Chikmagalur is a beautiful district situated on the western part of Karnataka. It is mostly popular for its coffee plantations and a pleasant climate. Chikmagalur, known officially as Chikkamagaluru, is a city and the headquarters of Chikmagalur district in the Indian state of Karnataka. Located on the foothills of the Mullayanagiri peak of the Western Ghats, the city attracts tourists from around the state for its pleasant and favourable hill station climate, tropical rainforest and coffee estates.
Chikmagalur is situated in the Malenadu region of Karnataka in the Deccan plateau in the foothills of the Western Ghats. It is situated at an elevation of 1,090 metres (3,580 ft) above mean sea level. The Yagachi River has its source near the town and flows in the south-easterly direction before uniting with the Hemavati river. Chikkamagaluru district is surrended by Six districts namely Chitradurga, Davanagere, Shimoga, Udupi, Dakshina Kannada and Hassan. Chikkamagaluru is one of 31 districts of Karnataka state. Chikmagalur generally has a moderate to cool climate. The temperature of the city varies from 11-20 °C during winter to 25-32 °C during summer.
Chikmagalur is a birth place to many renowned freedom fighters, intellectuals and also poets and politicians. There is a rich history attached to how Chikmagalur got its name. It is said that years ago the land of this district was given as a dowry to the younger daughter of a legendary chief who ruled Sakrepatna- Rukmangada. And that is how it was named. The literal meaning of Chikmagalur is ‘Land of the younger daughter.’
Chikmagalur as rugged terrains, stunning mountain regions and also has lowlands. Because it is situated amidst beautiful landscapes and untouched environs, this is one destination that you must explore. There is also a local belief that coffee was first made in Chikmagalur.
There are many historical places, pilgrimage places and waterfalls located in this district like the famous Shringeri, Horanadu, Mullayyanagiri, Ballalarayana Durga Fort, Hebbe falls, Kallattagiri Falls, Mullayyanagiri, Guru Datta Peetam, Kemmannugundi, Kudremukh National Park, Bhadra wildlife Sanctuary, Bhadra Dam, Shanti waterfalls and several others.
Another renowned attraction that Chikmagalur is known for is its Bababudan Giri ranges. Though it was among the underexplored destinations, the hill station thanks to its picturesque landscapes and greenery has earned a lot of attention from tourists across.
Ask the locals here and they will tell you that Baba Budan who was a Muslim saint brought the coffee seeds in 1670 from Yemen and cultivated them here. From there on the plantations just grew and the British also played a big role in the growth. You will also find the Central Coffee Research Institution here.