1. About Chikmagalur
   • Geography
   • History
2. Things to do in Chikmagalur
   • Places to visit in Chikmagalur
   • Places to visit near Chikmagalur
   • Places to eat in Chikmagalur
3. How to Plan a trip to Chikmagalur
   • How to reach
   • Best time to visit
4. Hotels and Resorts in Chikmagalur

About Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur or known officially as Chikkamagaluru, is a lush green retreat tucked in the hills of northern Karnataka. Also called the Coffee Land of Karnataka, the district is replete with dense coffee plantations and is the leading producer of coffee in the country. The luxurious natural beauty, rolling hills and valleys, sparkling rivers and waterfalls, and the aromatic coffee gardens are what Chikmagalur is famous for. 

Geography 

Chikmagalur hill station sits in the Malenadu region of Karnataka, at the foothills of the Western Ghats. The district has an elevation of 3580 ft, with the highest point of the region at Mullayanagiri, rising to 6630 ft. The mountains of Chikmagalur are sources of the Tunga and Bhadra rivers. The landscape is dominated by terraced plantations of coffee and tea, thick shrubs, torrential cascades, and scenic valleys. The plantations are regarded as one of the top 25 bio-diversity regions of the world and make for the best thing about Chikmagalur that you can explore.

History of Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur takes its name from the Kannada Chikkamagaḷa ūru that translates to “younger daughter’s town“. In context it refers to the youngest daughter of the legendary chief of Sakharayapattana. The region was once ruled by the famous Hoysala dynasty until the 13^th century. The region rose to popularity for its first coffee plantations in India, in 1670, when a traveling Sufi saint, Baba Budan introduced the crop to the country in 1670.  

Things to Do in Chikmagalur

The diverse and rich landscape of the region offers endless options for adventure activities in Chikmagalur. 

• Take a guided tour of Chikmagalur coffee estate and experience the detailed processes and techniques that go behind your favorite brew. You can also sample fresh coffee. Karadigundy, Woodway, and Jungle Greens are some of the famous coffee plantations in Chikmagalur
• Explore the hills of Baba Budangiri. Also known as Chandra Drona Parvatha, this fabulous spot in the north of town has many intriguing caves and scenic points for spectacular views of the mountains. You can trek or hike through the mountain trails, or head to the sunrise point. A hilltop point, the sunrise point is famous for exceptional views of morning sky. 
• Do the short Z point Chikmagalur trek. It’s a must-do trek in the Kemmanagundi hills, that start at Raj Bhavan. The route is easy and passes through small waterfalls and gorgeous valleys. 
• Take the famous Mullayanagiri Chikmagalur trek. The hills house the highest peak of Karnataka, surrounded by picturesque valleys and lush coffee plantations. You can trek all the way to the top where a Shiva temple sits on a steep slope.
• Do a tour of the Coffee Museum. The conservatory documents and displays tell you everything about history of coffee in India, coffee business, its production and brewing process. You can walk around and also see traditional equipment and different methods of producing coffee across different times. 

Places to Visit in Chikmagalur 

With a blissful climate and delightful landscape, Chikmagalur sightseeing is a thrill in its own right. 

Here are the best Chikmagalur sightseeing places that are a must-visit– 

• Mahatma Gandhi Park – Also called Rathnagiri Bore, the MG Park Chikmagalur sits north of the town. It’s known for beautiful landscaped gardens with colorful flowers and ornamental plants. The lotus pond with a wooden footbridge is the main highlight.
• Rock Garden – a public garden perched on the peaks of Kemmanagundi. There are pathways cut out of rock, an orchid house with several exotic species of flowers, and offers great views of the surrounding hills.
• Hebbe Falls – the most famous waterfall of the region. It sits 10 km from the town in the middle of verdant forests with great views of the Kemmanagundi hills. The source stream splits into the Dodda Hebbe or Big Falls and the Chikka Hebbe or Small Falls. 

• Kalhatti Falls – a scenic waterfall in a tranquil natural setting. It sits on the Kemmanagundi hills in the backdrop of dense rainforests, with nature trails. You can trek up to the top of the falls and enjoy the views. 
• Dakshinamnaya Sharada Peetham – Also called Sringeri Sharada Peetham, this is the most famous Chikmagalur temple. It boasts the ancient Indian rock-cut architecture and enshrines ancient deities. 
• Ayyanakere Lake – one of the most famous lakes in Chikmagalur, Ayyanakere is also the second largest lake of Karnataka. It’s flanked by hills and has a boardwalk for closer viewing. The lake is great for picnics and watching sunsets.

