Top Places to Visit In Chikmagalur in 3 Days 2024

Hello!! Is everything all right with you? Do you want to spend some special and memorable days in Chikmagalur, India?

There is no need to worry about tour planning. Take a moment to close your eyes and consider the places to visit in Chikmagalur in 3 days. We promise that you will not be disappointed during your trip. I hope that you will be able to capture the journey for the rest of your life in a frame. Why is it so late? Keep an eye out for our itinerary plans.

Overview of Chikmagalur’s Natural Beauty

Are you familiar with the meaning of Chikmagalur? “In English, Chikmagalur means “younger daughter’s town.” It’s also known as the “land of coffee,” so if you’re a coffee lover, you’ll enjoy your visit! various coffee estates here. Because locals believe Baba Budan, a Sufi saint, brought the seeds from Yemen to Chikmagalur, it was the first place in India to cultivate coffee and introduce it to the rest of the country. If you love tea, you won’t be disappointed here. You can shower your love on the many tea plantations in the town.

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Top Places to Visit In Chikmagalur in 3 Days

Chikmagalur is such a lovely hill station in Karnataka, India! It is renowned for its scenic landscapes, rich culture and heritage, and delicious coffee plantations. If you’re planning a 3-day trip to this charming town, here are some must-see places you shouldn’t miss.

Day 1 Chikmagalur Places to Visit

• • Mullayanagiri
  • Jhari Falls
  • Baba Budangiri
  • Manikyadhara Falls
  • Hirekolale lake
  • Coffee Museum

Mullayanagiri Peak

Mullayanagiri is one of the best places to visit near Chikmagalur for adventure seekers. Many travelers are attracted to its peaceful atmosphere and raw beauty. In addition, it is one of the most popular trekking locations in the area.

Getting a bird’s eye view of Chikmagalur town and the hilly landscape is a wonderful experience. There is no comparison to the view from the peak. The area is also suitable for mountain biking.

• • Things To Do:  Camping trip, Hiking trip, Mountain biking trip
  • Entry Fee: ₹100 for the car, ₹50 for the bike.
  • Timings: October to March 
  • Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours (including trekking time).
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: 35 kilometers.
  • How to Reach: You can drive or hire a taxi from Chikmagalur town. The roads are good, but the last few kilometers can be narrow with steep turns. Alternatively, take a bus to Baba Budangiri and hire a jeep from there to reach the peak.

Jhari Falls

A dense forest and coffee plantations surround Buttermilk Falls, also known as Jhari Falls. The place is considered one of the most peaceful in Chikmagalur and attracts many nature lovers, wanderers, and tourists.

A family picnic at the waterfall is one of the most popular things to do in Chikmagalur. You can visit it along with Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri.

• • Things To Do: Picnic, Swimming, Trekking
  • Entry Fee: There is no official entry fee.
  • Timings: June to September
  • Ideal duration: 1-2 hours.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: 24 kilometers.
  • How to Reach: The last 5 km to Jhari Falls is accessible only by jeep. You can either hire a Jeep from the parking lot (around ₹600 for a maximum of 6 people) or trek down to the falls. It takes about an hour to complete the moderately difficult trek.

Baba Budangiri

A mountain range known as Baba Budangiri can be found near Mullayanagiri. It is a popular pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Muslims. The Sufi saint Baba Budan (Hazrat Dada Hayat Khalandar) is buried in this place.

Also popular among trekkers is this mountain range. The viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the plains, and the grasslands and forests offer a variety of plants to explore. There is even the possibility of seeing wildlife at the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary from here.

• • Things to do: Pilgrimage, Trekking, Photography
  • Entry Fee: No entry fee.
  • Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
  • Ideal Duration: Half a day to a full day, depending on whether you plan to trek.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: 33 kilometers.
  • How to Reach:
    • From Chikmagalur town, you can drive or hire a taxi. There are some winding sections on the roads, but they are generally good.
    • The nearest bus stop to Balehonnur village is the Chikmagalur bus stand. You can hire a jeep from there to reach the peak (around $600 for up to 6 people).
    • The trail starts from Attigundi village (9–10 km, moderate difficulty).

