Kemmangundi!
india-guide.in
india-guide.in
Population
Very small
Best Time
September to May
Time Needed
2-3 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
Showcase Your Photography Skills • Help Thousands of Travelers • Get Featured with Credit
Kemmangundi, also known as KR Hills, is a scenic hill station in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. It's known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Kemmangundi offers a peaceful escape from city life, with opportunities for trekking and enjoying nature. However, the roads can be rough, and accommodation options are limited. The remote location might not appeal to everyone.
To fully explore Kemmangundi, plan for at least two days. The nearest airport is in Mangalore, and from there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kemmangundi. Internal transport relies heavily on local jeeps and buses.
September to May
15-25 degrees C
Pleasant and cool, with clear skies. Ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
Why Visit:
The weather is perfect for exploring the hills, waterfalls, and gardens. The skies are clear, offering stunning views. This is the best time for outdoor activities and photography. The rose garden is in full bloom during these months.
Tip: This is peak season, so expect more tourists and slightly higher prices. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
June to August
20-30 degrees C
Monsoon season with heavy rainfall. The landscape is lush green, but visibility can be limited.
Why Visit:
The waterfalls are at their fullest, and the landscape is incredibly green. The crowds are thinner, offering a more secluded experience. However, trekking can be challenging due to slippery trails.
Tip: Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and limit outdoor activities. Some roads may be temporarily closed.
N/A
N/A
N/A
Why Avoid:
N/A
Note: N/A
Z Point
Z Point is a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The trek to Z Point is moderately challenging and takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
The view from the top is breathtaking, especially at sunrise. You can see the Shanti Falls from here. The windy conditions at the top add to the experience.
Wear comfortable shoes for the trek. Carry water and snacks as there are no shops on the way. Be cautious of slippery rocks during the monsoon season.
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Best Time: Early morning for sunrise views
Getting There: Trek from Kemmangundi or hire a jeep
Honest Take: Worth the trek for the stunning views, but skip if you have mobility issues.
💡 Insider Tip:
Start the trek early to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Rose Garden
The Rose Garden is a beautiful garden with a variety of roses and other flowering plants. It's a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The garden is well-maintained and offers a colorful display of flowers. It's a great spot for photography and enjoying a leisurely stroll. You can also find benches to sit and relax.
The best time to visit is during the flowering season (September to May). There are no entry fees. The garden is easily accessible.
Hours: 09:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: During the day when the roses are in full bloom
Getting There: Located in Kemmangundi town, easily accessible by walk or local transport
Honest Take: Good for a relaxing break, especially if you enjoy gardens.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit during the late afternoon for softer lighting for photography.
Hebbe Falls
Hebbe Falls is a beautiful waterfall located about 10 km from Kemmangundi. The waterfall cascades down from a height of about 168 meters.
Reaching the falls involves a jeep ride through rough terrain followed by a short trek. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery. The water is believed to have medicinal properties.
Hire a jeep from Kemmangundi town. Wear appropriate footwear for the trek. Be prepared for a bumpy ride.
Hours: 08:00-17:00 daily
Best Time: Post-monsoon season for the fullest flow
Getting There: Jeep ride from Kemmangundi followed by a short trek
Honest Take: Worth the effort to see the falls, but the jeep ride can be uncomfortable.
💡 Insider Tip:
Negotiate the jeep fare beforehand.
Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri is a mountain range known for its Sufi shrine and scenic beauty. It's a popular pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Muslims.
The area offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can visit the shrine of Baba Budan and explore the caves. Trekking is also a popular activity here.
Take a bus or hire a taxi from Chikmagalur. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Respect the religious significance of the site.
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Best Time: Early morning to avoid crowds
Getting There: Bus or taxi from Chikmagalur
Honest Take: A must-visit for its religious and scenic significance.
💡 Insider Tip:
Dress modestly when visiting the shrine.
Kallathi Falls
Kallathi Falls is a scenic waterfall near Kemmangundi. It is believed that Saint Agastya prayed here for a long time.
The waterfall cascades down from Chandra Drona Hill. It's a beautiful spot for photography and enjoying nature. There is also a Veerabhadra temple near the falls.
You can reach the falls by road and then take a short trek. Wear comfortable shoes. Be careful of slippery rocks.
