Imagine awakening to the aroma of fresh coffee, the sight of lush green hills, and the sound of serene waterfalls. Welcome to Chikmagalur, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Chikmagalur blends untamed beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures.
Bynekaadu Resort, a luxurious retreat amidst coffee plantations, provides the ideal base for your exploration. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, this Chikmagalur itinerary for 3 days promises a fulfilling experience. This guide will help you plan your 3-day itinerary for Chikmagalur, covering must-visit spots, local cuisine, and cultural heritage, ensuring you make the most of your time in this charming hill station.
Chikmagalur 3 Days Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrival and Check-In at Bynekaadu Resort
- Breakfast
- Coffee Plantation Tour
- Lunch
- Mullayanagiri Peak
- Seethalayanagiri
- Hirekolale Lake
- Ayyanakere Lake
- Dinner and Relaxation
Day 2:
- Kemmanagundi
- Hebbe Falls
- Lunch
- Kalhatti Falls
- Kemmangundi Rose Garden
- Z Point
- Baba Budangiri
- Manikyadhara Falls
- Bhadra Dam
- Dinner and Leisure Time
Day 3:
- Belavadi and Halebidu
- Sringeri
- Lunch
- Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- Amrutesvara Temple
- Kudremukh National Park
- Return and Departure
Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration
Morning
Arrival and Check-In at Bynekaadu Resort: Your journey begins with your arrival in Chikmagalur. Depending on your mode of travel, you may arrive by car, bus, or train. Once in Chikmagalur, head to Bynekaadu Resort, your serene and luxurious retreat nestled amidst lush coffee plantations. Enjoy a warm welcome and check into your well-appointed cottage or villa. Our resort offers convenient facilities such as taxi services and resort vehicles for easy travel.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Breakfast: After checking in, fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Bynekaadu Resort offers an exquisite breakfast menu featuring traditional South Indian dishes like dosa, idli, or vada, paired with excellent filter coffee.
Mid-Morning
Coffee Plantation Tour:
Chikmagalur is synonymous with coffee; visiting a coffee plantation is a must. At Bynekaadu, you can enjoy an exclusive guided tour of our coffee estate. Learn about the coffee cultivation process and the history of coffee in Chikmagalur, and end the tour with a delightful coffee-tasting session.
- Things To Do: Guided tour, coffee tasting, photography
- Entry Fee: Included for Bynekaadu guests
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: On-site
Afternoon
Lunch: Indulge in Malnad-style cuisine at Bynekaadu’s in-house restaurant for lunch. Savor traditional dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Mullayanagiri Peak:
After lunch, travel to Mullayanagiri, which is 1,930 meters above sea level and Karnataka’s tallest peak. The drive shows astonishing vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys. Once there, a short trek will take you to the peak, where you can enjoy scenic views of the Western Ghats. Since the hike is relatively easy, most visitors can complete it.
- Things To Do: Trekking, photography, sightseeing
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 30 km (2 hours)
Seethalayanagiri:
On your way back from Mullayanagiri, stop at Seethalayanagiri, a small but beautiful hillock with a serene temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The place presents astonishing pictures of the Western Ghats and is a perfect spot for peaceful reflection and photography.
- Things To Do: Temple visit, photography
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1 hour
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 28 km (1.5 hours)
Evening
Hirekolale Lake:
As the day winds down, go to Hirekolale Lake, a serene spot perfect for unwinding. Hills surround the lake, and the setting sun casts a beautiful reflection on the water. It’s ideal for photography, boating, or relaxing by the water’s edge.
- Things To Do: Boating, photography, sunset viewing
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 25 km (1.5 hours)
Ayyanakere Lake:
Visit Ayyanakere Lake, another scenic spot perfect for a tranquil evening. Hills and lush greenery surround the lake, ideal for picnics and photography.
- Things To Do: Boating, photography, picnic
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 38 km (2 hours)
Night
Dinner: Return to Bynekaadu Resort for dinner. Enjoy a leisurely meal at our in-house restaurant, offering local and continental cuisines. Reflect on the day’s adventures as you dine.
Relaxation: After dinner, walk around the resort’s plantation under the starlit sky before returning for a restful night.
Day 2: Adventure and Sightseeing
Morning
Kemmanagundi:
Start your second day early with a drive to Kemmanagundi, a beautiful hill station about 60 kilometers from Chikmagalur. Known for its lush greenery and lovely weather, Kemmanagundi presents a range of activities. Begin your day with a trek to Z Point, a popular viewpoint that offers a spectacular sunrise view.
- Things To Do: Trekking, sunrise viewing, photography
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: Open all day
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 85 km (2.5 hours)
Mid-Morning
Hebbe Falls:
Next, head to Hebbe Falls, one of the main attractions in Kemmanagundi. The falls are divided into two stages – Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls). The trek to Hebbe Falls is an adventure, taking you through coffee estates and dense forests. Once there, you can enjoy the cascading waterfalls and take a rejuvenating dip in the natural pool created on the ground.
- Things To Do: Trekking, swimming, photography
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 95 km (3 hours)
Afternoon
Lunch: After spending time at Hebbe Falls, have a packed picnic lunch or visit local eateries in Kemmanagundi. Carrying a packed lunch is recommended, as the options in this remote area may be limited.