Manikyadhara Falls

Manikyadhara Falls, also known as Nellikayi Theertha, is a popular waterfall nestled amidst the dense forests of the Baba Budangiri hills. It is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, India. Its name means “string of pearls” in Kannada, and the sight of cascading water sparkling like pearls in the sunlight gives the falls their name.

As well as Hindus and Muslims, the falls hold religious significance. After praying for water, Saint Baba Budan and his disciples were blessed with this waterfall. Many pilgrims visiting the Baba Budangiri shrines also visit Manikyadhara Falls because the water of the falls is considered holy.

• • Things to Do: Pilgrimage, Trekking, and Picnic
  • Entry Fee: There isn’t an official entry fee, so feel free to join us! though parking might be charged.
  • Timings: June to September
  • Ideal duration: 1-2 hours.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: approximately 29 kilometers.

How to Reach and Cost:

• • You can drive or hire a taxi from Chikmagalur town. Roads are generally smooth.
  • Alternatively, if you’re visiting Baba Budangiri, Manikyadhara Falls is located 7 kilometers away. You can hire a Jeep from there to reach the falls.

Here’s a rough estimate of Jeep rental costs in Chikmagalur:

• • For trips within Chikmagalur town or nearby places (like Jhari Falls or Manikyadhara Falls), Expect to pay around ₹600 for a few hours up to half a day.
  • For reaching destinations further away or requiring more travel time (like Baba Budangiri): The cost might be around ₹600 – ₹1000 depending on the factors mentioned above.

Must Read: Manikyadhara Falls | Beautiful Waterfalls in Chikmagalur

Hirekolale Lake

Hirekolale Lake is another popular tourist destination in Chikmagalur. It provides captivating views of the terrain in the foothills of the neighboring mountain ranges during the twilight hours. Photographers love its hilly backdrop.

It is also one of the top places to visit in Chikmagalur for couples. It is possible to spend hours admiring the captivating scenery by the lake.

• • Things to Do: Photography, Picnic, Relaxation
  • Entry Fee: Visiting Hirekolale Lake? No worries, there’s no entry fee!
  • Timings: The lake is accessible year-round, although sunrise and sunset can be particularly beautiful times to visit.
  • Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: approximately 8 kilometers.

How to Reach and Cost:

• • Hirekolale Lake is easily accessible from Chikmagalur town. Here are your options:
    • Public transport: Take a bus from the Chikmagalur bus stand towards Balehonnur. You might need to ask the driver or locals for the closest stop to Hirekolale Lake. This is the most cost-effective choice available.
    • Auto rickshaw: If you prefer a more direct ride, you can hire an auto rickshaw from Chikmagalur town. Negotiate the fare beforehand, and it shouldn’t be too expensive for such a short distance.
    • Taxi: You can also hire a taxi from Chikmagalur for a comfortable ride. Again, agree on the fare before setting off.
    • Short trips within Chikmagalur town (2-3 kilometers): ₹50 – ₹100
    • Medium trips to nearby places (like Hirekolale Lake – 8 kilometers): ₹150 – ₹200
    • Longer trips to destinations further away (like Baba Budangiri – 33 kilometers): Negotiate beforehand, but expect ₹500 – ₹800 or more depending on the distance and duration.

Must Read: Hirekolale Lake Itinerary: Complete Travel Guide

Day 2 Chikmagalur Places to Visit

• • Hebbe Falls
  • Kemmangundi
  • Z point
  • Ayyanakere Lake
  • Amrutesvara temple
  • Bhadra Wildlife sanctuary

Hebbe Falls

In Chikmagalur, Hebbe Falls is one of the most enchanting waterfalls. You can trek or take a jeep to the waterfalls to enjoy their beauty. Forests and coffee estates surround it. It’s a great place to relax.

It is well worth the time and effort to walk through the narrow and steep path to the falls. There are also medicinal properties associated with Hebbe Falls.

