Chikmagalur is a town located near the Mullayanagiri range in Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka. Situated at an elevation of 3,400 feet, it is a popular tourist destination and also famous for coffee. Chikmagalur is famous for its hill stations and is a popular summer retreat due to its pleasant weather during the summer. Due to its proximity with other nearby cities, like Bangalore which is around 250km away, it is also a popular weekend getaway. Chikmagalur has a population of 118496 as per the latest census and spreads over an area of 27 square kilometers.
Coffee is the main commercial crop grown in Chikmagalur. In fact, Baba Budan Giri Hills in the district was the first place in India to grow coffee in 1670. Being one of the pioneers in large scale coffee plantations and a major producer, Chikmagalur also boosts of coffee curing works. Chikmagalur is also the home to the Central Coffee Research Institution which conducts research dedicated to improve the quality of coffee.
A major tourist destination in the region, Chikmagalur has much to offer for tourists. Apart from being surrounded by hills, rivers and waterfalls, Chikmagalur also has many historical monuments and famous temples and wildlife sanctuaries. Ishwara temple, Parashurama temple, Kodandarama temple, Jamia Mosque and St. Joseph’s Cathedral are some of the important places of worship in this town.
Even though Chikmagalur has a pleasant climate throughout the year, September to March is the best time to visit the place. Ugadi, Ganesha Chaturthi, Deepavali and Dusherra are the main festivals celebrated in Chikmagalur. Chikmagalur's local cuisine is known for richness and spice. Akki Roti and kaikadbu are prominent examples of the Chikmagalur cuisine.
Being a sought after tourist destination, Chikmagalur has all kinds of accommodation facilities from luxury resorts to home stays for tourists.
Chikmagalur is said to be given as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, chief of Sakrepatna. It explains the name which literally translates to 'younger daughter's town'. The other part of the town which was given to the elder daughter came to be known as Hiremagalur and became a part of Chikmagalur town later. Chikmagalur district was known as Kadur district till 1947.
Mangalore is the nearest airport 160 km away. From Mangalore, Chikmagalur can be reached by bus or taxis. Kadur is the closest railway station at a distance of 40km with Hassan being the next closest railway station 60km away. Chikmagalur is also well connected by bus services with nearby cities like Mangalore, Hubli and Bangalore.
Kemmangundi
Located at a distance of 55kms from Chickmagalur and at a height of 1,434 meters, Kemmangundi is a beautiful hill station surrounded by thick forests. Kemmangundi provides a unique spectacle of ornamental gardens, mountains and valley views. Kemmangundi is also a great place for trekking and mountaineering.
Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple
Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple is designed in Hoysala style of architecture. The temple was built between 14th century AD to 16th century AD. An annual festival known as 'jatra' is held here in the month of February.
Mullayanagiri
With a height of 6,330 ft. Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka. Located at a distance of 16 km from Chikmagalur town, Mullayanagiri is one of the most popular trekking places in Karnataka with the trek route starting from Sarpadaari.
Kudremukh
Kudremukh is a mountain range located at a distance of 95km from Chikmagalur town. It derives its name which literally translates to 'horse-face' from the unique shape of the Kudremukh peak. Kudremukh region is rich in iron ore deposits.
Kalahatti Falls
Located at a distance of 10 km from Kemmangundi, Kalahatti Falls is a major tourist attraction of the region. There is an ancient temple within rocks nearby the 122m high waterfall. Legends associates the temple and the waterfall with the famous Hindu saint Maharishi Agastya. It is also a popular spot for trekking.
Baba Budan Giri Hills
Baba Budan Giri Hills is located 25 km from Chikmagalur town. This mountain range is famous for its unique forest range and is a popular spot for trekking.
Ayyanakere Lake
Located at a distance of 20 km from Chikmagalur, Ayyanakere is a scenic water body popular among tourists. The view of a pyramid shaped peak alongside the lake is an added attraction. The lake was developed in 12th century to maintain the fertility of the land.
It always rains on tents. Rainstorms will travel thousands of miles, against prevailing winds for the opportunity to rain on a tent.