Last updated:
Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka, at about 1,925–1,930 metres. It rises in the Baba Budan Giri range of the Western Ghats, about 16 km north of Chikkamagaluru (Chikmagalur) town, above coffee estates and patches of shola forest.
Unlike most high peaks in South India, it is easy to reach: a road climbs most of the way, and the last part is a short walk up stone and concrete steps to the summit. That makes it a popular half-day outing for families as well as trekkers.
On this page
The drive and the summit
The road from Chikkamagaluru leaves the town through coffee country and then climbs in tight bends along open grassy ridges. In the monsoon and early winter the hills are bright green and often wrapped in cloud; on clear days the views stretch across the folds of the Western Ghats and the plains towards Chikkamagaluru.
From the parking area at the top of the road, about 460 steps lead up to the summit. On the top is a small shrine dedicated to a sage, Mullappa Swamy, after whom the peak is named; local belief holds that he meditated in caves below the summit. A police radio relay station also stands on the peak.
The summit is exposed and windy. Mornings are usually clearest; by afternoon mist often rolls in and can hide the view completely.
Online vehicle entry pass
Because of heavy tourist traffic on the narrow hill roads, the Chikkamagaluru district administration introduced a mandatory online vehicle entry pass in September 2025 for the road to Mullayanagiri and Inam Dattatreya Peeta (Baba Budangiri). At the time of writing:
- Book before you go: the pass is booked online through the portal linked from the Chikkamagaluru district tourism page; spot passes are not available.
- Two time slots: about 6 AM to 12 noon and 1 PM to 6 PM.
- Daily cap: the number of vehicles per slot is limited, so book early for weekends and holidays.
- Charges by vehicle type: separate rates for two-wheelers, cars, larger vehicles and tempo travellers.
- Rules may change: the system is new, so check the district website before you travel. If you travel with us, tell us your preferred day early so we can plan the drive around an available slot.
Trekking: the Sarpadhari trail
Before the road was built, pilgrims climbed Mullayanagiri on foot along a path known as the Sarpadhari (or Sarpanadi) trail, and trekkers still value it. Trails in Karnataka’s forest areas are increasingly regulated, and whether this route is open, and on what terms, changes from time to time. Check with the local forest office before planning a trek, and do not go off the marked path. For most visitors, the drive plus the summit steps is the practical way to enjoy the peak.
Tips
- Take the morning slot: clearer views and fewer crowds.
- Warm layer: it is much cooler and windier at the top than in town, especially from November to February.
- Rain gear: in the monsoon (roughly June to September), expect rain, mist, leeches on grassy edges and slippery steps.
- Road: the last section is narrow with sharp bends; visibility can drop suddenly in mist. Leave the driving to someone experienced.
- Nearby: combine it with Seethalayyanagiri, Baba Budangiri and the Kemmangundi area on the same range.
Visiting from Pondicherry
Chikkamagaluru is about 570 km from Pondicherry, around 11–12 hours by road via Bengaluru and Hassan, so plan at least two nights in the coffee country. Mullayanagiri fits naturally into our Coorg and Chikmagalur coffee trail, and can be added on request to the Hoysala temples and Mysore tour, since Belur is less than an hour from Chikkamagaluru. See our trekking and adventure and tea and coffee plantations pages for more.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a pass to visit Mullayanagiri?
Yes. At the time of writing, an online vehicle entry pass is mandatory for the road to Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri, booked in advance for a morning (about 6 AM–12 noon) or afternoon (about 1–6 PM) slot. Check the Chikkamagaluru district tourism page before you go.
How high is Mullayanagiri?
About 1,925–1,930 metres. It is the highest peak in Karnataka.
How many steps are there to the top of Mullayanagiri?
About 460 steps lead from the end of the road to the summit shrine.
How far is Mullayanagiri from Chikmagalur?
About 16 km from Chikkamagaluru town, roughly 45 minutes to an hour by road because of the bends.