Exploring Nature in Chikkamagalur: 5-Day Itinerary
Saturday, September 30: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Start your trip by visiting the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature lovers. In the morning, embark on a thrilling safari through the sanctuary, spotting diverse wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and deer. Afternoon calls for a serene boat ride on the Bhadra Reservoir, surrounded by lush greenery. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the trails, immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Bhadra Reservoir Boat Ride: Cost: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Head over to Beanstalk Café for a delightful breakfast experience. This cozy café offers a range of delicious breakfast options, including fluffy pancakes, mouth-watering omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Lunch: Treat yourself to a sumptuous lunch at Mullayanagiri Kitchen. This restaurant serves a variety of local and international cuisines, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Don't miss their signature biryani and delectable desserts. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Serai, a luxury resort known for its exquisite dining options. Enjoy a candlelit dinner at their in-house restaurant, where you can relish a selection of gourmet dishes prepared by skilled chefs. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Sunday, October 1: Mullayanagiri Peak
Begin your day with a hike to Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest peak in Karnataka. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills as you reach the summit. In the afternoon, visit Baba Budangiri, a sacred mountain range known for its stunning landscapes and revered shrines. Wrap up your day with a visit to Jhari Waterfalls, where you can savor the beauty of cascading waters amidst lush green surroundings.
Mullayanagiri Peak: Cost: Free, Time spent: 5-6 hours
Baba Budangiri: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Jhari Waterfalls: Cost: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Head to Beega Bakery for a scrumptious breakfast. This cozy bakery offers a wide variety of pastries and freshly baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
Lunch: Indulge in the flavors of Karnataka at Siri Restaurant. This local eatery serves traditional South Indian dishes that are packed with authentic flavors. Average cost for a meal is about INR 250 per person.
Dinner: For a memorable dinner experience, visit The Serai Restaurant. With its elegant ambiance and mouthwatering menu, this fine dining restaurant offers a culinary journey through various cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Monday, October 2: Hebbe Falls and Kudremukh National Park
Start your day by visiting Hebbe Falls, a picturesque waterfall nestled amidst dense forests. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool formed by the cascading waters. Afterward, head to Kudremukh National Park, renowned for its biodiversity. Embark on a guided trek through the park, marveling at the rich flora and fauna. Spend the evening exploring the nearby coffee plantations and learning about the region's coffee cultivation.
Hebbe Falls: Cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Kudremukh National Park: Cost: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Coffee Plantation Visit: Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day, a popular chain known for its delicious coffee and breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try The Serai, a luxury resort with a restaurant offering a wide range of cuisines. Enjoy their buffet lunch, which includes both international and local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, visit The Grand Krishna, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Indulge in their delicious dosas, vadas, and thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Kemmanagundi and Z Point
Experience the beauty of Kemmanagundi, a hill station known for its stunning landscapes. In the morning, visit the Kemmanagundi Peak and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Afterward, explore the beautiful rose garden and stroll through the lush Shanti Falls. In the afternoon, hike to Z Point, a viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of the Western Ghats. End your day with a visit to the serene Kalhatti Falls, cascading amidst a serene backdrop.
Kemmanagundi Peak: Cost: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Shanti Falls: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Z Point Hike: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Kalhatti Falls: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Café Coffee Day, located near Kemmanagundi. Indulge in a variety of freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Navayuga Family Restaurant, a popular eatery in Chikkamagalur. Enjoy a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including biryanis and curries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Serai Chikmagalur – Odyssey, a fine dining restaurant offering a range of gourmet cuisines. Experience exquisite flavors and impeccable service. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Coffee Plantation Tour and Baba Budangiri Trek
On your last day, immerse yourself in the rich coffee culture of Chikkamagalur. Start with a coffee plantation tour, where you'll learn about the process of coffee cultivation and have the opportunity to taste freshly brewed coffee. In the afternoon, embark on a trek to Baba Budangiri, exploring the winding trails amidst the stunning landscapes. As you reach the top, visit the famous Dattatreya Peetha and soak in the panoramic views. End your trip with a visit to the historical Halebeedu Temple, renowned for its intricate carvings.
Coffee Plantation Tour: Cost: INR 300 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Baba Budangiri Trek: Cost: Free, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Halebeedu Temple: Cost: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A perfect spot to start your day, XYZ Cafe offers a range of delicious breakfast options like fluffy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Savor the local flavors at ABC Bistro, known for its traditional Chikkamagalur cuisine. Enjoy a hearty lunch with dishes like biryani and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to PQR Restaurant, famous for its rooftop seating and stunning views of the city. Indulge in delicious grilled meats and seafood. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path attractions, consider visiting the stunning Kallathigiri Falls, located near Mullayanagiri. It offers a tranquil environment and picturesque beauty. Another must-visit place is the Sirimane Falls, tucked away amidst dense forests, providing a serene and secluded atmosphere. These hidden gems provide an escape from the crowds and allow you to truly connect with nature in Chikkamagalur.
To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Chikkamagalur, click here.