Book a Cab in Chikmagalur to visit all these major tourist spots with comfort and ease.

Popular Places to Visit near Chikmagalur

Explore these other popular attractions near Mcleodganj for a wholesome vacation:

Jhari Waterfalls, 23 km – Also called Buttermilk Falls of Chikmagalur, this beautiful natural cascade sits in Attigudi and is one of the most scenic spots in the region. 

Belavadi, 29 km – A national heritage site, the small town is known for its ancient temples sitting amid delightful natural surroundings. It is one of the prime attractions in the state, and is dotted with green farms, meadows, rolling hills, making it a perfect place to unwind outside the busy town.

Kudremukh National Park, 59 km – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this natural wildlife sanctuary is a famous tourist spot. You can try various sightseeing options as well as the outdoor activities, like forest walks, safaris, and wildlife photography.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, 79 km – This expansive wildlife enclosure is one of the most-frequented ones here. It houses several species of animals, birds and plants. You can do jungle safari and try spotting Chinkara, four-horned antelopes, jackals, leopards, black bucks, and jungle cats.

Seethalayanagiri, 36 km – Sitting at an altitude of 5000 ft, Seethalayanagiri is one of the most prominent trekking places near the place. The endless views of the Western Ghats surrounded by dense rainforests, coffee shrubs, and hilly flora, this is a sheer sensory treat for nature lovers and trekkers. 

Abbey Falls, 148 km – The Abbey Falls in Madikeri district is the most popular and most frequented waterfall destination in the region. The upper streams of the Cauvery River flows down through thick coffee plantations and forms the Abbey Falls. A hanging bridge opposite the falls, serves as a viewing point. The drive to Abbey Falls from Chikmagalur through hilly slopes and plantations, is also quite thrilling.

You can rent a car in Chikmagalur to cover all these nearby destinations

Best Places to Eat in Chikmagalur

The food scene here is dominated by traditional Kannadiga cuisine but also influenced by its multicultural community and colonial heritage. 

These are some of the best places to eat in Chikmagalur – 

• Café Agape, RG Rd, beside Bhuvanendra School, Vijayapura – Charming multicuisine cafe against the backdrop of hills covered with coffee plants.
• Khansamma Restaurant, Mahar aja INN, Indira Gandhi Rd, Joythinagar– locally popular restaurant serving Mughlai dishes.
• Town Canteen, SH 57, RG Rd, opposite Government Polytechnic, Vijayapura – casual eatery serving south Indian meals and snacks. 
• The Rider’s Nest, Ramanahalli, Road Mullayyana giri road – biker-themed restaurant serving continental and Indian dishes.
• Town Tables Restaurant, Indira Gandhi Rd, Joythinagar – themed family restaurant serving multi-cuisine Indian dishes.

How to Plan a Trip to Chikmagalur

How to Reach Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur district is well-connected to the cities and towns of Karnataka and other neighbouring states. 

By Train

The closest railway stations in Chikmagalur are located at Birur, Kadur, and Tarikere, with the nearest one being Kadur. You can reach Kadur or any of these stations and when reached, you can book a cab in Kadur to reach Chikmagalur Town.

By Road

Chikmagalur has good road connectivity with two national highways that pass through the district. There are regular state-run and private bus service that connects this hill station to other major cities of Karnataka like Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Shimoga etc.  

Alternatively, you can do a road trip from any of these cities and enjoy the scenic drive through the hills and forests of northern Karnataka. You can book Bangalore to Chikmagalur cabs, Mysore to Chikmagalur cabs, Shimoga to Chikmagalur cabs & more.https://www.youtube.com/embed/H_1UMToo6_I?feature=oembed

By Flight

Chikmagalur doesn’t have an airport of its own. The nearest airport in Chikmagalur is Mangalore International airport at Mangalore, at about 152 km from the town. From there you can book a Mangalore airport taxi and drive to Chikmagalur. Other airports near Chikmagalur are at Bangalore and Mysore. 

Best Time to Visit Chikmagalur 

Chikmagalur enjoys a very moderate climate with good weather throughout the year, making it conducive enough to explore anytime. The summers are warm and pleasant, while winters are chilly and misty. During monsoon, the region receives heavy rainfall. If you want to explore the plantations, forests, and do all kinds of nature activities, the winter months between October to April make for the best season to visit Chikmagalur. 

[Also Read: 10 Best places to Visit in South India]

Hotels and Resorts in Chikmagalur

To make your vacation truly comfortable and memorable, here are some of the best places to stay in Chikmagalur – 

• Mountain Valley Homestay
• Tresca – A Luxury Hotel
• The Vintage
• Nature Bowl Resort 
• Aura Homestays
• Robusta Inn
• Nenapu Homestay
• Kava Retreat Home Stay

Best Road-trips to Chikmagalur

The post Things to Do in Chikmagalur – A Complete Travel Guide appeared first on KAVA Retreat.

If you are looking for a best coffee brand in India, check out our list.We hope that our list will help you to choose a right one.

1.Nescafe

Nescafe is definitely one of the most popular brands of coffee in India. It was launched in 1938 in Switzerland and has been popular across various countries. Nescafe is one of the most loved and oldest coffee brands in India. It has many manufacturing units and coffee machines set up at many public places due to its popularity. Nescafe is known to sell over 700 million coffee cups on a daily basis. It has a whopping 55% share of the Indian market and is available in almost 180 countries.

2.Tata coffee

Tata coffee has been around in India for a very long time. The brand has over 19 coffee estates and they grow their own coffee beans. One of the best things about Tata is that they are following the eco friendly path and focus on high quality coffee without harming the environment. They are one of the largest sellers of coffee powder in India.

3.Bru

Bru is known as one of the favorite coffee brand in India, which was introduced by Hindustan Unilever Limited in 1969. It holds about 49.6% of the market share in India. This brand is considered as a second best selling, right after Nescafe. Bru is coming under the banner of Brooke Bond Green Label. BRU instant coffee, BRU Exotic, BRU Gold, BRU Select, BRU Roast and Ground etc are the variants of BRU coffee.

4.Davidof

Davidoff is one of the luxury coffee brands that is available in India. This coffee is made using 100% Arabica beans which are considered the best coffee beans in the world. The coffee is roasted in a well balanced environment in order to preserve maximum flavor of the beans during the roasting process. There are various things that Davidoff takes into consideration before roasting the coffee beans just so they can preserve the flavor of the coffee.

5.Narasu’s Coffee

Narasu’s Coffee is known as one of the leading coffee brands in India, which was launched in the year 1926. This company used modern technologies. Tea, chicory, instant coffee powders, filter coffee Powders are manufactured by this brand. The company has coffee estates in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Narasu’s Coffee is a product of Sri Narasus Coffee Company Limited, which is considered as an ISO 9001:2008 certified company.

6.Leo

Leo considered as one of the top notch and famous beverages not only in India but also in the world. This brand was founded by PRK Nadar in 1910. It is renowned for its purity and quality. Now it become one of the leading coffee brands in India as well as Tamil Nadu. “The pure taste of tradition ” is the tagline of the brand. This brand has acquired wide acceptance countrywide.

7.Blue Toka

Blue Tokai is an excellent home grown coffee in India. The coffee bean for this brand of coffee is handpicked from different farms and the aroma from the coffee is just tempting. Blue Tokai provides some of the most excellent ground coffee to your doorstep. This brand was formed by the duo of Matt Chitharanjan and NamrataAsthana. The coffee prepared by Blue Tokai brand is roasted with great care and is done only when ordered. As soon as the coffee is ground, it is transported to the customer to enjoy the full flavor of it.

8.Lavazza

Luigi Lavazza S.p.A. is known as an Italian manufacturer of coffee products. It is one of finest coffee brands in India. Now this company become one of the most reliable brands of coffee in India. This brand acquired popularity in India. Luigi Lavazza was the founder of this company. The company is headquartered in Turin, Italy.

9.Bayar’s Coffee

Bayar’s Coffee is a local Indian coffee brand that begun in the year 1956. Me. RamchandraRao, the owner of Bayar’s Coffee is an expert in roasting some of the finest coffee beans to deliver a strong cup of coffee that everyone will enjoy. This coffee has been listed as one of the top coffees in India for a long time now. The brand is best known to infuse their coffee with some modern flavors in order to add to the excitement of the coffee. There are a number of roasting parameters that Bayar’s Coffee follows in order for them to get the perfectly roasted coffee that is delicious to taste.

