Baba Budangiri
Range
Chandra Drona Parvatha
Altitude
1895m
Difficulty
Moderate
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About Baba Budangiri
Known historically as the Chandra Drona Parvatha because of its crescent moon shape, Baba Budangiri is the second-highest peak in Karnataka. The highlight for adventurers is the spectacular, highly exposed "blade-edge" ridge walk connecting it to Mullayanagiri, offering plunging valley views on both sides.
Best time to visit
September, October, November, December, January, February
History & Significance
The mountain holds immense cultural and historical significance. It is named after the 17th-century Sufi saint Baba Budan, who is credited with introducing coffee to India by smuggling seven raw coffee beans from Mocha (Yemen) and planting them on these very slopes. It is a unique pilgrimage site venerated by both Hindus (as Dattatreya Peetha) and Muslims.
Places to See
Sri Guru Dattatreya Bababudanswamy Dargah, Manikyadhara Falls (a short walk from the shrine), Galikere (a small, serene alpine lake nearby), and the sprawling coffee plantations of the region.
Journey & Transport
How to Reach
By Road: Drive from Chikmagalur town towards Attigundi (approx. 30 km). The winding Ghat road goes directly up to the Datta Peeta shrine. By Bus: Local buses run from Chikmagalur to the shrine. If doing the ridge trek, start at Mullayanagiri.
Important Notes
Wind: The ridge is notorious for ferociously strong, cold winds that can throw you off balance. Permits: Forest department bans the ridge walk during the peak monsoon (due to zero visibility/slippery paths) and peak summer (due to forest fire risks). Nearby police station: Chikmagalur Rural Police Station Nearby hospital: District Hospital, Chikmagalur
Facilities
- StayPitching tents on the ridge or near the peak is prohibited. Trekkers must stay in homestays or resorts down in Chikmagalur or the surrounding coffee estates.
- FoodThere are numerous food stalls and small local eateries selling snacks, meals, and tea near the Datta Peeta shrine parking area. However, there is no food available on the ridge walk itself.
- WaterNatural streams along the ridge are seasonal and dry up post-winter. Carry at least 2 liters of water if trekking the ridge. Water is available to buy at the shrine base.