Main Info
Chikmagalur Tourism
Chikmagalur, popularly known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’ is a hill station in Karnataka. It is located near foothills of the Mullayangiri Range and is about 3400 feet above the sea level. There is always a permanent aroma of coffee in the air of Chikmagalur. The place is also known for its rich greenery, lofty mountains and peaceful surroundings. It is a perfect weekend getaway for those wanting to take a break from their hectic lives. In recent times, this place has become a favourite destination for tourists.
Since Chikmagalur is the largest producer of coffee in India, everything here is about coffee or related to it. Wherever you go, you are sure to come across a coffee plantation, or you will definitely find at least a few people always talking about coffee. This place is an ideal destination for those who absolutely love coffee and would like to spend some time in nature’s lap. Most of the coffee plantations allow tourists to explore the plantation and also provide them with accommodation within the property. You must visit these plantations at least once.
Apart from coffee Chikmagalur is also famous for trekking. The Mullayangiri trek, the Kemmanagundi trek, and the Baba Budangiri trek are a few popular trek routes. Mullayangiri, being the highest peak of Karnataka, offers a beautiful view with a magnificent sunrise.
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What Makes Chikmagalur An Amazing Tourist Destination
The Ayyanakere Lake and Hirekolale Lake are very famous lakes which attract a lot of tourist attraction. The famous Kalhatti falls is a must see waterfall as according to Indian Mythology, its water is believed to have healing powers. It is not very far from Chikmagalur. The place also holds religious importance as there is a temple known as Veerbhadra Temple beside it. The place also provides a beautiful view of the mountains. Chikmagalur offers great shopping experience to the visitors. Handicraft items and various other souvenirs are very popular here. The Market Road here is known for the diversity it offers in coffee beans. If you are looking to buy some delicious freshly picked cocoabeans,then you must visit this market. “Malandu” is the traditional dish of this place and has rice, fish and coconut milk as the main items.
Etymology
Chikmagalur is derived from the word Cikkamagala, which in Kannada means younger daughter’s town. It is believed that Chikmagalur was given to the youngest daughter Rukmangada as dowry. Rukmangada was the chief of a small town named Sakharayapattana.
Step into the stunning coffee land of India
Chikmagalur was the first town in India for coffee to be planted during the rule of the Britishers. You must definitely stay in the accommodations offered by various coffee plantations to have a mind-blowing experience surrounded at all times with the fragrance of coffee. Explore the plantations and enjoy drinking local coffee.
A paradise for the trekkers
Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station offering breathtaking sceneries. If you love trekking, then this place is the perfect destination for you. The Mullanyangiri trek is the most popular trek as it is the highest peak of the state (2000 feet above sea level) and offers a splendid view from the top. You can also trek to Kemmangundi which is surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls. Another mountain that offers fantastic trekking experience is the Baba Budangiri.
Restaurants and Local Food in Chikmagalur
The Malanadu cuisine is the famous and traditional dish of Chikmagalur. It has rice and fish as the main items and contains coconut milk and spices. Since the place is famous for its coffee plantations, you must try the coffee served here. Akki Roti, Kakadu, Nendranga chips (Banana chips) are really popular food items found here. You will even find North Indian food here.
Itinerary
On day 1 as soon as you check in the hotel, you must first visit the coffee plantations here. After you have toured through the plantations, go on a trek to Mullayangiri and view the beautiful sunset there.
On day 2 have a delicious breakfast and go to a hill station called Kemmangundi, which will be almost 61 km from Chikmagalur. Indulge in trekking here. After done with trekking, visit the beautiful Kallathigiri Falls and Manikyadhara Falls.