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Karnataka, a state in southern India, offers a diverse terrain that includes some of the country’s most beautiful hill stations. The hill stations of Karnataka provide the ideal retreat, whether you’re looking for a peaceful break, thrilling adventures, or a spiritual retreat. From the cloudy heights of Chikmagalur to the coffee-scented hills of Coorg, these locations serve as an enjoyable getaway from the daily grind. Let’s look at some of the best hill stations in Karnataka for your next vacation.
10 Hill Stations In Karnataka
Discover the top hill stations in Karnataka, each offering new experiences, views, and a serene environment perfect for a refreshing break.
1. Coorg
Coorg, also called Kodagu, is one of the scenic hill stations in Karnataka, renowned for its vibrant, colourful scenery, coffee plantations, and hazy mountains. Popularly nicknamed the “Scotland of India,” Coorg provides a place of quiet in the middle of the wilderness. The region offers a paradise for nature lovers and travellers, with its gushing waterfalls such as Abbey Falls, quiet lakes, and thick forests. You can explore coffee fields and old temples, and learn about the Kodava culture. Coorg, with its pleasant climate and beautiful scenery, is an excellent spot for a relaxing vacation.
Distance: 244 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Sightseeing, trekking, rafting, visiting the monastery
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
2. Chikmagalur
Photo: Mayank Agarwal / Unsplash
Set in the Mullayanagiri range’s foothills, Chikmagalur is one of the charming hill stations in Karnataka, renowned for its coffee plantations and stunning visuals. With routes leading to breathtaking viewpoints such as Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, the area is a trekker’s dream come true. Chikmagalur is also home to stunning waterfalls such as Hebbe Falls and the old Baba Budangiri Hills. Travellers looking for a much-needed getaway often choose Chikmagalur because of its pleasant climate, dense vegetation, and cultural history.
Distance: 245 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Trekking, coffee plantation tours, exploring wildlife sanctuary and temples
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
3. Kemmanagundi
Photo: Likhith N.P / Wikimedia Commons
Kemmanagundi is one of the cosy hill stations in Karnataka, in the Chikmagalur region that is well known for its beautiful gardens, waterfalls, and views. This hill resort, which was once the summer residence of the Mysore Maharaja, offers a quiet escape with well-maintained gardens such as the Rose Garden and widespread views of Raj Bhavan. For a spectacular view of the valley, you can go to Z Point. The neighbouring Hebbe Falls and Kalhatti Falls add to Kemmanagundi’s charm.
Distance: 205 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Visiting waterfalls, trekking, garden visits, birdwatching, and nature walks
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
4. Sakleshpur
Known for its coffee plantations, spice gardens, and gorgeous forests, Sakleshpur is one of the charming hill stations in Karnataka. This lesser-known treasure has a peaceful environment and is great for those who despise the crowds. Sakleshpur is a trekkers’ paradise, with trails such as the Green Route and Bisle Ghat providing breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The old Manjarabad Fort and the Sakleshpur Railway Bridge are major tourist attractions.
Distance: 221 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Trekking, exploring coffee plantations, camping, visiting Sakleshpur Lake Park
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
5. Sirsi
Photo: Madhushree Narayan / Unsplash
Sirsi, in the Western Ghats, is a hill station in Karnataka and Kerala, known for its varied culture, waterfalls, and dense forests. The town is famous for the Marikamba Temple, one of the most revered shrines in Karnataka. Nature lovers can explore the Unchalli Falls, known for its majestic height, and the Jog Falls, one of India’s highest waterfalls. Sirsi’s evergreen surroundings and pleasant climate make it one of the best hill stations in Karnataka, for those who want a balance of spirituality and nature.
Distance: 405 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, visiting temples and waterfalls
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
6. Agumbe
Photo: Ganesh Partheeban / Unsplash
Agumbe is a small hill station known for receiving heavy rainfall while boasting dense rainforests and stunning sunsets. It is the perfect place for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers, being home to the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. Agumbe is also famous for its scenic hiking trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls such as Barkana Falls and Kudlu Theertha Falls. The breathtaking sunset view from Sunset Point is a major attraction. With its rich surroundings and ecosystem, Agumbe is one of the best hill stations in Karnataka, offering a new and peaceful experience for nature lovers.
Distance: 351 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Trekking, visiting the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, sightseeing, exploring the flora and fauna
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
7. Biligiri Ranga Hills
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Biligiri Ranga Hills, commonly known as BR Hills, is a hill station that combines wildlife, adventure, and spirituality. Between the Western and Eastern Ghats, BR Hills is home to the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple and the BRT Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot, providing opportunities for wildlife safaris and bird watching. Trekking through the forests and spotting wild elephants are popular activities. The quiet environment, coupled with the spiritual atmosphere of the temple, makes BR Hills one of the best hill stations in Karnataka, perfect for both nature and culture enthusiasts.
Distance: 170 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Wildlife safaris, trekking, birdwatching and nature walks, camping, and stargazing
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
8. Male Mahadeshwara Betta
Photo: Tumkurameen / Wikimedia Commons
Male Mahadeshwara Betta, or MM Hills, is one of the sacred hill stations in Karnataka. People know MM Hills for its spiritual significance and surrounding beauty. The hills have the name of the deity Lord Mahadeshwara, and the temple dedicated to him attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. Forests and hilly terrain surround the region, offering a peaceful environment. Trekking and exploring the nearby Gopalaswamy Betta are popular activities for visitors. MM Hills blends spirituality and nature, making it an ideal destination for those who want both a religious experience and a peaceful retreat.
Distance: 209 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, wildlife spotting and visiting temples
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
9. Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is one of the most popular hill stations in Karnataka, near Bengaluru. Nandi Hills has gained popularity for its pleasant climate, scenic views, and historical importance. The hill station is famous for its sunrise views from Tipu’s Drop, a cliff offering jaw-dropping views of the surroundings. Nandi Hills also boasts the ancient Nandi Temple and Tipu’s Summer Residence, which are steeped in history. Its proximity to Bangalore makes Nandi Hills an ideal weekend getaway, offering a quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Distance: 148 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Trekking, sunrise view from Tipu’s Drop, paragliding and cycling, picnics and nature walks
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
10. Kudremukh
Photo: Pourna Rajendran / Unsplash
Kudremukh, in the Chikmagalur district, is a spectacular hill station famous for its biodiversity, visual beauty, and trekking trails. The name “Kudremukh” means “horse face” in Kannada and refers to the mountain’s distinctive shape. The region is home to the Kudremukh National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with numerous species of animals and plants. Trekking up Kudremukh Peak, one of Karnataka’s most popular hikes is a must-do activity. For those who love the outdoors and hiking, Kudremukh is the ideal place, making it one of the best hill stations in Karnataka.
Distance: 320 km from Bengaluru
Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, nature photography, exploring National Park, visiting waterfalls
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
The hill stations in Karnataka offer an ideal balance of natural beauty, adventure, and experiences of culture. Whether you want to disappear into the serenity of the woods, explore diverse ecosystems, or simply relax in a peaceful setting, these hill stations have something for everyone. Are you ready to experience the best hill stations in Karnataka and Kerala? Book your trip with TripXL and get customized travel packages that meet your specific needs.
Cover Photo: Ravigopal Kesari / Unsplash
