Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka, standing at an elevation of 6,317 feet. The trek to the top is breathtaking, offering beautiful panoramic views of the Western Ghats. It is recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to catch the sunrise. The trek takes about 3-4 hours depending on your fitness level. At the peak, there is a small temple and a viewing tower. There are a few small restaurants that serve snacks and drinks at the base of the hill.
Baba Budangiri is a beautiful mountain range in the Western Ghats. It is known for its stunning landscape and shrine of Sufi saint Baba Budan. The shrine attracts a lot of pilgrims and tourists alike. The trek to the top of the hill takes about 2-3 hours depending on your fitness level. The views from the top are mesmerizing, with lush green hills and valleys surrounding you. The shrine also has a small restaurant that serves food and drinks.
Hebbe Falls is a stunning waterfall nestled in the Western Ghats. The falls are surrounded by dense forests and coffee plantations, offering a beautiful view. The waterfall is split into two parts – the bigger one falls from a height of 168 meters, while the smaller one falls from 55 meters. The falls are located inside a coffee estate, so you have to take a jeep ride to get to the falls. There are a few snack shops near the falls that serve tea and snacks. It is advisable to carry a change of clothes if you want to take a dip in the falls.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place for nature lovers. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. You can take a jeep safari into the sanctuary to see these animals in their natural habitat. The safari takes about 2-3 hours and has to be booked in advance. It is recommended to avoid the monsoon season as the sanctuary is closed during that time. The sanctuary also offers trekking and camping options for visitors.
Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantations. A visit to the plantations offers a unique experience to witness the coffee making process, from picking the beans to roasting them. You can take a guided tour of the plantations, which takes about 2-3 hours. The guides explain the history and process of coffee making. The plantation also has a small restaurant that serves coffee and snacks made from the local produce.
If you have more time, you can explore other attractions in Chikmagalur, such as Kudremukh National Park, Jhari Waterfalls, and Kemmangundi Hill Station. You can also take a walk through the local bazaars and try the local cuisine. If you have less time, you can skip one or two attractions based on your interests. Make sure to carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent during your trip. It is advisable to carry cash as most of the places do not accept cards.