KARNATAKA ONE STATE.MANY WORLDS

Hi everyone welcome back to @ hertitage.blogspot.com  the next district of karnataka is famous  for its serene environment , lush green forests and tall mountains it would not wrong to say that it is coffee land of Karnataka that is chikmagaluru which also known as malnad region   

Chikmagalur literally means The Land of the Younger Daughter. It is said to have been given as a dowry to the youngest daughter of Rukmangada, the legendary chief of Sakrepatna and there is also a place called Hiremagalur, Land of the Elder Daughter which is a part of the Chikmagalur town now. Some old inscriptions reveal that these two places were known as Kiriya-muguli and Piriya-muguli.


chikmagalur

1.Kudremukh National Park

"Close to the Nature's Face"

Kudremukh Tourism

Popular and named after a mountainside that resembles a horse's face, Kudremukh is famous for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. A popular hill-station among the Bangalore crowd, Kudremukh is actually a hill range in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Kudremukh Peak is a paradise for trekkers and naturists alike, with its mountainous paths and floral and faunal diversity.

With its rolling meadows, grasslands and dense forests, this place is a biodiversity hotspot. Kudremukh is an enchanting place to visit, still retaining much of its natural beauty despite persistent threats from various sources to its ecology.  Varaha Parvatha, another mountain range nearby at a height of 1458m above sea level is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2.Mullayanagiri

Perched at an altitude of 1930 m above the sea level, Mullayanagiri peak is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range of Western Ghats and is just 45 minutes from Chikmagalur. It serves as the highest peak between the Nilgiris and the Himalayas offering its visitors a peaceful getaway with temperature ranging between 20 - 25 degrees Celsius. Known for its serene ambience and nature's raw beauty, this peak is adorned with verdant grassland, rugged rocks, and a good trek path is also quite popular among adventure lovers. Mullayanagiri is also known for coffee plantations that are situated nearby. 

Mullayanagiri is best known as a hub for adventure enthusiasts, especially trekkers as this destination is adorned with perfect trek trails. The starting point of this 4 km trek is Sarpadhari which is a steep trail. One can also engage in other thrilling activities such as mountain biking and road biking. The place is perfect for those looking for solitude as well as visitors with an adventurous streak. Chikmagalur serves as the nearest town to Mullayanagiri peak. You can explore the small caves, which are located just below the peak. There is a temple of Lord Shiva on the hilltop. Standing atop the peak on a clear day, you can see the Western Ghats in their full-fledged glory.

 

3.Baba Budangiri

To the north of Chikkamagalur district of Karnataka, lies the Baba Budan Range of the Western Ghats of India. Baba Budangiri is a mountain in the Baba Budan Range and is renowned for its shrine to the Sufi Saint, Hazrat Dada Hayat Khalandar (also known as Baba Budan). This is a famous pilgrim site for both Hindus and Muslims and is often flocked by travellers. This famous mountain range is also known as Dattagiri Hill Range, as the shrine here is believed to be associated with Hindu God Guru Dattatreya. This mountain range proudly exhibits one of the highest mountain peaks, with altitude lying between that of the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. Legend has it that via the Chikamagalur district, coffee was first brought into India when the coffee crop was grown in Baba Budangiri Hills by Sufi Baba Budan during 1670 AD.

In ancient time, Baba Budangiri Range was also called the Chandra Drona Parvatha. The Baba Budangiri Range includes- Mullayanagiri (height is 1930 meters or 6317 feet) and Dattagiri/ Baba Budangiri, (height 1895 meters); which are the highest peaks of the state of Karnataka. Collectively these peaks are named Chandradrona Parvatha Shreni due to their naturally formed shape of a crescent moon. Mullayanagiri (or Mullayangiri/Mullainagiri) is the highest peak in this Baba Budangiri Range. Kurinji is the unique species of flowers which bloom in these hills once every 12 years to witness which people from all over the world come down to this place.

Baba Budangiri Hills are famous for their unique forest range in addition to hiking and trekking. Mullayanagari and Baba Budangiri have an amazing trekking trail in between. In addition to this, all the adventure lovers can hike through the forest to see the ancient shrine of Deviramma Betta. Sitalayanna Giri offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The most well-known trekking trails include- Baba Budangiri to Mullayanagri of 12 km, Budangiri to Gaalikere of 4 km, Budangiri to Manikyadhara Falls of 7 km, and from Attigudi Junction to Baba Budangiri of 6 km.