Kalhatti Falls:
In the afternoon, go to Kalhatti Falls, about 10 kilometers from Kemmanagundi. The falls are known for their beauty, and the Veerabhadreshwara Temple is at the base. The trek to Kalhatti Falls is relatively easy, and the surroundings are lush and green, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
- Things To Do: Trekking, temple visit, photography
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 83 km (2.5 hours)
Kemmangundi Rose Garden:
After visiting Kalhatti Falls, explore the Kemmangundi Rose Garden. The garden is beautifully maintained with various colorful roses and other flowers, making it a pleasant spot for a leisurely walk and photography.
- Things To Do: Walking, photography, relaxing
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1 hour
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 82 km (2.5 hours)
Evening
Baba Budangiri:
As the evening approaches, drive to Baba Budangiri, also known as Datta Peeta. The holy Sufi saint Baba Budan, credited with bringing coffee seeds from Yemen to India, is honored by this range’s name. Visit the shrine dedicated to Baba Budan and explore the nearby Manikyadhara Falls. The serene environment and panoramic views make it a must-visit spot.
- Things To Do: Shrine visit, trekking, photography, waterfall visit
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 38 km (1.5 hours)
Bhadra Dam:
Visit Bhadra Dam for a serene experience by the reservoir. The dam and surrounding area offer beautiful views and are perfect for an evening stroll.
- Things To Do: Photography, relaxing, walking
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 55 km (2 hours)
Night
Dinner: Return to Bynekaadu Resort for dinner. Explore the dining options at our restaurant. You can eat various foods there, including continental and traditional South Indian cuisine.
Leisure Time: After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the resort, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and night sky.
Day 3: Cultural and Historical Insights
Morning
Belavadi and Halebidu:
On the third day, explore the region’s cultural and historical heritage. Start by driving to Belavadi, about 25 kilometers from Chikmagalur. Visit the Chennakesava Temple, an architectural marvel built during the Hoysala dynasty.
- Things To Do: Temple visit, photography, historical exploration
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 50 km (2 hours)
From Belavadi, proceed to Halebidu, another important Hoysala-era site. Explore the Hoysaleswara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex even houses a museum with artifacts and sculptures from the Hoysala period.
Things To Do: Temple visit, photography, museum tour
Entry Fee: None
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
Distance from Bynekaadu: 60 km (2.5 hours)
Mid-Morning
Sringeri:
After exploring Halebidu, head to Sringeri, one of Karnataka’s oldest and most revered temple towns. Sringeri is about 90 kilometers from Chikmagalur and is home to the Sharada Peetham, established by the great philosopher and theologian Adi Shankaracharya.
- Things To Do: Temple visit, photography, spiritual exploration
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 90 km (3 hours)
Afternoon
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal in Sringeri. Many local eateries offer delicious vegetarian meals, including sambar, rasam, and rice preparations.
Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple:
After lunch, visit the Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple, about 42 kilometers from Sringeri. This temple is devoted to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, and it is believed that no one leaves the temple hungry, as free meals are served to all visitors.
- Things To Do: Temple visit, enjoy complimentary meals, photography
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 65 km (2.5 hours)
Amrutesvara Temple:
Before heading back, visit the Amrutesvara Temple in Amruthapura. This 12th-century temple is a fine example of Hoysala architecture and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
- Things To Do: Temple visit, photography, historical exploration
- Entry Fee: None
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 65 km (2.5 hours)
Evening
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary:
In the afternoon, travel to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, about 38 kilometers from Chikmagalur. Wildlife enthusiasts will find the sanctuary a haven, with chances to see tigers, elephants, leopards, and various bird species. Take a safari ride to explore the sanctuary and enjoy the region’s natural attractiveness.
- Things To Do: Safari, wildlife spotting, bird watching
- Entry Fee: INR 400-600 per person (varies by season and safari type)
- Timings: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 60 km (2 hours)
Kudremukh National Park:
Visit Kudremukh National Park, which is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. The park offers numerous trekking trails and opportunities to spot wildlife.
- Things To Do: Trekking, wildlife spotting, photography
- Entry Fee: INR 200 per person
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours
- Distance from Bynekaadu: 95 km (3 hours)
Night
Return and Departure: As the day ends, return to Bynekaadu Resort. Try local delicacies like neer dosa, chicken ghee roast, and Mangalore buns at our in-house restaurant for your final dinner. Reflect on your trip as you enjoy your meal.
Check-Out and Departure: After dinner, check out of Bynekaadu Resort and prepare for your departure. Depending on your trip intentions, you could choose to go home or keep traveling. If traveling by bus or train, ensure your belongings are packed and ready.
Conclusion
With its scenic beauty, rich history, and adventurous activities, Chikmagalur offers a perfect getaway for a 3-day trip to Chikmagalur. From the serene coffee plantations and majestic peaks to the historical temples and vibrant wildlife, every moment spent in Chikmagalur is filled with wonder and excitement. This Chikmagalur 3 days itinerary covers diverse experiences, ensuring you make the most of your visit. With its opulent lodgings and handy location, The ideal place to start exploring all that Chikmagalur has to offer is the Bynekaadu Resort. Our staff is dedicated to making your stay memorable, providing personalized guidance, and ensuring a comfortable, enriching experience. Ready to experience the best of Chikmagalur? Contact us today to book your stay at Bynekaadu Resort and embark on a memorable journey amidst nature.
