Kemmannagundi also known as KR Hills is located in Tarikere of Chikmagalur district in Baba Budan range. It is located at a distance of 255 Kms from Bangalore. It is named after Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV of the Wadiyar dynasty. This was his favourite summer retreat. It is located at a height of 4,705 feet above sea level.
The view from the hills is really stunning and is home to numerous tea and coffee plantations. It is a ideal place for trekking which makes a relaxing gateway from big cities. There is a high iron content in the soil which makes the colour of flowers very vibrant. The name 'Kemmannagundi ' is derived from kempu mannu, or red soil.
Around Kemmannagundi
Z - point is the most attractive and magnificent viewpoint. It is well worth the effort you take to go there. It takes 30 minutes from the Horticulture Department Guest House to trek up the steep path. The orchid house and the rock garden at Horticulture Department Guest House is a must see. It also offers accommodation and dinning facilities.
The greenery all around you gives you a soothing effect to your eyes. There is nothing much to do here except enjoy the nature around you. Shanti Falls is on the way to Z - point don't miss the stream.
Rock Garden The Karnataka Horticulture Department is home to the Rose Garden, Orchid House and several exotic plant species. The garden is beautifully landscaped. You will find many rare species of flowers and and plants.
Things To Do
Kemmannagundi is home to excellent trekking terrain because of its peaks and deep jungle trails. The Baba Budan Giri Hills is surrounded by lush green cover and all year round pleasant weather is a major tourist attraction. Hebbe falls is 8 Kms trek from here and a slightly longer one leads to Kalhatti falls.
If you have come directly to Kemmannagundi you can trek to Baba Budan Giri or Mullayyanagiri from here. Horticulture Department can give you more details about trekking routes and you can also camp out at the guest house.
Tips: Monsoon season should be avoided for trekking as the terrain will be at its worst and leeches infested.
Tourist Information
Horticulture Department Guest House
Krishna Rajasagar Hill Station
Kemmannagundi Post
Chikmangalur 577101
Phone : (08262) 237126, 235334
Bangalore Horticulture Department
Phone : (080) 2657-3667/0181
How to Reach
- By Air - Mangalore 240 Kms and Bangalore 255 Kms
- By Rail - Nearest railway-station Tarikere (35 Kms ) is connected by Bangalore-Shimoga Express. Other railways stations nearby are Birur (38 Kms) is connected by the Bangalore-Hubli Janashatabdi Express and Chalukys Express.
- By Road - Bangalore 255 Kms Drive through Tumkur, Kadur and Birur to Kemmannagundi. Regular KSRTC Buses ply from Bangalore
Where to Stay
Horticulture Department Guest House
Phone : (08262) 237126/127, 235334
Ozone Valley
Denton Khan Estate
Kemmannagundi 577137
Valley Of The Birds Home Stay
G.M.Farm ,Thanigebailu Post
Tarikere, Chickmagalur 577129
Phone: (08261)- 258220, 215016
Mobile: 98459-62472 /94805-8130
Hill View Cottage
Pallavara - Hand post
Kallahattigiri Post, Tarikere Taluk
Chikmagalur Dist.
Kemmangundi
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