India is a vast country with 28 states. Each state has something different to offer. But very few provide adventurous experiences to its visitors, just like Karnataka. The eighth-largest state of India has so much to offer. This state has beautiful shrines, beaches, temples, and lush hill stations.
If you are looking for a vacation place or love hiking or trekking, don’t forget Karnataka. Because this state has more than 20 hill stations, it is also famous for its serene hill stations.
If you want to travel to the best hill stations of this state, then you must visit these 8 rejuvenating hill stations in Karnataka.
8 Best Hill Stations in Karnataka That Are Worth Visiting
Following are the eight best hill stations of Karnataka:
Coorg
Coorg is the tea and coffee-producing hill station, also known as Kodagu. This hill station is filled with lush greenery and beautiful scenery, so it is popularly known as Scotland of India.
Coorg hill station in Karnataka has become one of the most popular visiting spots in South India. Not only is it famous for its lush green hills, but you will also witness stunning waterfalls, lakes, and other beautiful landscapes.
Kodagu town is filled with beautiful landscapes with coffee and tea plantations. In addition, the beauty of Coorg hill station is at its peak during monsoon season. The best time to visit Kodagu is usually from June to September.
Other than that, Coorg also has so much to offer to nature lovers or adventure enthusiasts. You can go paragliding, trekking to Tadiandamol Peak or Brahmagiri, rafting at white river, Canoeing, Kayaking, or taking a coffee tour.
Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills, which is 60 km from Bangalore, is one of the best hill stations in Karnataka.
The hill is situated near the town of Nandi. Many historical temples and other monuments are located near the hills. The mountains of Nandi were a relaxing summer spot for Tipu Sultan. So, you will come across many of his things of use.
These hills are an excellent place for trekkers and adventure lovers. From exploring Tipu’s residence to paragliding on the beautiful hill or visiting Brahmashram, you will love these hills, which will be worth seeing. Other activities include cycling, trekking, or visiting the Nandi temple.
You can also book nearby hotels, resorts, or homestays. Don’t forget to eat delicious cuisine at the Indian Paratha Palace or the Tribal Cafe. The best time to visit Nandi Hills is from September to May.
Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur hill station is a stunning spot and a tourist attraction in Karnataka. This hill station is covered with beautiful hills and forests. While roaming the hills of Chikmagalur, you will smell the fresh aroma of coffee beans and tea leaves. It is also known as “Paradise for Coffee Lovers.”
There are so many famous places to visit in these hills. You can visit Kallathigiri Falls, Hebbe Falls, Hanumana Falls, and Coffee Museum. Kondandarama temple and Gandhi Park are also the most visited spots in Chikmagalur.
For adventure lovers, you can trek to Mullayanagiri Peak, visit tea and coffee plantations, and pay respect to Mullayanagiri and Amruteshwara temples.
In addition, if you plan to visit Chikmagalur hill station for a few days or a week for a vacation with your family, there are many hotels and resorts where you can book rooms in advance.
The best time to visit the Chikmagalur hill station is September to March.
Agumbe
This hill station in Shimoga district receives the highest rainfall in South India, with around 7,000 mm yearly rainfall. Due to this heavy rainfall, Agumbe hill station is often known as the Cherrapunji of South India.
The hill station is located in the western ghats. It is famous for its beautiful waterfalls and stunning streams. Barkan Falls, Kunchikal Falls, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary. Rainforest Research Station is the perfect spot to visit in Agumbe hill station.
This hill station is also famous for its sunset views. You can trek to Kundari Hills, explore different forests, or have a memorable picnic near the waterfall. Doing nature photography in this hill station would be worth it.
You can also try river rafting at Seethanadi camp. The best time to visit Agumbe hill station is from November to January.
BR Hills
They are also known as Biligirirangana hills. BR Hills is one of the most stunning hill stations in South India. It is a hill range located Southwest of Karnataka. Not only do these hills have beautiful forests, but there is also wildlife.
Famous places to visit in BR hills are BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, Dodda Simpage Temple, and Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple. You can also have a safari tour at a wildlife sanctuary, trek to its peak, enjoy river rafting, boating, fishing at Kapila rivers, or buy handicrafts at the nearby local shops.
It is a must-visit hill station for vacation with family. Meanwhile, the best time to visit BR Hill is from October to March.
Kundadri Hills
This is one of the most underrated hill stations in Karnataka. That means few people visit these hills, but this makes it calmer and peaceful. Kundadri Hills are pollution-free and less visited.
From hills to dense forests, streams, and beautiful valleys, Kundadri hills are famous for their temples, such as Sri Sri Jagadguru Shankaracharya, Sri Sharadamba Temple, and Sri Rameshwara Temple.
Other places to visit are Tunga Bridge, Onake Abbi Falls, Barkana Falls, and Koodlu Waterfall. You can trek to the hills, picnic near the waterfall, or witness stunning views of the Agumbe sunset. The best time to visit Kundadri Hills is from October to mid-February.
Gangamoola
Gangamoola Hills is located in the district of Chikmagalur. These hills are covered with dense forests with beautiful landscapes. These hills are the perfect destination for nature lovers who need a relaxing place.
The hills of Gangamoola are famous for being the origin of three significant rivers: Tunga, Netravati, and Bhadra. Hanumana Gundi Falls and Sirimane Waterfalls are the famous waterfalls of this hill.
Other places to visit are Sri Annapoorneshwari Temple, Gomateshwara Statue, Chaturmukha Basadi, and Amba Teertha River.
You can have a Jeep safari tour, trek to Kurinjal Peak, or enjoy the beauty of Kudremukh National Park. The best time to visit is from December to March.
Kemmanagundi
Last on the list of 8 rejuvenating hill Stations in Karnataka is Kemmanagundi. Kemmanagundi is known for its vibrant night, Sunset View Point, and trekking, making it the best place for adventure and nature lovers.
You can visit Shiva temple, Hebbe Falls, Mullyanagri Peak, Z Point, Rock Garden, Rajendra Hills and many more. Moreover, you can go hiking or trekking at Hebbe Falls or watch Elephants, Tigers, and other animals at BRT Wildlife.
If you plan to visit Kemmanagundi Hill for vacation, it would be worth every moment. The best time to visit this hill is September to January.
Conclusion
To conclude, you must visit these 8 rejuvenating hill stations in Karnataka for a worthwhile experience. Every hill station mentioned above is definitely worth exploring. But make sure to visit these hills in the preferred months to get the most out of these hills.
So, if you want to relax from the hustle of city life, then plan a vacation at the hill station discussed above. There are dozens of hotels and resorts for your vacation in these hills. If you have visited any of these hill stations, please let me know in the comments.