Bangalore to Chikmagalur: All you need to know for your next trip

Chikmagalur is a hill station in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka. To the north, Baba Budangiri, a mountain range in the Western Ghats, is considered to be sacred, with 3 large caves. Trails leading up to Mullayanagiri Peak through woods and grassland. In a field of coffee plantations lies the cascading Hebbe Falls. Northwest of Chikmagalur, the forested Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is host to lions, tigers, and leopards. Bangalore to Chikmagalur is a trip you shouldn’t miss.

Also read: Road trip from Bangalore: Serene road trips near Bangalore

Best time to visit Chikmagalur

The perfect time to take the Bangalore to Chikmagalur trip is September to April, which is the winter months. The onset of the monsoon season (early July) is also a fine time to visit Chikamagalur, with warm weather throughout the year. The place has to be avoided in August, however, as it experiences significant rainfall during the month.

Chikmagalur in Winter (September – February)

The winter of Chikmagalur shapes the place ‘s busiest season and contributes to the year’s most important tourist footfall. The temperatures decrease to 14 to 32 degrees Celsius, contributing to cool, cosy conditions. The nights may turn out to be much colder and hence it is advised to wear woollen clothing to guard against the frost.

Chikmagalur in Monsoon (July – September) 

The Chikmagalur monsoon season is breathtaking beyond description, as the place’s lush greenery stands out even more. During this season even the coffee plantations are a sight to see.

The rainwater fills up all the natural streams and waterfalls during monsoons, rendering the scenery much more beautiful, and also calling for some enjoyable activities. Nevertheless, as the path to Chikmagalur is via a ghat that often gets slippery due to the rains, care should be taken as you drive up to the place.

Chikmagalur in Summer (March – June)

The summer months in Chikmagalur, March, April and May, have an average temperature of 32 to 35 degrees centigrade. While these may seem to be high temperatures, it should be noted that Chikmagalur is situated in the south of Karnataka, which is far cooler than its neighbouring towns, as a consequence of which it is sometimes seen as a great spot for a summer getaway from the heat by the city residents. Chikmagalur also experiences a decent amount of winds as it is not possible to experience the sun as well as it does in other parts of Karnataka. This fun temperature allows visitors to stroll or cycle the various paths that lead to stunning scenic locations and take in all that Chikmagalur has to give.

Also Read: Day Outings in Bangalore – A Perfect Weekend Getaway Spot

Bangalore to Chikmagalur

From Bangalore to Chikmagalur there are many private and government buses. If you are going to take a road trip, though; then there are 3 roads. The drive distance from Chikmagalur to Bangalore is about 250 km.

Route 1 – Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Kunigal-Channarayapattana-Hassan-Belur- on NH 75.

In terms of reach and time, Route 1 is the shortest. It takes about 4.5 hours and brings you through gorgeous Hassan town and historic Belur region. The roads are fine, and they give a nice journey. Often, though, there may be expansion/repair research going on and it is always healthy and prudent to take that into when preparing the trip.

Route 2: Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Kunigal-Tiptur-Arsikere-Halebidu on NH 75 and 73.

Route 2 requires 5 hours to finish. It goes via Belur and Halebid, the popular twin cities.

Route 3: Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Tumkur-Hiriyur-Hosadurga-Kadur on NH 48.

In terms of reach and time, Route 3 is the fastest. If you take the NH 48 it takes about 6 hours to reach Chikmagalur. An enjoyable sight for a road trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur is seeing the landscape transform from desolate landscapes to one of ample greenery on either side.

Also Read: Places to Visit within 100 Km near Bangalore – the trip of a lifetime

Places to visit along with the Bangalore to Chikmagalur route

1. Kudremukh National Park

The Kudremukh National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an extremely popular tourist spot in Chikmagalur, despite the numerous sightseeing opportunities and the outdoor activities that have been arranged here.

2. Mullayanagiri

Mullayanagiri is Karnataka’s highest peak renowned for its calm ambience and the natural beauty of nature. Often famous with adventure lovers is the peak adorned with verdant grassland, rough rocks and a strong trekking track.

3. Baba Budangiri

To the north of Karnataka district, Chikkamagalur rises the Western Ghats of India’s Baba Budan Range. Baba Budangiri is a peak in the Baba Budan Range and is recognized as Hazrat Dada Hayat Khalandar (also recognized as Baba Budan) for its shrine to the Sufi Saint. It is a popular pilgrim site for both Hindus and Muslims and is regularly flocked by visitors.

4. Coffee Plantations

Some of the most important activities to do in Chikmagalur is to take a tour of the gleaming coffee plantations. In addition to exposing the new herbal scent of coffee beans and relaxing in the lush green gardens, the property owners schedule regular tours where you can learn about the coffee history and other information.

5. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Named after the river Bhadra, one of the area’s most visited and valued nature centres is very close by, with its subtle streams flowing through the middle of the sanctuary.

Also read: Eight Places To Visit In Chikmagalur That Will Actually Make Your Life Better.

Other information on Bangalore to Chikmagalur trip

Accommodation in Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur has 161 hotels which can be booked via different online portals. Chikmagalur’s most famous hotels are the Green Acres Estate, Vruksha Homestay, Gadabanahally Homestay, Foothills Homestay, Sunset Valley Homestay, and Kipstay Coffea Cove.

Restaurants in Chikmagalur

Grand Maharaja Multi Cuisine Family restaurant, Food Palace, Town Canteen, Odyssey, The Serai, Coffee Barn Cafe, The Estate Cafe are the best places to eat in Chikmagalur.

Also read: Chikmagalur Resorts for Couples

Recommended itinerary for 2 days

Day 1

Post hotel check-in, Visit Chikmagalur ‘s endless coffee plantation grounds. Next, trek to Mullayangiri, Chikmagalur ‘s tallest Karnataka mountain is situated at an elevation above 2,000 m.

Day 2

After breakfast travel to Kemmangundi, a 61 km away hill station from Chikmagalur is renowned for its trekking and hill landscapes. See the popular neighbouring waterfalls of Kallathigiri Falls and Manikyadhara Falls, the town’s two prominent cascades.

Plan your trip with Pickyourtrail

Chikmagalur is one of Karnataka’s picturesque and quietest tourist attractions. Chikmagalur is a very large hill station at an altitude of around 3400 feet and there are many places to explore there. Now that we have detailed information about your trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur, having the support of a travel guide would certainly be useful for you and would make your trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur a huge success. Also, explore our International packages from Bangalore for a hassle-free and memorable journey. Plan your trip the help of reputed travel agency Pickyourtrail. Log on to Pickyourtrail and with the help of your expert guides start planning your trip or check out the preset International tour packages.

Also read: Weekend Getaways from Bangalore