Kemmangundi: Travel Guide

Kemmangundi is a very beautiful tourist attraction in the state of Karnataka, Chikmagalur district. 

Distance From Bengaluru: Approximately 350 kms.
What's Special: Lush green forest and some wonderful waterfalls. There are lot of trekking opportunities in this area. Kemmannagundi means "A Pit of Red Soil".
Mode of Transport: Buses, trains and any private mode of transport by road.
Near By Places: Hebbe falls, Shanti falls, Z Point, Kalhatti Falls, Rose Garden, Mullayanagiri, Baba Budan Giri, etc...

    

    Kemmangundi, also known as "K.R Hills" or "Queen of Hills", is a popular hill station located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. Situated at an altitude of 1434 meters above sea level, this serene hill station offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountain ranges, valleys, and dense forests.

History and Geography:

    Kemmangundi was once the summer retreat of Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the Maharaja of Mysore. He developed this hill station into a picturesque location by planting various species of plants, trees, and flowers. Today, Kemmangundi is a popular tourist destination and a favourite weekend getaway for people from nearby cities such as Bangalore and Mangalore.

    The hill station is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, and it is surrounded by the Baba Budangiri hills, Mullayanagiri, and Hebbe falls. The temperature here is relatively cool throughout the year, making it an ideal destination to escape the scorching heat of the plains.

Attractions and Activities:

    Kemmangundi offers a plethora of attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. Some of the popular attractions here include:

Z Point: A popular vantage point that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a perfect spot to watch the sunrise and sunset.

Hebbe Falls: Located at a distance of 10 km from Kemmangundi, Hebbe Falls is a picturesque waterfall that offers a serene ambiance to relax and rejuvenate.

Kalhatti Falls: Located at a distance of 10 km from Kemmangundi, Kalhatti Falls is a majestic waterfall that cascades down from a height of 400 feet. It is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Raj Bhavan: Built by the Maharaja of Mysore, Raj Bhavan is a beautiful colonial-style bungalow that serves as a guest house for the Governor of Karnataka. It is surrounded by well-manicured gardens and offers a glimpse into the rich history of Kemmangundi.

    Apart from these, Kemmangundi also offers various trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts. The Mullayanagiri trek is a popular trekking trail that takes you through dense forests, rocky terrain, and grassy slopes. The trek to Baba Budangiri is also a popular activity that offers a unique experience of camping in the midst of the mountains.

Accommodation and Food:

    Kemmangundi offers a variety of accommodation options for tourists ranging from budget-friendly homestays to luxurious resorts. The Karnataka Forest Department also operates a guest house that provides basic amenities at an affordable price.

    The food here is mainly South Indian cuisine, and there are a few local eateries that serve authentic Karnataka dishes such as Bisi Bele Bath, Vangi Bath, and Masala Dosa. There are also a few restaurants that serve North Indian and Continental cuisine.

Conclusion:

    Kemmangundi is a perfect destination for people who are looking for a serene and tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. The hill station offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and history, making it an ideal destination for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to Karnataka, do not miss out on the opportunity to visit Kemmangundi, the Queen of Hills.

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