List of Famous Hill Stations in Karnataka

The eighth-largest state of India area-wise hides a lot of secrets concealed in itself. From high-altitude Mountains to majestic monuments, Karnataka has it all for travelers and visitors. Often seen as a prime traveler’s destination, Karnataka never stops mesmerizing all those who visit here.Due to the presence of the mesmerizing Western Ghats and verdant landscapes; a lot can’t resist their temptation to visit here. Moreover, this is the reason why Karnataka acts as a magnet for adventure junkies and avid explorers.Due to the presence of the Ghats and its location near the peninsular region, the temperature remains comfortable throughout the year. From enthralling hilly hamlets to majestic waterfall cascades; everything about this state light up the stars in traveler’s eyes. So, if you too are a hill hopper, and love exploring high-altitudes then here is the list of the best hill stations in Karnataka.

Popular hill stations in Karnataka

1. Coorg- Paradise on earth

Undoubtedly, one of the best hill stations of Karnataka is located approximately at an altitude of 1170 m above sea level. Coorg is an ideal hill station for adventurers as well as nature lovers. It has been serving as a top-notch tourist destination in South India.

Best time to visit Coorg: April to July
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (135 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore railway junction (120 km)

2. Nandi Hills

Talking about the best hill stations in Karnataka and not including the popular Nandi Hills would not do justice to the list. Curvy and challenging roads, serene spots, and tons of adventurous sports on offer; this is how Nandi Hills is best described.

Best time to visit Nandi Hills: Throughout the year
Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport (38 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Chikkaballapur railway station (24 km)

3. Agumbe

Agumbe is one of the finest hill stations of Karnataka that is located in Shimoga region of Karnataka. For those who wish to break their mundane daily schedule and go to a peaceful place; Agumbe is the destination for you. It is a serene place away from the chaos of the city and closer to nature.

Best time to visit Agumbe: Winters (Between November and February)
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (95 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station (50 km)

Thinking for a holiday? Refer to our Karnataka Travel Guide for insights.

4. Chikmagalur

If you are a coffee lover and wish to visit a beautiful hill station that offers you a beautiful view with a coffee plantation as one of its highlights, then Chikmagalur is your place. One of the best destinations of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is located in the Mullayanagiri Range. With several wonderful and adventurous things to do and a gorgeous view of the lush hills, Chikmagalur is a great hill station to visit in Karnataka.

Best time to visit Chikmagalur: Between September and May
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (155 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kadur Railway Station (36 km)

5. Kodachadri

Kodachadri is declared as the natural heritage of the state by Karnataka Government. It has been a top-notch hill station to visit in Karnataka right from the beginning. One of the best things about this wonderful hill station of Karnataka is that it is comparatively offbeat. The entire state has a lot of hill stations throughout and this one is still a bit less commercialized than the others. This allows the visitors to enjoy the pristine beauty of the place.

Best time to visit Kodachadri: April to July
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (150 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kundapura Railway Station (50 km)

6. Kemmangundi

Located in the Chikmagalur district, Kemmangundi is another pristine and lush-green hill station offering a plethora of mesmerizing sights to visitors. A fine hill station or a getaway destination; Kemmangundi has a lot of amazing spots to relax and rejuvenate yourself.

Best time to visit Kemmangundi: September to January
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (121 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Tarikere Railway Station (35 km)

Find out the best time to visit Karnataka for perfect weather.

7. Biligiriranga(BR) Hills

Biligiriranga Hills popularly known as BR Hills is a famous weekend getaway destination for the people in South India. People from Bangalore, Pune, and other nearby destinations visit here for having some peaceful time away from the city.

Best time to visit Biligiriranga Hills: November to March
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore Airport (108 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (66 km)

8. Gangamoola

After a tiring week, do you wish to work on some different skills like photography? Gangamoola can be your next stop if you wish to do that. One of the finest hill stations in Karnataka; Gangamoola is a hidden gem and a picturesque destination of the state.

Best time to visit Gangamoola: December to February
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (79 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station (74 km)

Get ready for your journey with our guide to the top places to visit in Karnataka!

9. Kundadri Hill

With an astonishing altitude of 3000 ft. and a 360-degrees mesmerizing view, Kundadri Hills is a top-notch hill station in Karnataka. People unwind their worries and let go of all their stress while visiting the Kundadri Hills.

Best time to visit Kundadri Hill: November to March
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (113 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station (78 km)

10. Sakleshpur

One of the finest offbeat hill stations of South India located in the state of Karnataka is Sakleshpur. It is a top-notch destination that is picking up a lot of traction from the past few years. If talking about one of the best getaway destinations in Karnataka, this name is sure to be included without a miss.