4.Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Covering a vast area of over 490 sq.kms, the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located only 38 km west of the Chikmanglur town in Karnataka. Surrounded by hills of the Western Ghats on all sides, the view of the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary looks like a scene right out of a movie! The serrated mountains loom in the distance as the mountain peaks pierce the sky. The heaven touching apex of the mountains acts like a crown to the massive Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.

The tanning brown forest leaves the onlooker in awe of the majesty of the massive trees, the diversity of the flora and the intricacies of the landscape. The sparkling Bhadra River passes through this sanctuary; hence giving it its name, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. The river is a major source of water in the sanctuary.

5.Rafting in Bhadra River

Located in Karnataka, Chikmaglur is a haven for adventure-seekers. It is situated 45 kms from Bhadra River which is equidistant from well-known hill stations and wildlife regions in the Western Ghats such as Sakleshpur, Kudremukh, Charamadi Ghats.

River Bhadra originates in the Western Ghats and flows across Deccan Plateau through the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary providing rafters with a spectacular view of the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, quaint villages and plantations. It is fed by the tributaries Somavahini, Thadabehalla and Odirayanahalla. The rapids span out over a distance of 8 km and the rafting activity takes 1.5 hours to complete.

6.Jhari Waterfalls

Jhari Waterfalls, also known as the Buttermilk Falls, is situated near Attigundi at a distance of 12 km from Baba Budangiri. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Chikmagalur district and one of the best tourist places in the district. This mesmerising falls surrounded by dense forests and coffee plantations are created by the springs which originate in the mountains. There is pool too which has been formed in the lower part of the waterfall for the tourists to swim and play in the water and relax. It is a perfect place to break away from the busy life of the city and unwind amidst nature's beauty.

This waterfall is a perfect place which provides a serene environment to its visitors. One of the best tourist spots in Chikmagalur, every tourist must plan a trip to this place. Nestled in a harmonious environment, Jhari waterfall is definitely worth visiting.

7.Manikyadhara Falls

Endearingly known as Nellikayi Theertha, Manikyadhara Falls is one of the most enchanting and gorgeous waterfalls located on the Bababudan Road near Chikmagalur in Karnataka. Nestled in the heart of the Shola Forest, the perennial cascading waterfalls with sparkling clean water is not only a remarkable visual delight but is also the halting point of the various treks undertaken at the Baba Budangiri hills. Falling down a height of 30 feet, the waterfall offers stunning views of the mist covered green mountains in the backdrop and of the narrow valley down below.

Although the waterfall has spine chilling water, still there is no dearth of people- tourists, adventurists and pilgrims, who are forever willing to take a dip in the pool. The water is also said to have medicinal qualities that can cure several skin diseases and ailments. Besides, several people just visit here to unwind and relax from the chaotic city life.. For the same reason, it is considered to be one of the finest and most popular retreat spot from the city. The place is also a popular picnic place and is a haven for adventurists, bikers, trekkers, nature lovers and wanderers.

8.Kemmanagundi

"House of the tallest peak of Karnataka"

Kemmanagundi Tourism

A hill-station of widespread views and scents of beautiful gardens, Kemmanagundi or KR hills, is home the tallest peak of Karnataka, Mullayanagiri. These hills offer a perfect summer retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The area also has trekking, nature walks and picnics. The Royal Horticulture Society of Karnataka is located here and has some of the most beautiful gardens. The Rock garden, Z point, Hebbe falls, Kalahasti falls, Bababudan hill town and the Shiva temple are a few must-see attraction here.

The name Kemmanagudi means red soil which the region is popularly known for. It was a summer retreat for the Mysore King Krishnaraj Wodeyar IV. Completely awestruck and mesmerised by the beauty of the surroundings, he donated his resort to the government of Karnataka. This place has a lot to offer right from the beautiful waterfalls to nature treks. The weather is lovely throughout the year, and you can visit it all year round.

Places to visit in kemmanagudi

a)Hebbe falls

Among 35 waterfalls in Karnataka, Hebbe Falls is the most stunning one located in the Chikmagalur. This enchanted waterfall is in the beautiful Kemmangundi hill station, an 8-hour drive from Bangalore. The water of Hebbe falls comprises medicinal herbs offering healing qualities, thus attracting a large number of tourists who come here for a dip. Apart from being one of the most picturesque tourist attractions in South India, the medicinal herbs also attract biologists and scientists.

