Top 5 Weekend Getaways in Karnataka

1. Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is a serene hill station at the foothills of Karnataka state's Western Ghats, renowned for coffee plantations, misty mountains, dense forests, and serene temples. A romantic blend of adventure and nature, this hill resort invites trekkers, nature lovers, history buffs, and weekend tours from across India. Read all you wish to know before visiting Chikmagalur.

Overview of Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur, which means "The Young Daughter's Town" in Kannada, is famous as India's coffee cradle. Situated at around 3,400 ft above sea level, it enjoys a scenic climate all year round. Chikmagalur is a tranquil retreat from an urban lifestyle with hills, waterfalls, thick forest cover, and colonial bungalows. Chikmagalur is also an eco-tourism and adventure sports destination and one of the most sought-after spots in Karnataka.

Chikmagalur History

Chikmagalur also boasts of its history of the Hoysala Empire that ruled this town from the 10th to the 14th century. The town was said to have been presented as dowry to the younger daughter of the Sakrepatna chief and hence got the name "Chikka-magal-uru." This town was later under Mysore kingdom rule by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. The most important fact regarding Chikmagalur's past is that it is associated with coffee. Here is what happened. In the 17th century, it is said that a Sufi saint called Baba Budan sowed seven coffee seeds brought from Yemen in hills which have been renamed as Baba Budangiri. This tiny seed is where Chikmagalur is the coffee capital of India.

Places Around Chikmagalur

• Baba Budangiri: 33 km from the town of Chikmagalur, this range of hills is holy to both Hindus and Muslims. Apart from its spiritual environment, it possesses scenery, caves, and a great trekking route.

• Mullayanagiri Peak: Adventure trekkers' retreat, the state's highest at 6,330 ft elevation, is Mullayanagiri. Its trek is of short and pleasant distance to the top where the Western Ghats are eye-level from bird's eye view.

• Kemmangundi: Charming hill station at a distance of approximately 55 km, Kemmangundy is famous for its landscaped gardens, waterfalls, and trek to Z Point, ideal for sunset enthusiasts.

• Hebbe Falls: This beautiful two-tier cascading falls close to Kemmangundy is deep within the jungle and one can reach there by a 4x4 jeep or by trekking through dense jungles.

• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Elephants, tigers, leopards, and the rest, nature lovers' paradise par excellence, is the ideal spot to be near nature. Jeep safaris and bird-watching treks are most in demand here.

• Sringeri: Around 90 km from Chikmagalur is the sacred town of Sringeri, renowned for ancient Sharada Peetham and picturesque temples on the banks of the Tunga River.

Adventure Sports in Chikmagalur

• Trekking: Chikmagalur is heaven for trekking buffs. Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, and Kudremukh are some of the finest trek routes. Treks are of moderate to tough grade and breathtaking.

• Jeep Trails and Off-Roading: Chikmagalur terrain is ideal for jeep safaris, especially to Hebbe Falls and Jhari Falls. Jeeps along bumpy coffee plantation roads and forest trails are an absolute adrenaline rush.

• Camping: Camp Stargazey at Mulayanagiri or surrounded by coffee plantations. Night quietness and morning dewdrops are the best way to conclude a camping night.

• Waterfall Rappelling: Rappelling is an adventure possible with some of the tour operators to Jhari or Kadambi Falls, where the excitement of the fall and the energy of falling water combine.

• Coffee Estate Walks and Estate Tours: Guided tours by all the estates explaining coffee plantation and processing and providing freshly brewed estate coffee as a taste experience.

How to Reach Chikmagalur

• By Road: Chikmagalur is well road linked. It is only 240 km from Bangalore, and therefore a perfect weekend getaway. KSRTC and private buses operate on regular schedules. Private vehicle also comes in handy, especially via NH75 or NH173.

• By Train: The closest railway station of Kadur (about 40 km from the destination) offers the closest connections to city hubs such as Bangalore and Mangalore. Buses and taxis of Kadur-Chikmagalur connect town.

• By Airport: The closest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), 150 km away from the region. Taxi and bus services are available from there to Chikmagalur. A choice is Bangalore Airport (Kempegowda International).

Best Time to Visit Chikmagalur

• October to March: This is the ideal time to visit Chikmagalur. Weather is pleasant and conducive to sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities. Coffee plantation is lush and aromatic in this season.

• April to June: Summer at Chikmagalur is not very hot like in urban areas, but softly humid in the afternoons. But mornings and evenings are lovely.

