Z Point, Chikmagalur

Situated on the serene river banks of Tunga, Sringeri Sharada Peetha is one of the important Advaita mathas in the city of Chikmagalur. It was established by Adi Shankaracharya and draws tourists from all over the world. There is a famous legend that when Adi Shankaracharya was wandering around the banks of river Tunga, he came across an interesting sight where he saw a cobra spreading its hood to offer protection to a pregnant frog against the sunlight.He was overwhelmed at the kindness of the cobra towards his natural enemy and built the temple on this unique land. Sringeri Sharada Peetha is celebrated because of the picturesque town of Sringeri that boasts of many legends and historic temples. Also known as Dakshinamnaya Sringeri Sharada peetam, this place is one of the most popular Chikmagalur tourist attractions for pilgrims. • Location: Sringeri Sharada Peetham, Chickmagalur • Best Time to visit: It can be visited throughout the year • Entry fee: Free• Timings: It is open in the morning from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm and in the evening from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm• Distance from Chikmagalur Bus Stand: It is located at a distance of 87 kilometres from the bus stand in Chikmagalur.

Famous as one of the most sacred places to visit in Chikmagalur, Sharadamba Temple is a renowned Hindu Temple built in the 8th century. It was constructed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya and dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. This ancient temple once had the original idol of the presiding deity made of sandalwood but it was later replaced with a golden idol. Built in the Dravidian style, Sharadamba Temple epitomises the nuances of the flourishing culture and history of the region.This temple is located on the river Tunga and considered a must visit for the followers of Shankaracharya. There are also other four temples located around the mutt which are known as Kala bhairava temple, Durga temple, Anjaneya temple and Kali temple. Sharadamba Temple attracts the maximum number of visitors during the Navaratri Festival which is celebrated with great fervor by the devotees. • Location: Sri Sharadamba Temple, Harihara Street, Singeri, Chikkamagaluru• Best Time to visit: The most ideal time to visit this temple is during the Navratra festival. • Entry fee: Free• Timings: It can be visited all days of the week from 5:30 am to 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 9:15 pm• Distance from Chikmagalur Bus Stand: It is located at an approximate distance of 90 kilometre from the Chikmagalur Bus Stand

One of the most spectacular attractions in Chikmagalur is Mullayanagiri that is known for its jaw dropping natural beauty. With its calming ambience formed by lush greenery, misty weather and rugged rocks, Mullayanagiri is a heavenly place to relish your vacation. Mullayanagiri Peak is a heaven for adventure junkies who wish to partake in a number of thrilling activities like road biking, trekking and mountain biking.

Also known as Nellikayi Theertha, this beautiful waterfall is amongst the most picturesque attractions in Chikmagalur and offers a great retreat for everyone. The name Manikyadhara means ‘string of pearls’ and derives its name due to the natural phenomenon where its water falls in droplets shining bright in sunlight. It makes for a serene landscape and a wonderful spot for picnicking and photography. This place is considered as a paradise for bikers, trekkers and die-hard nature lovers. There is a popular legend that says saint Baba Budan came here in search of water and after his prayers the place was blessed with water that flows from this waterfall. This place is a sacred spot for both Hindus and Muslims and it is believed that a bathe in its waters can cure one of ailments. Tourists can also find many shops in the vicinity which sell herbal medicines. • Height: It is at a height of 30 feet above the ground. • Location: Manikyadhara Falls, Baba Budangiri Hills, Karnataka • Best Time to visit: September to May is the best time to visit here• Entry fee: Free• Timings: Tourists are advised to visit Manikyadhara Falls during day time. • Distance from Chikmagalur Bus Stand: It is approximately 34 kilometres from the bus stand in Chikmagalur.

Get ready to feast your eyes with the charm of wild and natural beauty at Kudremukh National Park. This place is notable as one of the most visited Chikmagalur tourist places and offers a refreshing getaway. It is appreciated for its scenic splendor and houses some of the most gorgeous flora and fauna in the state of Karnataka. The word Kudremukh means a horse face and gives the name to the peak located in this park which is often hailed as a thrilling trekking place.

Located at the Sampangi Rama Nagar of Hiremagalur (Chikmagalur), Kodandarama Temple is a holy shrine dedicated to Hindu Lord Rama. The term ‘Kodandarama’ signifies the bow of Lord Rama. The principle idol here is that of Lord Rama with a bow in his hand, and this is how the temple got its identity. Kodandarama is equally well-known for its intricately carved idols and temple architecture as it is known for its religious significance. Right at the central heart of the temple, you will find the presence of the main shrine. Here, there are huge idols of Lord Rama with Goddess Sita towards his right and Sri Lakshmana towards his left. What makes the onlookers go crazy about the idol architecture is the fact that they have been carved out from a single massive boulder. Besides, the minute detailing of these idols (from eyes to the ornaments and supporting accessories), makes them adorable masterpieces. Adjacent to the Kodandarama Temple flows the mighty River Tungabhadra, which is a well-known water sporting adventurous site. Right in the front of the temple’s main entrance, you have a Chakratirtha ghat where lakhs and lakhs of pilgrims take holy dips in the river water. This spot is highly auspicious according to the beliefs of Hindu mythology. Standing atop a large land cover, the temple’s architecture is appealing. Whatever massive pillars you come across here, are all inscribed various ancient and medieval sculptures. The central holy sanctum has been carved in the shape of a rectangle where you have the three main idols. If you are good with the architectural basics, you will immediately come to know that the temple reflects an amalgamation of Hoysala and Dravidian style.Location – Double Rd, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560027Timing – Kodandarama Temple of Chikmagalur remains functional on all seven days of the week between 05:00 am to 12:00 pm. Then, the temple doors are closed during lunch hours and are reopened again between 04:00 pm to 09:00 pm. You can explore the entire temple within a duration of 1 to 1&1/2 hours. Price – You do not need to pay anything on behalf as entry fees for visiting this holy shrine of Kodandarama Temple.