itinerary for 2 days

With proper planning, you can cover a majority of places to visit in Chikmagalur over two days. Here is how I would plan a two-day trip.

Day 1

• Baba Budangiri
• Gallikere
• Manikyadhara Falls
• Jhari Falls
• Mullayanagiri
• Hirekolale Lake

Day 2

• Kemmangundi
• Z Point
• Hebbe Falls
• Ayyanakere Lake
• Coffee Museum

Chikmagalur itinerary for 3 days

Three days in Chikmagalur will give you sufficient time to cover the main places of interest and also enjoy a little downtime. Here is my recommendation for your three days in Chikmagalur.

Day 1

• Baba Budangiri
• Gallikere
• Manikyadhara Falls
• Jhari Falls
• Mullayanagiri
• Hirekolale Lake

Day 2

• Kemmangundi
• Z Point
• Hebbe Falls
• Ayyanakere Lake
• Coffee Museum

Day 3

• Belur
• Yagachi Dam
• Halebid
• Belavadi

If you are driving from Bangalore, you can visit Belur Halebid temples on the way (I recommend Belur and Yagachi dam on the way to Chikmagalur, and Halebid and Belavadi on the way back). In that case, here is an alternate plan for your third day in Chikmagalur.

Day 3 Alternative

• Coffee Plantation tour
• Jeep safari in Muthodi sanctuary
• Bhadra dam 

Other things to know about Chikmagalur travel

Best time to visit Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is lovely to visit during both summer and winter. Summer here is pleasant due to the higher elevation and the widespread green cover, while winter is cool, misty, and largely dry. You can plan a trip to Chikmagalur pretty much any time of the year, except for the peak monsoon months. While I did enjoy spending a rainy afternoon here doing nothing, if you have plans for an active holiday, you should avoid visiting during the rainy season. 

If waterfalls are high on your agenda, then aim to visit right after the monsoon to catch them in full flow.

How to reach Chikmagalur

Getting to Chikmagalur by road

Chikmagalur is very convenient to reach by road; you can either take a bus, a cab or drive yourself. 

Buses to Chikmagalur are available from Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore and will take you to the bus station in the main Chikmagalur town area. From there, you’ll need to either take an auto rickshaw to your place of stay or arrange for them to pick you up. If you are a solo female traveller, please check the bus schedules — I avoided the bus as I wasn’t comfortable getting into town at 4 am. 

If you are driving to Chikmagalur (either by cab or self-driven car), you’ll be glad to know that the roads are in good condition. I made the trip by car and liked being able to make detours to visit specific places I wanted to see. 

Getting to Chikmagalur by train

The closest railway stations for a trip to Chikmagalur are Kadur (45 km), Birur (51 km), and Hassan (56 km). You can get a taxi from any of these towns to Chikmagalur. 

Getting to Chikmagalur by flight

If you are visiting Chikmagalur from further away, then you can book a flight to Mangalore (150 km) or Bangalore (250 km), the two closest airports. Cabs are available from both to Chikmagalur.

Where to stay in Chikmagalur

This is a land of coffee plantations; the best way to experience it entirely is to stay in a coffee estate. There are many such estates and homestays where you can have a comfortable stay surrounded by greenery. I stayed at the Coffee Bean Homestay in Mallandur and had a good experience.

If you prefer hotels, no worries because hotels in every price range are available in the town. 

What to eat in Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur town has a few good eateries where you can go for a meal. While the Town Canteen has a lot of good reviews online, our homestay host recommended Hotel Mayura instead. Breakfast here was delicious. You should also try coffee and desserts at the World of Coffee cafe in town. 

I had most of my meals at the homestay, where they served delicious and homely Malnad cuisine. 

Some of the main sightseeing spots will have small food joints where you can have snacks and refreshments.

Travel Tips for your Chikmagalur itinerary

• If you are taking a coffee estate tour, wear closed shoes and long socks. Leeches are common!
• Loos are not available everywhere – use the facilities at hotels/restaurants where possible. Some sightseeing spots like Baba Budangiri will have basic paid toilets. Carry hand sanitizer. 
• Weather changes are possible throughout the day – carry a jacket and an umbrella or raincoat.
• Don’t go off on a trek by yourself – always take a guide or local person who knows the area. 
• Do try the local cuisine and coffee.
• Jeep drives to waterfalls are best left to experienced local drivers!

I hope this information about places to visit and things to do in Chikmagalur will help you plan the perfect Chikmagalur itinerary. If you are visiting for the first time, try to plan a trip for at least three days so that you aren’t in a rush and can truly enjoy the beauty of this place. 

Travelling from Bangalore? You should also check out my Hampi weekend getaway itinerary.

Looking for an offbeat place to visit in the hills of Himachal? Consider a trip to Bir Billing or Dharamkot.

If you’ve been to Chikmagalur and have suggestions on what to add here, please let me know in the comments below. Happy travels!