Hampi
The ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire sprawl across a surreal boulder-strewn landscape of temples, palaces and royal quarters.
Birthplace of Indian coffee, surrounded by the Baba Budangiri hills and Mullayanagiri — Karnataka's highest peak.
Chikmagalur is where coffee was first cultivated in India, planted by Baba Budan in the 17th century. Today, the district is carpeted with coffee estates nestled in the Western Ghats. Trek to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka at 1,930 meters, visit the Jhari and Hebbe Falls, explore the ancient Sringeri Sharada Peetham, and walk through aromatic coffee plantations. The region's cool climate, misty mornings, and rich biodiversity make it a perfect nature retreat.
