Top Sights
Z Point
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
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
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
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
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
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 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.