Kemmangundi Hill Station Karnataka
A serene hill station in Karnataka, once a royal summer retreat, offering breathtaking views, lush coffee estates, and the majestic Hebbe Falls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather, clear skies
Kemmangundi Hill Station Karnataka
Best Time
Pleasant weather, clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene hill station in Karnataka, once a royal summer retreat, offering breathtaking views, lush coffee estates, and the majestic Hebbe Falls.
"Unforgettable Kemmannugundi Hill Resort Experience with Exceptional Service!"
Book Jeep for Hebbe Falls
Arrange a jeep from the Hebbe Jeep Check Point for the adventurous ride to the falls. It's a thrilling experience!
Trek with a Guide
Consider a guided trek for a memorable experience, especially if exploring the jungle. Some guides are accompanied by friendly dogs!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hebbe Falls
Near Kemmangundi
A breathtaking two-tiered waterfall cascading through coffee estates. An adventurous jeep ride and trek lead to this natural wonder.
Z Point
Kemmangundi
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and a spectacular sunset. A popular spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Horticulture Garden
Kemmangundi
A beautifully maintained garden showcasing diverse flora, perfect for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Weather
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Jeep for Hebbe Falls
Arrange a jeep from the Hebbe Jeep Check Point for the adventurous ride to the falls. It's a thrilling experience!
Trek with a Guide
Consider a guided trek for a memorable experience, especially if exploring the jungle. Some guides are accompanied by friendly dogs!
Carry Insect Repellent
Leeches can be present, especially during the rainy season. Be prepared with repellent for a comfortable trek.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
The food at the resorts is surprisingly good, with fresh and wholesome options. Don't miss trying local dishes!
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Jeep for Hebbe Falls
Arrange a jeep from the Hebbe Jeep Check Point for the adventurous ride to the falls. It's a thrilling experience!
Trek with a Guide
Consider a guided trek for a memorable experience, especially if exploring the jungle. Some guides are accompanied by friendly dogs!
Carry Insect Repellent
Leeches can be present, especially during the rainy season. Be prepared with repellent for a comfortable trek.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
The food at the resorts is surprisingly good, with fresh and wholesome options. Don't miss trying local dishes!
Capture the Sunset
Z Point is renowned for its breathtaking sunset views. Plan your visit accordingly to witness this spectacle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kemmangundi's serene beauty, exceptional hospitality, and delicious food, particularly at the Jungle Lodges resort. The adventurous trek to Hebbe Falls and the stunning sunset views from Z Point are consistent highlights. Some minor improvements could be made to curry quality, and caution is advised for leeches during the rainy season.
"Our stay at the resort was truly an extraordinary experience! From the moment we arrived, everything felt warm, cozy, and welcoming. The rooms were very comfortable, and the climate added to the charm — pleasantly chilly and perfect for relaxing.
The staff deserves a special mention for their hospitality. Everyone was so kind and homely, making us feel like special guests throughout our stay. They even customized the food as per our preferences and attended to us personally. A big compliment to the chef — every meal was delicious!
We also had a wonderful time exploring — the morning trek (around 2 km) was memorable, especially with our friendly guide and the adorable dog who joined us. The jungle safari was another highlight of our trip, and the evening bonfire made for the perfect end to the day.
Overall, it was a delightful blend of comfort, adventure, and heartfelt hospitality. Highly recommended for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature!"
Aishwarya Vernekar
"Unforgettable Kemmannugundi Hill Resort Experience with Exceptional Service!
Our recent stay at Kemmannugundi Hill Resort ( Unit of Jungle Lodges and Resorts Govt. of Karnataka ) was truly memorable, thanks to the exceptional hospitality and breathtaking surroundings. The resort's picturesque location, surrounded by lush greenery and a stunning waterfall, provided the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.
The rooms were comfortable and well-maintained, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The food was delicious, with a range of local and international options to suit every taste.
What truly made our experience stand out was the exceptional service provided by the resort staff, particularly Rajnikanth A.R Sir, the resort manager. Not only did he ensure our stay was comfortable and enjoyable, but he also went above and beyond to help us navigate the route to Coorg, providing valuable insights and directions.
The waterfall experience was a highlight of our stay, with the opportunity to visit Z Point, Horticulture Garden and Sunset Point. The resort's activities, such as Z Point Guided Trekking, added to the overall experience.
We would highly recommend Kemmannugundi Hill Resort ( Unit of Jungle Lodges and Resorts Govt. of Karnataka ) to anyone looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway in nature. The combination of excellent hospitality, stunning natural beauty, and delicious food makes it a truly unforgettable experience. Thank you, Rajnikanth A. R Sir, for making our stay so special!"
Bhaskar Rao Sirivella
"Great experience with lots of fun!
It’s nothing less than a roller coaster ride!
Friendly and warm hospitality!
Food also good! Didn’t expect at first!
Amazing view points and unforgettable memory of adventurous Hebbe waterfalls,
One should try to have some Crazy and beautiful Memories."
Madhavi Rao Sirivella
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The journey from Bangalore to Kemmangundi involves driving approximately 250-270 km. You can take NH48 towards Chitradurga, then NH150A towards Shimoga, and finally NH766 towards Tarikere and Kemmangundi. The roads can be winding, especially closer to the hill station.
While some areas are accessible by private vehicles, reaching attractions like Hebbe Falls requires a local jeep. These jeeps can be hired from designated checkpoints.
Limited public transport options are available. Buses ply to Tarikere, from where you might need to arrange private transport or shared taxis to Kemmangundi. It's advisable to have your own vehicle or arrange transport in advance.
The main roads leading to Kemmangundi are generally well-maintained, but the final stretch can be narrow and winding. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the drive.
