| Kemmanagundi lies in the Baba Budan
Hills and was once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Mysore, the Wodeyar King
Krishnaraje Wodeyar IV, after whom the hill station is also named the K.R. Hills. The Royal
Horticultural Society of Karnataka has its base at Kemmanagundi, with beautifully
landscaped gardens and a riot of flowers. About 8 km walk from Kemmanagundi are the Hebbe
Falls. This 168 m high waterfall is broken half-way by a rock ledge before it
crashes down hill. Hebbe Falls is a lovely picnic spot, with the spray turning the
surroundings dewy. The Kalahatti Falls that cascade down 122 metres is
another major attraction, about 10 km from Kemmanagundi. Kemmanagundi has that delightful ability to carry your thoughts away from the
routine. So the next time you are looking for a quiet holiday destination where you can
spend a few peaceful days in tranquillity, head for the hills and discover the joys of
refreshing Kemmanagundi.
Getting to Kemmanagundi
Kemmanagundi is 260 km from Bangalore, 225 km from Mangalore (the closest airport), and 55
km from Chikmagalur. Trains halt at Tarakere, the nearest railhead. State Transport buses
come to Kemmanagundi from Bangalore, but the most convenient way to get here is to drive.
Best time to visit Kemmanagundi
Kemmanagundi is pleasant throughout the year - the temperature never rises above 28ºC.
Summer is peak tourist season, while the crowds thin during the monsoons, making it a
great time to be here.
Accommodation in Kemmanagundi
The Horticulture Department's Guest House is the most popular place to stay in
Kemmanagundi. You can also stay at neighbouring Chikmagalur and Shimoga, which have a
range of budget and deluxe hotels. For bookings in season, contact the Horticulture
Department Head Office, Lalbagh, Bangalore Tel 080-26611925, 26571925. For off-season
reservations contact Special Officer at Horticulture Department Guest House, Kemmanagundi,
Tel 08262-24126, 235334 |
