Hill Stations of Karnataka exhibits the idiosyncratic natural landscape beauty, glimpses of early history, wildlife sanctuaries and the ancient South Indian temples. Blessed by the presence of majestic Western Ghat Range, Karnataka presents several tourist options for the nature lovers and adventure junkies. The terraced coffee plantations, translucent green paddy fields and the small lively rivers beautify the hills of this South Indian state.
Some of the famous Hill Stations of Karnataka are as follows:
Coorg, Kodagu District
Coorg has a feeling of antiquity that is clearly reflected from its laid-back attitude. Situated on Western Ghats Mountain Range in India, Coorg is only 265 km from Bengaluru. The slopes are covered by thick forests.
Kemmangundi, Chikmagalur District
Kemmangundi is a beautiful and picturesque hill station, situated on the Baba Budangiri Range. Once it served as a summer retreat of the Indian rulers of South India. This hill station has become one of the favourite holiday spots for the tourists.
Kundadri, Shimoga District
Kundadri is the place where a 17th Century Jain temple is located. Mangalore International Airport is serving as a nearest airport to reach here. Kundadri is the perfect place to unwind and let go of all stress.
Kodachadri Peak, Shimoga District
Located at the Western Ghats, Kodachadri Peak is one of the most beautiful places in Karnataka. Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is the cynosure of this place, as it is the residents of many animals and birds.
B R Hills, Chamarajanagar District
B R Hills is a lucrative tourist destination in Karnataka for the presence of Krishnayyanakatte reservoir, which is located at the foothill region of Yelandur. B R Hills Sanctuary is situated near the B R Hills.
Nandi Hill, Chikballapur District
Nandi Hills offers moderate trekking to the tourists. It is believed that Arkavathy River is originated from here. It was a popular holiday retreat for the British office before Independence.
Chikkamagaluru, Chikmagalur District
Chikmagalur is one of the best Hill Stations and the most famous tourist places near Bengaluru. Coffee plantation estates, Mullayanagiri range, Kudremukha, Kalasa, Koppa, Sringeri, Balehonnuru and Mudigere are the places of interest in Chikmagalur.
Agumbe Hill Station, Shimoga District
Also known as the "Cherrapunji of the South", this scenic hill station of Karnataka is also a splendid destination for trekking, nature photography and several other activities. This hill station is popular worldwide for its stunning views. Blessed with a rustic ambience it receives visitors all through the year.
Virajpet, Kodagu District
Virajpet is a hill station with coffee plantation and spice farming. Madikeri Dasara is a popular festival celebrated here.
Madikeri, Kodagu District
Madikeri is a hill station town in Karnataka. It is a popular tourist destination. It lies on the Karnataka State Highway 88 that runs from Mysore to Mangaluru. Madikeri Fort is a major sightseeing option in Madikeri.
Kollur, Udupi District
Kollur is a small temple-town and a hill station in Kundapur Taluk. This place is famous for Mookambika temple, a Hindu pilgrimage centre. It is also a popular place for trekking.
Sagara, Shimoga District
Sagara is notified for the grand presence of Jog Falls. Boating at Honnemaradu and the jungle safari at Sharavati Wildlife Sanctuary are the best activities here.
Charmadi Ghat, Dakshina Kannada district
Charmadi Ghat is a lesser known destination and it is uniquely rich in biodiversity and shelters a number of rare medicinal plants.
The Hill Stations of Karnataka offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. They appear to be a delight for wildlife aficionado and bird watchers. Just like the temples, palaces, beaches and wildlife sanctuaries, the Hill Stations of Karnataka are well acclaimed among the tourists and serve as a retreat for the vacationers.