• July to September (Monsoon): The monsoon turns Chikmagalur into a green paradise with waterfalls flowing down and foggy hills. Trekking will be out of the question with slippery slopes.

2. Coorg (Kodagu)

Situated in the lap of Karnataka's Western Ghats, Kodagu or Coorg is South India's most tranquil and scenic hill station. Its coffee estates, its undulating misty hills, waterfalls, and colourful Kodava people, lead to Coorg being a nature lover's, trekker's, and peace seeker's haven. All that this enchanting destination has to offer is present here.

Overview of Coorg

Also called the "Scotland of India," Coorg is a mix of nature and culture. Located between 900 to 1,200 meters above sea level, it is pleasant year-round. It's blanketed with spice plantations, orange groves, and massive coffee estates. Coorg is not just landscape it is also about the Kodavas' hospitality, their festivals, martial culture, and rich cuisine.

History of Coorg

Coorg was an independent Haleri dynasty kingdom until it was annexed by the British in 1834. The Kodavas, as the traditional warrior class of Coorg, resisted to protect their motherland and culture. Even today, the traditions and most of the festivals like Kailpodh, Puthari, and Kaveri Sankramana are followed strictly. The history of Coorg and coffee began in the 17th century, as was Chikmagalur, when mention is made of Baba Budan, the saint, who had brought coffee beans from Arabia. Coorg is presently one of India's major coffee-growing regions, where Arabica as well as Robusta beans can be readily grown.

Places to Visit Around Coorg

• Madikeri: Coorg district headquarters, Madikeri is the headquarters of the district. From colonial structures to scenic points like Raja's Seat, Madikeri is the perfect base from which to explore Coorg.

• Abbey Falls: Abbey Falls is a picturesque cascade set amidst spice and coffee plantations, 8 km from Madikeri. Hanging bridge viewpoint has panoramic view, especially during monsoon.

• Talacauvery and Bhagamandala: Talacauvery, 45 km from Madikeri, the origin of River Kaveri and one of the foremost pilgrim centers. Bhagamandala, three rivers confluencing just nearby, with a beautiful temple complex and peaceful atmosphere.

• Dubare Elephant Camp: A confluence place near Kushalnagar, where you get to interact with elephants. Feed them, wash them, and see how their life goes. It's a highly amusing activity for kids and families.

• Nisargadhama: The island formed by the Kaveri River, this nature travel spot is scattered with bamboo groves, deer park, and tree houses. A hanging bridge leads you to this thick green forest off Kushalnagar.

• Iruppu Falls: This fall, located near the Brahmagiri hills, is as beautiful as it is sacred. It's also a good beginning point for the Brahmagiri Hill Trek.

Adventure Activities in Coorg

• Trekking

  • Tadiandamol Peak – the highest peak in Coorg.

  • Brahmagiri Hills – a moderate-grade trek over forest trails.

  • Pushpagiri (Kumara Parvatha) – a very demanding trek around this location.

• River Rafting: River rafting in the Barapole River during monsoons and early post-monsoon is an adventure sport with Class II to Class IV rapids.

• Camping: Some of the operators provide riverside or plantation stays with bonfires, local food, and stargazing in the form of stories. It is a wonderful experience to absorb the nature of Coorg.

• Birdwatching and Nature Walks: Since there is tremendous biodiversity, Coorg is birdwatchers' paradise. Take forest treks on tracks around Nagarhole or Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuaries.

• Coffee Estate Tours: Take tours of large coffee estates, learn how to make coffee, and enjoy fresh coffee. It is also possible to reside in homestays in some estates.

How to Reach Coorg

• By Road: Coorg is very well connected by road with all of Karnataka and Kerala's major cities. Bangalore is approximately 265 km, and Mysore is 120 km. The travel is quite easy since the roads are good and picturesque.

• By Train: There is no railway station in Coorg directly. The closest station is Mysore, and it can be reached by road or taxi from there to Madikeri or Kushalnagar.

• By Airport: The closest airport is Kannur International Airport (Kerala) 90 km from southern Coorg. Mangalore Airport (160 km) and Bangalore Airport (285 km) are the other important points of arrival.

Best Time to Visit Coorg

• October to March (Winter): This is the best time to come to Coorg. The weather is nice and good for sightseeing, trekking, and plantation visits. December and January are especially beautiful.

• April to June (Summer): Even though warmer in climate, the weather is relatively cool compared to the plains. Good for family and laid-back travelers.

• July to September (Monsoon): Monsoon provides Coorg with the appearance of a green paradise of rainbow-leaved vegetation, waterfalls, and misty morning. Trekkings are exhausting but most appropriate for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers.

