Chikmagalur is located in the Chikmagaluru district in
Karnataka. It is a small picturesque town nestled in the southwestern portion
of Karnataka in the foot of Mullayanagiri range. The word ‘Chikmagalur’
literally means ‘town of the younger daughter’ in Kannada. It is located at a
distance of 250 km from the capital city of Bangalore; Chikmagalur is a famous
weekend getaway.
Chikmagalur was earlier known by the name of Kadur till the
year 1947. It was later named Chikamagalur, due to its history. It is popularly
believed that the place was given as dowry to Rukmangada’s younger daughter,
who was Sakrepatna’s chief and the other part, known as Hiremagalur was given
to his elder daughter.
Places to
Visit in Chikmagalur
Kemmangundi: This
place is also known as K.R. Hills and was named after Krishnaraja Wodeyar, who
was a Wodeyar King. Kemmangundi was his favorite summer camp. It is located at
a height of 1, 434 m and has a salubrious climate all through a year.
Kemmangundi is enveloped by Baba Budan Giri ranges and is gifted with lush
green vegetation and clear mountainous streams. The enchanting valley views and
mountain views are a treat to watch for the eyes.
Kudremukh National
Park and Kudremukh: Kudremukh is located 95 km from the Chikmagalur towards
the southwestern region. This broad hill ranges are intertwined with each other
and form steep precipices and a deep valley. Kudremukh is located at a height
of 1,894 m above the sea level.
There is a huge iron ore company in Kudremukh that carries
out mining operations.
Mullayanagiri: This
place is located in the Baba Budan Giri hill ranges. It towers over Chikmagalur
at a height of 1930m. There road leading to Mullayanagiri is very narrow and
dusty and is frequently accessed by trek enthusiasts. This is the highest point
in Karnataka and a small temple is located on the hillock.
Chikmagalur is also popular for its coffee and tea
plantations. As a matter of fact this is the foremost place in India where
coffee was cultivated. Baba Budan, a Muslim Godman, brought coffee seeds from
Yemen and cultivated it here. Today, a mountain range in the town was named
after him. The Sahyadri Mountains in the Western Ghats lies here, and hence,
the region has a pleasant climate.
The best time to visit Chikmagalur is between the months of
September and March.
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