Top 10+ Hill Stations Near Mangalore You Can’t Miss

When you take a short drive from Mangalore, the landscape transforms completely and it welcomes the lush, misty hills of the Western Ghats! I have discovered that these Hill Stations Near Mangalore are perfect for weekend getaways, road trips and even longer nature escapes. From coffee-scented plantations to cascading waterfalls and mist-covered trekking trails, each hill station has its own charm and story.

One Day Picnic Spots (Within 100 kms)

Sometimes, you don’t need to go far from the city to feel the magic of the hills. These quick getaways are perfect for weekend trips or even a spontaneous one-day adventure. I’ve explored both of these spots and can tell you that they are ideal for fresh air, nature walks and a little adventure without the long drive.

1. Agumbe – Sunset Point, Barkana Falls, Rainforest Trails

Ah, Agumbe! Known as the “Cherrapunji of the South,” this little hill station is a paradise for nature lovers like me. The moment you arrive, you will be surrounded by dense rainforests, the soothing sound of birds and the occasional mist rolling over the hills.

What to See & Do

• Sunset Point: One of my favorite spots—standing there as the sun dipped behind the Western Ghats is pure magic. Bring a light jacket; the wind can get chilly!
  
• Barkana Falls: Trekking here is thrilling. The waterfall cascades down through lush greenery and if you are there after a good rainfall, the sight is simply breathtaking.
  
• Rainforest Trails: I love to spend hours just wandering through the forest trails. The air smells of wet earth, coffee plantations and you might even spot a few rare birds if you’re lucky.

Tips & Stories

I recommend leaving Mangalore early in the morning to catch the morning mist and spend a peaceful evening at Sunset Point. Carry water, wear trekking shoes and don’t forget your camera—every corner is Instagram-worthy!

2. Sakleshpur – Manjarabad Fort, Green Route, Coffee Plantations

Sakleshpur is a gem tucked away in the Western Ghats, just under 127 km from Mangalore. I fell in love with its rolling hills, winding roads and the smell of fresh coffee in the air. It’s less crowded, making it perfect for a short escape from the city buzz.

What to See & Do

• Manjarabad Fort: This star-shaped fort from the 18th century offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. I love to climb up just before sunset—it is a serene moment, watching the greenery stretch as far as the eye could see.
  
• Green Route: If you are driving or cycling, the Green Route is a must. It’s dotted with tunnels, bridges and endless greenery. I like to stop multiple times just to take in the scenery and sip on roadside coffee.
  
• Coffee Plantations: Walking through the plantations, you will meet local farmers and learned about coffee cultivation. Tasting freshly brewed coffee right there? Pure heaven.

Tips & Stories

Sakleshpur is ideal for early morning treks and slow, relaxed walks. Always carry light snacks and a camera for the scenic viewpoints. If you can, spend a night in a local homestay—it gives you a real feel of the place and some quiet time under starry skies.

Mid-Range Escapes (Within 200 km)

For those who want a little longer drive and a richer hill-station experience, these mid-range escapes are perfect. I love to pend a few days exploring each of these spots and the mix of trekking, coffee estates, waterfalls and serene views makes them unforgettable.

3. Chikmagalur – Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri, Coffee Estates

Chikmagalur has a special place in my travel memories. Rolling hills, coffee plantations and misty mornings make it feel like nature’s own retreat. Driving up from Mangalore, you will watch the landscape gradually transform from flat plains to emerald hills—it’s magical.

What to See & Do

• Mullayanagiri: The highest peak in Karnataka, it’s perfect for trekking. Start early to catch the sunrise and see the sea of clouds below you. Trekking up here is invigorating and the views make every step worth it.
  
• Baba Budangiri: Famous for its shrine and scenic surroundings. I love walking through the hills here while listening to the morning birds—pure serenity.
  
• Coffee Estates: Touring the plantations is a must. Here, I get to see the coffee beans being harvested and tasted freshly brewed coffee straight from the estate—it’s a rich, aromatic experience you can not forget.

Tips & Stories

I recommend starting early from Mangalore for a full day in Chikmagalur. Wear trekking shoes for Mullayanagiri and carry a water bottle. Don’t rush—stop at the viewpoints and take in the hills.

4. Kemmanagundi – Z Point, Hebbe Falls, Kalahatti Falls

Kemmanagundi is like stepping into a postcard. The hills are lush and green almost year-round, and there’s a sense of calm here that I instantly fell in love with.

What to See & Do

• Z Point: My favorite viewpoint for a panoramic view of the Western Ghats. Hiking here in the early morning gives misty hills and a quiet solitude that city life can’t offer.
  
• Hebbe Falls & Kalahatti Falls: Waterfalls in Kemmanagundi are stunning. Trek to Hebbe Falls and end up taking off your shoes to feel the cold water on your feet—so refreshing!
  
