Baba Budangiri is 30 km from Chikmagalur town, about a 1-hour drive on winding hill roads.
Baba Budangiri trek • Chikmagalur Travel Guide
Baba Budangiri — Sacred Peaks & Trek Guide
Last updated: 2026-04-26
Baba Budangiri is a sacred range in Chikmagalur named after the Sufi saint Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalandar, who is believed to have brought the first coffee beans to India here. The dargah at the cave temple draws pilgrims from across faiths, while the surrounding peaks — including Mullayanagiri — make it one of Karnataka's best trekking circuits. This guide covers the Baba Budangiri trek route, how to reach the dargah, Manikyadhara Falls, and tips for combining the trip with Mullayanagiri in a single day.
Distance
30 km (1 hour)
Best Time
October to February
Duration
Half day (4–5 hours)
Entry
Free
Elevation
1,895 m
Difficulty
Easy
Why visit Baba Budangiri trek
- Sacred Sufi-Hindu shared dargah cave
- Manikyadhara Falls — pilgrim bathing site
- Birthplace of Indian coffee (legend)
- Spectacular peak ridge views
- Easy combo with Mullayanagiri
How to reach Baba Budangiri trek
Baba Budangiri is 30 km north of Chikmagalur via the Mullayanagiri road. The drive takes around an hour on winding hill roads. Private taxis cost ₹1,500–2,000 for a round trip including Mullayanagiri. From Bangalore, it's ~270 km via NH75.
Things to do at Baba Budangiri trek
- Visit Inam Dattatreya Peetha cave dargah
- Trek the ridge from Mullayanagiri (8 km)
- Take a dip at Manikyadhara Falls
- Photograph the Galikere viewpoint
- Spot endemic birds in the shola forest
Travel tips for Baba Budangiri trek
- Combine with Mullayanagiri in the same trip
- Dress modestly when visiting the dargah
- Carry packaged water and snacks
- Mornings before 10 AM offer the clearest views
- Avoid weekends and Urs festival for peace
- No fuel pumps past Chikmagalur — fill up in town
Baba Budangiri trek — frequently asked questions
Nearby places to visit
Plan a guided trip to Baba Budangiri trek
Speak to our local Chikmagalur travel team for transport, permits and combined-day itineraries.
Chat on WhatsAppSources: Karnataka Tourism • Wikipedia