Three Days in Chikmagalur: A Nature Lover's Itinerary in August 2023

1. Day 1: Mullayanagiri Peak
   30 minutes (10 miles) from Chikmagalur City

   Start your day early with a visit to Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest peak in Karnataka. The 3.5-hour trek to the summit is a challenging yet rewarding experience that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. After reaching the peak, enjoy a packed breakfast while soaking in the stunning scenery. In the afternoon, visit the Baba Budangiri shrine and the Manikyadhara waterfall. Both these attractions offer a peaceful and serene environment to relax and rejuvenate. End your day with a visit to the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna.

2. Day 2: Kudremukh National Park
   2 hours (50 miles) from Chikmagalur City

   Begin your day with a visit to the Kudremukh National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. Enjoy a guided trek through the lush forests to explore its varied flora and fauna and see the mesmerizing Kudremukh Peak, which resembles a horse's face. After lunch, visit the nearby Hanuman Gundi and Hebbe Falls, both of which offer breathtaking views of the cascading waterfalls and surrounding landscapes. End your day with a visit to the Coffee Museum to learn about the history and production of coffee in Chikmagalur.

3. Day 3: Kemmangundi
   1 hour 30 minutes (40 miles) from Chikmagalur City

   Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Kemmangundi hill station, known for its stunning gardens and breathtaking views. Take a stroll through the lush gardens and explore the nearby Raj Bhavan and Kallathigiri Falls. After lunch, visit the Z point, a popular spot for trekking and bird watching. End your day with a visit to the Bhadra Dam, which offers captivating views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Recommendations

Make sure to try the local cuisine, which includes delicious dishes like Bisi bele bath, Akki roti, and Mysore Pak. For day trips, consider visiting the nearby Belur and Halebidu temples, which are renowned for their intricate carvings and architecture. A visit to the nearby Kemmanagundi Wildlife Sanctuary is also recommended for those interested in wildlife and bird watching. To maximize your fun, consider renting a bike or car to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mullayanagiri Peak (3.5 hours, free)
• Baba Budangiri shrine (1 hour, free)
• Manikyadhara waterfall (1 hour, free)
• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Kudremukh National Park (5 hours, INR 400 per person)
• Hanuman Gundi (1 hour, INR 50 per person)
• Hebbe Falls (1 hour, INR 50 per person)
• Coffee Museum (1 hour, INR 50 per person)
• Kemmangundi hill station (5 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Raj Bhavan (1 hour, free)
• Kallathigiri Falls (1 hour, free)
• Z point (2 hours, free)
• Bhadra Dam (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 800 per person