• Gardens & Pathways: The Kemmanagundi hill station itself has beautifully maintained gardens and walking paths.

Tips & Stories

Kemmanagundi is best visited from September to March. Always carry light snacks and a small backpack for short treks. Don’t forget your camera—every corner here is a picture-perfect spot.

5. Yana – Unique Rock Formations, Vibhooti Falls

Yana is a hidden gem near Mangalore. Its dramatic rock formations and serene surroundings make it a spot I always recommend to travelers looking for something different.

What to See & Do

• Yana Caves: Limestone rock formations that look otherworldly. I love to spend hours exploring the caves and the surrounding trails.
  
• Vibhooti Falls: A short trek from the caves leads to this peaceful waterfall. I love sitting near the falls, just listening to the water and soaking in the calm.
  
• Local Trails: Walking through the forest trails around Yana, you will spot monkeys and a variety of birds—it feels like a mini wildlife adventure.

Tips & Stories

Yana is best visited in the cooler months, from October to March. Wear trekking shoes and carry water. I also recommend hiring a local guide if you want to explore the trails fully—they know all the hidden corners!

Long Hill Drives (200–300 km from Mangalore)

These hill stations require a longer drive but trust me they are absolutely worth it. I’ve taken a few 3–4 day trips to such places and each one offers a mix of trekking, sightseeing and leisurely exploration. If you love waking up to misty hills and coffee-scented air, these destinations are perfect.

6. Coorg (Kodagu) – Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Raja’s Seat

Coorg is a classic and it’s easy to see why. Rolling hills, coffee estates and waterfalls everywhere make it feel like a natural paradise. Every time you visit, you are amazed by how much there is to explore.

What to See & Do

• Abbey Falls: The waterfall is surrounded by coffee plantations and spice gardens. I love walking along the trail to reach the falls—it’s peaceful and scenic.
  
• Dubare Elephant Camp: Interacting with elephants here is one of my favorite experiences. Feed them, which is incredibly fun and memorable.
  
• Raja’s Seat: A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the valley below.

Tips & Stories

I recommend a 2–3 day trip to Coorg. Stay in a homestay to experience local hospitality and don’t forget to try Coorgi cuisine—it’s delicious!

7. Wayanad – Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Spice Plantations

Although technically in Kerala, Wayanad is just a few hours from Mangalore and makes for a perfect hill escape. I’ve always loved its lush greenery and serene vibe.

What to See & Do

• Edakkal Caves: Ancient caves with intriguing petroglyphs. Exploring them feels like stepping back in time.
  
• Pookode Lake: A peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by forests. I love to rent a boat and spend the afternoon floating on the calm waters—pure bliss.
  
• Spice Plantations: Walking through Wayanad’s spice gardens is a treat for all the senses. Get a chance to taste fresh cardamom and vanilla—it’s an aromatic experience you won’t forget.

Tips & Stories

Wayanad is best visited between October and May. I recommend staying 2–3 nights to explore both the natural and cultural attractions fully.

8. Kodachadri – Trekking Paradise, Hidlumane Falls

Kodachadri is a trekker’s dream. The thrill of hiking through dense forests and emerging at viewpoints leaves you speechless.

What to See & Do

• Trekking Trails: Multiple trails of varying difficulty. Take the route through the forest, the sounds of birds and rustling leaves make it magical.
  
• Hidlumane Falls: A hidden waterfall along the trekking path. Stopping here feels like discovering a secret part of nature.

Tips & Stories

Carry a light backpack with water and snacks. Trekking shoes are a must! I found early mornings to be the best for a misty, peaceful hike.

Hidden & Offbeat Hill Stations Near Mangalore

If you are like me and love discovering places that are not swarmed with tourists, these hidden hill stations are a true delight. They offer serenity, untouched landscapes and unique experiences that make you feel like you have stumbled upon a secret corner of nature.

9. BR Hills – Wildlife Sanctuary, Biligiri Ranganatha Temple

BR Hills, short for Biligiri Ranganatha Hills, is a lesser-known treasure. The combination of wildlife, hills and spiritual sites makes it special.

What to See & Do

• BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for nature lovers. I will go on a guided safari when you can see elephants, deer and a variety of birds in their natural habitat—truly magical.
  
• Nature Walks: The trails here are quiet and lush. I love to spend a few hours just wandering, soaking in the flora and fauna.

Tips & Stories

Plan a full day or overnight stay to explore the sanctuary. Early morning treks are best for wildlife spotting. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera!

10. Sirsi – Unchalli Falls, Sahasralinga, Mirjan Fort

Sirsi is another offbeat spot I fell in love with. Its waterfalls and cultural sites make it a perfect combination of nature and history.

