Relaxing 5-Day Itinerary for Chikkamagaluru in December 2023

1. Day 1: Mullayanagiri Peak
   1 hour 20 minutes (23 miles) from Chikkamagaluru city center

   In the morning, we will start our day with a scenic drive to Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest peak in Karnataka. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning views of the Western Ghats. In the afternoon, we will visit the nearby Jhari Waterfalls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. As the evening approaches, we will head back to Chikkamagaluru and unwind at one of the many coffee estates in the area.

2. Day 2: Hebbe Falls and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
   2 hours 15 minutes (56 miles) from Chikkamagaluru city center

   Today we will visit the beautiful Hebbe Falls, located in the middle of a dense forest. After spending some time in the waterfall, we will head to the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary for a peaceful nature walk. In the evening, we will have dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy some authentic Karnataka cuisine.

3. Day 3: Kudremukh National Park
   2 hours 30 minutes (66 miles) from Chikkamagaluru city center

   Today we will explore the Kudremukh National Park, known for its picturesque landscape and diverse wildlife. In the morning, we will go on a guided nature walk and learn about the various species of flora and fauna found in the park. After lunch, we will visit the Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls and relax by the serene waters. In the evening, we will drive back to Chikkamagaluru and spend some time at a local coffee shop, sipping on some freshly brewed coffee.

4. Day 4: Baba Budangiri and Manikyadhara Falls
   1 hour 40 minutes (28 miles) from Chikkamagaluru city center

   In the morning, we will drive to Baba Budangiri, a sacred mountain range known for its stunning views and beautiful shrines. After exploring the mountain range, we will visit the Manikyadhara Falls, a tranquil waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, we will head back to Chikkamagaluru and treat ourselves to a relaxing spa session.

5. Day 5: Mullayanagiri Sunrise Trek and Coffee Plantation Tour
   40 minutes (11 miles) from Chikkamagaluru city center

   We will start our day early with a trek to the Mullayanagiri Peak to catch the sunrise. After the trek, we will visit a coffee plantation and learn about the process of coffee making. In the afternoon, we will visit the Kemmangundi Hill Station and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, we will head back to Chikkamagaluru and have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Recommendations

Other local attractions and experiences to consider include the Z Point Viewpoint, Kalhatti Falls, and the Hirekolale Lake. For a side trip, you can visit the nearby town of Belur and explore the Chennakesava Temple. To maximize your fun, try some adventure activities such as trekking, camping, and river rafting. Don't forget to try the local cuisine and buy some freshly roasted coffee to take home as a souvenir.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Mullayanagiri Peak (2 hours, Free)
• Jhari Waterfalls (1 hour, INR 50 entry fee)
• Hebbe Falls (2 hours, INR 50 entry fee)
• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 200 entry fee)
• Kudremukh National Park (6 hours, INR 400 entry fee)
• Hanuman Gundi Falls (1 hour, INR 50 entry fee)
• Baba Budangiri (2 hours, Free)
• Manikyadhara Falls (1 hour, INR 50 entry fee)
• Mullayanagiri Sunrise Trek (3 hours, Free)
• Coffee Plantation Tour (2 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Kemmangundi Hill Station (2 hours, INR 100 entry fee)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1450 per person