• • Things to Do: Sightseeing, Trekking, Jeep Safari
  • Entry Fee: There’s no official entry fee to visit Hebbe Falls itself.
  • Timings: June to September
  • Ideal Duration: 2–3 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring and swimming.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: approximately 70 kilometers.
  • How to Reach and Cost:
    Getting to Hebbe Falls involves a combination of road and trekking (unless you opt for a Jeep ride). Here are your options:
    • Public transport + trek: Take a bus from the Chikmagalur bus stand to Kemmangundi (about 35 km). There is an 8-kilometer trek through the forest to reach the falls. A good physical condition is required for this option, but it is the most budget-friendly.
    • Private vehicle + short trek: Drive from Chikmagalur town to Kemmangundi (around 55 km). Private vehicles are not allowed beyond a checkpoint near Kemmangundi. From there, it’s a short trek of about 2 km to reach the falls.
    • If you’re traveling with a group or have limited time, a Jeep ride is the right option for you. You can hire Jeeps from Kemmangundi to take you close to the falls (around 7 km). You can expect to pay around $4,000 for a Jeep that seats 6–8 people (total cost, not per person).

Kemmangundi

Kemmangundi means ‘a place with red soil’ in Kannada. At Kemmanagundi Hills, which is about 1,434 meters above sea level, the Department of Horticulture (Karnataka) looks after a sizable area of comforting vegetation. From the top of the hill, the view of valleys, hillocks, and lovely gardens will captivate you. If you follow our itinerary, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset close to the famous Hebbe Waterfalls. Because the region is full of leeches, it is advisable to wear full-length clothing. Since you will be walking on a path through pristine nature, it would be wise to wear sturdy trekking shoes.

• • Things to do in Kemmangundi: Trekking, Picnic, Relaxation

• • Entry Fee: There is no official entry fee 
  • Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
  • Ideal Duration: 2 hours
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: approximately 58 kilometers.

How to Reach and Cost:

Reaching Kemmangundi involves a scenic road trip, with options for public transport, private vehicles, or taxis:

• • Public Bus: Take a bus from the Chikmagalur bus stand towards Kemmangundi. This is the most budget-friendly option, but timing and availability might be limited.
  • Private Vehicle: Drive from Chikmagalur towards Kemmangundi. The roads are generally smooth, with some winding sections. Be mindful of traffic, especially during peak season.
  • Taxi: Hiring a taxi from Chikmagalur offers more convenience, particularly if you have luggage or prefer a direct ride. Negotiate the fare beforehand, considering distance and time. Expect to pay around ₹800–₹1200 or more, depending on the taxi type and your bargaining skills.

Z Point

Hebbe Falls is close to Z Point, a trekking spot. You can take a short trek through deep valleys and steep hills on your Chikmagalur tour. There are thickets, waterfalls, and steep hills on the trail. It’s hard not to be attracted to the cool breeze and sunset views.

Z Point offers relaxation and mental peace. In the summer, it’s one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur.

• • Things To Do: Hiking, mountain biking, photography
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Ideal Duration: 2 hours
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: 44 km

How to Reach and Cost:

Reaching Z Point requires a combination of transportation and a trek:

• • Public Transport + Trek: This is the most budget-friendly option, but requires good physical condition and planning. Take a bus from the Chikmagalur bus stand towards Kemmangundi (around 35 km). From there, it’s a further 5 km to reach the starting point of the Z Point trek.
  • Private Vehicle + Trek: Drive from Chikmagalur town to Kemmangundi (around 55 km). Park your vehicle and start the trek from there (around 5 km).
  • Taxi + Trek: Similar to the private vehicle option, hire a taxi from Chikmagalur to reach Kemmangundi. The trek starting point is 5 km from Kemmangundi. Negotiate the taxi fare beforehand.

Ayyanakere Lake

Ayyanakere Lake is a place where you can relax and unwind in a relaxed atmosphere. There is nothing more romantic than watching the sunset with your partner here in the evening. Mountains surround the lake on three sides, making it a truly memorable experience.

Trekking enthusiasts will find the lake an excellent place to explore. Camping and fishing are also recreational activities you can enjoy.

• • Things to Do: Fishing, Camping, and, Trekking
  • Entry Fee: Ayyanakere Lake is free to visit.
  • Timings:6 AM to 6 PM
  • Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: approximately 18 kilometers.
  • How to Reach and Cost:
    Getting to Ayyanakere Lake is fairly straightforward. Here are your options:
    • Public Transport: Take a bus from the Chikmagalur bus stand towards Sakharayapatna village. The lake is located near this village. This is a budget-friendly option.
    • Auto rickshaw: If you prefer a more direct ride, you can hire an auto rickshaw from Chikmagalur town. Considering the distance, negotiate the fare beforehand.
    • Taxi: Hiring a taxi from Chikmagalur offers more comfort, particularly if you have luggage. Depending on the distance and time, negotiate the fare in advance. Expect it to be lower than fares to more remote locations.

