Known for its lush green valleys and scenic waterfalls, Chikmagalur is a perfect place to get away from the scorching heat of the summer, if only for a week or a weekend.
Along with the highest peak of the Indian State of Karnataka, i.e., the Mullayanagiri peak, Chikmagalur tourist attractions include the much-famous coffee fields and the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, to name a few.
As a nice little town or hill station, a few things to do in Chikmagalur are:
1. Trek to Mullayanagiri – Karnataka’s Highest Peak
Situated in the Western Ghats and defined by a rich mountainous terrain, Chikmagalur is home to the highest peak of Karnataka, the Mullayanagiri peak, which offers a safe and scenic route through rugged hills and streams.
As an ideal haven for trekkers and hikers alike, the best time to enjoy its cool air and panoramic views is early morning when the sun begins to shine.
2. Explore Coffee Plantations with a Guided Estate Walk
Chikmagalur is nick-named the “Coffee Land of Karnataka,” and for all good reasons.
Boasting large fields of coffee plantations, especially in the Baba Budan Giri hills, which is said to be the birthplace of our favorite beverage, Chikmagalur provides guided Coffee estate experiences where you can learn and savor the coffee-making process from the ground up.
3. Chill at Jhari Falls (aka Buttermilk Falls)
Among the various waterfalls and streams that run through the region, is Jhari Falls, or Buttermilk Falls, which is named after its wide and white stream of water.
Surrounded by dense forests and rocks, it is one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur, whether to rest, eat, shower, refresh, or go ahead with the rest of your trip.
To make the most of it, you might want to arrive there early in the day.
4. Sunset Watching at Hirekolale Lake
As a diverse land of hills, valleys, and mountainous terrain, Chikmagalur also features a serene and beautiful lake where time comes to a halt.
Albeit man-made, this beautiful Hirekolale Lake (meaning big lake) is nestled at the foot of the Mullayanagiri hill, giving a majestic view of the mountain.
As such, you can just sit there for hours and hours, or have a picnic and take pictures of the golden sunset.
5. Camp Under the Stars or Book a Luxury Hilltop Stay
As far as staying the nights are concerned, Chikmagalur has all kinds of budget-friendly and luxurious options to choose from.
From the finest modern resorts to vintage hotels, like Trivik Hotels & Resorts, which is the only upscale hotel situated 5400 ft above sea level, and is packed with amenities like free Wi-Fi, free parking, free breakfast, air conditioning, outdoor pool, and accessibility to most major locations.
Or you can always spend the night camping outside and relish the open sky and the mysteries it holds!
6. Visit the Serene Baba Budangiri Hills
As we mentioned earlier, the Baba Budangiri Hills are one of the major Chikmagalur tourist attractions due to their rich coffee estates and plantations
Believed to be the origin place of Coffee, it shares a lot of historical and spiritual significance that attracts people from all over the world.
As famous as it is for its coffee gardens, the Baba Budangiri hills also offer a mesmerizing ambiance to nature lovers and casual trekkers.
7. Relish Local Malnad Cuisine at Estate Cafés
Keeping the natural beauty of the place intact is the local Estate Cafe, which serves a wide range of local Malnad dishes (featuring Akki Roti and Kesari Bath) and coffee variations.
With spacious outdoor seating and a vintage fireplace, you can savour all you like and find a savvy Chikmagalur travel guide all the while.
Bonus Tip: Offbeat Detours for the Curious Explorer
Those seeking a complete Offbeat travel Chikmagalur can always go for its lesser-known sites, such as the Sringeri Sharada Peetham Hindu temple or the Deviramma Temple trek.
Likewise, there are several other viewpoints worth visiting. For instance, the Kavikal Gandhi Viewpoint, which provides a vast and extensive panoramic view of the lower landscape.
Conclusion
With lush green hills and lively waterfalls, Chikmagalur is a perfect place to visit this summer or the next.
Famous for its ground-breaking coffee and scenic landscapes, some of the best summer activities in Chikmagalur that you can indulge in are trekking, biking, enjoying under the waterfalls, camping, kayaking, and rafting.
Considering the wide array of activities, Chikmagalur is a must-visit for every traveler’s offbeat travel, especially in the summer.
~ Image by wirestock on Freepik
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Chikmagalur in summer?
The ideal time to visit Chikmagalur during summer is between March and May. The weather remains pleasant, with cooler mornings and evenings, making it perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and relaxing amidst nature.
2. Is trekking to Mullayanagiri suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Mullayanagiri trek is beginner-friendly. While it involves a few uphill climbs and rocky patches, the route is mostly safe and well-marked. Early mornings are the best time to start the trek to avoid heat and enjoy a clearer view from the top.
3. Are coffee plantation tours available for tourists?
Absolutely. Several estate owners offer guided coffee plantation tours where visitors can walk through lush estates, learn how coffee is grown and processed, and even sample fresh brews. Some tours also include local snacks and heritage talks.
4. How can I reach Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls)?
To reach Jhari Falls, you’ll need to drive or hire a jeep from the main town as regular vehicles may not handle the rough trail. The falls are nestled deep within forested terrain, making the bumpy ride totally worth it for the stunning view and cool water.
5. What type of food can I try in Chikmagalur?
Chikmagalur is known for its Malnad cuisine, which is rich, flavorful, and comforting. Dishes like Akki Roti, Kesari Bath, Neer Dosa, and traditional Koli Saaru (chicken curry) are must-tries. Most estate cafés serve freshly brewed coffee along with authentic regional meals.