10.Cafe Rio

Cafe Rio one of the most popular coffee brands in India. They provide the finest and best flavors of handpicked coffee. This brand specializes in offering roasted coffee beans with a unique aroma. ‘Relish the moment’ is the tagline of the company. You can buy it from supermarkets/ online shopping stores.

The post Best Coffee Brands in India appeared first on KAVA Retreat.

But being a beginner does not mean that you cannot go on an exciting and memorable trek. All you need is to keep in mind some basic tips and guidelines.

Ensure That You are Physically in Shape

A rudimentary medical checkup should be the priority before even planning a trek. It’s not unusual for most beginners to suffer from cold and cough, upset stomachs, etc. It is your responsibility to inform others or the leader of your group if you have any medical conditions.

Do Adequate Research

The research and planning should be carried out very carefully. An exhaustive approach is preferable, more so if you are a novice. Pay close attention to the terrain and climate that you may encounter at your destination during the trek.

Choose an Easy Route

As a beginner, you should not opt for the tougher trails as they are more suited for the seasoned and experienced. Choosing an easy route will be a wise move to get a taste, gain experience and be prepared for bigger things down the line.

Scheduling

Make a comprehensive schedule – designed as per the climate and location of the destination. Make sure that you have informed a friend or relative about your plan in advance so that they can come to your aid in case of any problems.

The Budget

Take into account related expenses such as for food, accommodation, travel, etc. The money you take with you should be more than adequate to cover what has been estimated, as many unforeseen expenses may arise during the trekking trip.

Essentials and Packing

As a beginner, be warned that the food and water are something that may not be available during the trek. Hence, it’s better to carry them with you in sufficient quantity. Ensure a few changes of clothes of good quality as well.

While packing your stuff, you should divide the equipment accordingly. Heavier items should be distributed uniformly and frequently needed stuff should be easily accessible.

Basic Essentials

Here is a basic list of items you must bring along with you on your trekking tour:

Trekking boots (Ideally Waterproofed)
A sweater or Down jacket for chilly weather
Two sets of clothes
Waterproof / rain-gear with a hood
Personal first-aid kit including medication for common ailments
Tablets to purify the water
Toilet kit that includes extra towel, toilet paper and soap
Torches with additional batteries
Sunglasses
Water bottle that can hold sufficient water
Pocketknife
If you do not have the habit of walking long distances, you should try covering short distances at first. Fatigue is the common problem that beginners usually face while on a trek. Always keep your limitations in consideration. Being aware of your physical strength and endurance, you are best poised to make your own decisions.

Keep the above in mind, and you will get to experience the ultimate thrill on a trek!

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Well, the majority of those incredible photographs came about through a good deal of physical hardship, practiced patience, and a healthy amount of self-made luck.

Here are some tips to help you become stronger at wildlife photography and better at recording of the natural world.

Do your homework before heading out

Be as educated as possible before you ever make a photo. Doing your homework is one of the most important, yet loathed parts of wildlife photography. It never pays to walk into a situation and be completely clueless. Though you can never be totally prepared for every challenge you will face (that’s part of the fun) you can educate yourself so that you safely make the most of your outing.

What gear to pack

Advanced gear is not a requirement, however, patience and perseverance are essential. You don’t need the latest and greatest zoom lens or space-age gadgetry in order to produce outstanding nature and wildlife photos. At the same, you must also understand any limitations of your kit, so that you will have realistic expectations and avoid disappointment.

Gear up for what you’ll most likely be shooting. Packing for a photographic outing can cause a lot of anxiety. It’s easy to over pack due to fear of lacking a piece of gear. Over packing though, can be even worse than under packing. You become weighed down and uncomfortable. You find yourself not enjoying what you’re doing which is one of the most preventable of all mistakes, made by photographers. Research the animals and scenes you are likely to encounter. Decide what is most and least important to you. Make choices, commit to them, and then let it go. It will make packing a lot less stressful.

If you plan on photographing wildlife, such as birds and animals that scare easily, then pack your best zoom lens so you can keep distance between you and your subject. Shooting landscapes or scenes where stealth is not a concern? You might consider taking along a wider angle lens to better capture your scene. Ultimately, there is no secret formula and no true all-in-one lens to cover every situation. Be informed before you leave so that you can make the best use of whatever lens you have.

A good bag is worth its weight in gold

All the planning in the world isn’t worth much unless you can comfortably carry your essential tools with you. Find a camera bag that can carry the gear you need easily, and is equally comfortable on your body. Bags range greatly in price and quality but you usually get what you pay for. For added piece of mind, you might consider a bag that is semi-weatherproof or water resistant.