Hours: 08:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Post-monsoon season
Getting There: Accessible by road, followed by a short trek
Honest Take: A good option if you enjoy waterfalls and a bit of trekking.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit during the weekdays to avoid the crowds.
Shanti Falls
Shanti Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located on the way to Z Point. It's a popular spot for a quick stop and photo opportunity.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery. You can take a dip in the cool water. It's a refreshing break during your journey.
The falls are easily accessible by road. There are usually vendors selling snacks and drinks nearby. Be careful while walking on the slippery rocks.
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Best Time: Any time of day
Getting There: Located on the way to Z Point, easily accessible by road
Honest Take: A nice stop on the way to Z Point, but not a major attraction on its own.
💡 Insider Tip:
Carry a towel if you plan to take a dip in the water.
Mullayanagiri Peak
Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
The drive to the peak is scenic, and the trek to the summit is relatively easy. There is a small temple at the top. The views are especially stunning at sunrise.
You can drive up most of the way, but the last stretch involves a short trek. Wear comfortable shoes. Be prepared for strong winds at the top.
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Best Time: Early morning for clear views
Getting There: Drive up most of the way, followed by a short trek
Honest Take: Worth the trip for the breathtaking views, even if it's a bit crowded.
💡 Insider Tip:
Check the weather forecast before you go, as visibility can be poor during cloudy days.
This involves a moderately challenging trek to Z Point for panoramic views. The trail passes through forests and rocky terrain.
You'll experience stunning sunrise views, fresh mountain air, and a sense of accomplishment. Remember to bring water.
Best for: Adventure seekers and nature lovers
Good to know: Wear comfortable trekking shoes and carry water. The trail can be slippery during the monsoon season.
A thrilling jeep ride through rough terrain to reach Hebbe Falls. The jeep ride itself is an adventure.
You'll experience a bumpy ride through the forest, see the cascading waterfall, and enjoy the surrounding greenery. Negotiate the fare beforehand.
Best for: Families and those who prefer a less strenuous option
Good to know: The jeep ride can be uncomfortable for some. Wear appropriate clothing to protect yourself from dust and mud.
Visit a local coffee plantation and learn about the process of coffee cultivation. You'll get to see the coffee plants and learn about harvesting and processing.
You'll experience the aroma of fresh coffee, taste different varieties, and learn about the history of coffee in the region. Many tours include a coffee tasting session.
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts and those interested in local culture
Good to know: Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking around the plantation. The best time to visit is during the harvesting season (November to February).
Visit the shrine of Sufi saint Baba Budan and explore the caves. It's a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and Muslims.
You'll experience the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine, see the beautiful views from the hilltop, and learn about the history of the place. Dress modestly.
Best for: Pilgrims and those interested in religious sites
Good to know: The shrine can get crowded during weekends and festivals. Respect the religious customs and traditions.
1-2 hours | ₹200-500 | Local restaurants and street food stalls
Experience the local flavors of Karnataka cuisine. Try dishes like Akki Roti, Jolada Roti, and Bisi Bele Bath.
Expect authentic flavors and simple preparations. The food is typically spicy and flavorful. Explore local markets for the best street food.
Tip: Be cautious of hygiene at street food stalls. Ask locals for recommendations.
1-2 hours | Free | Chikmagalur Market
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a local market. See the variety of fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
Expect a bustling environment with vendors selling their wares. It's a great place to observe local life and practice your bargaining skills. Be aware of your belongings.
Tip: Bargaining is expected. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Varies | Free | Various locations in Chikmagalur
Experience the cultural richness of Karnataka by attending a local festival. These festivals often involve music, dance, and religious ceremonies.
Expect colorful processions, traditional music, and a festive atmosphere. Check the local calendar for upcoming festivals. Be respectful of local customs.
Tip: Check the dates and locations of festivals in advance. Dress modestly and be respectful of local customs.
Ongoing | Free | Everywhere
Learn a few basic Kannada phrases to enhance your interactions with locals. Simple phrases like 'Namaskara' (hello) and 'Dhanyavada' (thank you) can go a long way.
Expect a warm reception from locals when you attempt to speak their language. It shows respect for their culture and makes communication easier. Practice with locals.