The drive from Bangalore to Kemmangundi typically takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry fees for Kemmangundi hill station itself. However, some attractions within the area, like the Horticulture Garden, might have nominal entry charges. The primary cost is for activities like jeep safaris or treks.
Attractions like Z Point and the Horticulture Garden are generally accessible during daylight hours. For Hebbe Falls, jeep services operate during specific hours, usually from morning to late afternoon. It's best to confirm timings locally.
Advance booking is not typically required for Kemmangundi itself. However, if you plan to stay at resorts like the Jungle Lodges and Resorts, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
The cost for a jeep ride to Hebbe Falls can vary, but it's often around ₹4000 per jeep, accommodating a group. Per-person rates might also be available, around ₹500. This usually includes travel time and a short duration at the falls.
For general trekking around Kemmangundi, no specific permits are usually required. However, if you plan to venture into protected forest areas, it's always wise to check with local authorities or your resort for any regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Z Point is a must-visit for its stunning sunset views and panoramic vistas. The View Point near the resort also offers beautiful scenery.
Yes, Kemmangundi offers a serene environment suitable for families. The Horticulture Garden is a pleasant place for a stroll, and the general atmosphere is peaceful. However, the trek to Hebbe Falls might be challenging for very young children.
Activities include visiting Hebbe Falls, enjoying the sunset at Z Point, exploring the Horticulture Garden, and taking guided treks. Some resorts also offer jungle safaris to nearby sanctuaries.
The most adventurous way is to take a jeep from the Hebbe Jeep Check Point, followed by a short trek. This offers a thrilling experience through the forest.
Kemmangundi's peaceful ambiance and natural beauty make it a good destination for solo travelers seeking tranquility. The resorts often organize group activities like treks, which can be a good way to connect with others.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Resorts in Kemmangundi offer a mix of local Karnataka cuisine and popular Indian dishes. The food is generally described as wholesome and fresh, with good breakfast menus.
Dining options outside of the resorts are limited. It's advisable to dine at your accommodation or carry snacks and packed meals if you plan to explore extensively.
Yes, vegetarian options are typically available at the resorts. You can often request customized meals based on your preferences.
The food at resorts, especially government-run ones like Jungle Lodges, can be moderately priced, reflecting the quality and service. It's generally considered good value for the experience.
While specific local dishes aren't highlighted, expect authentic Karnataka flavors. Dishes made with local produce and spices are usually a good bet.
📸 📸 Photography
Z Point offers dramatic landscapes and sunset shots. Hebbe Falls provides opportunities for capturing the power of nature. The lush coffee estates and surrounding greenery are also picturesque.
Early mornings offer soft, golden light for landscape photography. Sunsets at Z Point are legendary. Mid-day can be harsh, but good for capturing the details of the falls.
A standard camera or even a good smartphone camera will suffice to capture the beauty of Kemmangundi. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for landscapes, and a waterproof case might be handy near the falls.
Generally, there are no strict photography restrictions in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any specific rules at resorts or gardens.
Kemmangundi is ideal for landscape photography, nature photography, and capturing the serene beauty of the Western Ghats. It's also great for travel and lifestyle shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the trek to Hebbe Falls might be challenging for very young children, families can still enjoy the scenic drive and the views from accessible points. Consider staying at a resort that offers family-friendly amenities and activities. The overall experience is about reconnecting with nature in a serene environment.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Trekkers
Z Point is a must-visit for its breathtaking panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, offering incredible photographic opportunities. The varied terrain provides a good challenge for trekkers, and the serene environment is perfect for unwinding amidst nature's embrace.
📸 Photographers
The surrounding coffee plantations and verdant hills create a picturesque backdrop throughout the year. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, with golden hues painting the scenery. Don't forget to capture the details of the Horticulture Garden and the unique red soil that gives Kemmangundi its name.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Hebbe Falls
Travelers often describe the jeep ride as an adventurous prelude to the natural spectacle. The cost for this experience can be around ₹4000 per jeep or ₹500 per person, and it usually includes a few hours to enjoy the falls. It's important to be prepared for the terrain, and carrying appropriate footwear is recommended. The sheer power and beauty of Hebbe Falls make it a highlight for most visitors to Kemmangundi.
During the monsoon season, the falls are at their most powerful, but the paths can become slippery. Visitors are advised to be cautious and heed any local guidance. The surrounding coffee plantations add to the scenic beauty, making the entire excursion a feast for the senses.
Experiencing Kemmangundi's Royal Past
The legacy of the Maharaja is honored by the hill station's alternative name, Sri Krishnarajendra Hill Station. This historical context adds a layer of depth to the visitor experience, allowing one to imagine the tranquility and grandeur that once graced these hills. The well-preserved Horticulture Garden is a testament to the meticulous planning and aesthetic sensibilities of that era, offering a peaceful escape for modern-day visitors.
While the royal structures may not be prominent, the essence of a royal retreat is preserved in the natural beauty and the carefully curated landscapes. Visiting Kemmangundi offers a glimpse into a bygone era, where nature and royal leisure intertwined, creating a destination that continues to charm visitors with its historical significance and natural splendor.
Navigating Kemmangundi's Terrain
For attractions like Hebbe Falls, hiring a local jeep is almost mandatory. These jeeps are equipped to handle the challenging paths, and the drivers possess invaluable knowledge of the routes. The jeep ride itself is often cited as a thrilling part of the experience, adding an element of adventure to the visit.
When exploring on foot, especially during or after the monsoon, be mindful of leeches. Carrying insect repellent and wearing appropriate footwear are essential precautions. The natural beauty of Kemmangundi is best explored with a spirit of adventure and a readiness to embrace its rugged charm.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit