Baba Budangiri is a hill in Chikmagalur, Karnataka, India, that offers a unique blend of history, harmony, and adventure. It is a place where you can witness the syncretism of Hinduism and Islam, enjoy the scenic beauty of coffee plantations and waterfalls, and challenge yourself with a thrilling trek to the highest peak in Karnataka. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a nature lover, or an adventure enthusiast, Baba Budangiri has something for everyone. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this hill and why you should visit it.
History of Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri is not just a hill, but a shrine that has a rich and fascinating history. The hill is named after Baba Budan, a 17th-century Sufi saint who is credited with bringing coffee seeds from Yemen to India and planting them on the slopes of the hill. He also established a shrine on the hill, where he is buried along with his disciples.
The shrine is also known as Dattatreya Peetha, as it is believed that the Hindu deity Dattatreya, who is considered as the incarnation of the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, also resides there. The shrine attracts both Muslims and Hindus, who revere Baba Budan and Dattatreya as one and the same. The shrine is a symbol of communal harmony and tolerance, as it hosts an annual urs festival, where devotees of both faiths come together to celebrate and offer prayers.
Baba Budangiri Trek
Baba Budangiri is also a popular destination for trekking, as it is connected to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, by a 12 km long trail. The trek is one of the most scenic and adventurous treks in the state, as it passes through lush green coffee plantations, dense forests, rocky terrains, and misty valleys.
The trek also offers stunning views of the Western Ghats, the Arabian Sea, and the surrounding hills. The trek is moderately difficult, as it involves some steep ascents and descents, and can take anywhere between 4 to 6 hours to complete. The best time to trek to Baba Budangiri is between September and February, when the weather is pleasant and the hill is covered with flowers.
The trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, but it is advisable to carry proper equipment, water, snacks, and a guide. The trek is also a great opportunity to witness the wildlife of the region, such as monkeys, deer, wild boar, and birds.
Places to Visit Near Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri is not only a hill, but a hub of many nearby attractions that can be explored along with it. Some of the places that you can visit near Baba Budangiri are:
Dattatreya Peetha:
This is the shrine that houses the tombs of Baba Budan and Dattatreya, and is the main attraction of the hill. The shrine is a simple structure with a dome and a minaret, and is surrounded by a garden. The shrine is open to all visitors, regardless of their religion, and is a place of peace and tranquility. The shrine also hosts the annual urs festival, which is held in the month of November or December, and is attended by thousands of devotees who come to pay their respects and seek blessings.
Manikyadhara Falls:
This is a waterfall that is located near the shrine, and is believed to have healing properties and fulfill wishes. The waterfall is also known as the Pearl Stream, as it sparkles like pearls when the sun rays fall on it. The waterfall is a refreshing sight, especially after a long trek, and is a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. The waterfall is also a sacred spot, as it is said that Baba Budan used to bathe here and perform his prayers.
Kemmangundi:
This is a hill station that is located near Baba Budangiri, and is known for its gardens, valleys, and viewpoints. Kemmangundi was once the summer retreat of the former Maharaja of Mysore, Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, and is now a popular tourist spot. Kemmangundi is a paradise for nature lovers, as it offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats, the Baba Budangiri range, and the Bhadra river. Kemmangundi is also a base for many treks and hikes, such as the Z Point, the Hebbe Falls, and the Kallathigiri Falls.
Other places:
There are many other places that can be visited near Baba Budangiri, such as the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a haven for wildlife and biodiversity, the Hebbe Falls, which is a spectacular waterfall that can be reached by a jeep ride, the Kallathigiri Falls, which is a cascading waterfall that is also known as the Veil of the Bride, and the Deviramma Temple, which is a temple dedicated to the goddess Deviramma, who is the guardian deity of the region.
How to Reach Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri is well-connected by different modes of transport and can be easily reached from nearby cities. Here are some of the ways to reach the hill:
By air:
The nearest airport to Baba Budangiri is the Mangalore International Airport, which is about 165 km away. From there, you can take a cab or a bus to Chikmagalur, which is about 60 km away from the hill. Alternatively, you can also fly to the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is about 280 km away, and then take a cab or a bus to Chikmagalur.
By rail:
The nearest railway station to Baba Budangiri is the Kadur Railway Station, which is about 40 km away. From there, you can take a cab or a bus to Chikmagalur, and then another cab or a bus to the hill. Alternatively, you can also take a train to the Hassan Railway Station, which is about 80 km away, and then take a cab or a bus to Chikmagalur.
By road:
The nearest bus station to Baba Budangiri is the Chikmagalur Bus Station, which is well-connected by regular buses from major cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore, etc. From there, you can take a cab or a bus to the hill, which is about 30 km away. The road to the hill is scenic and smooth, but it can get narrow and steep at some places, so it is advisable to drive carefully and follow the directions.
Best Time to Visit Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri can be visited throughout the year, as it has a pleasant and moderate climate. However, some seasons and months are more preferable than others, depending on your preferences and interests. Here are some of the best times to visit the hill:
Summer:
Summer is a good time to visit Baba Budangiri, as the temperature ranges from 20°C to 35°C, and the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The hill is also less crowded in summer, and you can enjoy the greenery and the flowers of the coffee plantations. However, summer can also be hot and humid at times, so it is advisable to carry light clothes, sunscreen, and water.
Monsoon:
Monsoon is a great time to visit Baba Budangiri, as the rainfall enhances the beauty and freshness of the hill. The hill is also more lush and verdant in monsoon, and the waterfalls are at their full glory. Monsoon is also a good time to witness the urs festival, which is held in November or December. However, monsoon can also be wet and slippery at times, so it is advisable to carry raincoats, umbrellas, and shoes. Monsoon can also make the trekking trail more challenging and risky, so it is advisable to be cautious and prepared.
Winter:
Winter is a wonderful time to visit Baba Budangiri, as the temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, and the weather is cold and misty. The hill is also more serene and peaceful in winter, and you can enjoy the views of the snow-capped peaks and the foggy valleys. Winter is also a good time to enjoy camping and bonfires on the hill. However, winter can also be very cold and windy at times, so it is advisable to carry warm clothes, blankets, and gloves.
Baba Budangiri is a hill that offers a unique blend of history, harmony, and adventure. It is a place where you can witness the syncretism of Hinduism and Islam, enjoy the scenic beauty of coffee plantations and waterfalls, and challenge yourself with a thrilling trek to the highest peak in Karnataka.
Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a nature lover, or an adventure enthusiast, Baba Budangiri has something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Baba Budangiri and experience its history, harmony, and adventure.
