The most magnificent, awe-inspiring, and amazing mysteries of South India are considered to be hidden in the state of Karnataka. Karnataka, India’s eighth biggest state, is home to towering structures, calm shrines, gushing cascades, and serene hill stations that provide a fantastic holiday for hikers, trekkers, and families. The presence of the Western Ghats makes this state an attractive destination for both adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The attractive and scenic hill stations of Karnataka include a variety of stunning locations and a pleasant climate throughout. Almost all of these hill stations feature a multitude of places that are ideal for your photographic sessions.
7 Stunningly Beautiful Hill Stations in Karnataka
1. BR Hills
BR Hills, short for Biligiriranga Hills, is not only a hill station but also one of the greatest honeymoon destinations in Karnataka. It is located in the state’s south-eastern area. This location, which shares a border with Tamil Nadu, is often frequented by newlywed couples. Located in the junction of the Western and Eastern Ghats, BR Hills stands at a height of roughly 1200m above sea level. Visiting this place provides a plethora of captivating vistas, adrenaline-pumping activities, beautiful lodging amidst the greenery, and a fusion of mouth-watering foods from both states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. BR Hills lays its claim as one of the best hill stations in Karnataka, thanks to its diversity and outstanding position.
Places to visit: BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, Dzogchen monastery, Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, Biligiri Ranganatha Hills
Things to do: Trekking, Jeep and elephant safaris, camping, temple hopping
Best time to visit: April to December
2. Coorg
One of the top hill stations near Madikeri is Coorg, located in Karnataka’s towering highlands and with a continuously foggy backdrop, this place is for all nature enthusiasts. This coffee-producing hill town in Karnataka is well-known for its lush green hills and streams that cut straight through them. It is also a famous tourist destination due to its culture and people. The Kodavas, a native tribe specialising in martial arts, are particularly well-known for their kind hospitality. Tadiandamol Peak is well-known for its breath-taking views.
Places to visit: Abbey Falls, Talakaveri, Raja’s Seat, Dubare Elephant Camp, Iruppu Falls
Things to do: Hiking, cycling, trekking, mountaineering, camping, photography
Best time to visit: October to April
3. Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is located at the base of the Mulliyangiri range in Karnataka, at a height of 3,400 feet. This mountain range is the source of the Yagachi River. This hill station, known for its calm environment, rich green woods, and lofty mountains, will undoubtedly reconnect you with nature. The word Chikmagalur means “land of the younger daughter.” It was the first site in India where coffee was cultivated, therefore it’s a must-see for coffee enthusiasts. Alternatively, you may unlock a 4D coffee experience by spending hours at the World of Coffee — India’s first interactive 3D coffee wall. Chikmagalur is so delightful that it would make you want to quit your day job and retire, which is why it is one of the top hill stations in South India.
Places to visit: Baba Budangiri, Mullayanagiri, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Coffee Museum, Kadambi Falls, Z Point
Things to do: Hiking, riverside camping, river rafting
Best time to visit: September to April
4. Nandi Hills
It is frequently stated that the greatest locations are off the beaten road, and Nandi Hills exemplifies this. One of the popular hill stations in Karnataka near Bangalore, located around 60 km from the capital, it’s one such tourist site that has gradually been found by travellers over the years and has now become a well-known holiday destination. Considered an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, Nandi Hills, once Tipu Sultan’s summer resort, is dotted with temples and monuments and surrounded by breath-taking views, making it no less than a hidden paradise.
Places to visit: Tipu’s Drop, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Tipu’s Summer Residence, Lake of Nectar (Amrit Sarovar), Muddenahalli Museum
Things to do: Temple hopping, watch beautiful sunset, paragliding, trekking, cycling
Best time to visit: October to May
5. Agumbe
It would be a shame to discuss Karnataka’s mesmerising hill stations without including Agumbe. Agumbe, located in Shimoga district, is one of the best hill stations in Karnataka. Popularly regarded as the Cherrapunji of Southern India, it is not just the flora and fauna of the region that draws visitors, but also the pleasant weather, sceneries, and gastronomy. This charming location is located at an elevation of roughly 2750m and is home to medicinal plants. Visiting Agumbe promises a fantastic experience for adventure seekers, family excursions, or expeditions with friends.
Places to visit: Koodlu Theertha Falls, Jogigundi Falls, Kunchikal Falls, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls
Things to do: Trekking, motorbiking, hiking, nature photography
Best time to visit: September to February
6. Kudremukh
Kudremukh is a hill station with many natural paths and a diverse biodiversity that appeals to both adventurers and nature lovers. There are numerous locations where you may have a fantastic picture session with the peaceful beauty of nature as a backdrop. This area was formerly rich in iron ore and was primarily known for mining, but now it is recognised for its flora and fauna, making it a fantastic tourist destination. Kudremukh is currently regarded as one of the best and offbeat hill stations in Karnataka and a must-visit summer holiday destination.
Places to visit: Kudremukh National Park, Hanuman Gundi Falls, Kalasa, Gangamoola, Kadambi Falls
Things to do: Trekking, hiking, nature photography, witness flora and fauna
Best time to visit: October to May
7. Kemmanagundi
Kemmanagundi is a lovely hill station located in the Baba Budan range. The waters of this hill station, known in the Puranas as Chandra Drona Parvatha, are supposed to heal a variety of ailments, including colds and skin disorders. Kemmanagundi, or KR hills, is home to Karnataka’s highest mountain and provides expansive vistas and fragrances of lovely gardens. This is a wonderful spot to relax and reconnect with nature.
Places to visit: Raj Bhavan, Baba Budan Hill, Bhadra Tiger Reserve, Rock Garden, Z point, Hebbe Falls, Kalhattagiri Falls
Best time to visit: October to May
Wrapping Up
We hope you enjoyed this list of the best and popular and even lesser known hill stations in Karnataka. Call us to book a trip or rent a cab for a comfortable journey.
Related: Top 17 Hill Stations in Kerala for a Refreshing Weekend Getaway
FAQs
How many hill stations are there in Karnataka?
There are numerous beautiful hill stations in Karnataka including Coorg, Nandi Hills, and Chikmagalur among others.
Which is the coldest hill station in Karnataka?
Chamrajnagar, near Mysore, is the coldest, with a temperature of 10.1 degrees Celsius.
Which is a famous hill station in Karnataka?
Coorg is one of the most famous and popular hill stations in Karnataka.
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