Kemmangundi (Kannada: ಕೆಮ್ಮಣ್ಣುಗುಂಡಿ) is a hill station in Tarikere taluk of Chikkamagaluru district in the state of Karnataka, India. It is located at a height of 1434m above sea level. This was the summer retreat of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV and as a mark of respect to the king, it is also known as Sri Krishnarajendra Hill Station. Ringed by the Baba Budan Giri Range and blessed with silver cascades, mountain streams, and lush vegetation, Kemmangundi’s beautifully laid-out ornamental gardens and enchanting mountains and valleys views are a treat to the eye. The spectacular sunset view from the Raj Bhavan is a photographer’s delight. For the adventurous at heart, Kemmangundi offers many peaks to scale and intricate jungle paths to explore.

Origin of name

Kemmangundi (or Kemmanagundi) derives its name from three Kannada words - Kempu (red), mannu (soil) and gundi (pit) and means a place with red soil.

Transport

Road

Kemmangundi is about 53 km from Chikkamagaluru and 20 km from Lingadahalli by road. The nearest National Highways, NH-206 or NH-48, connect to Bangalore. There is another route to reach via Mulayanagiri which a scenic drive.

Rail

The nearest railway station is 20-30 km away at tarikere.

Air

The nearest airports are at Mangalore (190 km) and Bangalore.

History

Kemmangundi was established as the summer retreat of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. He later donated this resort to the Government of Karnataka. The Horticultural Department of Karnataka now develops and maintains the resort and its surroundings.

Landmarks

Raj Bhavan

Raj Bhavan is a guest house located in Kemmangundi and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding hills. The view of the sunset from Raj Bhavan is something to be cherished.

Z point

Z point is a vantage point at Kemmangundi and can be reached by a steep uphill trek of about 45 mins. from Raj Bhavan and is another favourite place of people who want to view a spectacular sunrise . As it is a walk beware of slippery roads and snakes

Rose garden

Rose garden, as the name suggests is a garden of roses maintained by the Horticultural Department. Various varieties of roses are cultivated here.

Hebbe Falls

A downhill trek of about 8 km from Raj Bhavan takes one to Hebbe Falls where water streams down from a height of 168 meters in two stages to form Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls). Jeeps are available from one particular point to Hebbe falls and they charge around 700/- to 1200/- (for up and down depending on no of persons). We can take a trek if you have enough time.

Kallathi falls

Kallathi falls is about 10 km. from Kemmangundi. On the road from Kemmangundi to Tarikere, a deviation takes one to Kallathi falls. It is also known as Kallathigiri falls and Kalahasthi falls. Water cascades from a height of 122 metres and the temple here is attributed to times of the Vijayanagar empire. According to a local legend, this place is associated with the Hindu sage, Agastya.

Mullayah Giri

Mullayah Giri is the highest point in Karnataka. You can travel from Kemmannugundi , via BB Hills towards Chikkamagalore. Before reaching Chikkamagalore you will find a deviation towards this fantastic hill top. From the deviation drive up for 8 km. The road takes you all the way up. On top, there is a Shiva temple.

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