Places to visit in Chikmagalur in December
01
Mullayanagiri Peak
Mullayanagiri Peak, rising about 6,332 feet, is ideal to visit in December for enjoying cool temperatures, clear visibility, and stunning views of Chandra Dhrona Hill Ranges. You can trek the marked trail, capture the wide landscapes of Western Ghats, and visit the Shiva temple at the summit of Mullayanagiri Peak.
Dry terrain helps travellers navigate the trail easily, making ridge walks, sunrise watching, and exploring points on the Mullayanagiri–Baba Budangiri route smoother. December also records low cloud cover, giving uninterrupted views of the horizon throughout the day.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 20 km by road.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 45–55 minutes by car.
Must-Have Experiences:
Dry terrain helps travellers navigate the trail easily, making ridge walks, sunrise watching, and exploring points on the Mullayanagiri–Baba Budangiri route smoother. December also records low cloud cover, giving uninterrupted views of the horizon throughout the day.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 20 km by road.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 45–55 minutes by car.
Must-Have Experiences:
- Sunrise or early-morning summit walk for clear winter mountain views.
- Ridge-line photography with valleys covered in mist.
- Quiet time at the hilltop temple after the short climb.
Nearby Attractions:
- Seethalayanagiri - around 3 km
- Baba Budangiri - around 28–30 km
- Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls) - around 18–20 km
Best of
02
Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri, a high mountain range in the Western Ghats standing at a height of around 6,120 feet, is one of the most suitable places to visit in Chikmagalur in December. You can explore the trekking trail that connects Mullayanagiri, view layered ridges of the Chandra Dhrona Hill Ranges from multiple viewpoints.
You can also visit the Dattatreya Peetha shrine here for an immersive experience. The dry conditions of December allow access to Shola grasslands, the famous Manikyadhara Falls, and high-altitude caves.
You can also visit the Dattatreya Peetha shrine here for an immersive experience. The dry conditions of December allow access to Shola grasslands, the famous Manikyadhara Falls, and high-altitude caves.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 32–33 km by road.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
Must-Have Experiences:
- Visit the hilltop shrine and explore the ridge viewpoints.
- Enjoy winter photography with clear skies and long-range visibility.
- Walk short trails connecting viewpoints along the mountain ridge.
Nearby Attractions:
- Mullayanagiri Peak – around 28–30 km
- Manikyadhara Falls – around 4–5 km
- Deviramma Betta viewpoint – around 6–7 km
Best of
03
Kemmanagundi
Kemmangundi is a hill station in the Baba Budan Mountain Range known for its viewpoints, trekking routes, and landscaped gardens. In December, clear weather and moderate temperatures allow you to access its major spots like Kemmangundi Sunset View Point and Shanti Falls easily. You can walk the Z Point ridge, view surrounding valleys with minimal haze, and explore the Kemmangundi Rose Garden.
Also, Hebbe Falls boasts a strong post-monsoon flow and can be reached easily via an authorised jeep route. Dry terrain supports safe trekking and wide visibility across the nearby hill ranges of Kemmanagundi.
Also, Hebbe Falls boasts a strong post-monsoon flow and can be reached easily via an authorised jeep route. Dry terrain supports safe trekking and wide visibility across the nearby hill ranges of Kemmanagundi.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 55–56 km by road.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours by car.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours by car.
Must-Have Experiences:
- Walk through the hill-station gardens and viewpoints.
- Sunset views near the Raj Bhavan area.
- Use Kemmanagundi as a base for Z Point and Hebbe Falls.
- Z Point trek start - around 3 km
- Hebbe Falls jeep point - around 6–7 km
- Kalhatti Falls - around 10–12 km
Best of
.jpg?gravity=center&width=90&height=90&crop=fill&quality=auto&fetch_format=auto&flags=strip_profile&format=jpg&sign_url=true)
04
Hebbe Falls
Hebbe Falls is a two-tier waterfall located inside the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its steady post-monsoon flow and dense forest surroundings. In December, the waterfall flows strongly due to stored monsoon runoff, allowing you to see both the Dodda Hebbe and Chikka Hebbe cascades clearly. The route to Hebbe Falls requires an authorised forest jeep ride followed by a short trek through a moist deciduous forest.
