Kemmanagundi Hills, also known as K.R. Hills, is a picturesque hill station located in the Baba Budan Giri Range of the Western Ghats in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is situated at an altitude of 1,434 meters above sea level and is known for its lush green forests, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
Kemmanagundi was once the summer retreat of the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore, and it still retains its old-world charm. The hill station is surrounded by a dense forest cover, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Some of the popular wildlife species found here include tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer.
One of the main attractions of Kemmanagundi is the Hebbe Falls, which is located about 8 kilometers from the hill station. The falls are formed by the waters of the Hebbe River cascading down from a height of 168 meters, and the surrounding forests make for a stunning backdrop.
Another popular attraction in Kemmanagundi is the Z Point, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek to Z Point is a popular activity for adventure enthusiasts, and the views from the top are truly breathtaking.
Other notable attractions in Kemmanagundi include the Kalhatti Falls, the Shanti Falls, and the Kallathigiri Falls. There are also several trekking trails in and around the hill station, which offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.
What Makes it Special as a Tourist Destination
Kemmanagundi Hills is a special tourist destination for several reasons:
Scenic Beauty: Kemmanagundi is surrounded by lush green forests, waterfalls, and beautiful mountain peaks, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The hill station's natural beauty is sure to leave visitors spellbound.
Trekking and Hiking: Kemmanagundi offers several trekking and hiking trails that take visitors through the heart of the Western Ghats. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and the trek to Z Point is a popular activity among adventure enthusiasts.
Waterfalls: The hill station is home to several waterfalls, including the Hebbe Falls, Kalhatti Falls, and Kallathigiri Falls. These falls are a major attraction for tourists and offer a refreshing break from the summer heat.
Wildlife: Kemmanagundi is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. The hill station's forests are a great place for wildlife enthusiasts to explore and observe the local wildlife.
History: Kemmanagundi was once the summer retreat of the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore, and the hill station still retains its old-world charm. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and cottages built during the Maharaja's reign.
Kemmanagundi is a unique tourist destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the Western Ghats, explore the local wildlife, and learn about the region's history and culture. It is a perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful and serene getaway amidst nature.
Experiences for Tourists
Kemmanagundi Hills offers several experiences for tourists, including:
Trekking and Hiking: Kemmanagundi offers several trekking trails that take visitors through the heart of the Western Ghats. The trek to Z Point is a popular activity among adventure enthusiasts and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Waterfall Hopping: The hill station is home to several waterfalls, including the Hebbe Falls, Kalhatti Falls, and Kallathigiri Falls. Visitors can go waterfall hopping and enjoy the refreshing beauty of the cascading waterfalls.
Wildlife Watching: Kemmanagundi is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. Visitors can explore the forests and observe the local wildlife.
Visit Gardens and Cottages: The hill station was once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Mysore, and visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and cottages built during the Maharaja's reign.
Relaxation: Kemmanagundi is the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful and serene getaway amidst nature. Visitors can simply relax and unwind amidst the stunning natural beauty of the hill station.
Photography: Kemmanagundi is a photographer's paradise, offering stunning views of the Western Ghats, waterfalls, and lush green forests.
Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
Some of the top attractions and must-visit places in and around Kemmanagundi Hills are:
Z Point: Z Point is a popular trekking destination in Kemmanagundi that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a must-visit place for adventure enthusiasts.
Hebbe Falls: Hebbe Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Kemmanagundi that offers a refreshing break from the summer heat. Visitors can take a dip in the cool water and enjoy the scenic beauty of the falls.
Kalhatti Falls: Kalhatti Falls is another popular waterfall in Kemmanagundi that is surrounded by lush green forests. Visitors can take a dip in the falls and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Kallathigiri Falls: Kallathigiri Falls is a hidden gem located in Kemmanagundi that is surrounded by coffee plantations and lush green forests. It is a must-visit place for nature lovers.
Baba Budangiri: Baba Budangiri is a mountain peak located near Kemmanagundi that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can also explore the local coffee plantations and learn about the coffee-making process.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Kemmanagundi and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. Visitors can go on a wildlife safari and observe the local wildlife.
Mullayanagiri: Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka and is located near Kemmanagundi. Visitors can trek to the peak and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Kemmanagundi Hills and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of attractions and must-visit places for tourists. From stunning waterfalls to beautiful mountain peaks and wildlife sanctuaries, visitors can explore the natural beauty of the region and have a memorable experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kemmanagundi Hills is from September to May, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. During this time, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, sightseeing, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The monsoon season from June to August should be avoided as heavy rainfall can lead to landslides and disrupt travel plans. Overall, the months from September to May offer the best weather conditions and the most enjoyable experience for visitors to Kemmanagundi Hills.
How to Reach
Kemmanagundi Hills is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, India. Here are the different modes of transportation to reach Kemmanagundi:
By Air: The nearest airport to Kemmanagundi is Mangalore International Airport, which is located about 160 km away. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Kemmanagundi.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Kemmanagundi is Tarikere Railway Station, which is located about 35 km away. Visitors can take a taxi or a bus from the railway station to reach Kemmanagundi.
By Road: Kemmanagundi is well-connected by road, and visitors can take a bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore. The distance from Bangalore to Kemmanagundi is about 250 km, and the journey takes about 5-6 hours by road.
By Self-Drive: Visitors can also drive to Kemmanagundi in their own vehicle or rent a car from nearby cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore. The roads are well-maintained and offer a scenic drive through the Western Ghats.
