Kemmangundi

Overview

Kemmangundi is a small, quiet hill station in the Baba Budangiri range, about 55km from Chikmagalur town, developed originally as a summer retreat for the Mysore royal family. It stays genuinely uncrowded compared to Chikmagalur or Coorg — there's no real town centre, just a handful of viewpoints, a rose garden, and estate roads — which makes it a good add-on to a Chikmagalur trip rather than a standalone multi-day destination. Karnataka's forest department maintains the Z Point and Rock Garden trails; both can close briefly after heavy rain, so check locally before committing a full day to them.

Best time to visit

October through February for clear valley views from Z Point and the Rock Garden. Monsoon (June–September) brings thick fog that can close out the views entirely for days at a time, though Kalhatti Falls nearby runs fullest in this window if waterfalls are the priority over viewpoints.

Things to do

• Walk to Z Point, the main viewpoint, for layered Western Ghats views on a clear day.
• Explore the Rock Garden, a short walking trail through landscaped rock formations.
• See Kalhatti Falls, a short drive away, best just after monsoon.
• Visit the Government Rose Garden, a small, easy stop near the town centre.
• Drive the estate roads connecting Kemmangundi to Chikmagalur for coffee-country scenery along the way.

Sample itinerary

Day Trip from Chikmagalur

1. Morning — Drive up from Chikmagalur, Z Point at midday for the clearest views.
2. Afternoon — Rock Garden, Kalhatti Falls, drive back before evening.

Weekend (2 Days)

1. Day 1 — Arrive, Rose Garden and Rock Garden in the afternoon, overnight in Kemmangundi.
2. Day 2 — Z Point at sunrise, Kalhatti Falls on the way back to Chikmagalur.