Chikmagalur is a picturesque city located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka. It is one of the popular tourist destinations in India. Well-known for its coffee plantations and surroundings, this city lies in the foothills of the Mullayangiri ranges. It is situated at a distance of 251 Km from the state capital. This place is a perfect holiday destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and those who love exploring new things.
Let us know in detail about Chikmagalur:
How did Chikmagalur get its name?
This district is not always known as Chikmagalur. It was known as the Kudur district till 1947. After that, it was named after the district’s headquarters – Chikkamagaluru. It means ‘younger daughter’s town’. According to stories narrated for a long time, this district was said to be given in dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada. He was the chief of Sakrepatna.
History
This city has a rich history associated with itself. It is believed that Hoysala rulers started and spent the early days of their dynasty in this city. The Amriteshwara temple in Amrithapura was also built by one of the great rulers of this dynasty, Veera Ballala II.
The history of coffee in India can also be traced back to this city. The first coffee crop was grown here in the Baba Budangiri range. It is believed that Baba Budan, a saint travelled to Mecca through Mocha port in Yemen. He found coffee at this place. To make India familiar with it, he brought seven coffee seeds and planted them in the Chikmagalur hills.
Another important fact associated with this place’s history is that former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi contested elections here in 1978.
Location
Chikmagalur is surrounded by greenery, hills, and dense forests. It receives an average annual rainfall of 1925 mm. It has Shimoga district in the north, Davangere district in the northeast, Chitradurga and Tumkur districts in the east, Hassan district to the south, and Udupi district to the west. Rivers like Bhadra, Tunga, Hemavati, etc., flow from here throughout the year. It also has the highest point in Karnataka- Mullanagiri.
Places to visit in Chikmaglur
Chikmagalur is home to several exciting places. Here are some sites that you can explore:
- Horanadu
- Sringeri Sharada Peetham
- Shri Kalaseshwara Swami Temple
- Hebbe Falls
- Baba Budangiri
- Ballalarayana Durga Fort
- Coffee Museum
- Jhari Waterfalls
- Rambhapuri Peetha
- Kalasa
- Mullayyanagiri and Seetalayyanagiri
- Kemmannugundi Hill Station
- Magundi River Rafting
- Amruthapura
- Muthodi Forest Camp
- Kalhatthi Falls
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kudremukh National Park
- Manikyadhara Falls
- Kadambi Falls
Best time to visit Chikmagalur
The best time to visit this visually pleasing city is between September and May. During this period, the weather remains suitable for travelling and sightseeing.
How to Reach Chikmagalur?
- By Road
The city of Chikmagalur is well-connected with the major cities of Karnataka. You can take a bus from Bangalore, Mysore, or Mangalore to reach there. You will get there in approximately 5-6 hours.
- By Air
The nearest Chikmagalur airports are Mangalore airport, Bangalore airport, and Hubbali Airport. You can take domestic and international flights to these airports to reach Karnataka. You can hire a cab or take any public transport to reach the city.
- By Train
Kudur Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Chikmagalur. From there you can take a bus or cab to Chikmagalur. It will take approximately 45 minutes to reach there.