What to See & Do

• Unchalli Falls: A stunning waterfall tucked in the forest. I love to spend hours photographing the falls and enjoying the cool mist.
  
• Sahasralinga: A peaceful riverside spot with unique rock formations. Perfect for a calm picnic and a reflective moment.
  
• Mirjan Fort: A historical fort surrounded by greenery. I will like to wander through the ruins imagining the stories of the past.

Tips & Stories

Sirsi is ideal for a 1–2 day offbeat trip. Carry snacks and water, and wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths. I loved discovering small trails off the main road—it feels like exploring my own secret hill station.

Suggested Itineraries for Hills Near Mangalore

Planning a trip is always easier when you know what to do, where to go and how much time to spend. Based on my personal experiences, I’ve put together some tried and tested itineraries for exploring the hills around Mangalore. These are flexible, so you can adjust them based on your pace, interests and travel style.

1-Day Trips From Mangalore

Ideal For: Short weekend trips or spontaneous escapes.

Destinations Covered: Agumbe and Sakleshpur

Morning:

• Depart from Mangalore around 6:00 AM.
  
• Reach Agumbe by 9:00 AM and explore Sunset Point and nearby rainforest trails. I love starting early to enjoy the misty morning vibe.

Afternoon:

• Trek to Barkana Falls (carry light snacks and water).
  
• Have lunch at a local eatery or carry a picnic. I usually pack a small lunch for convenience.

Evening:

• Head to Sakleshpur and explore the Green Route briefly if time allows.
  
• Visit Manjarabad Fort for a sunset view.

Tips & Stories:
This itinerary is all about nature and short treks. Wear trekking shoes, carry water and keep your camera handy. I always leave Mangalore early—it gives more time to explore and less traffic stress.

Places Near Mangalore to Visit in 2 Days

Ideal For: Travelers who want a mix of trekking, sightseeing and relaxation.

Day 1:

• Depart early from Mangalore and drive to Chikmagalur.
  
• Visit Mullayanagiri for trekking and panoramic views. I usually spend 2–3 hours here to soak in the scenery.
  
• Explore Baba Budangiri and the coffee estates nearby.

Day 2:

• Early morning drive to Kemmanagundi.
  
• Trek to Z Point and visit Hebbe Falls. Take a short nature walk through the gardens afterward.
  
• Head back to Mangalore in the late afternoon.

Tips & Stories:
Stay overnight in a homestay or resort in Chikmagalur. I love waking up to the smell of coffee plantations in the morning—it’s one of my favorite parts of this itinerary.

Tourist Places Near Mangalore for 3 or 4 Days

Ideal For: Nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts who want a deeper hill experience.

Day 1:

• Drive from Mangalore to Coorg. Explore Abbey Falls and take a leisurely walk in the coffee estates. Stay overnight in a homestay.

Day 2:

• Visit Dubare Elephant Camp in the morning.
  
• Spend the afternoon at Raja’s Seat and local markets.

Day 3:

• Depart for Kodachadri. Trek to Hidlumane Falls. Stay nearby in a guesthouse or homestay.

Day 4:

• On the way back, stop at Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary or tribal villages near Chamarajanagar for a scenic/cultural detour.
  
• Arrive in Mangalore by evening.

Tips & Stories:
I recommend carrying a daypack with water, snacks and a raincoat. Trekking shoes are essential. These 3–4 day trips give you enough time to immerse in nature, enjoy waterfalls and explore cultural spots along the way.

Insider Tips for Itineraries:

• Always check weather conditions, especially during monsoon season.
  
• Start early—morning light and mist make the views magical.
  
• Mix popular and offbeat destinations to avoid crowds.
  
• Carry a power bank, water, snacks and a first aid kit.
  
• Respect local culture and environment—leave no trace!

Foodie Corner – Where to Eat Along the Way

For me, no trip is complete without tasting local flavors and the hill stations near Mangalore offer some amazing culinary experiences. From traditional meals to fresh coffee and snacks, here’s a guide to satisfy your hunger while exploring the hills.

Chikmagalur – Coffee & Local Delights

• Coffee Estates & Cafés: I always love to stop at a plantation café to sip freshly brewed coffee. It’s rich, aromatic and the perfect energy boost for trekking.
  
• Local Snacks: Try akki rotti (rice roti) with chutney or freshly fried pakoras from roadside stalls—they taste best with a view of the hills.
  
• Personal Tip: Don’t rush your coffee breaks; sitting on a plantation bench while overlooking the misty hills is one of my favorite travel moments.

Coorg (Kodagu) – Traditional Coorgi Cuisine

• Must-Try Dishes: Pandi curry (pork curry), Kadambuttu (rice balls) and local Coorgi coffee. I will try a homestay meal once that completely change the idea of authentic Coorgi food.
  
• Cafés & Small Eateries: Several cafés near Abbey Falls and Raja’s Seat offer snacks, coffee and pastries.
  
