History of Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri is a prominent mountain in the Baba Budan range of the Western Ghats in India. Situated in the Chikkamagaluru taluk of Chikkamagaluru District, Karnataka, Baba Budangiri is renowned for its shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Hazrat Dada Hayat Khalandar, making it a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Muslims. In the late 2000s, the Sangh Parivar organizations initiated “Datta Jayanti” celebrations as part of their movement to claim the “Sri Guru Dattatreya Bababudan Swami Dattapit.” Devotees visit Baba Budangiri to have darshan at the revered dargah. The Baba Budangiri range is home to several key peaks, including Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri itself (with a height of 1895 meters). Together, these peaks form the Chandradrona Parvatha Shreni (Chandradrona Mountain Range), which naturally resembles the shape of a crescent moon.
Transportation and Best Time to Visit Baba Budangiri
When traveling to Baba Budangiri, the nearest airports are in Mangalore and Bangalore. Upon arrival, you can easily take a taxi or a bus to reach Chikkamagaluru, and from there, local taxis or shared jeeps can take you up the hill to Baba Budangiri. For those planning a hike, shared jeeps are a popular choice. Additionally, private buses run every three hours from Chikkamagaluru to Baba Budangiri. The best time to visit Baba Budangiri is between March and April when the primary flowering season occurs. During the winter months, mist blankets the area, adding to the beauty of the region.
Nearest Airports to Baba Budangiri:
- Mangalore Airport (MXP): Located around 160 km from Chikkamagaluru.
- Bangalore International Airport (BLR): Situated about 245 km from Chikkamagaluru.
After landing at either of these airports, travelers can take a taxi or bus to Chikkamagaluru and then proceed to Baba Budangiri.
Accommodation and Food Near Baba Budangiri
There are several accommodation options around Baba Budangiri, ranging from budget to luxury, including the Honeydewwz Exoticaa Hotel and Resort, Siri Nature Roosts, Nature View Cottages, and Hotel White Feather. Malnad cuisine is quite famous in the area, and visitors can savor the famous Budangiri Coffee at Coffee Barn Café. Although there are no restaurants directly on the mountain, several dining options are available in Chikkamagaluru, such as Town Canteen, Siri Cafe, Estate Cafe, Cafe Agape, and Food Palace.
| Accommodation Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Hotels | There are various budget and luxury hotels in Chikkamagaluru, offering comfortable stays with stunning views of the mountains. |
| Guest houses and homestays | These options offer a more personal touch, allowing visitors to experience local culture and hospitality. |
| Ashrams | For those seeking a more spiritual retreat, ashrams provide a peaceful environment and opportunities for meditation and yoga. |
Activities and Places to Visit Near Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri is a perfect destination for trekking. There are two popular starting points: Sarpadhari and Attigundi. Trekkers will first reach Mullayanagiri before continuing to Baba Budangiri. Along the way, the Bladge Ridge offers a breathtaking trek, with panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Several viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities, and camping and campfires are also popular activities in the area. The blooming of Kurinji flowers, which occurs every 12 years, is a rare spectacle in the Nilgiris, and the blue hue these flowers cast is a sight to behold.
One of the key religious attractions at Baba Budangiri is Datta Peeta, where three Siddhas (holy oracles) are said to be buried in caves. The place is linked to the revered Sufi saint Baba Budan, after whom the mountain is named. Pilgrims can visit the ancient Sri Guru Dattatreya Bababudanswamy’s Darga, believed to be a place of spiritual significance. It is also said that Baba Budan and Hazrat Dada Hayat Mir Khalandar once lived in these caves, further adding to its sacredness.
Other notable spots include Mullayanagiri Peak, which is the highest peak in Karnataka, and Chennakesava Temple, a beautiful example of Hoysala architecture, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple features the unique Deepastambha, a 42-foot-high pillar that stands without support.
For those interested in local shopping, Namma Angady offers high-quality spices and dry fruits at good prices.
Conclusion
Baba Budangiri is an exceptional weekend getaway, offering a mix of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re trekking up the hills, visiting sacred sites, or simply soaking in the stunning views, Baba Budangiri provides an unforgettable experience.