3. Gokarna

Concealed along Karnataka's west coast, Gokarna is where divinity manifests in the form of serenity. A beach resort with mythological charm consisting of golden beaches, cliff tops, and palm grove-fringed shores, Gokarna can best be termed Goa's saner, spiritual twin. It has that ideal blend of beach heaven, cultural diversity, and nature adventure. From being a trekkie to a beach bum or a backpacker, there is something in Gokarna for everyone.

Overview of Gokarna

Gokarna is a temple town in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, and is famous for its spirituality and laid-back beach life. "Gokarna" was the "Ear of Cow" in Sanskrit. The mythological origin of the town is because of Lord Shiva emerging from the ear of a cow. The present-day Gokarna is a two-way identity – a pilgrims' spiritual paradise and hippie culture wonderland for hippies. While Goa has a festive atmosphere, Gokarna is serene, old-fashioned, and strewn with untouched beaches with sunsets that take your breath away, yoga institutes, and beachside cafes that are laid back.

History of Gokarna

Gokarna, according to Hindu legend, is where Lord Shiva appeared in the ear of a cow, and the town came to be named after it. The Mahabaleshwar Temple there also houses the sacred Atmalinga which was presented by Lord Shiva to Ravana. Gokarna's religious past is extremely old with mention in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It was among the important centres of pilgrimage for centuries, particularly during the Shivaratri and Kartika months. In the last two decades, its beaches began to be frequented by global tourists, creating an interesting combination of spirituality and hedonistic beach life.

Places to Visit Around Gokarna

• Om Beach: Committed to its shape o f "Om" symbol, Om Beach is a crescent-shaped beach whose waves gently brush the sand. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like jet skiing and kayaking then.

• Half Moon Beach: Half Moon Beach is a secluded jewel which may be accessed by trekking alone or by a boat tour only. It's peaceful, not so crowded, and perfect for meditation, camping, or having a lonely picnic.

• Paradise Beach: The name says it all - this isolated beach is surrounded by wood-covered cliffs and boulders. Boat or hike from Half Moon Beach. Excellent spot for overnight camping.

• Kudle Beach: Kudle, the most frequented beach in Gokarna, is lined with beach shacks, restaurants, yoga retreats, and budget hotels. Stunning sunsets at this place.

• Mahabaleshwar Temple: This 4th-century temple houses the holy Atmalinga and is worshipped by pilgrims all year round. Non-Hindus would probably be barred from the inner shrine, but the temple architecture is worth a glance.

• Mirjan Fort: A little distance away, about 22 km from Gokarna, lies the 16th-century Mirjan Fort covered with vegetation. Ideal for photography and research work.

Adventure Activities in Gokarna

• Beach Trekking: Gokarna is renowned for a mythological beach trek that connects all major beaches Kudle, Om, Half Moon, and Paradise. The cliff walk provides a scintillating view of the Arabian Sea and is a challenge to a trekker.

• Beach Camping: Half Moon Beach or Paradise Beach tent pitching for a single night of cosmic wonder. Sea wind and ocean waves provide a serene oasis.

• Kayaking & Water Sports: Om Beach is ideal for kayaking, banana boating, and speed boating during the season. The sea is peaceful enough to suit a beginner.

• Yoga & Meditation Retreats: Yoga schools and spas along the coast of Gokarna. Yoga at sunrise on the beach or meditation in a bamboo hut with a guide is never to be forgotten.

• Surfing (Seasonal): One of the more populous surfing spots, but still some of the coast beaches like Om Beach get good swells in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.

How to Reach Gokarna

• By Road: Gokarna is quite accessible by road. It's 485 km from Bangalore and 145 km from Goa. There are regular buses from Bangalore, Mangalore, and Goa. Self-drive is a convenient option through NH66.

• By Train: Gokarna Road Railway Station is 10 km from the town. It is excellently connected to cities like Mumbai, Goa, and Mangalore. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available galore from the station.

• By Airport: Nearest airports to Goa are Goa's Dabolim Airport (140 km), and Hubli Airport (160 km). These two airports are excellently connected with Indian metropolis cities. One can hire taxis or buses from there to Gokarna.

Best Time to Visit Gokarna

• October to March (Winter): The ideal time to visit Gokarna. Warm and pleasant, good for beach trekking, camping, and visiting temples. Dec–Jan is peak season.

• April to June (Summer): Windy but not scorching because of the sea breeze. Good for dawn morning rises or blisteringly hot sun-cooked beach sessions.

