Chikmagalur Packages - In The Coffee Country

By Author: Rashmiranjan Patil
Total Articles: 261
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Chikmagalur is a beautiful town situated in the south-western part of Karnataka. As the name suggests, Chikmagalur means the 'younger daughter's land', it is said that Chikmagalur was given as dowry to the younger daughter of a local chief named Rukmangada.

Chikmagalur is synonymous with coffee. Situated at an elevation of 1037 m, Chikmagalur has its share of tea plantations, as well as cardamom, arecanut and pepper cultivation.

The first coffee beans were brought to India from Yemen by a Muslim saint named Baba Budan after whom the Baba Budangiri range in Chikmagalur is named.

Karnataka's highest peak, the Mulliangiri peak, is in the Baba Budangiri range. About 6 km from Chikmagalur, this 6050 ft peak is famous not just for the breathtaking views you can enjoy from the top but also for the temple found on the top of the hill that is reached by a trek up the hill. From the topmost point of the hill the Arabian Sea is visible on clear days.

On the way to the peak is Sitalayanagiri Temple. Dattatreya Peeth is a laterite cave and is considered holy by both Hindus and Muslims.

One can also visit ...
... the Bhadra Tiger Reserve where Jeep safaris can be arranged to on prior notice. Kemmangundi, 60 km from Chikmagalur, is at a height of 1434 m and is surrounded by thick forests.

Visit Chikmagalur during the Monsoon season and take in the greenery around you. Rain changes the whole topography of the place infusing life into the forests around you. During the monsoon season the streams are in full flow and the waterfalls are gushing down filling up the reservoirs.

Pack your shoes and trekking gear and tread on the numerous walking trails criss-crossing Chikmagalur. This trekkers' paradise has a lot of adventure clubs organising treks to the various points in Chikmagalur. An ideal Chikmagalur Package would also include treks to the various peaks of the Baba Budangiri range.

Chikmagalur is also known for its numerous home stays, where one can enjoy staying at a traditional house, locally known as Mane, amongst coffee and tea plantations and where you can experience the hospitality of the family. Karnataka Government is promoting home stays by providing the best Chikmagalur Packages you can avail.

Chikmagalur is well connected by road, air and rail. There are KSRTC buses and private buses running to Chikmagalur on a frequent basis from Bangalore and Mangalore. The nearest airport to Chikmagalur is Bajpe airport in Mangalore and the nearest railway station is Kadur.

Chikmagalur has a pleasant climate throughout the year and remains cool even during the summer months of March to May. But the best time to visit Chikmagalur is from September to May.