At this top place to visit in Chikmagalur in December, you can observe rock pools, the narrow valley formation created by continuous water erosion. The standing zones near the waterfall give you a chance to feel the mist from the waterfall spray on your face, making the experience even more magical.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 68–70 km by road including the approach to the jeep point.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: Around 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes including jeep transit.
Must-Have Experiences:
At this top place to visit in Chikmagalur in December, you can observe rock pools, the narrow valley formation created by continuous water erosion. The standing zones near the waterfall give you a chance to feel the mist from the waterfall spray on your face, making the experience even more magical.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 68–70 km by road including the approach to the jeep point.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: Around 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes including jeep transit.
- Jeep ride through forest trails leading to the waterfall path.
- View the two-tier cascade from its natural rock base.
- Enjoy peaceful winter surroundings away from busy town areas.
Nearby Attractions:
- Kemmanagundi – around 6–7 km
- Z Point trek start – around 8–9 km
- Kalhatti Falls – around 14–16 km
Best of
.jpg?gravity=center&width=90&height=90&crop=fill&quality=auto&fetch_format=auto&flags=strip_profile&format=jpg&sign_url=true)
05
Kudremukh National Park
Kudremukh National Park is a protected montane rainforest region in the Western Ghats, known for its grassland–shola ecosystem and high biodiversity. Visiting Chikmagalur in December offers stable weather and low rainfall, making the park suitable for trekking and wildlife spotting. You can also explore the deep valleys, witness the Kudremukh Peak, rolling grasslands, and the distinct horse-face mountain profile.
During an early morning visit, you can get a chance to see gaur, sambar, and endemic birds. The park’s rich river systems, including the origins of the Tunga, Bhadra and Nethravathi rivers, add another layer of interest for visitors who enjoy exploring natural landscapes.
During an early morning visit, you can get a chance to see gaur, sambar, and endemic birds. The park’s rich river systems, including the origins of the Tunga, Bhadra and Nethravathi rivers, add another layer of interest for visitors who enjoy exploring natural landscapes.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 95–100 km (depending on the chosen entry gate).
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 3 hours to 3 hours 15 minutes by car.
Must-Have Experiences:
- Trek the Kudremukh peak trail during cool winter months.
- Scenic drives through shola forests and rolling grassland landscapes.
- Photography of misty valleys and sweeping ridgelines.
Nearby Attractions:
- Kalasa town – around 20–22 km
- Hanuman Gundi Falls – around 27–30 km
- Kudremukh viewpoint (within park region) – around 8–10 km
Best of
06
Z Point
It is a prominent viewpoint in the Kemmangundi hill station, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The clear skies and cool temperatures in December provide unobstructed visibility across the valleys and distant peaks, including Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri.
You can trek the 1.5 km trail from Kemmangundi town and admire scenic views of grasslands, Shola forests, and small streams. In addition, photographers can capture sunrise and ridge landscapes while trekkers can hike along the adjoining trails and grasslands of this popular place to visit in Chikmagalur in December.
Must-Have Experiences:
You can trek the 1.5 km trail from Kemmangundi town and admire scenic views of grasslands, Shola forests, and small streams. In addition, photographers can capture sunrise and ridge landscapes while trekkers can hike along the adjoining trails and grasslands of this popular place to visit in Chikmagalur in December.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 58–60 km by road to the trek start point.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 5 minutes by car.
- Trek to the viewpoint during sunrise or sunset for dramatic ridge views.
- Enjoy crisp winter winds along the narrow approach trail.
- Combine with Kemmanagundi gardens or Hebbe Falls for a full-day plan.
- Kemmanagundi – around 3 km
- Hebbe Falls jeep point – around 8–9 km
- Kalhatti Falls – around 13–15 km
Best of
07
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Western Ghats, featuring vast green grasslands, dense forests, and the Bhadra River. The sanctuary, also called Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary, is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species.
Being one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur in December, this spot allows travellers to take a jeep safari along designated forest routes, where you can observe wildlife moving freely through their natural habitats. You can also explore the Muthodi Range, witness endemic flora, and take early morning or late afternoon safaris to spot gaur, sambar, and hornbills.