My go-to lightweight bag for wildlife photography, shown with and without the handy rain cover deployed.

Comfort items

Shoes: A good pair of hiking shoes or boots is one of the most important pieces of gear for any wildlife photographer. Grit, dirt, mud, water, insects, rocks, and creepy-crawlies – you need a pair of shoes or boots that can handle all of these elements. Your shoes should be well fitting and suitable for walking long distances. If your feet become uncomfortable it won’t be long before you start thinking about cutting your trip short.

Prepare a checklist

It’s always a good idea to have a mental checklist before beginning any shoot. Before your outing ask yourself the following questions:

• Are any special permits or permissions required? Some National or State Parks and wildlife sanctuaries require special permits for access to certain areas, especially those deemed as backcountry environments.
• Where will I park my vehicle? This is very important. Believe me, if you park your vehicle in an unauthorized area you will be stuck with a sizeable fine or worse, return to find your vehicle has been towed.
• Are there time restraints of any kind? Most natural areas and parks have hours of operation just like a business. You might arrive expecting to shoot a great sunrise only to find out the location you chose isn’t accessible until after daybreak. Also remember that wild creatures and critters are usually most active in the early morning or late evening.
• What are the expected weather conditions? This is a biggie. Know what to expect as far as the weather is concerned. Check the forecast the day of departure and keep tabs on it throughout the day if possible. NEVER chance endangering yourself or your equipment by venturing out unprepared for bad weather.
• What are the times for sunrise and sunset? Again, be sure the places you want to capture a sunrise or sunset are accessible during those times. You need to also be aware of the schedule so that you can allow enough time to reach your location and set up your gear before it’s go time.
• Are there any commonly photographed animals, landmarks, or structures? Research what is usually photographed around the area you plan to visit. Find a park ranger or staff member and ask about lesser known spots that are less travelled by tourists. Knowing what’s popular will save you time and help to avoid shooting a scene the same way it has been done time and time again. Look for ways to be creative and set your work apart!

So, you’ve researched your location and have a good idea of what to expect. Here are a few basic tips that can help you after you’ve reached your destination.

Shoot RAW

If possible, set your camera to capture images in camera RAW format. RAW image files are basically unprocessed, one might say uncooked, straight from your camera’s image sensor. They contain a massive amount of pixel information when compared to JPEG and take up a lot more memory card space. However, this additional information allows more latitude for adjustments in post-processing.

Use the lowest practical ISO

The ISO number of photographic film and image sensors relates to their sensitivity to light. The boiled down explanation is, everything else being equal, the higher the ISO number the less light is required to make an image. Unfortunately with higher light sensitivity comes increased image noise. In most (but not all) situations you will generally want to use the lowest ISO possible. That is not to say you should be afraid of bumping up the ISO. A fast shutter speed is often needed to capture the quick movements of wildlife and increased noise is far less noticeable than a blurred image.

Use AF continuous (AI Servo) mode when photographing wildlife

Autofocus (AF) can be your best friend or your worst enemy. When it comes to photographing most wildlife, however, autofocus is a great tool! Animals and birds, especially the wild variety, are almost constantly on the move. They shift positions and move closer or farther away selfishly, with little regard for the photo you are so carefully trying to compose. This is when AF-Continuous and AF-Servo modes come in handy. Though called different names depending on your camera’s make, they both accomplish the same objective which is keeping a moving subject constantly in focus. Place your selected focus area over your subject and half-press the shutter button to engage the AF. Focus will be tracked for as long as you follow your subject while maintaining pressure on the shutter button. Read your camera’s manual (you’ve done that already, right?) for detailed information concerning specific autofocus capabilities for your model, and how each mode can be selected.

Don’t forget the tripod

“I really didn’t think I would need my tripod” are words that usually begin a sad story about how a potentially great shot is missed. In most wildlife and nature photography situations a tripod is always a good idea. It’s better to have access to one and not need it than to need it and not have one available. Find the lightest and most compact tripod that is sturdy enough to handle your camera setup.

Learn so you can prepare. Prepare so you can photograph. Photograph so you can grow.

Photographing wildlife can be difficult but it can also yield huge artistic, personal, and even spiritual rewards. So go out and have fun doing what you do, but don’t forget to put the camera down every now and then to enjoy the world around you.

