Top 21 Hill Stations in Karnataka

The state of Karnataka is located in the southern part of India and is blessed with some of the most beautiful hill stations. Although the state is famous for its cityscapes, the hill stations in Karnataka are serene and covered with lush greenery with a utopian tropical vibe. Some of them are adorned with waterfalls, and the presence of the Western Ghats makes it a perfect spot for a jaunt.

However, if you are planning a trip to Karnataka and looking for hill stations to include in your itinerary, here are the top suggestions to look out for.

To relinquish the city’s pandemonium and quotidian stress, the kaleidoscopic hills of Karnataka are undoubtedly a perfect solution. Also, the opportunity for adventure and exploration amidst the placid environment makes it an idyllic place for nature lovers as well as adventure seekers. Nevertheless, the list of the best hill stations in Karnataka is provided below so that you can visit them on your next trip –

1. Chikmagalur

If you love coffee, Chikmagalur is a jocund place for you. The serene Mullayangiri Ranges surround this place and are disseminated with agrarian tea and coffee. Besides this, Chikmagalur has milky white waterfalls and stunning parks and, coupled with lush greenery, presents an incredible vibe making it an ebullient place for travel enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, walking through tea and coffee plantations, visiting temples, trekking the activity of Mullayanagiri Peak.
• Top Places to Visit: Kallathigiri Falls, Hebbe Falls, Hanumana Gundi Falls, Mahatma Gandhi Park, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Coffee Museum, Kodandarama Temple, Hirekolale Lake.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,750 for two people (2 Day/1 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

2. BR Hills

Biligirirangana Hills, also known as BR Hills, borders the state of Tamil Nadu and is one of the most romantic spots in Karnataka. Situated at an elevation of 5900 feet above the sea level displays extraordinary beauty as the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats amalgam here. BR hills are also ideal for families as kids can find enough opportunity to explore the flora and fauna of this destination. Also, Biligirirangana Hills provides ample opportunity for engagement for solo travellers and shutterbugs.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Jungle safari at the wildlife sanctuary, river rafting, shopping.
• Top Places to Visit: Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, and Dodda Simpage Mara Temple.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 per person (per day including activities)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

3. Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills is one of the most famous spots in Karnataka, and every year thousands of explorers visit here for its incredible beauty. Apart from its stunning beauty, there are also trekking trails, viewpoints and archaic fortress, temples and monuments, making this place worth visiting. Moreover, Nandi hills were Tipu Sultan’s summer destination, and you can find locations like Tipu's summer residence, Tipu's drop etc., at the location.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Paragliding, cycling, trekking, exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Amrita Sarovar, Brahmashram, Grover Zampa Vineyards, Nehru Nilaya.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 3,000 per person (per day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

4. Coorg

Coorg is also a coffee-producing hill station and is popularly known as the Scotland of India for its thriving greenery, beautiful waterfalls, lakes and landscapes. Also, Coorg is blessed with multiple sanctuaries, and you can spot multiple bird species and animals here. Nevertheless, Coorg can be the place for you if you are a history buff or love exploring foods.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking at Tadiandamol Peak, Brahmagiri and Pushpagiri, jeep safari at Mandalpatti, rafting at Barapole River etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Honey Valley, Honnamana Kere Lake, Abbey Falls, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and Madikeri Fort.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

5. Sirsi

Sirsi deserves a special mention for its spectacular forest in this list of top hill stations in Karnataka. The natural beauty of this place is undoubtedly captivating, and it also has multiple waterfalls for nature lovers. If you are religious, Sirsi also has a few temples making it a worth visiting place.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Nature photography, birdwatching, trekking and picnic.
• Top Places to Visit: Muregar Falls, Unchalli Falls, Shivaganga Falls, Burude falls, and Sri Mahaganapathi Temple.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,000 for two adult people (2 Days/1Night)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

6. Male Mahadeshwara Hills

Male Mahadeshwara Hills, or MM hills, constitute seven hill ranges and are one of the most famous hills in Karnataka among nature lovers and pilgrims. MM hills are located at the height of 3200 feet and host one of the ancient Shiva temples where the lord is in its self-manifested form. Apart from that, its teeming wildlife also attracts tourists from around the country.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Visit the temple, trek at the hills, and spot wildlife in the dense jungle.
• Top Places to Visit: Thaala Betta, Sri Male Mahadeshwara Temple, and Nagamale Hills. 
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

7. Agumbe

This is a small hill station in the Shimoga district and is blessed with some spectacular green landscapes with beautiful trekking trials. Agumbe is famously regarded as the “Cherrapunji of South India” as it receives over 7000 mm of rainfalls annually. 