• July to September (Monsoon): The Gokarna monsoon is peaceful and verdant but followed by rain. Off-season and greenish background have another traveller visiting, although nothing is happening on beaches.

4. Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur is in Karnataka's Western Ghats and is a serene hill station renowned for emerald-green coffee plantations and untrodden trekking trails. Less popular than a Coorg or Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur still has a rugged natural look, ancient monuments, waterfalls, and a hint of cardamom and coffee in the air. Just the sort of weekend retreat for nature lovers, couples, and adventure sports enthusiasts looking to escape urban chaos.

Overview of Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur is a hill resort town in Hassan district and lies at an elevation of 950 meters above sea level. In the misty hills of the Western Ghats, this serene hill resort is encircled by gargantuan spice gardens, twisting railway tracks, green valleys, and ancient temples. It's where you relax and drink hot coffee while clouds travel across hills. Whether you’re here to hike, relax in a cozy homestay, or discover remote waterfalls, Sakleshpur delivers a beautiful blend of tranquillity and thrill.

History of Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur has a history dating back to the Hoysalas, who ruled much of southern Karnataka between the 10th and 14th centuries. The town’s name is believed to have come from a broken Shivalinga (Sakala Aishwarya Linga) found here during Hoysala times. The area was ideal for cultivating coffee and spices due to the richness of the soil and copious rains in the region. British then built roadways and railway tracks along the Ghats, some of which still exist today as the current-day hip Green Route, further enhancing Sakleshpur's strategic as well as tourist importance.

Places to Visit Near Sakleshpur

• Manjarabad Fort: This 18th-century star-shaped fort has been built by Tipu Sultan and placed atop a prominent hill where from there is open view of the valley below. From here one can even glimpse the distant Arabian Sea here in a good view.

• Bisle Ghat Viewpoint: A gem, Bisle Ghat is Karnataka's most picturesque location. Have your eyes open because three Hassan, Kodagu, and Dakshina Kannada districts blend to create a sea of hills and woods.

• Jenukal Gudda (Honey Rock Hill): The second-highest point of the state, the trekking point offers a breathtaking view of the Western Ghats and a spine-tingling quietness in the mornings and sunsets.

• Agni Gudda: The second trekking destination, Agni Gudda or "Fiery Mountain" is a laterite soil landscape and red-hued with a paddy field view landscape below. It's also a campsite.

• Mallalli Falls: It's located at Pushpagiri foothills, a monsoon-wonder giant waterfall. It's not safe downhill trekking all the way to ground level and has an utterly Instagram-able appearance.

• Hemavathi River & Shettihalli Church: About 50 km from here is the Shettihalli Rosary Church, half-submerged on the way via the Hemavathi Reservoir, in scenic surroundings, especially during monsoon.

Adventure Activities around Sakleshpur

• Treking the Green Route: One of the most popular Indian treks by train, this trek itself is a trek over a deserted railway track with tunnels, bridges, and waterfalls on rail. Yedakumari to Donigal Trek is an adrenalin experience through rain forest.

• Estate Camping: Sleep among coffee plantations with scents, campfire happiness, and morning wake-up to birdsong and dew. Some local hosts offer estate camping and Malnad food.

• Off-Road Jeep Rides: Thrill-seekers can ride jeeps on sloppy, muddy routes to remote areas and summits that are not accessible otherwise.

• Bird Watching & Nature Walks: Sakleshpur forest is full of an exquisite variety of birds such as hornbills, flycatchers, and drongos. Sunrise nature treks are heaven for a nature enthusiast and photographer.

• Waterfall Dips: Waterfalls such as Magajahalli Falls and Murkannu Gudda Falls are blessing while driving or hiking. There are no waterfalls seasonally but they look quite fair after monsoon.

How to Reach Sakleshpur

• By Road: Sakleshpur is about 220 km from Bangalore and is a weekend getaway favourite. Scenic NH75 highway is a drive, particularly after Hassan.

• By Train: Sakleshpur railway station is on picturesque Mangalore-Bangalore train route. Trains like Yeshvantpur-Karwar Express halt there. It is also starting point of popular Green Route trekking trail.

• By Airport: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (160 km) and Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (250 km). It is accessible from there by train/bus or taxi.

Best Time to Visit Sakleshpur

• October to March (Winter): Better time to visit. Good climatic conditions and apt for out-door activity like trekking, sightseeing, and camping.

• June to September (Monsoon): Monsoon offers green cover and thunderous waterfalls, and Sakleshpur is a paradise for rainforests. Road and trekking experience tortuous roads and trekking in heavy rains.

