The Mullayanagiri-Baba Budangiri Loop
While this is the most famous circuit, you can give it an offbeat twist. Start your drive early to beat the crowds and witness the sunrise paint the Western Ghats in ethereal hues. The road to Mullayanagiri, Karnataka's highest peak, is a thrilling ascent
with hairpin bends and panoramic views. Instead of rushing back, continue towards Baba Budangiri, a revered site for both Hindus and Muslims. The drive between these two peaks features a narrow ridge, often called the 'blade walk', offering dramatic vistas. For a cosy stay, look for homestays tucked away on the slopes leading to these peaks, like the numerous options that offer everything from rustic charm to modern amenities. Many provide guided treks through their own coffee plantations, giving you a private slice of this popular region.
The Verdant Kemmanagundi Trail
Once the summer retreat of a Mysore maharaja, Kemmanagundi retains a regal, untouched charm. The drive here takes you through dense forests and the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary buffer zone. Your destinations are the viewpoints—Z Point requires a short, rewarding trek for a stunning valley view, while the Rose Garden offers a more manicured beauty. Don't miss Hebbe Falls, which requires a bumpy jeep ride through forest tracks, adding to the adventure. Plantation lodges in this area often come in the form of heritage bungalows and secluded resorts. Places like The Last Resort and Valley of the Birds Homestay offer a tranquil escape, letting you soak in the serene environment after a day of exploration.
The Wild Charmadi Ghat Route
For those driving from coastal cities like Mangalore, the Charmadi Ghat offers the most dramatic entry into Chikmagalur. This route is a celebration of the raw beauty of the Western Ghats, with winding roads, dense shola forests, and numerous unnamed waterfalls that come alive during the monsoon. It’s less about specific viewpoints and more about the immersive driving experience. The road connects Belthangady to Mudigere, dropping you right at the doorstep of coffee country. Along this route and around Mudigere, you’ll find some of the most authentic plantation stays, where the focus is on hospitality and nature. These are often family-run estates where you can enjoy home-cooked Malnad cuisine and wake up to the sounds of the forest.
The Devaramane and Kyatanamakki Off-Road Adventure
If you have a 4x4 and a taste for true adventure, the trails to Devaramane and Kyatanmakki are for you. Devaramane, meaning 'Abode of God', is a tranquil valley with a historic temple and 360-degree views of the surrounding hills. It’s a place of profound peace. Kyatanmakki Hills, on the other hand, is a pure off-roading delight, with a challenging path that leads to a spectacular sunset point. These routes are not for the faint of heart and require a sturdy vehicle. Accommodation nearby is sparse and rustic, mostly limited to very basic homestays. The real luxury here is the complete disconnect from the commercial world and the unspoiled natural beauty that greets you at the top.
