Index
- Introduction
- About Chikmagalur
- Chikmagalur etymology
- Places to visit in Chikmagalur
Introduction
Winters are here, and so is our cravings for a pleasant hill station vacation. Darjeeling, Himalayas, and North India are full of the crowd during this season. In South India, a famous hill station like Ooty is the first choice of travelers. If you want to enjoy tropical forests along with hills and you love peace, Chikmagalur is the right place for you.
About Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur, is also known as Chikkamagaluru is a city located in Karnataka, it is 250 km from the city of Bangalore and 150 km from the city of Mangalore. Chikmagalur is situated in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri peak of the Western Ghats. The source of the river Yagachi is near the town. The nearest international airport is Mangalore. The city’s temperature is moderate; it varies from 11-20 degrees in winter and 23-30 degrees in summer.
Chikmagalur etymology
The word Chikmagalur is derived from the Kannada word Chikkamagala which translates to “younger daughter’s town,” as it is said the town was the dowry of the youngest daughter Rukmangada, chief of Sakharayapatna.
Places to visit in Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a beautiful city famous for its hills, climate, coffee estates, and rainforests. The town has scenic locations all around it. Below is the list of places to visit in Chikmagalur.
1. Mullayanagiri
The Mullayanagiri peak is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range. It is 1930 m above sea level and is famous for its peaceful environment. The temperature varies from 20-25 degrees celsius. The location is accessible among adventurous people who love trekking. The trekking trail of the peak is perfect and starts from Sarpadhari, which is 4 km away from the summit. There are small caves below the peak, and a Shiv temple comes in the way when going up. There are services like mountain biking available near the place. Mallayanagiri is the perfect place for an adventurous person who appreciates solitude.
2. Kudremukh National Park
Amid Hills of the Western Ghats and the city Chikmagalur, Kudremukh National Park, is a serene place for nature lovers. The 600 square km area was recognized as a National Park in 1987. The National Park has numerous Flora, and Fauna conserved under its care. The National park has a Tropical wet evergreen forest inside its area.
Kudremukh means horse face and was named after the highest peak in the National Park, which looks like a horse. The summit is 1,894 m above sea level. The National Park is home to endangered species like tigers and leopards; wild dogs are the common predators of the region. The town was once an iron ore mining town, which was then banned to conserve the area as mining has ill effects on the environment.
3. Bhadra River
Bhadra river flows in Karnataka and passes from near Chikmagalur. The river is 45 km away from the city of Chikmagalur, in the western ghats. Rafting in River Bhadra is one of the most sought activities of adventure lovers visiting Chikmagalur. Beautiful hills, plantations, and Fauna surround the river. The course is 8 km long, and the rafting takes around 1 to 2 hours to complete.
4. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is named after river Bhadra. The Sanctuary is a mere 38 km away from Chikmagalur, a city located in the foothills of the western ghats Karnataka. The surroundings of the Sanctuary are unimaginably beautiful. The beautiful mountains, covered with diverse flora and sky-touching trees. The main attraction of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is the river Bhadra, which passes through it, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a painting. The river is the primary source of water in the Sanctuary and cities around it. The wildlife heavily depends on the water of the river, thus making it lifeline of the region. The different species of birds and animals feel safe in the conservation of the Sanctuary. Visiting this Sanctuary will help discover nature in its pure form.
5. Jhari waterfalls
Jhari waterfalls are located near the Baba Budangiri range of western ghats. They are also called the buttermilk falls. The waterfalls come under the district Chikmagalur. The waterfalls are known for its serene beauty due to it being surrounded by dense forest and plantations of coffee. A small pool at the bottom of the waterfall is present for the visitors to swim and enjoy.
6. Belavadi
Belavadi is a National Heritage site located 29 km from Chikmagalur Karnataka. The village of Belavadi has historical significance due to the temple of Veer Narayana. It was constructed for the Belavadi Mallamma, a fearless queen who fought against King Shivaji in 17 AD. She was admired by the king for her bravery and is still recognized as a fearless warrior. The old Belavadi is now abandoned, and people live in the new Belavadi. The old Belavadi is a beautiful escape from the noise and fast life of cities and a must-visit place near Chikmagalur.
7. Hirekolale Lake
The lake is situated 8 km from the city of Chikmagalur Karnataka. Beautiful mountains and lush greenery surrounding the lake. During sunrise and sunset, the rays of sun reflect on the still surface of the lake, creating a mesmerizing scene. The lake was created for irrigation purposes of Chikmagalur. The drive to Hirekolale is beautiful beyond expectation; the green western ghats, the fresh air, will provide you an experience you will never forget. The place is perfect for photographers.
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