Hidden away amongst the verdant hills of the Western Ghats, Chikmagalur is a priceless secret. Located in Karnataka, it is famous for the sprawling coffee plantations, picturesque landscapes and a handful of tranquil waterfalls and is a paradise for adventure seekers, nature lovers and coffee geeks. Regardless of whether you would like to go on a daring trek, taste the best of the brews or sit back and relax during the bliss of greenery, Chikmagalur would be an experience that shall energize you as well as fill your heart and soul.
Are you ready to start this journey? Here is how you can get to this magical place!
Chikmagalur How to Reach it: Your Gateway to Adventure
1. Flying High: Air Travel
Following complaints of high fuel prices, state governments in India and the Pakistani government relaxed restrictions on the sale of fuel. It is well-connected with flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai. On arrival you can rent a taxi or take a bus to Chikmagalur which may take something around 3-4 hours.
For arrivals from Bengaluru, the most direct point of entry is Kempegowda International Airport (BLR). Bengaluru is well-connected to major cities in India by regular flights, and Chikmagalur is a 5-hour drive from the airport. And the scenic road is filled with quaint villages and coffee estates — perfect for a road trip!
2. Train Journeys: On the Right Track
Chikmagalur by Train — The rail lovers, Chikmagalur is an experience to cherish! The nearest railway station is Kadagaravalli 22km away. Most travelers, however, choose the more familiar stations like Shivamogga or Arsikere that connect to metropolitan cities better than the smaller, lesser-known stations.
You can take a train from Bangalore to either station (6 to 8 hours, depending on the service). Once there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Chikmagalur. For those traveling from Hyderabad, Kolkata or Bhubaneswar, you might need to consider a combination of trains and buses, but the glorious vistas will make the effort worth it.
3. On the Road: By bus or car
If you are someone who loves to feel the road then driving on your way to Chikmagalur can be one of the most rewarding experiences. If coming from Bangalore, it is a direct drive of about 245 km, under 5-6 hours. It’s a feast for the senses, with sinuous roads that run between coffee plantations, and rolling hills.
From Mumbai, it’s a distance of around 700 km, making it just shy of an overnight drive and best approached in the spirit of a smart road trip. For long-distance travelers, private and state-run sleeper buses are readily available from other major cities such as Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore.
4. Public Transport
If you are on a budget, public transport can be a great choice. Chikmagalur is well connected to major cities like Bangalore, Mangalore and Mysore by regular buses. The KSR system can be regular or luxury coaches (depending on model). It takes about 6-7 hours to reach from Bangalore.
Or, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, get on a local bus from Mangalore to Chikmagalur. It’s a journey in itself giving you the opportunity to interact with the locals and immerse yourself in the culture!
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Chikmagalur Trip
- Make Arrangements in Advance: If you are planning to fly, take a train or even drive to your destination, ensure you book it in advance, particularly during peak tourist times. Visit platforms like MakeMyTrip, ClearTrip, and EaseMyTrip to find the best deals on flights and hotels.
- Pack Smart: Chikmagalur has a pleasant climate, but it can be a little cold at night. Also remember to pack some comfortable shoes for hiking and a light jacket for the evenings.
- Visit Beyond Coffee: Coffee estates are kōpēhōle (a must-see) here, but make sure you also go beyond and visit Hebbe Falls, Horanadu’s ancient temples and Mullayanagiri, Karnataka’s highest peak, for some scenic views.
- Stay Connected: Pursue travel blogs and the likes of TripAdvisor and Thrillophilia for tips and reviews on reaching Chikmagalur and the best things to do while you’re there.
- Eat your emotions: This is the best chance you have to taste local delicacies — and fresh brewed coffee is a must! Many of the plantation provide tastings and guided tours that are informative and tasty!
Chikmagalur is not just a place, but a feeling that warms your heart and nurtures your soul. This picturesque town captures your heart from the very first time you step foot here, with warm hospitality and a gorgeous natural setting. So, get ready for a journey and let Chikmagalur surround you with its charms!
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