Chennai to Chikmagalur: Your Complete Travel Guide
Chikmagalur, the coffee paradise of Karnataka, is a serene hill station known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush green coffee plantations, and adventurous trekking trails. If you’re planning a trip from Chennai to Chikmagalur, this complete travel guide will help you with the best routes, travel options, attractions, accommodations, and tips to make your journey memorable.
Best Ways to Travel from Chennai to Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is approximately 600 km from Chennai, and there are multiple ways to reach this beautiful destination. Here are the top travel options:
1. By Road (Self-Drive or Bus)
- Distance: ~600 km
- Travel Time: 10-12 hours
- Best Route: Chennai → Bangalore → Hassan → Chikmagalur
- Road Condition: Well-maintained highways with scenic views after Hassan
For those who love road trips, driving from Chennai to Chikmagalur can be an exhilarating experience. The best route passes through Bangalore and Hassan, offering smooth highways and picturesque landscapes. Several private and government buses also operate from Chennai to Chikmagalur via Bangalore.
2. By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Kadur (40 km from Chikmagalur)
- Train Route: Chennai → Bangalore → Kadur
- Popular Trains: KSR Bengaluru Express, Lalbagh Express, Mysuru Express
- 22698 Chennai Central – Hubballi Superfast Express
Timings:
Departure: 15:00
Arrival: 01:28
Duration: 10 hours and 28 minutes
Availability: Sundays
Fare:
General: INR 184
Sleeper: INR 355
AC 3 tier: INR 930
AC 2 tier: INR 1315
Since Chikmagalur doesn’t have a railway station, the nearest option is Kadur. From there, you can hire a cab or take a local bus to reach Chikmagalur.
3. By Flight
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (170 km from Chikmagalur)
- Flight Route: Chennai → Mangalore → Chikmagalur (via taxi or bus)
If you prefer air travel, the nearest airport is in Mangalore, from where you can hire a cab or take a bus to Chikmagalur. This is the fastest way but requires additional road travel.
Best Time to Visit Chikmagalur
- Winter (October to February): Best time for sightseeing and trekking.
- Monsoon (June to September): Ideal for nature lovers who enjoy lush green landscapes.
- Summer (March to May): Pleasant weather, but slightly warm.
For the best experience, plan your visit between October and March when the weather is cool and perfect for outdoor activities.
Top Attractions in Chikmagalur
| Attractions in Chikmagalur | Famous for |
| Mullayanagiri Peak | Highest peak in Karnataka Ideal for trekking and stunning panoramic views |
| Baba Budangiri Hills | Famous for coffee plantations and the shrine of Baba Budan Great for sightseeing and short treks |
| Hebbe Falls | A mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by dense forests Accessible via jeep rides |
| Kudremukh National Park | Ideal for wildlife and nature enthusiasts Offers scenic trekking trails |
| Coffee Plantations | Take a guided tour and learn about coffee production Enjoy fresh Chikmagalur coffee |
| Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary | Home to tigers, leopards, and elephants Perfect for a jungle safari |
| Sringeri Temple | A famous pilgrimage site with rich historical significance Located on the banks of the Tunga River |
Best Places to Stay in Chikmagalur
Karthik Estate Cottages stands out from other homestays in Chikmagalur because it combines the luxury of a hotel with the comfort of a home.The cottages are spacious with high ceilings that give an airy and open feel.
Each cottage is thoughtfully designed to ensure comfort and relaxation, featuring cozy furnishings, modern amenities, and private balconies that offer spectacular views of the surrounding hills and coffee plantations.
Local Food to Try in Chikmagalur
- Akki Roti – Traditional rice-based roti
- Koli Saaru – Spicy chicken curry
- Chikmagalur Coffee – Freshly brewed coffee from local estates
- Mangalore Buns – Sweet, fluffy banana buns
- Kadubu – Steamed rice dumplings
Travel Tips for Chennai to Chikmagalur Trip
- Book your stay in advance, especially during peak season (October to March).
Note :if you’re planning for home stay contact Karthik cottages - Carry light woolen clothes if traveling in winter.
- Opt for a rental car or bike for easy travel within Chikmagalur.
- Try local coffee plantations for an authentic Chikmagalur experience.
- Keep cash handy as some remote areas may not have card payment facilities.
Conclusion
Traveling from Chennai to Chikmagalur is a delightful journey that offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you choose to drive, take a train, or fly, the experience is worth every moment. Plan your trip wisely, explore the breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the land of plantations.