Being one of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur in December, this spot allows travellers to take a jeep safari along designated forest routes, where you can observe wildlife moving freely through their natural habitats. You can also explore the Muthodi Range, witness endemic flora, and take early morning or late afternoon safaris to spot gaur, sambar, and hornbills.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 38–40 km by road to the Muthodi entry point.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
Must-Have Experiences:
- Morning or evening safari for wildlife viewing.
- Birdwatching across forest and river zones.
- Forest drives with cool winter air and filtered sunlight.
Nearby Attractions:
- Bhadra backwaters zone – around 20–22 km
- Mutthodi village – around 3–4 km
- Coffee estate viewpoints (local routes) – within 5–10 km
Best of
.jpg?gravity=center&width=90&height=90&crop=fill&quality=auto&fetch_format=auto&flags=strip_profile&format=jpg&sign_url=true)
08
Hirekolale Lake
Hirekolale Lake is a scenic reservoir, which is one of the best places to visit near Chikkamagaluru. It is set against the backdrop of the Baba Budangiri and Mullayanagiri ranges. In December, the lake offers clear waters and calm surroundings ideal for photography and nature walks. You can admire reflections of the surrounding hills, witness migratory birds, and marvel at the local flora along the banks.
The area also supports short hikes along its perimeter and provides viewpoints for sunrise and sunset over the Western Ghats. The lake lies at the base of the Charma Hills, which naturally channel cool winds across the water, creating a pleasant microclimate even during midday.
Must-Have Experiences:
Nearby Attractions:
The area also supports short hikes along its perimeter and provides viewpoints for sunrise and sunset over the Western Ghats. The lake lies at the base of the Charma Hills, which naturally channel cool winds across the water, creating a pleasant microclimate even during midday.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Around 10 km by road.
Travel time from Chikmagalur: 20–25 minutes by car.
- Sunset photography with hills reflected in the lake.
- Quiet evening strolls along the Bund (lake).
- Enjoy cool winter breezes in an open, natural landscape.
- Mullayanagiri Peak – around 24–26 km
- Seethalayanagiri – around 21–23 km
- Jhari Falls – around 14–16 km
Best of
Things to do in Chikmagalur in December
09
Visit the Stunning Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls)
.jpg?gravity=center&width=752&height=450&crop=fill&quality=auto&fetch_format=auto&flags=strip_profile&format=jpg&sign_url=true)
Also known as Buttermilk Falls, Jhari falls is a tiered waterfall about 250 feet high. It is located near Kemmanagundi, and is surrounded by expansive coffee plantations and densely forested hills. In December, the waterfall maintains a steady post-monsoon flow, giving stunning views of both upper and lower cascades.
Jeep rides to the waterfall start from the Jhari Falls Jeep Point near Attigundi, the closest accessible base before the forested track begins. The well-defined trail remains accessible in this month, giving visitors better footing to explore the rock shelves and natural pools formed by the lower cascade.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: Approx. 22 km by road to the main road; then a jeep/forest-track ride and a short walk to the falls.
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 40–50 minutes by car with additional jeep/track ride & short walk (total ~ 1.5 hours from town gate to waterfall base).
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 40–50 minutes by car with additional jeep/track ride & short walk (total ~ 1.5 hours from town gate to waterfall base).
- Ride through forest & coffee plantations in a jeep, adding adventure to your journey.
- Stand beneath the cascading water and feel the mist spray your face. A plunge-pool makes a natural dip if you’re up for it.
- Nature-walks & light trekking along forest paths, with immersive views and fresh air.
10
Coffee Museum
Coffee Museum, located in Chikkamagaluru, showcases the history, cultivation, and processing of coffee beans in the region. Visiting Chikmagalur in December allows comfortable exploration of exhibits of this museum, displaying coffee beans, traditional brewing equipment, and roasting techniques.
The museum is maintained by the Coffee Board of India, which also preserves archival documents, old plantation tools, and research material on indigenous coffee varieties. December is a good time to visit because the adjoining coffee estates are in their harvesting phase, giving visitors a clearer understanding of how freshly picked cherries move through each stage of processing.
The museum is maintained by the Coffee Board of India, which also preserves archival documents, old plantation tools, and research material on indigenous coffee varieties. December is a good time to visit because the adjoining coffee estates are in their harvesting phase, giving visitors a clearer understanding of how freshly picked cherries move through each stage of processing.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: ~ 4–5 km via city roads (easy road access)
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 10–15 minutes drive.
