Karnataka Hillstations
Hilltop Trips India

Karnataka with its capital at Bangalore is the country's 8th largest state. It is a charming land of Southern India has rich history and culture. It is located at Deccan Plateau, and is surrounded by Maharashtra to the north, Arabian Sea to the west, Goa to the northwest, Kerala to the southwest, Andhra Pradesh to the east and Tamil Nadu to southeast. Karnataka's economy benefits from gold, manganese, oilseed, coffee, silk and sandalwood production. Over 90% of India's gold production comes from south Karnataka. Karnataka is the largest producer of coffee, raw silk and sandalwood based products.

Karnataka has many well known hill stations. Each one is famous for its own unique charm, some for sandalwood forests, some for coffee plantations and others for trekking trails, waterfalls and wildlife. Located in the Western Ghats, these hill stations present outstanding views. Dense forests, deep valleys and magnificent sunsets, you name it and you've got it.

Biligiri Hills

Situated 120 Km from Mysore and 247 Km from Bangalore, the Biligirirangana range of hills is beautifully situated between the Cauvery and the Tungabhadra rivers. At a height of 5,091 ft above sea level, this hill station stretches from north to south for about 16 Kms. Bordered by deciduous trees, the forests are swarming with wildlife.

Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is situated in a lush valley south of the Babu-Budan range. It derives its name from the headquarters town of ChiKmagalur which literally means younger daughter's town. It is believed that it was given as a dowry to the younger daughter of RuKmangada, the legendary chief of Sakrepatna. Hiremagalur, another part of the town, was given to the elder daughter. Certain ancient inscriptions reveal that these two places were originally known as Kiriya-magalu and Piriya-magalu. This hill station has several interesting attractions like, the Kondadarama Temple, the Jamia Mosque and the new St. Joseph's Cathedral.

Coorg

Kodagu or Coorg is the capital of Madikeri. The town is situated at a height of 1525 meters. Coorg has a feeling of antiquity that is clearly reflected from its laid back attitude. Located in the Western Ghats the slopes of this hill station in Karnataka are covered by forests. Its natural splendor attracts tourists from all over the world.

Kudremukh

Situated 95 Km south-west of Chikmaglur town is the Kudremukh (Horse Face) range, named after the unique shape of the Kudremukh Peak. It overlooks the Arabian Sea and the broad hills are bound to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices. Discovered by tourists, Kudremukh is a secluded hill station, which retains its serenity and natural beauty. The hill is covered by Sylvan green forests, beautified by mighty rivers, grassy slopes, exuberant cascades and rare orchids, providing a wonderful setting for trekking. Situated 1,894.3 meters above sea level, Kudremukh is rich in iron ore deposits.

Kermana Gundi

Located in the Tarikere Taluk of Chikmaglur district is a picture perfect hamlet - Kemmanugundi, also called K.R.Hills named after the Wodeyar king Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, who made it his favourite summer destination. Situated on the Baba- Budan range at a height of 1,434 m, Kemmanugundi is the perfect get away destination from the hustle and bustle of the cities.

Nandi Hills

Located 60 Km north of Bangalore is the summer resort of Karnataka called Nandi Hills. It is also known as Nandidurga, it was once one of the summer retreats of Tipu Sultan. Nandi Hills was also a favorite of British, who built bungalows and laid out gardens here. Today, its a popular weekend destination among Bangaloreans. The 1478-m high Nandi Hills is the originating point of many rivers.

Agumbe

This hill station is popular worldwide for its stunning views. Blessed with a rustic ambience it receives visitors all through the year. In Karnataka Agumbe is more popularly known as the Cherrapunji of the South because of the amount of rainfall it receives. Sunsets are the major attraction here.

Gangamoola

Located in the Samse Taluk of ChiKmagalur district, the Gangamoola hill is surrounded by thick forests. It is the origin of three mighty rivers, the Tunga, Bhadra and Nethravathi. The highlights of the region are a Goddess Bhagavathi shrine and a Varaha image, 1.8 metres high, within a cave, which become inaccessible during the monsoons.

Kundadri

A picturesque hill station that is a haven for adventure lovers. In case one is planning for a quiet vacation on hills this would be the perfect place for him or her. As is the case with al hill stations the views that it offers are excellent. Whether one is watching the sunsets or taking a stroll inside the jungle he or she will definitely be spellbound by the beauty.

Kodachadri

The best time to visit Kodachari is from September to May. Located at the Western Ghats it is one of the most beautiful places in Karnataka. This hill station, too, is well known for its scenic beauty. The place is situated at a height of 1343 meters.