coffee
The story of Chikmagalur coffee
How seven smuggled beans on the Baba Budangiri hills became the birthplace of Indian coffee.
Chikmagalur · Karnataka
The whole of coffee country, one place at a time.
Not a top-ten list — the entire district, from Mullayanagiri's cloud line to the temples of Sringeri and the tiger forests of Bhadra. Browse by what you love, or by where you're headed.
Browse by interest
What do you love?
PeaksThe high summits of the Western Ghats — sunrise, mist and long views.7 placesViewpointsPlaces to stop, look out over the valleys and breathe.3 placesWaterfallsThe district's cascades, at their fullest just after the monsoon.8 placesTemplesLiving pilgrimage centres and Hoysala-era stone temples.13 placesLakesOld tanks and reservoirs, good for quiet evenings and birdlife.4 placesWildlifeTiger reserve ranges and the rainforest of Kudremukh.2 placesHeritage & CultureMuseums and cultural landmarks that explain coffee country.6 placesHill StationsCool retreats set up as getaways, with gardens and short walks.1 placeTreksRoutes you walk rather than drive — with the permits, the season and the rules.7 placesDams & ReservoirsThe reservoirs that hold the Bhadra — birdlife, boats and big water.2 placesFortsHoysala and later hill forts, most of them reached on foot.1 place
Where you'll sleep
Do you want to stay?
58 verified properties across the district — rooms in a planter's house, cottages on a working estate, tents on open ground, resorts with the valley in front of them. Every tariff is per person and includes breakfast and dinner.
Read first
Understand Chikmagalur
history
A short history of Chikmagalur
From Hoysala temple-builders to the Sharada Peetham and the coffee estates.
practical
When to visit Chikmagalur
Season by season — what the hills are like through the year.