Baba Budangiri

History of Baba Budangiri:

  Baba Budangiri in Chikmagalur is revered by Hindus and Muslims alike. It features a shrine dedicated to Hazrat Dada Hayath Mir Khalander, a 17th-century Sufi saint, and caves believed to have housed Sri Dattatreya Swamy. The area is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and offers excellent trekking opportunities. Highlights include the scenic trails through forests, rocky stretches, and green hills, with views of peaks like Budangiri and Mullayanagiri. Every 12 years, the region also attracts visitors with the rare blooming of kurinji flowers, turning the Nilgiri hills blue.

How to reach Baba Budangiri?

By Air: Fly to Bangalore. After reaching Bangalore you can hire a car to Baba Budangiri. The journey takes around 4 – 5 hours by road about 270 km.

By Train: Board a train from Bangalore to Kadur Junction. Train journey takes approximately 4-5 hours. After reaching Kadur it is about 40 km by road from Kadur to Baba Budangiri. Take a bus or hire a car from Kadur to Baba Budangiri. The journey by road takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

By Road: There are direct bus services from Bangalore to Chikmagalur, which is near Baba Budangiri. Bus journey takes around 5-6 hours which is approximately 250-270 km. Once you reach Chikmagalur you can hire local taxis or use local buses to reach Baba Budangiri.

Best time to visit Baba Budangiri:

Summer Season: Summers in Baba Budangiri are generally warm with temperatures ranging from moderate to slightly hot. Daytime temperatures can vary between 25°C to 30°C, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.

Monsoon Season: During the monsoon season, Baba Budangiri receives moderate to heavy rainfall. The surroundings become lush green and the weather is relatively cool. The rainfall enhances the natural beauty of the area, but trekking and outdoor activities may be restricted due to slippery paths and the risk of landslides.

Winter Season:

Winters in Baba Budangiri are cool and pleasant. Daytime temperatures range between 15°C to 20°C, while nights can be chilly with temperatures dropping to around 10°C or lower. The winter months are ideal for visiting Baba Budangiri as the weather is comfortable for trekking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Things to do at Baba Budangiri:

Visit the Dattatreya Peeta: This is a sacred site for both Hindus and Muslims, dedicated to the Muslim saint Baba Budan and the Hindu deity Dattatreya. Explore the shrine and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Trekking: Trek to Z point, Kemmangundi, or explore the surrounding hills and forests. Enjoy the lush greenery, cool climate, and panoramic views from the hilltops.

Coffee Plantations: Baba Budangiri region is famous for its coffee plantations. Take a walk through the plantations, learn about coffee cultivation, and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Explore Caves and Rock Formations: There are caves and interesting rock formations in and around Baba Budangiri. Explore these natural formations, which are often surrounded by lush forests.

Sunrise/Sunset Views: Various viewpoints around Baba Budangiri offer stunning sunrise and sunset views. Capture the mesmerizing play of colors across the sky and the hills.