Chikmagalur is famous for being the birthplace of Indian coffee, Karnataka's highest peak (Mullayanagiri), and as a Western Ghats trekking and waterfall destination.
20 Best Things to Do in Chikmagalur
Last updated: 2026-04-26
There are far more things to do in Chikmagalur than the typical Mullayanagiri-and-back day trip. From sunrise treks and coffee plantation walks to Bhadra wildlife safaris, ATV rides and hidden waterfalls, the region rewards travellers who slow down. This guide covers 20 specific experiences — many missed by first-timers — sorted by adventure, nature, food, culture and slow travel categories.
Adventure
Chikmagalur is one of South India's best adventure hubs.
- Trek Mullayanagiri at sunrise (Karnataka's highest peak)
- Take a 4x4 jeep ride to Hebbe Falls
- ATV biking through coffee estate trails
- Zip-lining over forest canopy
- Multi-day Kudremukh trek
Nature & Wildlife
The Western Ghats biodiversity is on full display here.
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary tiger safari
- Birdwatching at Bhadra River Tern Lodge
- Sunset at Hirekolale Lake
- Visit Manikyadhara and Jhari Falls
- Walk the shola forest at Kemmanagundi
Coffee & Slow Travel
The whole region was built on coffee — experience it deeply.
- Plantation walk + cup tasting at an Arabica estate
- Stay overnight at a planter's bungalow
- Buy fresh single-estate beans
- Visit a roastery for a hands-on workshop
- Slow afternoon at an estate café
Culture & Heritage
Don't skip the temples and history nearby.
- Belur Chennakeshava Temple (30 km)
- Halebidu Hoysaleshwara Temple (45 km)
- Inam Dattatreya Peetha cave dargah
- Sri Mullappa Swamy temple at Mullayanagiri summit
- Veerabhadra temple at Kalhatti Falls
things to do in Chikmagalur — FAQs
Sources: Karnataka Tourism • Wikipedia