As a result, flora and fauna have flourished immensely, and you will see many tourists enjoying this place's biodiversity. Moreover, this place also has the oldest automatic weather station in India that monitors changes in the rainforest.

• Best Time to Visit: November to January
• Top Things to Do: Picnic, trekking, river rafting, wildlife photography and exploration of biodiversity.
• Top Places to Visit: Barkana Falls, Sunset View Point, Jogigundi Falls, Kunchikal Falls, Rainforest Research Station, and Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 3,000 for two people (1 Day/2 Nights)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

8. Gangamoola

If you want to spend some productive time in nature, Gangamoola is the right destination for you. Gangamoola has a soothing climate and magnificent vistas; hence, tourists from around the country gather here for a quick trip to escape the din of the city. Moreover, Gangamoola is also the origin of three famous rivers: Bhadra, Tunga, and Netravati.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Top Things to Do: Jeep safari, trekking, and nature photography.
• Top Places to Visit: Hanumana Gundi Falls, Sirimane Waterfalls, Gomateshwara Statue, Shree Venkataramana Temple, and Ambaa Teertha.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

9. Kemmanagundi

Kemmanagundi is one of the most famous hill stations in Karnataka and is justified by its stunning waterfalls, beautiful gardens and trekking trails and temples. Also, Kemmanagundi is easily accessible from the Tarikere railway station, and if you are looking to beat the soaring city temperature, this is a must-visit place.

• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Top Things to Do: Hiking, picnic, shopping, trekking, wildlife exploration and camping.
• Top Places to Visit: Hebbe Falls, Z Point, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Kalhatti Falls, Rock Garden, Mullayanagiri Peak, and Rajendra Hill.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,000 for two people (2 Day/1 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

10. Anthargange

Anthargange is one of the famous hill stations to visit in Karnataka and is located in proximity to Bangalore. So, it is easily accessible and can be a great spot for a weekend trip. Anthargange is perched at 5617 feet ASL and is famous for its lush greenery, caves and temples.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Exploration of caves, rock climbing, trekking and camping.
• Top Places to Visit: Shri Kashi Vishweshwara Temple, Anthargange Caves, and Anthargange Temple.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 per person (1 Day including activities)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

11. Ramanagara

Ramanagara is located at a distance of less than 50 km from Bangalore and is one of the favourite destinations for locals. Most importantly, Ramanagara is the shooting location of the famous film "Sholay", making it a favourite location for movie lovers to visit. Furthermore, the green mountains are soothing to the eyes and create a delightful view of the nature around.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, rock climbing, photography and visiting sanctuary.
• Top Places to Visit: Ramdevara Temple, Janapada Loka, and Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

12. Sakleshpur

The lush plantation of spice, coffee and tea makes it one of the best places to visit in Karnataka. Besides this, Sakleshpur is easily accessible from neighbouring cities, making it one of the easiest places to visit for a weekend trip. Moreover, you can visit Sakleshpur for its beautiful waterfalls, verdant plantations and ancient temples.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Camping, photography and touring plantation sites.
• Top Places to Visit: Manjarabad Fort, Sakleshwara Temple, Manjehalli Waterfalls, Hemavathi Dam, and Hadlu Waterfall.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 for two people (2 Day/1 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

13. Kundadri Hill

Located at an altitude of 2910 feet, Kundadri Hill is a hidden gem in Karnataka. After arriving from a busy city, you will be pleased by the cool and fresh breeze, which is also pollution free. As this place is lesser known, the visitors are scanty, and you can witness the meandering valleys, rolling hills, streams and forest in peace.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Picnic and explore the natural beauty.
• Top Places to Visit: Kundadri Jain Temple, Sri Sharadamba Temple, Kavaledurga, Koodlu Waterfall, Onake Abbi Falls, Barkana Falls, and Tunga Bridge. 
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

14. Kodachadri

Kodachadri is ideal for adventure-seeking people and is located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is situated at 4406 feet and is decorated with stunning waterfalls, sanctuaries and dense forests. Moreover, this place is also easily accessible from Bangalore via SH 24 and is an attractive option for the citizens of this state.

• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, exploring the waterfalls and wildlife.
• Top Places to Visit: Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Chithramoola Cave, Kodachadri Nature Camp, and Nagara Fort.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 per person (1 Day including trekking cost)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

15. Nersa

If you are agog for lesser-known hill stations to visit in Karnataka, Nersa might be the correct destination for you. Nersa is located near the Goa-Karnataka border in the Belgaum district and is perfect for wildlife and adventure enthusiasts. This place is obscure to most tourists and offers plenty of exciting opportunities. You can find teeming wildlife here with 40 different bat species and birds galore.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and exploring caves and wildlife.
• Top Places to Visit: Mahadai Valley, Belgaum Fort, Barapedi Cave, Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kongla, and Syntheri Rocks.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

16. Devarayanadurga

Located at an altitude of 4000 feet above sea level, Devarayanadurga attracts tourists from across the country. The name Devarayanadurga translates into “Fort of God” and has numerous temples displaying architecture of Dravidian style. However, besides its religious importance, Devarayanadurga is famous for its natural beauty too.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Spend time near the Mydala Lake, visit temples and the Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary.
• Top Places to Visit: Bhoga Narsimha Temple, Cave Temple, Yoga Narsimha Temple, Hilltop Mandap, Mandaragiri Hill, and Basadi Betta.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

17. Jogimatti

Jogimatti is famous among the citizens of Karnataka due to the forest reserve and the Chitradurga district hill station. However, besides the rich flora and flora, the zephyr and soothing sound of nature make this place worth visiting. There are also multiple waterfalls and caves, which act as a major attraction for tourists.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Spot wildlife, explore caves and archaeological sites, and go boating.
• Top Places to Visit: Chitradurga Fort, Jogimatti Forest, Chandravalli Archaeological Site, Aadumalleshwara Zoo, and Chandravalli Lake.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

18. Kudremukh

Kudremukh makes the list of the top hill stations in Karnataka for its incredible vistas and the panoramic views of flourishing greenery. Located at 6214 feet above sea level, Kudremukh is a nature’s wonderland and is an absolute treat for globetrotters. This place is adorned with streams, waterfalls and wildlife and is also a great place for some stunning photos.

• Best Time to Visit: December to February
• Top Things to Do: Visit waterfalls, lakes, and temples.
• Top Places to Visit: Kudremukh National Park, Lakya Dam, Soormane Falls, Bhagavathi Nature Camp, and Hanumana Gundi Falls.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 3,000 per person (1 Day including trekking cost)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

19. Dandeli

If you list some of the best hill stations in Karnataka, Dandeli should be on that list. This tranquil destination has beautiful parks, bustling wildlife, and scenic trekking trails. Besides this, you can also visit some ancient temples and offer prayers to god. Otherwise, you can go for water sports as this place has plenty of offerings.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Go for water sports, Jacuzzi bath, rock climbing, nature walks and zip lining.
• Top Places to Visit: Kavala Caves, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, River Kali, Anshi National Park, Molangi Falls, Sathodi Falls, and Shiroli Peak.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 for two people (2 Day/1 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

20. Yana

Yana is a serene hill station located in the Uttara Kannada district and is close to the Hubballi Railway Junction. Yana is a popular gateway among travellers for its quirky rock formations, stunning waterfalls, temples, pre-historic caves, and dense forest. You can see a cave temple of Lord Shiva here, which is popular among religious visitors.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Hiking, visiting temples and photography.
• Top Places to Visit: Yana Caves, Yana Rocks, Bhairaveshwara Shikhara, and Vibhuthi Falls.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

21. Madikeri

Located in the district of Coorg, Madikeri is one of the best hill stations in Karnataka. The gushing waterfalls and lofty peaks decorate this place and provide a relaxing experience throughout the trip.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Picnic, photography and explore the natural beauty.
• Top Places to Visit: Madikeri Fort, Spring Potato, Raja's Tomb, and Omkareshwara temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, road, and train

Hence, it is evident that Karnataka is a great place if you love wilderness and green mountains. Also, most of the hill stations in Karnataka are of moderate elevation and are perfect even for naïve trekkers. Also, if you are an aged individual and love exploring wilderness, the profile of these hill stations fits the suitability and can easily be explored.