Offbeat Stay @ Kalarava: A Home Away from Home, with the Best of Chikmagalur Around
Are you tired of crowded tourist traps and commercialized getaways? Want a peaceful escape that still puts you in the heart of nature and adventure?
Then let us introduce you to Kalarava Stay, a hidden gem in Arasinaguppe, Chikmagalur, that feels less like a resort and more like a warm embrace.
To truly understand and absorb the soul of a place, where you stay matters just as much as what you see. The right stay can connect you to local culture, cuisine, and community. That’s why Kalarava, a cozy retreat nestled amidst the hills of Arasinaguppe, is the perfect base for exploring the real Chikmagalur. It offers warmth, comfort, and immersive experiences that make you feel part of the land rather than just a visitor.
But that’s not all—what makes Kalarava special is not just the stay, but what lies around it. From breathtaking waterfalls to misty mountain peaks, this is your gateway to exploring the best things to do in Chikmagalur, all within easy reach.
🌿 Kalarava Stay: Where Tranquility Meets Charm
Located about 10 km from Chikmagalur town in the quiet village of Arasinaguppe, Kalarava Stay is nestled among lush greenery and coffee plantations. You’ll wake up to the sound of birds and the scent of fresh coffee, with a view of mist-covered hills right outside your room.
Whether you're a solo traveler looking for silence or a group wanting to chill by a bonfire, this place has you covered. It offers:
- Rustic yet cozy rooms
- Homely Malnad meals made fresh
- Nature trails nearby
- Bonfire nights under a starry sky
It’s a perfect base for exploring the hill station vibes of Chikmagalur—with several must-see spots just a short drive away.
☕ Coffee Plantations & Tastings – Right Outside Your Door
You don’t have to go far—Kalarava is surrounded by working coffee plantations. The owners and locals offer guided tours where you’ll see the bean-to-brew process firsthand.
Learn how Arabica and Robusta beans are grown, harvested, dried, and roasted. And yes—coffee tasting sessions are part of the experience. Don’t leave without sipping on the freshest cup you’ve ever had!
🔥 Bonfire Nights at Kalarava
After a day of exploration, head back to Kalarava for a relaxing bonfire night. Sit around the fire with fellow travellers, sip on local coffee (or a drink), and swap stories under the stars. Occasionally, there’s local music or karaoke to make the night even more memorable.
🍛 Authentic Malnad Cuisine – Served Hot at Kalarava
All that trekking and sightseeing will build an appetite, and Kalarava’s in-house kitchen does not disappoint. Expect meals cooked with love, using local ingredients and traditional Malnad recipes. Some must-tries:
- Akki Rotti with Malnad-style Chicken Curry and other regional gravies
- A variety of dosa options (set dosa, masala dosa, neer dosa) served with sambar and chutney
- Upma and vada combos for breakfast
- One-pot meals like lemon rice and sambar rice for quick lunch fixes
- North Indian dishes for those craving paneer, roti, and dal
- Light Chinese fare like fried rice and noodles
- Egg dishes such as omelette, egg bhurji, and boiled eggs
The food here hits the sweet spot between homely and delicious—perfect after a day of adventure.
💦 Hebbe Falls – Just 25 km Away
A short 1-hour drive (25 km) from Kalarava takes you to Hebbe Falls, one of the most thrilling natural wonders in Chikmagalur. The ride itself is adventurous—you’ll need to take a jeep through bumpy coffee estate paths. But once you’re there, the roaring 168-meter waterfall surrounded by thick forests is nothing short of magical.
Don’t forget to pack a change of clothes—you will want to get wet.
🏞️ Z Point & Shanti Falls – 27 km Away
Looking for an early morning trek with jaw-dropping views? Z Point is your go-to, just 27 km from Kalarava (near Kemmanagundi). It's a short but steep trek that rewards you with a panoramic view of the Western Ghats.
Along the way, you’ll cross Shanti Falls, a small but beautiful waterfall that’s perfect for a pit stop and photos. Go early morning to catch the clouds rolling in—it’s surreal.
🌊 Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls) – Only 15 km Away
Want a waterfall that’s closer and easier to access? Head to Jhari Falls, just 15 km from Kalarava Stay. It’s also located within a coffee estate and is known for its gentle cascades and natural pools.
Locals call it Buttermilk Falls because of the frothy, white look of the water. The terrain is moderately easy, making it great for families and casual travellers.
🕌 Manikyadhara Falls – 28 km from Kalarava
Located in the sacred Baba Budangiri hills, this spiritual waterfall is 28 km from Kalarava Stay. The place holds religious significance for both Hindus and Muslims, and many believe the water has healing powers.
It’s a peaceful spot where nature meets faith—definitely worth a stop if you’re heading toward Baba Budangiri or Mullayanagiri.
⛰️ Mullayanagiri: Karnataka’s Highest Peak – Just 14 km Away
Ready for a sunrise trek? Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka at 1,930 meters, is just 14 km from Kalarava Stay.
Trekking to the top before dawn rewards you with one of the most beautiful sunrises in South India. The trail is moderately challenging, but the cool air and scenic views make every step worth it.
📍 Distance to Key Attractions from Kalarava (Arasinaguppe):
- Hebbe Falls – 24 km
- Jhari Falls – 22 km
- Manikyadhara Falls – 26 km
- Mullayanagiri Peak – 21 km
- Z Point (Sunrise Viewpoint) – 28 km
- Baba Budangiri – 25 km
🎒 Your Chikmagalur Bucket List – From Kalarava
- Sip fresh brew at a plantation walk
- Take a jeep to Hebbe Falls
- Trek to Mullayanagiri at sunrise
- Enjoy Malnad cuisine
- Soak under Jhari or Manikyadhara Falls
- Watch the sunset with chai at Z Point
- Chill by the bonfire at Kalarava
- Buy fresh coffee and spices from the source
Chikmagalur is best experienced slowly—with mornings spent watching the mist rise over coffee estates and days filled with light treks, waterfall splashes, and hearty meals.
Kalarava Stay offers the perfect launchpad for all these experiences. You get the comfort of a homely stay and the adventure of nature just minutes away.
So whether you’re planning a weekend escape from Bangalore or a longer soul-searching trip, make Kalarava your home in Chikmagalur.
✅ Book Your Stay at Kalarava:
📽️ Watch More on Chikmagalur:
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