The area around the waterfall has dense forest and plenty of coffee plantations. Hebbe Falls drop in magnificent form, gloriously from a height of 551 feet over the slippery black rocks in two steps called Dodda Hebbe and Chikka Hebbe. While the Dodda Hebbe is the bigger one, the Chikka Hebbe fall is the smaller one. The tourists have to cross the hairpin turns and creeping mist to reach the famous Kemmangundi hill. The Kemangundi used to be the summer retreat for the then Wodeyar ruler, Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. The retreat features charmingly laid floral gardens, majestic mountain ranges and jaw-dropping valleys.

b)Mullayanagiri

Mullayanagiri Chikmagalur Overview

Perched at an altitude of 1930 m above the sea level, Mullayanagiri peak is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range of Western Ghats and is just 45 minutes from Chikmagalur. It serves as the highest peak between the Nilgiris and the Himalayas offering its visitors a peaceful getaway with temperature ranging between 20 - 25 degrees Celsius. Known for its serene ambience and nature's raw beauty, this peak is adorned with verdant grassland, rugged rocks, and a good trek path is also quite popular among adventure lovers. Mullayanagiri is also known for coffee plantations that are situated nearby. 

Mullayanagiri is best known as a hub for adventure enthusiasts, especially trekkers as this destination is adorned with perfect trek trails. The starting point of this 4 km trek is Sarpadhari which is a steep trail. One can also engage in other thrilling activities such as mountain biking and road biking. The place is perfect for those looking for solitude as well as visitors with an adventurous streak. Chikmagalur serves as the nearest town to Mullayanagiri peak. You can explore the small caves, which are located just below the peak. There is a temple of Lord Shiva on the hilltop. Standing atop the peak on a clear day, you can see the Western Ghats in their full-fledged glory. 

c)z-point

Z Point, Kemmanagundi Overview

Nestled in Kemmangundi and offering exquisite views of the Western Ghats, Z Point is a vantage point which can be reached after undertaking a thrilling trek, thereby making it a must-visit place for all the adventure lovers out there. On the trek which is quite challenging, one also comes to beautiful surroundings and lush green valleys. Comprising of some of the deepest ravines, the trek to reach the Z Point is likely to offer you some of the best views of Kemmangundi. Listed amongst the most picturesque places to visit in Chikmagalur, Z Point is a magnificent sunrise and sunset point.

The place leaves you mesmerized with a feeling that nature picked up a paintbrush and sent you an invitation. Situated at an elevation of 1500 meters above sea level, the serene ambience of the place combined with the exciting trek and the wonderful views around makes it worth visiting. This trekking trail of 3 km begins from Kemmanagundi Raj Bhavan and into the thick forest from which you will come across Shanti Waterfalls. Till Shanti Hills, the trek is easy, but after that, it gets a little tough. In the later part of the trek, you are likely to be on a narrow path surrounded by deep valleys and steep hills. This route, though a little difficult, offers exhilarating views of the mountains of Kemmanagundi along with some extensive grasslands which give a distinct setting to the slopes.

d)Kalhatti Falls

Kalhatti Falls, Kemmanagundi Overview

Kalhatti Falls is the perfect combination for anyone seeking spirituality and serenity in a single location. Also known as the Kalahasti Falls, the Kalhatti Falls are situated in Chikmagalur. They are at a distance of 10 kilometres from the Kemmangundi hill station. The location has the infamous Veerabradeshwara Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The entire area is covered with greenery. Being situated close to the Chandra Drona hill, you can enjoy the view of the water pouring down from there too.

People flock from all over the country to visit one of the most pious temples in the state and one that is located in such a serene environment. Kalhatti Falls also attract nature enthusiasts as the flora and fauna are exemplary. One can spot wild animals like bears, elephants and monkeys from time to time.

e)Rock Garden

Rock Garden, Kemmanagundi Overview

The Rock Garden is home to multitudes of flowers of various species of flora, amongst the pathways carved out of rocks here. It is an ideal spot for any nature lover to enjoy the feeling of spending an evening amongst nature and for a spectacular view of the sunset.

f.)Rajendra Hill

Rajendra Hill, Kemmanagundi Overview

One of the highest peaks in Karnataka, this hill at an elevation of 1448m is well known for its iron ore deposits. Tourists can view the transportation of the minerals from the hill after extraction. It is named after the Mysore King Krishna Rajendra Wodeyar IV who had this Hill as his summer retreat. At an elevation of 4700 feet, this hill is surrounded by beautiful coffee plantations. It is also a popular trekking destination as it close to the Mullyandiri peak too

g)Shanti Falls

Shanti Falls, Kemmanagundi Overview

A little away from the Z point, these waterfalls experience relatively less footfall from tourists. Hence, visit these to witness pristine and modest waterfalls and streams with lush greenery all around.

