11 Best Things To Do In Chikmagalur In 2024

Chikmagalur in southwest India is a stunning hill station combining adventure, nature’s beauty, heritage, wildlife, coffee, and much more. Therefore, Chikmagalur allows you to have a laid-back or an adventure-filled trip as per your choice. You can go trekking here, commence your journey as a river rafter, or enjoy multiple sightseeing experiences.

Its lush greenery is what appeals to tourists all over India. Also known as ‘young daughter’s town’, there are so many peaks here for you to trek or coffee plantations to see that, without a list, exploring Chikmagalur is impossible for you. Here is a list of the 11 best things to do in Chikmagalur.

1/11. Hebbe Falls, Chikmagalur

Hebbe Falls is at a distance of 10 km from Kemmangundi. It is a natural wonder inside a coffee estate; you need a car or walk to reach the fall. The water falls from a height of 552 feet and is divided into two stages: Chikka Hebbe and Dodda Hebbe, both known for their serenity and beauty. It is a great place for a family picnic. Go experience this beauty between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

2/11. Trekking at Mullayanagiri

The highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri, is situated at a height of 6,330 ft. The hike towards Mullayanairi is extremely thrilling as you climb down a narrow path, which is quite memorable. It is an ideal trek for landscape photography, too. 

3/11. Explore The Various Coffee Estates

Chikmagalur is known as the coffee estate of India, and exploring these coffee plantations is one of the best things to do here. A few homestays are situated inside the coffee plantation, making for an aromatic stay here. Take a guided tour, and it will allow you to learn about the history of coffee while enjoying a taste of freshly brewed coffee. The taste of the authentic coffee here, along with the view, will mesmerize you. 

4/11. Go To Sharadamba Temple

Sharadamba Temple is ideal for all spirituals. Honoring Goddess Saraswati, the temple has beautiful Dravidian architecture carrying detailed statues, carvings, and more. The impressive architecture appeals to many architects and history buffs looking to unravel its craftsmanship. The opening times of the temple are 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.. 

5/11. The Jhari Falls

An offbeat adventure is visiting the Jhari Falls, 23 km away from Chikmagalur. A memorable thing about this fall is that you visit it on a jeep. The forest’s Sylan beauty will make you mesmerized, and the waterfall has a milky experience, due to which it is known as Buttermilk Falls. The timing of the falls is between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m..

6/11. Explore the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Are you a wildlife enthusiast? Then, you must visit Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, 38 km away from Chikmagalur. Exploring the wildlife, especially the tiger reserve here, is something special. If you visit this sanctuary, you will witness some exotic species, like barking deer, tigers, sloth bears, and gaurs. Do take a jeep safari here. The opening times of the sanctuary are 6 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m..

7/11. Offer Prayers at Honrando Temple

One of the famous Hindu temples here, it has a beautiful backdrop of western ghats. Its landscape resembles sylvan beauty and is so refreshing. The temple honors Goddess Annapoorna, the deity of food. The prasad, a three-course meal, is something you should definitely try. The temple is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. every day.

8/11. Go For a Thrilling River Rafting Experience

There are many thrilling activities you can do in Chikmagalur, and the best one is river rafting in the cool water of the Bhadra River. Irrespective of whether you are an experienced or seasoned rafter, you can enjoy this activity. It is an 8-km-long stretch of gurgling water, providing an exhilarating experience at rapids levels 3 and 5. 

9/11. Kallathigiri Falls

It's one of the most beautiful spots here. It is an adventure and a spot for relaxing in nature. The fall is deep in a jungle, so not many people go trekking here. But if you do, you will enjoy the serenity here as well as the opportunity to enjoy swimming in the cool water. 

10/11. The Coffee Museum

For all coffee aficionados, going to the coffee museum here is a must. The stunning museum was set up by the Coffee Board of India to educate everyone about the first coffee plantations in India, which happened during the 18th century. The operational time is between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m..

11/11. Skydiving In Yagachi Dam

Are you a fan of adventure? Then, you must head to Yagachi Dam for an interesting jet skiing activity. It will enhance your experience; the dam is only 25 km away from Chikmagalur. You can also enjoy kayaking here. 

Conclusion 

As mentioned above, there are so many things to do in Chikmagalur that you will be spoiled for choice. From stunning trekking trails to beautiful coffee plantations to indulging in adventure or trying the food here, there are so many things for you to do here. So, make a good itinerary and enjoy your trip here. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are sufficient for exploring Chikmagalur? 

At least 2–3 days are necessary for exploring Chikmagalur. These days are enough to capture the city in its entirety. 

Which month is ideal for visiting Chikmagalur? 

September and March are the best times to visit Chikmagalur. It is near the Mullayanagiri range and enjoys pleasant weather. 

What is the food specialty of Chikmagalur? 

The food specialty of Chikmagalur is Cheenikaayi Kadubu. It is steamed pumpkin idli. To prepare it, you can stuff the spiced pumpkin mixture into a soft rice flour dough and steam it to perfection. The combination of sweetness and spiciness it has gives it a unique taste. 

What is the distance between Chikmagalur and Bangalore? 

The distance between Chikmagalur and Bangalore is 240 kilometers. You can cover this distance in 4.5 to 5 hours using a car.