Cost Summary (approximate):

• • Public Transport (bus): Cheapest
  • Auto rickshaws: Moderate (negotiable)
  • Taxi: Moderate (negotiable, likely less than other destinations mentioned)

Kallathigiri Falls

Kallathigiri Falls are also known as Kalhatti Falls. Due to the Veerabhadreshwara Temple, it is quite popular among religious people and locals. There is serenity and spirituality in the area because it is surrounded by gorgeous, verdant scenery.  From Chandra Drona Hills, Kallathigiri Waterfall cascades down about 400 feet. Trekking and hiking are excellent ways to explore the area around the falls. Don’t litter the area and be considerate of the local sentiments. Wear a protective outfit since there are so many leeches in the area. The rocks surrounding the waterfall may be slippery, so tread carefully.

• • Things to Do: Enjoy the waterfalls, short trek
  • Entry Fee: Kallathigiri Falls is free to visit.
  • Timings: June to September
  • Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: Approximately 50 kilometers north of Chikmagalur town.
  • How to Reach and Cost: There are two ways to reach Kallathigiri Falls, with varying levels of convenience and cost:
    • Private Vehicle/Taxi: This is the easiest option. Drive from Chikmagalur town towards Kallathigiri (around 50 km). Roads are generally smooth but watch traffic, especially during peak seasons. Negotiate the taxi fare beforehand if this is your option.
    • Bus + Trek: Take a bus from the Chikmagalur bus stand towards Tarikere (around 24 km). From Tarikere, it takes 10 km to the falls. You can either hire a local jeep for this leg (negotiate the fare) or embark on a trek (suitable for those in reasonable physical condition). This is the most budget-friendly option but requires planning and effort.

Must Read: Kallathigiri Falls Itinerary: Complete Travel Guide

Day 3 Chikmagalur Places to Visit

• • Kudremukh National Park
  • Shanti Falls
  • Dudhsagar trek
  • Amrutesvara Temple

Kudremukh National Park

Kudremukh National Park is home to animals such as leopards, bears, and gourds. There are also tigers, barking deer, giant flying squirrels, and barking deer in the deep forests. Kudremukh is also a good place to go bird watching. There are around 200 different species of birds in the forest.

Kudremukh Peak is a delight for hikers and trekkers. A breathtaking view of the blue skies, rolling hills, and lush pastures is sure to take your breath away.

• • Things to Do: Trek to the peak, visit the Shankar Bhagwan Temple at the summit (closed during monsoons), and enjoy stunning views of the Western Ghats.
  • Entry fee: ₹575 per person for trekking,₹300 per camera
  • Timings: October to March to avoid the monsoon season. 
  • Ideal Duration: The Kudremukh trek is moderate to difficult and takes 2-3 days.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: Approximately 99 km.

How to Reach and Cost:

• • Public transport (bus + Jeep): budget-friendly option but requires planning and potentially longer travel time. Expect to pay around ₹200-₹300 for the bus ticket and negotiate the jeep fare (around ₹1000 or more depending on group size).
  • Joining a Trekking Group: This can be a good option for solo travelers or those who want a more organized experience. Tour operators typically take care of transportation, permits, food, and guide fees. Costs can vary depending on the package but expect to pay around ₹4000-₹5000 or more.

Shanti Falls

Shanti Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, India. It is a popular stop on the trek path to Z Point, which winds through forested hills. The waterfall cascades down from the top to form a clear pool, and its water is believed to have remarkable medicinal qualities.