9.Belavadi

 

Being a national heritage site and one of the prime attractions in Karnataka, Belavadi is just 29 km from Chikmagalur. It is a scenic village surrounded by a lush landscape that makes it a perfect place for one to relax. The village of Belavadi is believed to have a lot of historical significance due to the presence of the Veer Narayana temple which was constructed by the Hoysalas and for the legend of Belavadi Mallamma who was a fearless warrior and queen who fought against Shivaji, the Maratha King thereby winning his admiration in the 17th century AD.

Belavadi has now been divided into two parts with almost all the people residing in the new town which lies in the north-eastern direction. At present, almost nobody resides in the old Belavadi. This beautiful village should fall on your list of must-visit places. It is a perfect getaway for you to unwind and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In case you are planning a trip to Chikmagalur, this is one place you would not like to miss out on.

10.Inam Dattatreya Peetha

Inam Dattatreya Peetha, Chikmagalur Overview

Located in a cave on the Baba Budan Giri Hills, what makes this holy site interesting is that it is visited by both Hindus and Muslims alike. The cave is believed to have provided shelter to Guru Dattatreya and Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalandar. Another highlight of visiting the site is the journey there. Visitors can either trek up the hills or take a 2-wheeler or a car to reach the cave. The three-day annual celebrations known as Urs is celebrated here in the third month of the Islamic calendar. Hindu devotees visit during the Kartik Poornima celebrations.

11.Hirekolale Lake

Hirekolale Lake, Chikmagalur Overview

Situated amidst the huge mountain ranges covered in green with the lake in the backdrop, Hirekolale Lake has been able to gain a lot of prominence in becoming the favourite spot for travellers. The beauty of the lake enhances when visited during sunset as the saffron colour of the sunrays gets reflected thereby making the place appear magical. This exquisite manmade lake is situated at a distance of 10 km from Chikmagalur and 50 km from Kemmangundi from where one can view the popular hills of Mullayanagiri. The sole purpose of the development of this lake was to supply water to the town of Chikmagalur and assist in the irrigation of lands in all the villages situated nearby.

A drive to the Hirekolale Lake is mind-stirring with a perfect picture postcard setting. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains in the Western Ghats thereby making it a breathtaking destination. The place also provides an ideal setting for the photography lovers who wish to add a pleasant sun shot to their big album of travels. This man-made lake is a stunning delight for every tourist in Chikmagalur and should not be missed out on if at all you are planning a trip to the town. The Hirekolale Lake is going to provide you with a perfect getaway to unwind away from the busy life of the city.

12.Sringeri Sharada Peetham

Sringeri Sharada Peetham, Chikmagalur Overview

Nestled amongst the backdrop of the exquisite Malnad Hills on the banks of River Tunga and established by Sri Adi Shankaracharya, Sringeri Sharada Peetham is named after the great Rishi Rishyashringa. The prime deity of the temple is Sharadhamba Devi. Adi Shankaracharya initially placed a sandalwood idol of the deity here which later developed into this huge beautiful place of worship and an important pilgrim place. Managed by Adi Shankara Matha and formed as a trust, numerous social services take place in the temple. This Matha is considered to be one of the Advaita centres of authority and holds control over the Yajur Veda and the Krishna Yajur Veda amongst Smarthas who are the followers of the Advaita School.

This beautiful place showcases the past and the present through a beautiful architecture that it is blended in. In case you are planning a trip to Chikmagalur, do not forget to add this attraction to the must-visit places of the town. You are going to get a lot of peace away from the noise and monotonous routine to unwind and breathe.

13.Ballalarayana Durga Fort

Ballalarayana Durga, Chikmagalur Overview

Ballalarayana Durga is a hill fort in Chikmagalur that is situated in the village of Bettabalige between the towns of Kottegehara and Kalasa. Boasting of rich history and cultural significant, the vantage point is perched at a height of 1509 metres and offers some of the best panoramic vistas and picturesque views in the region. Cosily tucked up in the Western Ghats, it can only be reached through a trek amidst the dense forests. Although the hill fort is currently in ruins with only periphery walls, a few arches and a basement, it is a major tourist destination, a popular picnic spot in addition to being an ideal campsite.

14.Ghatikallu

Ghatikallu, Chikmagalur Overview

The name ‘Ghatikallu’ refers to a peak that offers panoramic views of the valley. A two-hour drive from Chikmagalur takes one to Ghatikallu, a gem in the crown of the Western Ghats. Surrounded by lush green valleys and acres of coffee and areca nut plantations, this place in Chikmagalur district has everything that a nature lover could ever wish for: streams, waterfalls, hills, thick forests and above all, its resounding quietude. Travellers come all the way here seeking the bliss of camping, star-gazing, trekking and river walks. There are also many stunning homestays and resorts here.