Kemmanagundi: A Hidden Gem of Karnataka
Kemmanagundi is a hill station located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is a small town nestled in the Baba Budan Giri Hills of the Western Ghats. Also known as K.R Hills, it is situated at an altitude of 1434 meters above sea level. The picturesque beauty of Kemmanagundi attracts tourists from all over the world. The lush greenery, the serene atmosphere, and the enchanting waterfalls make it a perfect holiday destination for nature lovers.
History
The name "Kemmanagundi" is derived from the words "Kempu" (meaning red) and "Managundi" (meaning soil). It is believed that the soil in Kemmanagundi has a reddish hue. The town was a favorite summer retreat of the erstwhile King of Mysore, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV. In 1910, he developed the place as a summer resort for himself and his guests. The British also had a significant influence on the development of the town, and they established a horticultural center here.
Things to do in Kemmanagundi
- Trekking: Kemmanagundi is a paradise for trekkers. The surrounding hills offer some of the most beautiful and adventurous treks. Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, is located near Kemmanagundi and is a popular trekking destination.
- Waterfalls: The hill station is famous for its waterfalls. Hebbe Falls, Kalhatti Falls, and Shanti Falls are some of the popular waterfalls that are a must-visit for tourists.
- Z-Point: Z-Point is a viewpoint located on top of a hill that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
- Raj Bhavan: The Raj Bhavan is a summer retreat of the Governor of Karnataka. It was originally built as a guesthouse for the King of Mysore. The beautiful gardens and the colonial architecture of the building are a treat to the eyes.
- Rock Garden: The Rock Garden is a beautiful garden with sculptures made of rocks. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
- Kemmangundi Peak: Kemmangundi Peak is the highest peak in the region, and it offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a popular spot for picnics.
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Kemmanagundi and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. The sanctuary offers a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Accommodation
There are several options for accommodation in Kemmanagundi, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. The Horticultural Department Guest House is an excellent option for those who want to experience colonial-style living. The Raj Bhavan is also open to tourists, and it offers a unique experience of living in a summer retreat of the Governor of Karnataka.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kemmanagundi is from September to May. The weather during this period is pleasant, and the surroundings are lush green. The monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended for tourists, as the area receives heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and disrupt travel.
How To Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is the Mangalore International Airport, which is about 170 km away from Kemmanagundi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kemmanagundi.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Kadur, which is about 40 km away from Kemmanagundi. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kemmanagundi.
- By Road: Kemmanagundi is well-connected by road to major cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore. KSRTC buses run regularly from Bangalore and Mangalore to Kemmanagundi. One can also hire a taxi or drive their own car to reach Kemmanagundi.
- By Trekking: For adventure enthusiasts, trekking is a popular option to reach Kemmanagundi. The trekking route starts from the nearby town of Tarikere and takes around 3-4 hours to reach Kemmanagundi. The trek is moderately difficult and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Conclusion
Kemmanagundi is a beautiful and serene hill station that offers a
perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its
pleasant climate, stunning landscapes, and abundance of flora and fauna,
it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure
enthusiasts. The breathtaking views of the sunsets and sunrises, the
spectacular Hebbe falls, and the lush green forests are some of the main
attractions of this place. One can indulge in activities like trekking,
camping, rock climbing, and bird watching. Kemmanagundi is easily
accessible by road and is well connected to major cities like Bangalore,
Mangalore, and Mysore. The best time to visit is from September to May.
With its tranquil and serene environment, Kemmanagundi promises to
offer a rejuvenating experience to all its visitors.