Places To Visit Near Chikmagalur: Exploring Western Ghats

From waterfalls to ancient temples and dense forests, the places to visit near Chikmagalur offer a refreshing retreat from city life. Chikmagalur is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka’s Western Ghats and it is famous for its coffee plantations and misty hills with lush greenery. It’s a great place that offers a perfect escape to find peace and go on adventures. This area has some of South India’s most beautiful scenic landscapes which makes it a perfect place for people who love nature and trekkers alike.

Table of Contents

Top 10 Places To Visit Near Chikmagalur

Explore breathtaking hilltop views, historic temples, and outdoor activities. Here’s a curated list of the best places to visit near Chikmagalur for an unforgettable journey.

1. Mullayanagiri Peak

View of lush hills and valleys, a must-see among places to visit near Chikmagalur

Photo: Avinash Kumar Singh / Wikimedia Commons

Mullayanagiri Peak, standing tall at 1,930 meters above sea level, is the highest point in Karnataka. Located in the Chandra Drona Hill Ranges of the Western Ghats, this peak is a top pick for trekkers around Chikmagalur because of its spectacular views. The climb to the top up is moderate, with trails taking you through dense forests, rocky parts, and wide grasslands. There’s a small Lord Shiva temple on the top, which adds a touch of spirituality to the adventure. The sunrise and sunset from Mullayanagiri Peak are not to be missed, they make the trek worth it.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: NA
Distance From Chikmagalur: 33 km

2. Baba Budangiri

A Water Trail at Mullayanagiri, one of the places to visit near Chikmagalur

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Baba Budangiri is a notable mountain range located near Chikmagalur. It’s named after a respected Sufi saint, Baba Budan, making it a significant religious site for both Hindus and Muslims. Baba Budangiri is also a great spot for nature lovers and trekkers. The beautiful hills, valleys shrouded in mist, and cool winds make it perfect for trekking, photography and nature walks. A popular attraction nearby is Manikyadhara Falls, one of the highlights of this area. The hike to the top offers amazing views of the Western Ghats, and one can also spot hidden waterfalls and caves along the way.

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Distance From Chikmagalur: 33 km

3. Hebbe Falls

Waterfall amidst dense forest, a must-see among places to visit near Chikmagalur

Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons

Hebbe Falls is a breathtaking waterfall situated in the scenic Western Ghats. It has a two-tiered structure with Dodda Hebbe(the big falls) and Chikka Hebbe (the small falls) dropping from a height of about 551 feet. The area around the falls is covered in dense forests and coffee plantations, creating a serene and refreshing environment. It’s a favourite place for people who love nature, trekking, and adventure. Visitors can either hike along the lush green trails or take a thrilling jeep ride to reach the falls. Hebbe Falls is perfect for a refreshing break, the peaceful setting is great for both relaxation and exploration.

Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: August to January
Distance From Chikmagalur: 65.1 km

4. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

An Indian tiger at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, a place to visit near Chikmagalur

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful place for nature lovers and wildlife lovers. Spread across a big area of 490 square kilometres, nestled in the Western Ghats and home to a diversity of flora and fauna. One can spot Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears and various species of birds in the sanctuary. There’s also a river called Bhadra River offering adventure activities like trekking, river rafting and bird watching. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place, it is a top spot for photographers to feel the thrill of adventure in a wild setting.

Safari Timings: 6 AM – 9 AM & 3 PM – 6 PM
Safari Fee: INR 400 per person
Distance From Chikmagalur: 39 km

5. Kemmangundi

Sunset view from a watchtower, one of the best places to visit near Chikmagalur

Photo: RakeshRaju M / Wikimedia Commons

Kemmangundi is a well-known hill station nestled in the Baba Budan Giri range and is famous for its scenic landscapes, greenery, and pleasant weather. The hill station is situated at an altitude of 1,434 meters above sea level offering amazing views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and coffee plantations. It is one of the best places to visit if you’re near Chikmagalur and want to indulge in outdoor activities like hiking, going for a walk in nature, or photography.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Distance From Chikmagalur: 61.4 km

6. Sringeri Sharada Peetham

Carvings of deities at the temple, one of the places to visit near Chikmagalur

Photo: A.Murali / Wikimedia Commons

Sringeri Sharada Peetham is located in the town of Sringeri, it is revered as a significant spiritual destination and is surrounded by lush green Western Ghats. The Peetham is a beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Sharada, the goddess of learning and wisdom. The temple is an architectural marvel with lots of detailed carvings on stones and attracts devotees for its serene atmosphere. It is an important place because it helps keep alive the old ways of learning and thinking about the world, called Vedic knowledge and Advaita philosophy. It is also a hub for culture and education with schools and institutions connected to the Peetham teaching the traditional values.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Timings: 6 AM – 2 PM & 4 PM – 9 PM
Distance From Chikmagalur: 86.2 km

7. Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple

Intricate temple carvings with deities and lions, surrounded by lush greenery

Photo: Hari K Patibanda / Wikimedia Commons

Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple is located in the beautiful Western Ghats, the holy site is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the goddess who provides food and nourishment. The temple is known for giving free meals to all the visitors which shows the goddess’s nurturing aspect. This tradition is called Annadana. The goddess is shown holding a Shanku, Chakra, Sri Chakra, and Japa Mala which represents protection and abundance. The temple is a great place to go for spiritual solace, festivals like Navaratri and Rathotsava are also celebrated which are full of colour and excitement.

Temple Timings: 6:30 AM – 9 AM; 11 AM – 2 PM; 7 PM – 9:30 PM
Distance From Chikmagalur: 80.9 km

Suggested Read: Discover The Top Places To Visit Near Gokarna

8. Belavadi

Ancient stone temple with intricate carvings

Photo: Bikashrd / Wikimedia Commons

Belavadi is a charming village known for its rich history and amazing architecture. The main attraction is the Veera Narayana Temple, made in the 1300s during the Hoysala dynasty. The temple is dedicated to three deities: Lord Veeranarayana, Lord Krishna, and Lord Yoga Narasimha. Each deity has its sanctum, connected by a symmetrical hall. But there’s more to Belavadi than just the temple. It’s important in Indian history too, mentioned in the epic Mahabharata as Ekachakranagara where the Pandavas lived during their exile. The combination of the ancient stories, architectural beauty, and calmness makes it a must-visit place near Chikmagalur.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Distance From Chikmagalur: 29.5 km

9. Ballalarayana Durga Fort

A pathway at Ballalarayana Durga Fort near Chikmagalur

Photo: Sngmsh8666 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Ballalarayana Durga Fort is a historic place on a hill about 1,200 meters high. It was built by the Jain rulers in the 16th century, and named after a local leader, Ballala. The trek to the fort is popular as the area around the fort is beautiful with lush greenery and diverse animals and plants along the way. It’s a place to go to if one wants to relax and enjoy nature while also learning about history.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Trek Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Distance From Chikmagalur: 69.8 km

10. Hirekolale Lake

Scenic view of Hirekolale Lake surrounded by hills and lush greenery

Photo: Kashishsehgal / Wikimedia Commons

Hirekolale Lake is a beautiful man-made lake in the Western Ghats and is well-known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal clear waters surrounded by greenery and hills making it a great destination for nature lovers and photography. Visitors can engage in recreational activities like boating, having picnics, and walking by the lake banks, also perfect for birdwatching. The lake is easy to get to by road and is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature without having to go too far from Chikmagalur.

Best Time To Visit: September to March
Distance From Chikmagalur: 9.4 km

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a spiritual experience there’s something for everyone. Explore stunning landscapes and moments that will stay with you forever! Each place is unique in itself and promises a diverse experience. These places reflect the vibrant culture of the region and enhance your trip to the destination. Book your trip with TripXL and get a personalized itinerary just for you to make the most of your visit to these enchanting places.

Cover Photo: Vinodtiwari2608 / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chikmagalur ideal for family trips?

Certainly, the location is full of fun activities geared towards all ages like trekking, boating, nature explorations, and more. Moreover, the peaceful environment is ideal for family bonding and relaxing.

What essentials should one carry when visiting places around Chikmagalur?

It is recommended to take along water, light food, sunscreen, a basic first aid kit, and appropriate clothes and shoes especially when going for treks and also a camera.

How to reach Chikmagalur?

Chikmagalur can be visited by road, rail, and by air. The closest railway station is at Kadur. Mangalore is located some 150 km from Chikmagalur and has the closest airport. There are frequent buses and taxis to Chikmagalur from other major towns making it accessible.

Are there accommodations around while visiting places near Chikmagalur?

Yes, there are several hotels to suit every budget from luxurious resorts to economic homestays. Many accommodations have several facilities which cater to the needs of the visitors such as guided tours, trekking, and dining.

Are there any guided tours for places to visit near Chikmagalur?

Yes, many travel agencies offer services which consist of trekking expeditions, coffee tours within plantations and visits to other sites.

Discover The Top Places To Visit Near Chikmagalur In The Western Ghats