Scenic Weekend Getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur Hill Station in Karnataka
A road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station is one of the most refreshing weekend getaways in Karnataka. Known as the “Coffee Land of India“, Chikmagalur offers lush green hills, aromatic coffee plantations, waterfalls, and peaceful homestays. Just about 250 km from Bengaluru, this scenic drive through Hassan and Belur promises a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation.
The Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip holds importance for its mesmerizing Western Ghats views, ancient temples, and adventure spots. Travelers love this route for its smooth roads, picturesque pit stops, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re an adventure lover, a couple seeking peace, or a family looking for a nature filled holiday, this destination suits everyone.
From sunrise at Mullayanagiri Peak to exploring coffee estates, every moment of the weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur feels magical. The fresh mountain air, local Malnad food, and friendly people make this journey unforgettable. It’s not just a trip, it’s an experience that awakens your senses and soothes your soul.
Popular Places to Visit in Chikmagalur Hill Station
- Mullayanagiri Peak: The highest peak in Karnataka, offering spectacular sunrise views during your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station.
- Baba Budangiri Hills: A sacred and scenic mountain range on your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip, perfect for nature lovers.
- Hebbe Falls: A stunning waterfall nestled amid coffee estates, a must see on your weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
- Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls): Popular stopover during your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station for its milky white cascading waters.
- Hirekolale Lake: Offers peace and breathtaking reflections of hills on your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway.
- Kemmangundi: Known for its scenic gardens and trekking trails, enhancing your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip.
- Belur & Halebidu Temples: Ancient Hoysala architecture that enriches your weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: A nature lover’s delight on your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station.
- Coffee Museum: Learn the art of coffee making during your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway.
- Sringeri Temple: A spiritual halt on your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station, known for its cultural heritage.
Things or Activities to Do in Chikmagalur
- Go Trekking at Mullayanagiri on your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station.
- Visit lush coffee plantations during your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway.
- Enjoy Jeep rides to Jhari Falls on your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip.
- Campping under the stars in the hills during your weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
- Try coffee tasting at local estates on your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station road trip.
- Go wildlife spotting at Bhadra Sanctuary during your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway.
- Capture sunrise at Mullayanagiri Peak on your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip.
- Explore historical temples during the weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
- Go cycling through coffee trails on your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station.
- Relax by lakes and enjoy peaceful sunsets on your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway.
Where to Stay (Hotels, Resorts & Homestays)
- The Serai Chikmagalur: A luxury resort that makes your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station truly memorable.
- Trivik Hotels & Resorts: Offers panoramic valley views for travelers on a Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway.
- Java Rain Resorts: Perfect for couples seeking a romantic experience on a Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip.
- Nature Craft Homestay: Cozy stay amidst coffee plantations during your weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
- Halliberri Homestay: A charming option for families on a Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station road trip.
Local Food to Try / Restaurants
- Malnad Cuisine: Enjoy authentic local dishes like Akki Roti and Kadubu during your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station.
- The Estate Cafe: A must stop cafe for your Aromatic coffee.
- Town Canteen: Famous for crispy dosas on your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip.
- Vishnu Delicacy: Offers vegetarian meals ideal for a refreshing weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
Best Time to Visit
- Winter (October to February): Perfect for a cozy Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station road trip, with cool weather and clear skies.
- Summer (March to May): Ideal for sightseeing during your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station.
- Monsoon (June to September): Adds magic to your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway, with waterfalls and lush greenery in full bloom.
Festivals & Traditions
- Deepavali: Brightens your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip with lights and cultural celebrations.
- Dussehra: Adds royal charm to your weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
- Coffee Festival: Celebrates the region’s coffee heritage during your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station.
- Makar Sankranti: Brings festive joy to your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway with traditional rituals and sweets.
Itineraries Include Nearby Popular Places
- 1 – 3 Days: A short Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station road trip with Mullayanagiri, Coffee Museum, and Hebbe Falls.
- 4 – 5 Days: Extend your weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur with Belur, Halebidu, and Baba Budangiri.
- 6 – 7 Days: Combine your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station with Sringeri and Kudremukh.
- 8 – 10 Days: Enjoy an extended Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip with Coorg and Sakleshpur.
How to Reach Chikmagalur Hill Station
- By Car: The road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station is 250 km via NH75 with smooth highways.
- By Bus: KSRTC and private buses offer convenient options for a Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Kadur, 40 km from Chikmagalur, connecting Bengaluru easily.
Suggested Road Trip Plan from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur Hill Station
- Route: Bengaluru -> Nelamangala -> Hassan -> Belur -> Chikmagalur
- Total Distance: Approx. 250 km
- Travel Time: 5 – 6 hours (depending on stops and traffic)
- Highway: NH75 (Bengaluru – Mangaluru Highway) the most scenic and safest route
This Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station road trip offers smooth roads, lush countryside, and scenic coffee estate views. It’s perfect for bikers and families who love peaceful drives through nature.
Popular Stops Along the Route
- Kunigal Lake: A serene morning stop to stretch and enjoy calm lake views early on your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip.
- Hassan: Known for its temples and breakfast spots, ideal to refuel during your weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
- Belur Temple: Witness intricate Hoysala carvings and culture en route to the Chikmagalur hill station from Bengaluru.
- Yagachi Dam: A scenic waterbody perfect for quick photos and a picnic break during your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip.
- Kaimara View Point: Just before Chikmagalur, this viewpoint gives the first stunning glimpse of the Western Ghats on your weekend getaway from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur.
Tips & Warnings
- Start Early: Begin your Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station road trip before sunrise to enjoy scenic routes.
- Avoid Night Drives: The ghat roads during your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station can get foggy.
- Pack Light Woolens: The Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway can get chilly in winter.
- Fuel Up at Hassan: Last major fuel stop on your road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station.
- Carry Cash: Some rural areas may have limited online payment options.
- Check Tyre’s & Brakes: The ghats have curves, so vehicle condition is important.
- Keep Maps Offline: Network may drop in forested regions near Chikmagalur.
A road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station is the ultimate weekend getaway in Karnataka. With coffee estates, waterfalls, trekking trails, and cozy stays, this destination offers relaxation and adventure in equal measure. The drive through green valleys, the aroma of coffee, and the peaceful charm of the Western Ghats make it one of the most beautiful journeys from Bengaluru.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How far is Chikmagalur from Bengaluru?
A1. The distance from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur hill station is about 250 km, taking roughly 5 – 6 hours by road.
Q2. Which route is best for a road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur?
A2. The best route is via NH75 through Hassan and Belur, offering scenic coffee hills and smooth highways.
Q3. What is Chikmagalur famous for?
A3. Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantations, trekking trails, waterfalls, and cool hill-station climate.
Q4. Is the road trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur safe?
A4. Yes, it’s safe for families and bikers, with well maintained roads and clear signboards.
Q5. Best time to plan a Bengaluru to Chikmagalur weekend getaway?
A5. October to February is ideal for pleasant weather and sightseeing.
Q6. Are there any adventure activities in Chikmagalur?
A6. Yes, trekking, camping, and jeep rides to waterfalls are popular.
Q7. Can I visit Chikmagalur in one day?
A7. You can, but an overnight stay is recommended to explore key spots fully.
Q8. What are must-try foods in Chikmagalur?
A8. Try Malnad cuisine, local coffee, dosas, and traditional sweets.
Q9. Are there budget homestays in Chikmagalur?
A9. Yes, several affordable homestays are available around coffee estates.
Q10. Is the Bengaluru to Chikmagalur road trip suitable for bikes?
A10. Absolutely! Bikers love the twisty Western Ghats routes for adventure and scenic beauty.
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