Chikmagalur is a serene heaven for nature lovers. Nested in the Western Ghats mountain range in Karnataka, Chikmagalur is a paradise for those who cherish nature. The region’s lush greenery, tranquil environment, and picturesque landscapes make it an ideal gateway to the hustle and bustle of city life. Chikmagalur is renowned for its numerous coffee plantations, a major tourist draw. As you stroll through the lush plantations, the air is filled with the delightful scent of freshly brewed coffee.
I was accompanied by two friends as we had meticulously planned a getaway on the road. We chose Chikmagalur not because it was our choice, but because the rest of the options were weighing heavier. We began our road trip early in the morning from Banglore. Although It was a Saturday, we were fortunate that the road was clear. We encountered many Enfield motorbike enthusiasts who raced past us and quickly disappeared from our sights even though we were traveling at a speed of 100 km/hr.
We halted at every location that presented a picturesque view, which was made possible by the convenience of traveling by our car. There is something magical about hitting the open road and embarking on a long drive. Whether you’re driving alone or with loved ones, a long drive is a wonderful opportunity to relax and make cherished memories.
DEVARAMANE
Devaramane is a hidden treasure nestled in the Chikmagalur district of the Western Ghats in Karnataka. The village offers an exquisite combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. It is an ideal destination to unwind, rejuvenate, and revel in the splendor of nature. Devaramane is an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking a distinctive and unconventional vacation experience. We embarked on a minor trek and upon reaching a viewpoint, we caught sight of another peak, which we eventually climbed to the top. The sky was clear, and we were able to witness the vast expanse of land that seemed to stretch to infinity.
For adventure enthusiasts, Devramane offers several trekking trails. The trek to the Kudremukh Peak is one of the most popular treks in the village. The trek takes you on a Journey through the lush green forests and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills. As seen in the above picture, the view is crystal clear, but after some time, the clouds began to cover the view and move toward us. The video below showcases the cloud-covered views that we witnessed.
We were amazed by the sound and speed of the clouds. The view was amazing. However, as the sun began to set, the wind picked up suddenly, signaling that it was time to head back to the hotel. The road path was narrow, filled with potholes, and had a high slope, making it challenging to navigate. Before embarking on the trek to the viewpoint, we stumbled upon an ice cream stall that had just opened up in front of the parking lot. The ice cream was delectable, and visitors should definitely give it a try.
Chikmagalur is known for its sprawling coffee plantations, making it a famous destination for coffee lovers. In the vicinity, you’ll find numerous plantations that provide guided tours, allowing visitors to delve into the intricacies of the coffee-making process. Whether you are a coffee lover or not, a visit to a coffee plantation is a must-have experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of coffee making.
As we were returning to Banglore, the sun began to set, and the combination of the red sunlight and green plantation was a sight to behold. After a while, it started raining, and it was a magical experience that can be both relaxing and awe-inspiring. The sound of raindrops, the smell of the wet earth, and the sight of the rain misting through the trees create an amazing ambiance that is difficult to replicate.
Accommodation options in Chikmagalur are plenty, with several resorts and homestays offering a comfortable stay amidst nature. The local cuisine, which includes traditional dishes is very delicious. Homestay offers a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and way of life, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, towers above the landscape at an elevation exceeding 6000 feet above sea level. Mullayanagiri is a trekking destination and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek to the peak presents a thrilling challenge, but the rewards are truly worth it. Adventure lovers simply must experience this exhilarating activity. It is also home to several other attractions, including the Baba Budan Giri Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and elephants.
TRAVEL PLAN
Chikmagalur boasts a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year; however, the ideal time to visit is from September to May. A two-day trip is enough to explore the natural beauty of Chikmagalur.
How to reach Chikmagalur – Mangalore Airport, which is located around 110 km away, is the nearest airport to Chikmagalur. The city lacks a railway station, but fear not! The nearest one is in Kadur, approximately 40 km away. Chikmagalur is well connected to cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, Hubli, and Hassan via state-run and private buses.
Day 1 – After reaching Chikmagalur visit Devaramane viewpoint and coffee museum.
Day 2 – Visit Mullayanagiri, Jhari Falls, Baba Budangiri, Manikyadhara falls, and Hirekolale lake.
* If you have an extra day, then you can explore Habbe Falls, Kemmangundi, Z Point, and Ayyanakere Lake.
Taste of Chikmagalur – Filter Coffee, Pathrode, Rasam, Pineapple dishes, Akki Roti, Jackfruit dishes.
Useful Links
Book a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine. It scours websites and airlines worldwide, ensuring no stone is left unturned.
Google Flight is another excellent resource for finding a reasonably priced flight. By entering your nearest airport and typing “anywhere” as the destination, you can view the cheapest flights available from your location.
Book your accommodation by using Hostel World. It is an ideal option for finding cheap and highly-rated hostels for foreign trips.
If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use booking.com.It is a reliable platform for booking accommodations, including guesthouses, hotels, and apartments, at the most affordable rates.
This is also one of my favorite choices for both accommodation and flight bookings, particularly for domestic travel within India.
It’s a zero mark-up Forex travel card. It charges a minimal fixed amount for cash withdrawals from ATMs in other countries. Complimentary airport lounge access is also available. You can apply easily by installing the Niyo Global app.
Travel insurance provides coverage for injury, illness, COVID-19, and theft. It is comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. Travel insurance is compulsory in many countries.
Book a train and bus from Omino for an international trip. It provides all travel options in one place
One of the best places to start looking for cheap rental cars and great deals for international trips.
Redbus offers various bus services such as a chair, sleeper, AC, and non-AC options. Redbus is India’s largest online bus ticketing platform.
