3 Days in Chikmagalur for a Romantic Getaway

Chikmagalur is the perfect spot for couples looking to escape the city and enjoy some quiet time together. With its rolling coffee plantations, misty hills, and cozy homestays, it feels like a hidden gem. I've spent many weekends here, and each time, the slow pace and fresh air make it easy to reconnect. Whether it's watching the sunrise over the Western Ghats or sharing a cup of locally grown coffee, this place has a way of making simple moments special.

Karnataka, karnataka
3 Days
Romantic
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Sunrise at Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest point in Karnataka
A private coffee plantation tour with a tasting session
A quiet evening by the serene Hebbe Falls
Stargazing from your homestay with no city lights to spoil the view

Best Time to Visit

SeptemberOctoberNovemberFebruaryMarch

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Day 1

Day 1 in Chikmagalur

Kick off your romantic getaway with Chikmagalur's most iconic spots—coffee plantations, misty hills, and a stunning sunset viewpoint.

Activities

Coffee Plantation Tour

Start your day with the aroma of fresh coffee at a local plantation. Walk through lush green fields, learn about coffee processing, and sip on freshly brewed estate coffee. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can see the beans being dried and roasted.

Popular estates like Tata Coffee Plantation or Hoysala Estate9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (best before the midday heat)₹200-500 per person
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Buy fresh coffee beans as souvenirs—they’re much better than store-bought!
Visit Mullayanagiri Peak
Visit Mullayanagiri Peak

Drive up to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, for breathtaking views. The winding roads through the Western Ghats are scenic, and the short trek to the summit is worth it. Pack a light picnic to enjoy at the top while soaking in the cool breeze.

Mullayanagiri Peak, about 20 km from Chikmagalur town2:00 PM - 5:00 PM (ideal for afternoon light and cooler temps)Free (unless hiring a guide)
Tips:
  • Carry a light jacket—it gets windy at the top.
  • Start heading back by 4:30 PM to catch the sunset elsewhere.
Sunset at Baba Budangiri
Sunset at Baba Budangiri

End your day with a magical sunset at Baba Budangiri, a serene hill range named after the Sufi saint who brought coffee to India. The golden hues over the rolling hills make for a perfect romantic moment. There’s also a small shrine here if you’d like to pay a visit.

Baba Budangiri, about 30 km from Chikmagalur5:30 PM - 7:00 PM (sunset time varies by season)Free
Tips:
  • The road can be narrow—drive carefully or hire a local driver.
  • Carry water and snacks; there aren’t many shops nearby.

Must Try Foods

Malnad-style Chicken Curry
Akki Roti with Coconut Chutney
Filter Coffee (a must!)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kadur Junction (40 km, about 1 hour by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Chikmagalur Bus Stand (frequent buses to nearby towns)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and auto-rickshaws are easily available; pre-booking for full-day trips is recommended.

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Chikmagalur Nature & Culture Day

A mix of scenic beauty and local culture, with waterfalls, historic temples, and a taste of authentic Malnad cuisine.

Activities

Morning at Hebbe Falls
Morning at Hebbe Falls

Start your day with the stunning Hebbe Falls, nestled in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. The falls cascade down in two stages, creating a perfect spot for photos and a refreshing dip. The jeep ride through the coffee estates to reach the falls is an adventure in itself.

Hebbe Falls, Kemmangundi8:00 AM - 11:00 AM (best to go early to avoid crowds)INR 500-1000 per person (includes jeep ride)
Tips:
  • Wear sturdy shoes for the short hike to the falls.
  • Carry a change of clothes if you plan to take a dip.
Visit to Belavadi Village & Veeranarayana Temple
Visit to Belavadi Village & Veeranarayana Temple

Head to the quaint Belavadi village to explore the ancient Veeranarayana Temple, a hidden gem with stunning Hoysala architecture. The intricate carvings and peaceful ambiance make it a perfect spot for quiet reflection.

