Best Time and Route for Your Drive
Early winter, from September to February, is the ideal time to visit Chikmagalur. The monsoon has passed, leaving lush greenery, and the temperatures are cool and pleasant, ranging from 14 to 32 degrees Celsius. The drive from Bengaluru is roughly 245
kilometres and takes about five to six hours. The most recommended route is via NH75 through Hassan. This route offers smooth, wide highways for most of the journey, making it a comfortable and safe drive, even at night. To avoid city traffic, plan to start from Bengaluru by 6 AM. Tolls will cost approximately ₹300-₹500 for a one-way trip, so ensure your FASTag is recharged.
Crafting a Realistic Budget
A road trip's costs can add up, but careful planning helps. Your main expenses will be fuel, accommodation, food, and sightseeing. For a small car, expect fuel costs to be manageable for the roughly 500 km round trip. The biggest variable is your accommodation. Budget-friendly homestays can be found for as low as ₹1000-₹1500 per night. Food costs can be kept low by eating at local eateries instead of expensive resort restaurants. A weekend trip for two can be comfortably managed within a budget of ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 if you choose economical options. Setting aside a small amount for miscellaneous expenses and souvenirs, like locally grown coffee, is also a good idea.
Finding Affordable Accommodation
Chikmagalur is famous for its homestays, which offer an authentic Malnad experience at a fraction of the cost of luxury resorts. Many homestays provide clean, comfortable rooms and home-cooked meals, giving you a taste of the local culture and cuisine. Websites like Booking.com and Thrillophilia list numerous budget options, with some stays available for under ₹1500 per night. Booking in advance, especially for weekend trips during the peak season from September to March, is highly recommended as the best and most affordable places get filled up quickly. Look for properties slightly away from the main town for better prices and more serene surroundings.
Sightseeing on a Shoestring
Exploring the beauty of Chikmagalur doesn't require a fat wallet. Many of its most stunning attractions are either free or have a nominal entry fee. A trek up Mullayanagiri, Karnataka's highest peak, is a must-do and costs nothing but your energy. You can drive most of the way up and then climb the final steps to the summit for breathtaking views. Similarly, visiting the serene Hirekolale Lake or the viewpoints like Kavikal Gandi offers panoramic vistas without any cost. Many coffee estates allow visitors to walk through, though some may charge a small fee for a guided tour. Free spiritual sites include the Sringeri Mutt and the hilltop temples near Mahatma Gandhi Park.
Eating Smart and Saving Money
One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food, and in Chikmagalur, you can do so economically. Avoid the overpriced menus at large resorts and instead, seek out local 'khanavalis' or small restaurants in Chikmagalur town. Here, you can savour authentic Malnad cuisine, including dishes like akki roti, jackfruit preparations, and delicious chicken curries, at very reasonable prices. Many budget homestays also offer home-cooked meals as part of their package, which is often both delicious and cost-effective. For breakfast on the way, there are several good restaurants around Kunigal and Hassan to refuel before you hit the ghat section.
