The crazy story behind coffee in Chikmagalur

Imagine sipping a hot, steaming cup of coffee while overlooking the lush greenery in none other than the birthplace of coffee in India— Chikmagalur. The aroma of freshly brewed beans mingles with the crisp, fresh air as you wrap your hands around a hot cup of coffee. The coffee in Chikmagalur is so divine that each sip soothes your soul, allowing you to savour the magic of the moment as the world slows down around you.

For many people, coffee is a go-to beverage for years. Coffee drinkers enjoy having a caffeine boost in the morning. Similarly, a few sips here and there during the day never hurt. Wouldn't you want to know where your favourite cup of coffee comes from, especially if you enjoy a nice brew?

Here’s a crazy story of coffee in Chikmagalur, tracing the origins and rich history of this beloved beverage—

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The birthplace of coffee in India

Chikmagalur, popularly known as the ‘land of coffee in Karnataka’, is famed for its beautiful coffee plantations. Today, there are more coffee estates than ever, nestled amidst the undulating hills of the Western Ghats. Chikmagalur contributes significantly to the history of coffee in India, stretching back a very long way!

Nestled in the foothills of the Baba Budan Giri Chikmagalur mountain range, this hill town is a heavily forested area where coffee bushes thrive. According to the history of coffee in India, in 1670, the revered Sufi ascetic Baba Budan sneaked 7 unroasted coffee seeds from Mocha in Yemen on his way back to India. At that time, only the Middle East could produce coffee, and exporting anything other than roasted or ground beans was strictly prohibited.

Upon returning to India, Baba Budan planted these beans in the fertile hills of Chikmagalur, Karnataka. Little did he know that his bold act would forever change the landscape of Indian agriculture and culture. The region's perfect climate and soil conditions allowed these beans to thrive, making Chikmagalur the birthplace of coffee in India. Baba Budan Giri Chikmagalur thus became a pivotal location in India's coffee history, marking the beginning of Chikmagalur’s journey into the world of coffee cultivation.

Stunning view of Baba Budan Giri mountain in Chikmagalur

Explore the coffee culture of Chikmagalur

The lifestyle and culture of Chikmagalur have developed around this agrarian component. This birthplace of coffee in India is now one of the nation's top coffee producers. The hill town is teeming with cafes, upscale coffee shops, homestays in the middle of coffee plantations, and opulent resorts that guarantee an unforgettable experience of Chikmagalur's coffee culture. However, there are few coffee estates in Chikmagalur that still belong to families who are trying to uphold their heritage.

If you love the coffee in Chikmagalur and want to learn more about it, then attend the Chikmagalur Coffee Festival honours this tradition. The festival typically occurs in the month of December and offers coffee tastings, tours of plantations and workshops on brewing coffee. It’s a wonderful experience for coffee enthusiasts and a great opportunity to learn about the region’s coffee culture and local attractions.

Take a tour in the lush green coffee plantation of Chikmagalur 

Witness the process of coffee making 

When in Chikmagalur, you have to witness the coffee-making process firsthand. Many operators like World of Coffee offer curated coffee plantation tours. You can go on plantation walks, select your own coffee and embark on village excursions. The town also features a coffee museum where enthusiasts can learn extensively about coffee. During the coffee flowering season, ripe cherries are dried and processed into beans. You can either watch the coffee-making process live, or if you’re staying at The Hosteller Chikmagalur, you can view our specially created murals that vividly illustrate each step of coffee production.

Know more about coffee at the World of coffee museum in Chikmagalur

Conclusion

Next time you enjoy a cup of coffee, remember the crazy story of how it all began in the ‘land of coffee in Karnataka’— Chikmagalur, where a few smuggled beans turned into a beloved beverage. Discover everything about Chikmagalur’s coffee culture and the history of coffee in India. Don’t miss the chance to take a guided tour through the coffee plantations— it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

If you are looking for a comfortable and affordable stay in Chikmagalur, then check out The Hosteller Chikmagalur. This quaint hostel offers a refreshing experience in a charming area. The serene lush green surrounding of the hostel helps you unwind and soothes both your eyes and soul. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to sip a hot cup of coffee in Chikmagalur and book your stay at The Hosteller today!

View of backpackers chilling at the gorgeous The Hosteller Chikmagalur