• Personal Tip: Ask locals for home-cooked meals; they are often more authentic than restaurant food.

Sakleshpur – Roadside Coffee & Snacks

• Green Route Stops: Small roadside cafés along the Green Route serve hot coffee and tea—perfect for a mid-drive break.
  
• Local Flavors: Try sweet banana fritters or fried snacks from local stalls while taking in the scenic views.
  
• Personal Tip: I always love to carry a small snack pack too, in case the cafés are crowded or closed.

Kemmanagundi – Picnic-Style Treats

• Local Shops & Homestays: I love picking up sandwiches, fresh fruit or pastries from small bakeries before heading to Z Point or Hebbe Falls.
  
• Personal Tip: Pack light snacks and water—it’s best to enjoy a picnic amid the serene greenery rather than hunting for eateries.

Hidden Gems & Offbeat Stops

• Tribal Villages near Chamarajanagar: Fresh homemade snacks like sweet jaggery treats, rice pancakes or spiced tea make a unique experience.
  
• Bandipur or Nanjangud: Small local eateries serve simple meals like rice, curry and fried snacks—a perfect energy booster during wildlife drives or temple visits.

My Foodie Travel Tips

• Always carry water and light snacks for long drives or trekking routes.
  
• Try local specialties; they are often the freshest and most authentic.
  
• Don’t skip coffee breaks in plantations—it’s part of the hill experience!
  
• Be mindful of hygiene—stick to freshly cooked food or packaged snacks when unsure.

Where to Stay – Tried & Tested Recommendations

Finding the right place to stay can make or break a hill-station trip. I’ve explored a mix of homestays, resorts and budget-friendly stays around Mangalore’s nearby hills and I’m sharing the ones I loved most.

Chikmagalur – Coffee Estate Stays & Boutique Resorts

• My Favorite: A homestay inside a coffee plantation. Waking up to the aroma of coffee and misty hills is unforgettable.
  
• Why I Love It: Personalized hospitality, freshly cooked local breakfast and serene surroundings.
  
• Tips: Book in advance during peak season (Oct–Mar) to secure rooms with a view of the plantations.

Coorg – Cozy Homestays & Nature Resorts

• My Favorite: A homestay near Abbey Falls with a garden and balcony overlooking the valley.
  
• Why I Love It: Tranquility, homemade Coorgi meals and easy access to popular spots like Raja’s Seat.
  
• Tips: Opt for homestays over large hotels if you want an authentic experience and interaction with locals.

Sakleshpur – Budget-Friendly Stays & Boutique Villas

• My Favorite: A small villa along the Green Route.
  
• Why I Love It: Peaceful, private and perfect for a short getaway. Plus, the staff gave insider tips for exploring coffee estates and trails.
  
• Tips: Ideal for 1–2 nights; pack light as rooms often have cozy layouts but limited luggage space.

Kemmanagundi – Nature-Immersed Resorts & Guesthouses

• My Favorite: A hilltop guesthouse close to Z Point.
  
• Why I Love It: Waking up to views of rolling hills, misty mornings and the garden paths around the stay.
  
• Tips: Book early during holidays—this spot gets popular fast due to its small size and scenic location.

Hidden Gems & Offbeat Stays

• BR Hills: Eco-lodges near the wildlife sanctuary; perfect for nature enthusiasts.
  
• Sirsi & Yana: Small homestays or local guesthouses that offer cultural immersion and peaceful surroundings.
  
• Tips: These offbeat stays are less commercialized. Carry essentials and cash, as some places don’t have card facilities.

General Stay Tips:

• Always check if the stay offers free parking, especially for hill drives.
  
• Look for rooms with balconies or viewpoints—they make early mornings magical.
  
• Homestays often serve fresh local cuisine; don’t miss it!
  
• Book in advance during peak seasons (October–March) to avoid last-minute stress.

Conclusion

Exploring the hill stations near Mangalore has always been one of my favorite travel adventures. From quick weekend getaways like Agumbe and Sakleshpur to longer immersive trips to Coorg, Wayanad and Kodachadri, every destination has its own charm, stories and moments to treasure.

For me, it’s not just about reaching the peak or visiting a waterfall but it’s about the journey of winding roads, misty mornings, local interactions and those little unplanned stops that become unforgettable memories. Every trip to the hills reminds me to slow down, breathe in the fresh air and soak in the beauty around me.

Whether you are a trekker, a nature lover, a foodie or someone simply looking to escape the city for a couple of days, there’s a hill station near Mangalore waiting for you. Pack your bags, keep your camera ready and set out on your own adventure. Trust me, the hills have a way of staying in your heart long after you leave.

FAQs About Hill Stations Near Mangalore

Here is the list of Frequently Asked Questions:

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