Start from Bangalore at 5:00PM. By private car expect ~5-6 hours depending on traffic (via NH75); by train, board the evening train to Chikmagalur (check Indian Rail for evening options) — trains may take longer but avoid highway driving after dark.
Arrive and check in to your hotel or homestay in Chikmagalur. Choose an in-house dinner if tired — most resorts/restaurants serve until 10-11PM; confirm kitchen timing at booking.
Drive up to Mullayanagiri base and trek to the highest peak in Karnataka for panoramic views — best early morning for clear skies. Trail is easy-moderate; temple area and viewpoint open roughly 6:00AM–6:00PM.
Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a popular local eatery in Chikmagalur town (fresh filter coffee, idli/dosa or omelette and toast) to refuel after the trek. Many cafes open by 7:30–8:00AM.
Short drive from Mullayanagiri to the Baba Budangiri hills to visit the dargah/temple and enjoy scenic ridgeline walks; accessible 6:00AM–6:00PM and worth a 1–2 hour visit.
Lunch at a recommended mid-range restaurant in Chikmagalur town offering local Malnad cuisine and coffee — try a rice plate, traditional curries and filter coffee (confirm timings; many serve lunch 12:00–3:00PM).
Visit a nearby coffee estate for a guided plantation walk and basic processing demo — most estates host visitors between 9:00AM–4:00PM and require a short booking/call ahead.
Head to Hirekolale Lake for an easy evening stroll and sunset views over the Western Ghats; accessible any time and perfect for photos and a calm break.
Enjoy dinner at your hotel/resort (recommended for a relaxed menu and local produce) or a well-reviewed town restaurant; resorts commonly serve till 10:00–10:30PM.
Depart early for Kemmangundi (approx 45–75 minutes depending on exact start point) to make the most of the cooler morning — road climbs to 1,434 m with scenic stops en route.
Breakfast at a hilltop cafe or the small eateries near Kemmangundi gardens; simple hot breakfast options and tea/coffee are available from 7:00–9:00AM.
Explore the colourful Raj Bhavan gardens, the mellow trails and walk to Z Point for cliff-edge panoramas — gardens open around 6:00AM–6:00PM and Z Point trek is a 30–60 minute easy trek.
Take the short jeep ride from Kalhatti or the Kemmangundi base to Hebbe Falls (jeep timings typically 8:00AM–4:00PM). The falls are spectacular during/after monsoon — confirm jeep availability in advance as access is on private/estate land.
Drive back to Chikmagalur; if time and interest permit, detour to Sringeri (Sharada Peetham) or Belavadi temple for a cultural stop (temple timings usually 6:00AM–8:00PM).
Have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a recommended local restaurant; ask for Malnad-style preparations (coconut-based gravies, local vegetables) and fresh filter coffee.
Leave at 10:00AM as planned for the return journey to Bangalore. By car expect ~5–6 hours; if taking a train, match your hotel check-out with train boarding time.