• • Things to do: waterfall, a short trek.
  • Entry Fee: There is no official entry fee,
  • Timings: June to September
  • Ideal duration: 1-2 hours.
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: Approximately 55 kilometers

How to Reach and Cost:

• • Private Vehicle + Trek: Drive from Chikmagalur towards Kemmangundi (around 55 km). Park your vehicle near the Raj Bhavan or other designated parking areas in Kemmangundi. From there, it’s a short trek of about 2 kilometers to reach Shanti Falls. This is the most convenient option if you have your vehicle.
  • Taxi + Trek: Similar to the private vehicle option, hire a taxi from Chikmagalur to reach Kemmangundi (negotiate the fare beforehand). Then, embark on the short trek to the falls.
  • Bus + Trek: Take a bus from the Chikmagalur bus stand towards Kemmangundi (around 35 km). This might be the most budget-friendly option, but timing and availability could be limited. From Kemmangundi, trek for about 4 kilometers to reach Shanti Falls (be prepared for a longer walk).

Must Read: Shanti Falls Itinerary: Complete Travel Guide.

Dudhsagar trek

The Dudhsagar trek is a moderate to challenging trek that takes you to the Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The trek is located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, Goa.

• • Things to Do: Trek through dense forests, visit Dudhsagar Falls,
  • Entry Fee:
    • ₹50 per person (forest department fee)
    • ₹30 for still photography
    • ₹5,000 for videography
  • Timings: October to May
  • Ideal duration: 6 to 8 hours
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: Approximately 270 kilometers

How to Reach and Cost (from Goa):

There are two main options to reach Dudhsagar Falls:

1. 1. Train Trek: This is the most popular route, offering a scenic journey along railway tracks. However, there have been safety concerns and restrictions on this route in the past. It’s advisable to check for current updates and permissions before planning a train trek. Train ticket (Castle Rock station or another station on the route) + minimal expenses. Consider any restrictions or safety concerns.
   2. Jeep Safari: This is a more convenient and safer option, especially if you’re not comfortable with a long trek or have safety concerns. Jeeps can be hired from Kulem village, near the Mollem National Park entrance. Jeep fees (₹2500-₹3000 for the entire Jeep, can be shared among travelers) + park entrance fees.

Must Read: Dudhsagar Trek

Amrutesvara Temple

The Amrutesvara Temple is a wonderful temple located in Amruthapura, near Chikmagalur. Lord Shiva, in his Linga form, is the temple’s presiding deity. There is also an idol of Goddess Sharadamba in the temple.

People visit Amrutesvara Temple more for its marvelous carvings and artwork than for religious reasons. A beautiful Hoysala temple was built in the 12th century. It captivates numerous architecture aficionados and history buffs.

• • Things to Do: Marvel at the intricate Hoysala architecture, admire the sculptures and carvings on the temple walls, and experience the serenity of the temple complex.
  • Entry Fee: Amrutesvara Temple is free to visit.
  • Timings: around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours,
  • Distance from Chikmagalur: Approximately 67 kilometers north of Chikmagalur town.

How to Reach and Cost

Here’s what you can expect for public transport costs to reach Amrutesvara Temple:

• Estimated Cost: ₹ 30 – ₹ 50 (one way)

Breakdown:

• • Public buses in Chikmagalur are known to be very affordable. For journeys to nearby towns, fares typically range from ₹30 to ₹50.

Reaching Amrutesvara Temple:

• • As the temple is located outside Chikmagalur town (around 67 km north), you’ll need to take a bus to Bhadravati or Tarikere.
  • Ask locals or the bus conductor for the stop closest to Amruthapura village.

FAQs of Places to Visit in Chikmagalur in 3 days

What are the must-visit places to visit in Chikmagalur in 3 days?

Chikmagalur’s must-visit places include Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri, Kemmangundi, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, and Hebbe Falls.

How many days are ideal for exploring Chikmagalur?

Places to visit in Chikmagalur in 3 days to explore the major attractions of Chikmagalur.

What is the most convenient time to visit places to visit in Chikmagalur in 3 days?

The most ideal time to visit Chikmagalur is from September to March when the weather is pleasant.

Are there any trekking options or places to visit in Chikmagalur in 3 days?

Yes, trekking to Mullayanagiri Peak and Baba Budangiri is quite popular among visitors.

Are there any homestay options or places to visit in Chikmagalur in 3 days?

Yes, Chikmagalur offers a variety of homestay options where you can experience the local culture and hospitality.

Are there any camping options or places to visit in Chikmagalur in 3 days?

Yes, camping is available at various locations, such as Mullayanagiri, Kemmangundi, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.