• April to May (Summer): Summer is highly pleasant in the hill station itself to the plains also. Perfect to enjoy a relaxing homestay stay with a plantation walk and cosy nights.

5. Kabini

Situated on the banks of the Kabini River in south Karnataka, Kabini is a nature enthusiast's haven, photographer's delight, and any soul looking to forget in nature's arms from the concrete jungle. Having once been the royal family's hunting lodge of the erstwhile state of Mysore in its glory days, Kabini today is one of the finest wildlife retreats of South India, its rolling jungle safaris, riverfront hideouts, and serene backwaters attracting thousands of visitors each year. Whether to spot a stunning view of a tiger, catch a glimpse of the mystical black panther, or even just a serene boat ride in nature, Kabini is an experience that will leave an unforgettable mark in the wild.

Overview of Kabini

Kabini is situated on the southeastern boundary of Karnataka's Nagarhole National Park and takes its name from its eponymous river, which is a Cauvery River tributary. It is approximately 220 km north of Bangalore and forms a natural divide between the Bandipur and Nagarhole sanctuaries. Peaceful forests, grasslands, mountains, and dense bio-diversity locate Kabini as the birdman's paradise. It has elephants, tigers, leopards, Indian gaurs, and more than 250 birds, and even heaven for the photographer and the birdman alike.

History of Kabini

British officials and former Maharajas of Mysore would maintain Kabini jungles as their private reserve forests. Jungle provided shelter to wildlife like elephants and tigers by the scores, and royalties would make the place a visit to conduct priority hunting operations. Conservation gradually began protecting the biodiversity of the region after the formation of Nagarhole National Park. Kabini was part of Project Tiger in the 1970s and is now amongst the prominent corridors of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve presently. Cameras and binoculars have replaced guns since now they follow the tourists, and safaris have replaced hunts so that the Kabini wild beauty is enjoyed with awe.

Places near Kabini

• Nagarhole National Park: India's finest tiger reserve, jeep and boat safari can be undertaken here. Thick herds of elephants, leopards, wild dogs, and deer are present here.

• Kabini Dam: The Dam was constructed on Kabini River and it forms a huge reservoir which serves as a refuge for wild life during summer season when summers reduce water bodies. Perfect spot for viewing the sunset as well as bird watching.

• Balle Elephant Camp: A rescue camp of the forest department where elephants are brought back from other parts of the country. Tourists can view the elephants in a semi-wild environment.

• Kutta: A small town at Nagarhole's southern boundary, and usually the starting point of a safari to Brahmagiri hills and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Bandipur National Park: Twenty-five minutes of road-patching and Bandipur is a tiger reserve worth a day-trip outing from Kabini.

Adventure Activities in Kabini

• Nagarhole Jeep Safari: The jewel of any Kabini trip, Jeep Safaris will place you in the heart of the forest. Get ready for elephant herds, bison, spotted deer, and if fortune: smiles on your tigers or leopards.

• Boat Safari at Kabini River: A peaceful and laid-back way of exploring the region, boat safari allows one to observe animals come to riverbanks to quench their thirst. Best place for crocodile, otter, elephant, and bird watching.

• Birdwatching & Nature Walks: Bird heaven is Kabini with more than 250 birds from osprey, hornbill, kingfisher, to Malabar pied hornbill. Treking within the buffer area with guides is also organized by some resorts.

• Photographic Safaris: Private photo tours with experienced wildlife photographers, on-request jeep rental, extended drives, and expert advice on where to spot the wildlife and get that one magic photo.

• Coracle Ride (Seasonal): Coracle rides can be enjoyed in portions of the backwaters in dry weather where quietly you ride on the water and soak up jungle sounds and vistas.

How to Reach

• By Road: Kabini is 220 km from Bangalore, 5-6 hours' drive. Drive via Mysore and HD Kote, and scenic. Travel by ordinary bus till Mysore and taxi on hire. Nearest railhead: Mysore Junction, 80 km away from here. Trains to the cities, Bangalore and Chennai, originate here.

• By Airport: The closest airport is Mysore Airport (90 km), but poorly connected. Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (245 km) is most easily approached for most travellers.

Best Time to Visit Kabini

• October to May (Dry Season): This is the ideal time to see wildlife. With water streams drying up, animals begin to congregate around the Kabini backwaters, and therefore, your safaris are a good chance to catch sight of them.

• June to September (Monsoon): Forest. The woods become thicker with green. The best. Photography and birding. There are very few spots. The thick cover is of no use, so. Some tours are not recommended because of rain.

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