Situated in the state of Karnataka in southwest India, the hill station of Chikmagalur is remarkable for its stunning natural scenery, extraordinary temples, and delicious coffee. Boasting bright green hills and mountains jutting into the sky at extreme angles, Chikmagalur’s terrain is one that inspires near disbelief. A wealth of waterfalls, accessed by picturesque trails through dense forests on the slopes and coffee plantations in the valleys, provide wonderful spots for refreshing dips. Several ancient and exquisitely decorated temples adorn the landscape. The area is known for its abundance of coffee plantations and delicious varietals. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, home to elephants, tigers and leopards; the three holy caves in the Baba Budangiri Mountain Range; and the pretty Mahatama Gandhi Park.
Also known as Mercara, the pretty hill station town of Madikeri is the bustling capital of Coorg in India’s Karnataka state. The town is typically used as a base by nature lovers for outdoor adventure, as it is surrounded by lush mountains, steep valleys, beautiful terraced paddy fields, and vast grasslands. The area is also known for its lovely orange orchards and vast coffee plantations, one of which is home to the breathtaking Abbey Falls. A hanging bridge has now been built across the gorge near the falls, providing a spectacular view of the Kaveri river. Other notable attractions in the area include the stunning Kerala-style Bhagamandala Temple (set at the confluence of three rivers); the Madikeri Fort, which dates back to the 17th Century; and the Kushal Nagar, the largest Tibetan Settlement and monastery in Southern India, known locally as the Golden Temple.