Activity Highlights:
- Explore exhibits on coffee cultivation, history, and local production methods, making it one of the ideal things to do in Chikmagalur for culture and coffee lovers.
- Learn about traditional coffee practices and enjoy a mild climate during winter for a relaxed museum visit.
- Great for a short, easy outing without long travel, it is good for evening or rainy day plans as well.
11
Trek to the Beautiful Honnamana Falls
Also known as Honnammana Halla Falls, it lies in the forests near Baba Budangiri hills in the Chikmagalur district. While exploring this place in Chikmagaulur in December, visitors can observe its 30?foot cascade flowing steadily, even during the dry season. Reaching the falls involves a short trek along forest trails and well-laid steps, passing through dense Shola forest.
The area is ideal for photography, hiking around the waterfall, and views of the Baba Budangiri hills. The surrounding cliffs also create natural echo points, adding a unique acoustic experience to the sound of the waterfall during the winter season.
The area is ideal for photography, hiking around the waterfall, and views of the Baba Budangiri hills. The surrounding cliffs also create natural echo points, adding a unique acoustic experience to the sound of the waterfall during the winter season.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: ~ 50–60 km (depending on route and starting point).
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 1.5–2 hours by car and forest-track / walking time (varies with exact trail).
Activity Highlights:
- Forest trekking through hills and green cover, ideal for those seeking serenity away from main tourist circuits.
- Witness the waterfall in a quieter atmosphere which can be a peaceful alternative to more crowded spots.
- Good for nature lovers and people wanting a relaxed forest and water-fall outing in cooler winter weather of Chikmagalur.
Best of
12
Spot Wildlife at the Muthodi Forest
Muthodi Forest, part of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, is a dense tropical forest in the Chikkamagaluru district which is known for its rich biodiversity. Visiting this famous place is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Chikmagalur in December, as this forest offers great chances to spot wildlife like tigers and leopards.
You can take guided jeep safaris along designated forest routes to see elephants, gaur, sambar, and endemic bird species as well. While trekking along marked paths, you can have opportunities to observe Shola grasslands, forest flora, and streams. The cool weather and clear trails can further add to the charm of the landscape.
Activity Highlights:
You can take guided jeep safaris along designated forest routes to see elephants, gaur, sambar, and endemic bird species as well. While trekking along marked paths, you can have opportunities to observe Shola grasslands, forest flora, and streams. The cool weather and clear trails can further add to the charm of the landscape.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: ~ 35–40 km depending on entry-point gate to forest region.
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 1 hour drive by road.
- Leisurely forest walk or safari drive through dense trees, perfect for winter’s mild weather and clearer skies.
- Bird-watching, spotting local flora & fauna, or simply enjoying the misty mountain-forest ambience.
- Ideal for a half-day escape from town, especially for those who enjoy calm, nature-rich settings.
13
Witness the Marvellous Kalhatti Falls
Located near Chikkamagaluru in the Western Ghats, this 122-foot waterfall sits within a biodiverse zone of evergreen forests and centuries-old coffee plantations. In December, the falls retain a strong post-monsoon flow, revealing multiple tiers that are often hidden during summer. One of the best things to do in Chikmagalur in December is taking a short trek to the falls.
On the way you can cross the basalt rock formations, small feeder streams, and patches of medicinal forest plants commonly found in Shola ecosystems. Photography enthusiasts can capture not just the cascade but also the interplay of winter mist rolling over the surrounding ridges. The area is equally rewarding for birdwatching, with sightings of Malabar parakeets, drongos, and other endemic species.
On the way you can cross the basalt rock formations, small feeder streams, and patches of medicinal forest plants commonly found in Shola ecosystems. Photography enthusiasts can capture not just the cascade but also the interplay of winter mist rolling over the surrounding ridges. The area is equally rewarding for birdwatching, with sightings of Malabar parakeets, drongos, and other endemic species.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: ~ 40–45 km depending on route taken to the waterfall area.
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 1.25–1.5 hours by car, depending on road and forest-track conditions.
Activity Highlights:
- Walk through forested hills to reach the waterfall and experience a gentle trek.
- Enjoy the fall’s water and natural surroundings as the winter climate makes the drive and walk pleasant.
- This is a great place to visit in Chikmagalur on a day-trip, combined with nearby forest or hill-station visits for variety.