Belavadi Village, 10 km from Chikmagalur12:00 PM - 2:00 PM (avoid midday heat if possible)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it’s a religious site.
  • Ask the locals about the temple’s history—they love to share stories.
Evening at Hirekolale Lake

Wind down with a serene evening by Hirekolale Lake, surrounded by coffee plantations and rolling hills. The sunset views here are magical, and it’s a great place for a leisurely stroll or a quiet picnic.

Hirekolale Lake, 10 km from Chikmagalur town5:00 PM - 6:30 PM (best for sunset)Free
Tips:
  • Carry a light jacket—it can get breezy by the lake.
  • Try the fresh coconut water from local vendors nearby.

Must Try Foods

Bisi Bele Bath (spicy rice dish)
Akki Roti with coconut chutney
Malnad-style Chicken Curry

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kadur Junction (40 km, 1.5 hours by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Chikmagalur Bus Stand (frequent buses to Kemmangundi and Belavadi)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs are easily available in town; negotiate rates beforehand for full-day hires.

Day 3

Chikmagalur Hidden Gems

A relaxed day uncovering lesser-known spots and local flavors in Chikmagalur, perfect for winding down your romantic getaway.

Activities

Morning at Manikyadhara Falls
Morning at Manikyadhara Falls

Start your day with the soothing sounds of Manikyadhara Falls, a serene spot tucked away in the Baba Budangiri hills. Unlike the more popular Hebbe Falls, this one has a quieter vibe with a small temple nearby. The water cascades down smooth rocks, creating natural pools perfect for dipping your feet. The drive up is scenic, with misty roads winding through coffee estates.

Manikyadhara Falls, Baba Budangiri Range8:00 AM - 10:30 AM (best before crowds arrive)Free (small parking fee if driving)
Tips:
  • Wear sturdy shoes for the short walk from the parking area
  • Carry a light jacket—it gets breezy near the falls
Coffee & Art at Kadambah

Head to Kadambah, a charming café-gallery hybrid in the heart of Chikmagalur town. Sip on locally sourced coffee while browsing paintings by Karnataka artists. The owner often shares stories about the region’s coffee culture. Try their ‘filter kaapi’ with a slice of jackfruit cake—a quirky local twist.

Kadambah Art Café, Near Nehru Circle, Chikmagalur11:30 AM - 1:00 PM (perfect post-waterfall break)₹200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for the ‘hidden menu’—they sometimes have seasonal specials
  • Check out the small boutique for handmade souvenirs
Sunset at Jhari Waterfalls Viewpoint
Sunset at Jhari Waterfalls Viewpoint

Skip the crowded viewpoints and drive to this lesser-known spot overlooking Jhari (Buttermilk) Falls. It’s just a 20-minute detour from the main road, with a panoramic view of the waterfall cascading through dense forests. Pack a picnic with treats from Kadambah and enjoy the golden light filtering through the trees.

Jhari Falls Viewpoint, Attigundi Road4:30 PM - 6:00 PM (ideal for soft evening light)Free (no official entry fee)
Tips:
  • Google Maps pin is slightly off—ask locals for ‘Attigundi view point’
  • Carry insect repellent; the area is lush and green

Must Try Foods

Benne dosa (buttery dosa unique to Chikmagalur)
Kadambuttu (steamed rice balls with coconut)
Malnad-style chicken curry (slow-cooked with local spices)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kadur Junction (40 km, ~1.5 hours by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Chikmagalur Bus Stand (frequent buses to nearby towns)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to book via Ola/uber in town; for waterfalls, negotiate with local drivers (₹1500-2000 for half-day)

Travel Tips

Book a homestay in a coffee estate for the most romantic setting—many offer private cottages with great views
Carry a light jacket; mornings and evenings can be chilly even in warmer months
Rent a scooter to explore nearby spots at your own pace—it's more fun than hiring a cab
Try the local Malnad cuisine, especially the akki roti and pandi curry at small family-run eateries

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3 Days in Chikmagalur for a Romantic Getaway | Karnataka, karnataka | Travel Itinerary | TopPlacesIndia