While most travellers do not travel in the monsoon season, there are seasoned explorers who know that this is the right time to explore certain regions. One of such regions is the Western Ghats of Karnataka. It is this time of the year when the region offers the misty and raw charm of the Makenadu region. So this monsoon, let’s ditch the crowded touristy places and witness the beauty of offbeat Karnataka. Here is a fun Agumbe and Chikmagalur monsoon guide for your next monsoon vacation.
Why Visit Agumbe & Chikmagalur During Monsoon?
Agumbe is known as the “Cherrapunji of the South” as it receives some of the highest rainfall in India. It houses a low-elevation rainforest reserve with dramatic waterfalls, endemic reptiles, and unique biodiversity. This makes it a must-explore and offbeat spot in the monsoon season. Talking about Chikmagalur, it is known as the birthplace of coffee in India. The mountain peaks are covered by thick blankets of mist, while the coffee plantations offer lush greenery. Hence, Chikmagalur is a must-visit during monsoons.
4-Day Itinerary
If you are willing to explore Agumbe and Chikmagalur together, here’s an itinerary:
Day 1:
Reach Chikmagalur and check into a homestay or eco-stay property. The best are the ones that are tucked inside coffee plantations.
Explore the coffee plantations here, and then you can also set off to Balur village. Witness the beauty of the famous Hemavathy River here and explore the plantations around.
End your day with a cup of Malenadu filter coffee and some local snacks out here. Go back to your stay, have dinner, and sleep.
Also Read: 7 Honeymoon Destinations In India For Monsoon 2026
Day 2:
Wake up early and head to explore the 551-foot waterfall, Hebbe Falls. Make sure you hire a 4×4 forest jeep as it is tucked inside a coffee estate in Kemmangudi. The waterfall gushes down in two distinct stages known as Dodda (big) hebbe and Chikka (small) hebbe.
Now drive through the mist-laden roads of Baba Budangiri, which is a hill and mountain range in Karnataka. You can explore the lesser-known streams flowing through the valleys.
Day 3:
Take the scenic route from Chikmagalur to Agumbe. Make sure you stop at the Sringeri temple situated on the banks of the Tunga River.
Navigate your way through the Agumbe Ghat section, tackling 14 hairpin curves. Make sure you are cautious. You might also get to witness beautiful and rare roadside waterfalls, which are present only during the monsoons.
Check into a homestay or eco-stay.
You can go out and explore the local space or visit the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS) if it is open.
Day 4:
Wake up early in the morning and set out for the Koodlu Theertha Falls trek. It is perfect for adventure lovers as it is a 3 km moderate trail passing through the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary.
It features dense jungle canopies, river crossings, and a plunge pool at the base.
Visit the Kaveladurga fort, which looks extremely beautiful in the monsoon season.
Return to Bangalore or Mangalore.
Also Read: Mahabaleshwar In Monsoon: Strawberries, Mist & Best Stays
How To Reach Agumbe
Air:
- Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Agumbe by air.
- The airport is about 95 km to 100 km away from the village.
- You can hire a pre-paid airport taxi or rent a car. It will be a 2.5 to 3-hour-long scenic journey from the airport.
- The Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore is another option to reach Agumbe. It is about 360 km away from the airport.
Train:
- The nearest railway station to Agumbe is Udupi railway station.
- The village is located about 55 km away from Udupi.
- Udupi is one of the major stops in the Konkan Railway network, hence it is well-connected to major hubs of India.
- You can take a private cab, or the local KSRTC bus, or a private KSRTC bus. It will take about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- If you are travelling from Bangalore, then Shivamogga railway station is the nearest option.
- It is located 90 km away from the village.
Road:
- While there are no direct buses. You can first reach Mangalore or Bangalore via buses and then switch to the state-run buses.
- You can also take your car to the beautiful village. The only tip is that the route features about 14 consecutive hairpin curves. The visibility also drops during the monsoon. So make sure you are extra cautious.
How To Reach Chikmagalur
Air:
- Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Chikmagalur by air.
- The airport is about 115 km to 150 km away from the village.
- You can hire a pre-paid airport taxi or rent a car. It will be a 3.5 to 4-hour-long scenic journey from the airport.
- The Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore is another option to reach Chikmagalur. It is about 260 km away from the airport.
Train:
- Kadur Railway Station is the nearest railway station to reach Chikmagalur. It is located just 40 kms away from the railway station.
- The other railway station that is nearest to Chikmagalur is Birur Junction. It is about 45 km away from the railway station.
- You can take KSRTC buses or cabs from these railway stations.
Road:
- While there are no direct buses. You can first reach Mangalore or Bangalore via buses and then switch to the state-run buses.
- You can also take your car to the beautiful village.
Also Read: Pondicherry In Monsoon: Beaches, French Town & Stay Guide
Summing Up
Agumbe and Chikmagalur both are beautiful offbeat monsoon destinations in Karnataka. They are some of the most mesmerising spots in India, and you must surely not miss them!
