Karnataka is the eighth largest state in southern India, famous for its rich ethnic heritage and natural vistas. It lies on the coastline of the Arabian Sea, with the Western Ghats guarding well. Bengaluru, the state’s capital, is recognized as the tech hub and a major metropolis. Karnataka is endowed with the blessings of nature and cultural heritage. The state encapsulates spectacular natural and artificial wonders, which becomes a perfect destination for nature lovers, workaholics, and thrill-seekers.
People across the globe visit Karnataka to take a break from the daily grind of life and rejuvenate themselves. Though placed at India’s southwest corner, the state is also home to several hill stations. Let’s dive into the divine world of famous hill stations in Karnataka.
Famous Hill stations in Karnataka to Plan an Exciting Trip
Karnataka is one of such places whose tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings will make you flabbergasted. The main reason to visit this place is that it has all things that a traveller or a tourist wants in a visiting destination. Whether it is delicious food, historical places, serene beaches, or adventurous sports, this never leaves any moment to surprise you. In the category of these exciting things to do, there are various famous hill stations in Karnataka that you must include in your bucket list. So, we have curated some of the famous hill stations in Karnataka to choose your perfect destination.
1. Coorg- The Scotland of India
Adorned with several hills, lush green forests, breathtaking downpours, and canyons, Coorg ranks number one on our list of famous hill stations in Karnataka. It is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for nature lovers and photographers. It is a major center of attraction for adventure junkies owing to its topographical assembly, which is best suited for hiking and trekking. Coorg is also known for its tea and coffee cultivation spread all across green hill slopes. People visiting Coorg often go sightseeing at the Irpu falls, Omkareshwar temple, or Brahmagiri peak. For its captivating surroundings, it is one of the most alluring places to visit in Karnataka for couples.
2. BR Hills- A Soothing and Peaceful Getaway
Biligirirangana Hills stands upright at the convergence of the Western and Eastern Ghats. With its breathtaking sights and sports that make the thrill-seekers go wild, this hill station is also among the perfect destinations for a honeymoon in Karnataka and is often visited by newlyweds. Sharing its boundary with Tamil Nadu, it offers a blend of enticing cuisines from both sides. The hill station is located in the southeastern region of Karnataka and is almost 1200 metres above sea level. This enchanting place contains plenty of offbeat and spectacular sights and offers visitors a soothing and peaceful getaway. The best time to visit the hill station is between October and March.
3. Kemmanagundi- Explore the Lush Green Forests
This small yet fabulous hill station is located near Mangalore, under the canopy of the splendid Baba Budan Range, anciently known as the Chandra Drona Parvatha. The visitors find peace and serenity amidst nature. November to May is a perfect time to visit the hill station. This Hill station is a tranquil rural area surrounded by beautiful lush green forests and is best known for its Sunset viewpoint and atop night sky views.
It is the spot for hiking set along the hills leading to some breathtaking Z point Trekking peak and Shanti Falls and the enchanting valley view of the Krishnarajendra Botanical Park. The visitors of the hill station find moments of peace and serenity in the arms of nature while being excited with the sporty activities that this beautiful place offers to the guests.
4. Agumbe- Experience the Fog Filled Valley
Agumbe is located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is regarded as one of the best hill stations near Bangalore in Karnataka. Surprisingly it is the renowned Cherrapunji of southern India and is rich in vegetation and attracts tourists from all over the weather owing to its lovely weather, scenic beauty, and mouth-watering food. It is also a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and an excursion with friends and family. Another matter of fact is that the place is suitable for the growth of medicinal plants due to its elevation of 2750 metres. Being a part of the amazing western ghats mountain range, Agumbe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Kodachadri- A Rejuvenating Spot for Travellers
This hill station is renowned for its peaceful ambiance and picturesque. Kodachadri is known for the refreshing experiences it offers to its visitors. A rejuvenating spot for travellers as the entire place is peaceful and picturesque. Blessed with natural beauty, the place contains terrific food and accommodation and is now announced as the natural heritage by the government of Karnataka.
Scenic landscapes, lush green forests, and the magnificent Western Ghats take away the travellers’ hearts and attract a humongous crowd every year. The hill station is quite a place for sports like hiking, trekking, and sightseeing, and the sunset view will leave you speechless. The famous Mookambika temple is also situated at the hill’s summit and is a centre of attraction for many devotees and architecture lovers.
