From the panoramic views of the Western Ghats to expansive coffee orchards, Karnataka is a traveller's paradise. Whether it's the cloud-kissed peaks of Nandi Hills or Agumbe, the "Cherrapunji of the South," the state boasts numerous hill stations waiting to be discovered. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey as you plan your next trip here.
Agumbe, located around 60km from Udupi, is well-known for its winter charm. The green hills are often mist-covered, earning it the sobriquet "Cherrapunji of the South." Go up to the Agumbe Sunset View Point, where you can witness the sun setting over the Arabian Sea. The place also holds cultural significance as the filming location of the television series Malgudi Days, based on RK Narayan's novel. Make sure to visit the Sri Venugopalakrishna Swami Temple, Kunchikal Falls, and Barkana Falls during your trip.
Nandi Hills, formerly known as Nandidurga, is located 60 km north of Bengaluru. It served as a summer retreat for Tipu Sultan, who expanded the existing fort into twin forts along with his father Haider Ali. The British were attracted to the pleasant climate and developed spacious bungalows and gardens, transforming Nandi Hills into a hill station. Tippu's Drop, a 60-meter cliff, offers stunning views and adventure sports enthusiasts can enjoy parasailing here. The hill also houses the Yoga Nandeeshwara temple.
Kodagu or Coorg, is known for its coffee and pepper plantations, especially in areas like Madikeri. Coffee, particularly the Coffee Robusta variety, is the most common plantation crop here. Kodagu has rich wildlife with three wildlife sanctuaries, Brahmagiri, Talakaveri, and Pushpagiri, and one national park, Nagarhole, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park. For a taste of history, explore the Madikeri Fort. Adventure lovers can trek to Tadiandamol, or go white-water rafting in the Barapole River.
The Biligirirangana Hills, also known as BR Hills, is a hill range located in southeastern Karnataka, bordering Tamil Nadu (Erode District) in South India. The region is also referred to as the Biligiriranganatha Swamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary or BRT Wildlife Sanctuary. With the Rangaswamy Temple atop a white cliff, the site attracts many devotees.
The wildlife sanctuary is home to species like gaur, bear, tiger and elephant. For adventure lovers, BR Hills offers trekking and rafting opportunities. The Kapila and Cauvery Rivers provide chances for angling, fishing, and boat rides.
Chikmagalur holds historical significance as the birthplace of coffee cultivation in India. The district is home to the Chikmagalur Mountains, a part of the Western Ghats, which are the source of rivers like Tunga and Bhadra. Popular tourist destinations include the Kemmannugundi hill station, Kudremukh Peak, and waterfalls like Manikadhar, Hebbe, and Kallathigiri. Wildlife enthusiasts are attracted to Kudremukh National Park and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary for their diverse fauna. Visitors can also explore places like Mullayanagiri, the Coffee Museum, and temples like Kodandaramachandra and Sharadamba.