The Journey Begins
The alarm buzzed at 4:30 AM, and by 5:15, we hit the road. The streets of Bangalore were unusually calm — a rare peaceful moment in the city that never stops. Our destination: the lush hill station of Chikmagalur, Karnataka’s coffee paradise.
As we crossed Nelamangala, the first signs of the countryside appeared — mist rising from fields, cool morning breeze, and chai stalls warming up for the day. With NH75 ahead, we had a clean stretch of highway and excitement brimming.
Kunigal
We reached Kunigal just as the sun was beginning to rise. The roads here were lined with greenery, and the town had a peaceful, rural charm. We stopped at a small roadside eatery where we had freshly steamed idlis with coconut chutney and filter coffee — the perfect fuel.
Though not packed with attractions, Kunigal offered tranquil views and our first breath of real “vacation air.”
Distance from Bangalore: ~70 km
Hassan
By mid-morning, we were cruising through Hassan, a town rich in heritage. Though we didn’t want to stop long, curiosity drew us to the Shettihalli Rosary Church, a beautiful Gothic ruin partially submerged in the Hemavathi River.
Standing by the water, the church’s skeleton looked haunting yet artistic — especially with the reflection shimmering on the surface. A short break here gave the trip a historical touch, a quiet reminder of Karnataka’s layered past.
Distance from Kunigal: ~80 km
Belur
We took a short detour to Belur, and it turned out to be the best decision of the day. The Chennakesava Temple was mind-blowing. Every inch of the structure is covered in intricate carvings of gods, dancers, animals, and mythological scenes.
We spent almost an hour walking around, listening to a local guide narrate stories of kings and sculptors. If you love architecture or photography, this is a must-visit.
Distance from Hassan: ~40 km
Arrival at Chikmagalur
As we approached Chikmagalur, the flatlands gave way to gentle hills and misty landscapes. The temperature dropped, the air grew cooler, and the scent of fresh coffee began to drift in.
We checked into a plantation homestay just outside the town — surrounded by coffee bushes, silver oak trees, and chirping birds. It felt like stepping into a different world, one where time slows down.
Tucked away in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range, Chikmagalur is the land of tranquil mornings, fresh mountain air, and the aroma of roasted coffee beans. Whether you’re a nature lover or a peace seeker, one day in Chikmagalur is enough to fall in love.
Distance from Belur: ~25 km
Sunrise at Mullayanagiri Peak
I started the day with an early drive up to Mullayanagiri, Karnataka’s highest peak at 6,330 ft. The road up is narrow and winds dramatically through dense forests and misty turns.
Once I reached the top, the entire Western Ghats unfolded before me—an endless canvas of green ridges and golden sunlight. The air was cold and pure, and the silence was only broken by the wind.
Traveler Reflection: I stood above the clouds. The sun warmed my face, and I felt small yet infinite. The climb to Mullayanagiri wasn’t just a drive—it was a soul reset.
Traditional Breakfast in Town
Back in Chikmagalur town, I stopped at a small Udupi-style tiffin place for a hearty breakfast. I had set dosa with coconut chutney, filter coffee, and kesari bath. The owner greeted me like an old friend.
The food was hot, home-style, and incredibly satisfying.
Food Review: There’s nothing fancy here—just comfort. The dosa was soft, the chutney was fresh, and the coffee was strong enough to wake your dreams.
Coffee Estate Tour at Panduranga Coffee Plantation
Chikmagalur is where coffee took root in India. I joined a guided tour at the Panduranga Coffee Estate, where the smell of roasted beans fills the air and sunlight filters through pepper vines and silver oaks.
The host walked us through the plantation, explaining how Arabica and Robusta are grown, harvested, and processed. We tasted freshly brewed coffee while birds chirped in the distance.
Tourist Experience: Drinking coffee right where it grows is magical. Every sip told a story—from bean to brew—and I left knowing I’d never look at a coffee cup the same again.
Visit to Jhari (Buttermilk) Falls
Next, I took a bumpy jeep ride through dense forests to reach Jhari Falls, also known as Buttermilk Falls. The cascade emerges from the mountain rocks and falls into a shallow pool where visitors dip their feet or sit under the spray.
It’s wild, fresh, and deeply refreshing.
Nature Moment: I stood under the waterfall and laughed like a kid. The water was ice-cold, the rocks were slippery, and it felt like nature was washing away all worries.
Lunch at The Estate Café
For lunch, I headed to The Estate Café, a serene spot inside a plantation. With rustic wooden interiors, valley views, and quiet ambiance, it was the perfect break.
I had malnad-style chicken curry, neer dosa, and a side of mango pickle. The spice level was just right, and the flavors were earthy and authentic.
Food Review: This wasn’t just food—it was a taste of the hills. Every bite had a smoky depth, and the view made even silence feel full.
Baba Budangiri Hills & Datta Peeta
After lunch, I drove to Baba Budangiri, a scenic hill range named after the Sufi saint Baba Budan who first brought coffee to India. This place is sacred to both Hindus and Muslims, and the shrines reflect peaceful coexistence.
The road winds along green cliffs, and the view from the top is breathtaking. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Bhadra forest reserve.
Cultural Insight: There’s something sacred in the silence here. It’s not just a hill—it’s a memory of unity, of old stories shared over coffee and prayer.
Sunset and Coffee at Hirekolale Lake
To end the day, I visited Hirekolale Lake, a peaceful waterbody surrounded by hills. The reflection of the sky in the lake as the sun dipped was picture-perfect.
With a cup of hot chikmagalur coffee from a local stall, I sat by the lake and watched the sun say goodbye.
Evening Reflection: The lake was still, the breeze gentle, and the coffee warm in my hand. It was the kind of ending you don’t rush—it makes you grateful for the day.