“Nature never goes out of style.” – Unknown

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The term Chikamagalur literally means “The town of the younger daughter” in the native Kannada language. The town is said to have been sent as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the legendary chief of Sakrepatna and hence the name. In fact, it must be stated here that located just 5 kilometres from Chikamagalur city is a town called Hiremagaluru which means “The town of the elder daughter”.

The region of Chikamagalur is the place where the rulers of the Hoysala Empire started and spent the early days of their dynasty. Legend has it that the legendary tiger which has been immortalised in the Hoysala crest was killed by the founder of the Hoysala dynasty at Sosevur, now identified with Angadi in Mudigere Taluk. However, this remains a disputed fact among historians as they have found a lot of inconsistencies in the story which they term as folklore. It is known for a fact however that Veera Ballala II, the great king of Hoysala Empire, has built the Amriteshwara temple at Amrithapura in Tarikere Taluk.

One of the most significant events in the history of Chikmagalur district is that coffee was introduced for the first time in India through the Chikmagalur district. The first coffee crop was grown in the Baba Budan Giri Hills in 1670 A.D. It is believed that the saint Baba Budan, on his pilgrimage to Mecca, happened to travel through the seaport of Mocha, Yemen. It is here that he discovered coffee for the first time and brought it back to India. In order to do this, he wrapped seven coffee beans around his belly and brought it out of Arabia back to India. When he returned home, he planted the beans in the hills of Chikkamagaluru, which are now named Baba Budan Hills in his honour. In recent history, Chikkamagaluru was the centre of global attention in the year 1978 when the former Indian Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi stood for elections here and got elected to Lok Sabha, the Indian Parliament.

The past history of Chikmagalur district is still seen carried forward in the various monuments that the various ruling dynasties have bestowed on the land. One of the greatest centres of education, trade and commerce, Chikmagalur has venerated monuments of all religions- Kodandarama temple a synthesis of Hoysala and Dravidian styles of architecture, Jamia Mosque and the new St. Joseph’s Cathedral with an attractive shell shaped portico, are among the many historical remnants found in the district. History of Chikmagalur district is a rather rich one, as seen in the remnants of Hoysala architecture strewn in the land. There is a history in the way the district got its name itself. Chikmagalur district gets its name from its headquarters of Chikkamagaluru city.

The term Chikamagalur literally means “The town of the younger daughter” in the native Kannada language. The town is said to have been sent as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the legendary chief of Sakrepatna and hence the name. In fact, it must be stated here that located just 5 kilometres from Chikamagalur city is a town called Hiremagaluru which means “The town of the elder daughter”.

The region of Chikamagalur is the place where the rulers of the Hoysala Empire started and spent the early days of their dynasty. Legend has it that the legendary tiger which has been immortalised in the Hoysala crest was killed by the founder of the Hoysala dynasty at Sosevur, now identified with Angadi in Mudigere Taluk. However, this remains a disputed fact among historians as they have found a lot of inconsistencies in the story which they term as folklore. It is known for a fact however that Veera Ballala II, the great king of Hoysala Empire, has built the Amriteshwara temple at Amrithapura in Tarikere Taluk.

One of the most significant events in the history of Chikmagalur district is that coffee was introduced for the first time in India through the Chikmagalur district. The first coffee crop was grown in the Baba Budan Giri Hills in 1670 A.D. It is believed that the saint Baba Budan, on his pilgrimage to Mecca, happened to travel through the seaport of Mocha, Yemen. It is here that he discovered coffee for the first time and brought it back to India. In order to do this, he wrapped seven coffee beans around his belly and brought it out of Arabia back to India. When he returned home, he planted the beans in the hills of Chikkamagaluru, which are now named Baba Budan Hills in his honour. In recent history, Chikkamagaluru was the centre of global attention in the year 1978 when the former Indian Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi stood for elections here and got elected to Lok Sabha, the Indian Parliament.

The past history of Chikmagalur district is still seen carried forward in the various monuments that the various ruling dynasties have bestowed on the land. One of the greatest centres of education, trade and commerce, Chikmagalur has venerated monuments of all religions- Kodandarama temple a synthesis of Hoysala and Dravidian styles of architecture, Jamia Mosque and the new St. Joseph’s Cathedral with an attractive shell shaped portico, are among the many historical remnants found in the district.

Festivals In Chikmagalur

Kailash Fair : It is a major fair celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva who is believed to have appeared here in the form of a stone Lingam. Diwali: Diwali is the festival of light. It is popularly celebrated here.

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