Baba Budangiri is a mighty mountain standing tall at 1,895 m in the coffee land of Karnataka, Chikmagalur. Nestled amidst western ghats these hills are also known as “ Dattagiri “ and it is the 2nd tallest peak in Karnataka. This place got its name from a Sufi saint Baba Budan who inhabited here during the late 16th century.
There is a Dattatreya temple (Incarnation of Lord Shiva) and a Dargah of Saint Baba Budan. Hence, these hills act as a popular pilgrimage center for both Hindus and Muslims. Besides this, Baba Budangiri also remains as a hotspot amongst the hardcore adventure freaks, travelers, and nature enthusiasts.
With lush green vegetation as far as the eyes could see, loft grasslands, steep valleys, mist-filled clouds, stunning streams, sparkling waterfalls, aromatic coffee estates, and plenty of trekking opportunities is sure to strike a chord with you. Not to mention, the view of the Sun running down the horizon and painting the whole sky Orange is a feast to the eye.
Apparently, if legends are to be believed, then Saint Baba Budan during his pilgrimage journey to Mecca had visited Yemen and bought plenty of coffee beans along with him. And he planted them in the Baba Budangiri range for the first time in India in 1670
Table of Contents
Mullayanagiri To Baba Budangiri Trek
You can reach the Mullayanagiri summit either through trekking or you can take your vehicle to the top from where the peak is 500 steps away.
Actually, the trek to Baba Budangiri starts from the backside of Shiva temple on Mullayanagiri peak. It is a 9 km long trek which will normally take you 5 to 6 hours to complete. You can divide the trek into 2 phases.
Mullayanagiri To Kavikal Gundi Checkpoint.
It is a 3 km journey amidst grasslands and Shola forest. In the end, you will reach Kavikal Gundi Checkpoint near Attigundi road, where you have to seek permission to continue your trek. You can take a break, have your packed lunch and refill your bottle here. It is an easy path without much confusion as the pathway is clear.
From Kavikal Gundi Checkpoint To Bababudangiri
On the other hand, this 6 km trekking trail is a bit confusing one. Mostly you will be walking on narrow ridges with the steep valley on one side and dense forest on the other side. Indeed, there is white marking done on the rocks to help fellow travellers with directions. However, make sure to follow the BSNL tower in Bababudangiri, which is visible from far, if you get lost.
Camping can be done overnight near the Manikyadhara waterfalls.No need to worry about food, as there are few eateries near Baba Budangiri. However, if you wish to cook, you can find a lot of firewood and you can set up your barbeque.
Above all, the trail route can also be found on Google map. But to be on the safer side it is always better to ask locals, who know the path better than Google.
Usually, you can find auto-rickshaws or jeeps to get back to Chikmagalur main town.
Also, try hiring a guide and trek to Kemmanagundi hills, Manikyadhara falls, or Gaalikere from Baba Budangiri.
How To Reach Trek Starting Point Of Baba Budangiri
After getting down in Chikmagalur, you can ask any Auto rickshaw guy to drop you near the trekking base and he might charge you around Rs. 150 to 200.Once you get down, you can trek to Mullayana Giri peak through Sarpadhari route. You can start to trek to Bababudan from the backside of shiva temple.
Baba Budangiri Trek Information
Trek Distance: 9 Km to 10 Km(approximate)
Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
Difficulty Level: Moderate.
Best Time To Trek: September To March.
Camping: Is allowed.
Trek start Point: Behind Shiva temple Mullayanagiri Peak
Trek End Point: BSNL tower Bababudangiri Peak
Comments