Tip: Locals appreciate the effort even if your pronunciation isn't perfect. Use online resources or language learning apps to learn basic phrases.
2-3 hours | ₹500-1000 per person | Various coffee estates around Chikmagalur
Take a tour of a working coffee estate and learn about the process of coffee cultivation from bean to cup. Many estates offer guided tours and coffee tasting sessions.
Expect to see the coffee plants, learn about the different varieties of coffee, and taste freshly brewed coffee. Some estates also offer accommodation. Book in advance.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking around the estate. Check with the estate for tour schedules and prices.
2-3 hours | ₹200-500 | Local cultural centers
Experience Yakshagana, a traditional folk theater form of Karnataka. It involves elaborate costumes, music, and dance.
Expect a vibrant and energetic performance with stories from Hindu mythology. The performances are usually held in the evenings. Check local listings for schedules.
Tip: The performances are usually in Kannada. Ask locals for explanations of the stories. Be prepared for loud music and colorful costumes.
Bisi Bele Bath
A rice-based dish with lentils and vegetables (Try at local restaurants)
Akki Roti
A flatbread made from rice flour (Try at local restaurants)
Jolada Roti
A flatbread made from sorghum flour (Try at local restaurants)
Filter Coffee
A strong and aromatic coffee (Try at any local coffee shop)
South Indian
📍 Kemmangundi Town
A simple and popular canteen serving authentic South Indian food. A good place to try local dishes.
₹300-500 for two
South Indian
📍 Chikmagalur
Serves traditional South Indian breakfast and meals. Known for its quick service and tasty food.
₹400-600 for two
Cafe
📍 Chikmagalur
A cozy cafe serving a variety of coffee, tea, and snacks. A good place to relax and enjoy the views.
₹500-800 for two
Indian and Chinese
📍 Chikmagalur
Serves a mix of Indian and Chinese dishes. A decent option for a variety of cuisines.
₹600-1000 for two
💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person
⚠️ Tips: Be cautious of hygiene. Try the local sweets and snacks.
Best for budget travelers and those who want to be close to the main attractions. Limited options, but convenient location.
Best For: Budget travelers
Offers a wider range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. A good base for exploring the region, but further from Kemmangundi.
Best For: All types of travelers
₹800-1500/night
📍 Kemmangundi
Simple rooms with basic amenities. Good for budget travelers looking for a place to sleep.
₹800-1500/night
📍 Near Kemmangundi
Offers cottages with scenic views. Provides basic comfort and a peaceful environment.
₹1000-2000/night
₹2500-4000/night
📍 Chikmagalur
Comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Offers a good balance of price and quality.
₹2500-4000/night
📍 Chikmagalur
Well-appointed rooms with scenic views. Has a swimming pool and other recreational facilities.
₹3000-5000/night
₹15000+/night
📍 Coorg (nearby)
Luxurious resort with stunning views. Offers world-class amenities and services.
₹15000+/night
📍 Coorg (nearby)
Eco-friendly luxury resort nestled in a coffee plantation. Offers a unique and immersive experience.
₹12000+/night
Airport: Mangalore International Airport (IXE), 190km from city
Birur Junction (RRB)
Major railway station near Chikmagalur, connects to major cities.
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
Note: Trains more comfortable
💰 ₹1500-2500 per day
Best for: Reaching remote attractions
Negotiate the fare beforehand. Shared jeeps are available for lower prices.
💰 ₹20-50 per trip
Best for: Budget travelers
Buses can be crowded. Check the schedules in advance.
Wear comfortable and breathable clothing. Carry a light jacket or sweater as the weather can be cool, especially in the evenings. Comfortable trekking shoes are a must.
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are available in Chikmagalur, but may be limited in Kemmangundi.
Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and for transportation.
Water: Drink bottled or purified water. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls.
Common Issues: Carry insect repellent and sunscreen. Be prepared for altitude sickness if you are not used to high altitudes.
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. SIM cards are available at the airport and in Chikmagalur.
WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at some hotels and cafes, but may not be reliable in remote areas.
Language: English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Kannada phrases can be helpful.
Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!
Coming Soon
Your photo could be here!
Coming Soon
Your photo could be here!
Coming Soon
Your photo could be here!
Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.
Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Essential cookies are always enabled.