Introduction:
Chikmagalur, literally means the "town of younger daughter", placed amid scenic landscape in a fertile valley, it is surrounded by lush green coffee plantation hills. The town is a major trade and commercial centre in Karnataka. The breathtaking views and unpolluted ambiance makes the town a relaxing haven for travelers. A trekker's delight and a wildlife enthusiast's paradise, And with numerous shrines sprinkled around the town, Chikmagalur is a pilgrimage destination as well.
Destination facts:
Location: Karnataka, District Chikmagalur
Altitude: 1894m
Climate: (summer 21 to 35°C) (winter 14 to 32°C)
Language: Kannada and English
How to Reach:
By Airport: Mangalore is the nearest airport
By Rail Station: The nearest railway station is Kadur and Hassan .
By Road: There are two National Highways passing through this Chikmaglur. NH-13 (Sholapur to Mangalore) passes through the towns of Koppa and Sringeri whereas NH-206 (Bangalore to Honnavar) passes through the towns of Kadur, Birur and Tarikere.
Distance from the major cities/towns from Chikmagul:
Kadur-40km, Hassan-60km, Mangalore-146km is the nearby cities.
Places of Tourist Interest:
Baba Budan Giri:
Baba Budan Giri, also known as Dattagiri has a height of 1895 meters above the sea level. Close to this peak are the three caves said to have been sanctified by three siddhas containing their icons & tombs. Sheethala is also close to Baba Budan Giri, and it comprises of a Mutt and the dual shrine temple of Seethala-Mallikarjuna.
Horanadu:
Designed in unique manner, the image depicts the Goddess with four hands holding the Shanka, Chakra, Sri Chakra and Gayathrimantra. One unique thing about this temple is that every visitor is provided with food, along with place to sleep in the temple premises. Situated in middle of thick forests and valleys, visitors are sure to enjoy the scenic view of nature while visiting Horanadu.
Getting Around:
Public transport is hardly available in Chikmagalur, so having your own vehicle or hiring a taxi is advisable.
Shopping:
Chikmagalur is famous for coffee. Coffee lover can buy many kinds of coffee
Best time to Visit:
August to February is the best time to visit this destination.
Festival:
Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali are the main festivals in Chikmagalur, which are celebrated with great pomp and show.