Baba Budangiri

Pilgrimage | Adventure / Trekking

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Chikmagalur): 36 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): Half Day to Full Day

Transportation Options: Bus / Cab / Walk/Trek

Travel Tips: None

About Baba Budangiri


At a distance of 29 km from Kemmanagundi & 36 km from Chikmagalur, Baba Budangiri is a mountain in the Baba Budan range of Chikmagalur. At an altitude of 1895 meters, Baba Budangiri is the second-highest peak in Karnataka, and among the must-include places in your Chikmagalur Tour Packages. The main peaks in the Baba Budan range are the Mulliyangiri and Baba Budangiri which are collectively known as the Chandra Drona Mountain Range as they naturally form the shape of a crescent moon. This is one of the popular Chickmagalur tourist places.

History of Baba Budangiri


Also known as Dattagiri, the mountain is named after the Muslim saint, Baba Budan who is worshiped by both Hindus and Muslims. Baba Budan was a 17th-century Sufi saint who came to India from Saudi to spread the message of Islam and peace. According to legend, he introduced coffee to India by bringing beans from the port of Mocha, Yemen in 1670 AD. This place is also important for Hindus as Dattatreya Peetha. A cave here is believed to have been the residence of Sri Dattatreya Swamy. An annual Jatra or Urs, which is held for three days after the Holi Festival according to the Hindu calendar, is attended by both Hindus and Muslims.

Baba Budangiri Trek


Baba Budangiri is one of the top places for trekking in Karnataka and among the best places to visit as part of a 2-day trip from Bangalore. The most well-known trekking trails include- Baba Budangiri to Mullayanagri of 12 km, Budangiri to Gaalikere of 4 km, Budangiri to Manikyadhara Falls of 7 km, and from Attigudi Junction to Baba Budangiri of 6 km. The starting point of the Mullayanagri - Baba Budangiri trek is known as 'Sarpadhari', and the total distance is about 12 km and takes about 5 hours. The path to Bababudanagiri is quite popular and relatively easy. The charm of this trail lies in the Ridge Walk and Blade Walk along the linear hills of the Baba Budangiri ranges. The first stretch involves a steep descent downhill to meet the main road. The second part of the trail involves a gentle ascent uphill and a unique ridge walk. The next stretch of this trail takes one to the BSNL tower which is a few kilometers before the peak. This trail entails the blade walk, and is truly an adrenalin-pumping rocky stretch with scary drops on either side. The final stretch of the trail takes you to Baba Budan Giri which lies about 2 km away from the tower. The route from BSNL tower to Bababudanagiri is clear and camping is allowed at Baba Budhangiri. Adventure seekers can hike through the forest to visit the historic shrine of Deviramma Betta.

Attractions near Baba Budangiri


There are a plethora of attractions nearby. There are three caves sanctified by the three Siddhas, and an annual fair is also celebrated every year in honor of them. At a short distance from Budangiri hill are three popular waterfalls - Gada Theertha, Kamana Theertha, and Nellikayi Theertha. According to mythology, Gada Theertha was created by the Pandava prince Bhima with his Gada, to quench the thirst of his mother during their exile. Nellikayi Theertha is formed by the famous Manikya Dhara Waterfalls. One can also visit Galikere Lake by taking a walk of about 2 km near the temple. One more distinctive feature of Baba Budangiri is the rare mountain flowers called kurinji that bloom in these hill ranges once every 12 years. The last time this spectacle happened was in 2018.

Best Time to Visit Baba Budangiri


The best time for the trek is anytime between September to March as the weather remains mostly pleasant during the day. If you want to see the Western Ghats come alive, go during the monsoon which is from June to September. However, the thick sheets of rain received here might hinder your trek. Better to avoid visiting Mullayangiri in summer as it is exasperating.

Baba Budangiri Timings


Monday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Thursday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Saturday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Sunday: 8 AM - 5 PM

Baba Budangiri Entry Fee


Entry: Free

Tips to Visit Baba Budangiri


1. Wear comfortable clothes & carry a light sweater and raincoat while trekking.
2. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes.
3. Check out the weather and road conditions before planning your trip.
4. Make sure you carry food and sufficient water as there will be limited options to eat in case you get hungry.

How to Reach Baba Budangiri


Baba Budangiri is easily accessible via road from Chikmagalur. Local buses, autos, or private cabs can be taken to reach the peak.