Kodachadri owns some natural wonders like Belakallu theertha waterfalls, Arasinagundi falls, and some architectural wonders like Nagara fort. Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is also situated near the hill station, and a famous pilgrim, Sarvajna Peeth temple, should also be added to your list when you visit Kodachadri
6. Chikmagalur- Enjoy Rides Through Scenic Trails
As per history, Chikmagalur was presented as a dowry to the daughter of Chief of Sakrepatna, and if translated, Chikmagalur means “Young Daughter’s Town,” which is how this hill station got its name. The place is famously known as the coffee land of Karnataka owing to the benign weather condition, which is best suited for coffee cultivation. It is one of those famous hill stations in Karnataka which is apt for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. People visiting Chikmagalur can enjoy long bike rides through scenic trails and try exciting treks and hikes. It is one of the amazing tourist places to visit in Karnataka with friends to have lots of fun with various adventurous sports.
7. Kakkabe- Incredible Place for Rock Climbing
This hill station can be an ideal photographer destination, popular for its most significant sweet honey production. Kakkabe is one of the most visited famous hill stations in Karnataka, beautifully surrounded by verdant forests, tea and coffee plantations, and wild orchids. It majorly has dense rain forests and can also prove to be an incredible place for rock climbing, preferably under the watch of some expertise.
8. Nandi Hills- An Ancient Hill Fortress
If you are a sports lover, this hill station has it all. Nandi hill offers many exciting activities, from paragliding to trekking, and has consistently attracted an enormous number of people every year. The hill station is by far the best choice for couples and family trips, but it could also be an incredible destination for solo travellers. Nandi hills have a fantastic view and are suitable for exploration trips and camping. It is one of the ideal places for a weekend trip getaway near Bangalore in Karnataka.
9. Kudremukh- An Splendid Place that Leaves you Speechless
The hill station is one of the most famous places in Karnataka. It has continued to attract thrill-seekers and nature-lovers owing to its rich natural features. Earlier, the place was famous for mining due to its abundance of iron ore, but now it is a part of the most famous tourist places to visit in Karnataka. Kudremukh means “horse-faced.” It could be an unlimited opportunity for all the photographers with mesmerising views.
People love to have a photo session with natural beauty, adding a cherry on the cake to the memories. It is a must-visit place in Karnataka. The weather and food at the hill station are famous among its visitors. Also, It is surrounded by five sacred ponds: Naga Teertha, Amba Teertha, Varaha Teertha, Vasishtha Teertha, and Rudra Teertha.
10. Dandeli- An Absolute Place for Adventure Buffs
Famous for its water sports, Dandeli is one of the loveliest hill stations. Tourists visiting this place find tranquillity from the chaos of their hustling life. The daredevils find the place very apt to satisfy their desires while the photographers and nature lovers find their way to satiate themselves. The hill station upholds ancient temples, trekking routes, parks, and various wildlife that will leave you in awe.
11. Gangamoola- Enjoy Enchanting Landscapes
The origin of southern India’s three most important rivers- Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravathi. It is also known as Varaha Parvatha. The hill station lies among the hills of Westerns Ghats and is a part of the Gangamoola-Aroli-Gangrikal range of the latter. The place lies within the Kudremukh National Park and is also a part of Kudremukh’s biodiversity. The place is also rich in Magnetite- Quartzite. The hill station is the best to relax in the arms of nature while having a cup of coffee and enjoying splendid landscapes
12. Male Mahadeshwara Betta- To Seek Expedition and Fun
Male Mahadeshwara Betta is an active hill station in Karnataka, which is approximately 135km far from Mysore. The hill station is known to attract a huge crowd throughout the year. It is an excellent spot for adventure enthusiasts, and if you are one of them, you can try trekking and hiking while admiring the wonders of nature. We would suggest you visit this hill station between October and March. Visitors can also have a trip to the famous Mahadeshwara temple and the Maheshwari forest to seek expedition and fun.
13. Madikeri- Experience the Tropical Highland Climate
The Madikeri hill station is full of natural wonders. Being surrounded by the Western Ghats, it has several gushing waterfalls and splendid scenic views. It is an ideal destination for people wishing to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and recharge amidst nature. You can go for a walk through the travails while capturing the beauty of Mother Nature and breathing in her blessings.
These are only some of the wonders that Karnataka beholds underneath its enchanting beauty and spellbinding diversity. Be it the delicious food or splendid views over the hills, Karnataka continues to charm visitors in droves. The state’s culture is a feather on the hat, and the smell of coffee adds it all. There’s so much to experience that one trip won’t be fruitful; hence, we recommend you plan trips according to the best suited times and experience paradise with each trip.