Chikmagalur is a hill station in Karnataka, a state in southwest India. To the north is Baba Budangiri, a mountain range in the Western Ghats, with 3 large caves said to be holy. Trails through forests and grasslands lead up to Mullayanagiri Peak. The cascading Hebbe Falls lie in an area of coffee plantations. The forested Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, northwest of Chikmagalur, is home to elephants, tigers and leopards.
When to visit: Chikmagalur is a year-round destination, though the hotter months of Mar–May are a popular time to trek Mullayanagiri Peak. The monsoon brings heavy rainfall Jun–Sep. The waterfalls look their most spectacular during, and just after, the rainy season.