14
Pay Your Respects at the Belavadi Temple
It is an 11th-century Hoysala-era temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate soapstone carvings and star-shaped platform. On your trip to Chikmagalur in December, you can explore this temple complex and its detailed sculptures depicting deities and mythological scenes. You can also examine the well-preserved pillars, ornate ceilings, and carved doorways that add to the architectural magnificence of the place.
The temple also houses three main shrines arranged in a unique trikuta layout, showcasing how Hoysala architects balanced symmetry with artistic detail. Its quiet rural setting allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship without crowds, making December an ideal time to study the finer carvings in natural daylight.
The temple also houses three main shrines arranged in a unique trikuta layout, showcasing how Hoysala architects balanced symmetry with artistic detail. Its quiet rural setting allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship without crowds, making December an ideal time to study the finer carvings in natural daylight.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: ~ 28–30 km via main road / highway.
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 45 minutes to 1 hour by car, depending on traffic.
Activity Highlights:
• Admire ancient temple architecture in a quiet village setting which can be intriguing for history and culture enthusiasts.
• Enjoy the slow village pace, local ambiance and relief from the hustle of activity-heavy itinerary.
• Easy to combine with other nearby attractions for a relaxed journey.
15
Explore the Ballalarayana Durga Fort
Ballalarayana Durga Fort is a 17th-century hill fort set on a high ridge inside Kudremukh National Park. Surrounded by Shola forests and rolling grasslands, it offers a scenic trek near Chikkamagaluru. December is ideal for this hike, with clear skies and dry trails that open up panoramic views of Charmadi Ghat.
Many trekkers combine the climb with a visit to Bandaje Arbi Waterfall, known for its dramatic cliff-edge drop. At the fort, you can explore ruined ramparts, stone gateways, and remnants of old granaries and water tanks that hint at its former strategic role.
Many trekkers combine the climb with a visit to Bandaje Arbi Waterfall, known for its dramatic cliff-edge drop. At the fort, you can explore ruined ramparts, stone gateways, and remnants of old granaries and water tanks that hint at its former strategic role.
Distance from Chikmagalur city centre: ~ 50–55 km by road to base village, from where the forest/foot-trail start.
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 1.5–2 hours by car, then ~1.5–2 hours of trekking (ascent + descent)
Approx time from Chikmagalur: ~ 1.5–2 hours by car, then ~1.5–2 hours of trekking (ascent + descent)
Activity Highlights:
- Trek through forested hills and coffee-estate edges to reach the 12th-century fort ruins perched high in the Western Ghats.
- Enjoy panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys from hill-top vantage points.
- Visiting this place is ideal for catching sunset views as the evening sky and silent hills make it a tranquil, reflective experience.
- For adventure-seekers, you can combine trekking and light camping or day-hike plans for a rustic outing, making this an adventurous thing to do in Chikmagalur in December.
Essential Information About Chikmagalur In December
16
Weather:
Chikmagalur in December welcomes visitors with crisp mountain air and clear skies. Day temperatures range between 18°C and 25°C, while nights drop to around 14°C, especially in elevated areas. Rainfall remains minimal, and mist often appears during early mornings near coffee plantations. The cool climate enhances visibility at viewpoints like Mullayangiri and Baba Budangiri.
December also creates ideal conditions for activities like trekking, plantation walks and jeep safaris without any weather interruptions. With almost 11 hours of daylight each day, this month supports full-day exploration across the hills, lakes and forested landscapes of Chikmagalur.
December also creates ideal conditions for activities like trekking, plantation walks and jeep safaris without any weather interruptions. With almost 11 hours of daylight each day, this month supports full-day exploration across the hills, lakes and forested landscapes of Chikmagalur.
17
Travel Tips and What to Pack:
- Schedule treks to Mullayangiri or Kemmangundi during early mornings for clearer views and safer trail conditions.
- Plan coffee estate visits during daylight hours, as evenings become significantly colder in the plantation zones.
- Choose guided jeep safaris for forest areas, as private vehicles are restricted in certain zones.
- Pack light woollens and a warm jacket to manage temperature drops during early mornings and nights.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes that are suitable for uneven trails and damp forest patches.
- Carry moisturiser and lip balm, as the cool mountain air can cause dryness during extended outdoor activities.
