Located in southwest India, Chikmagalur is one of those few hill stations that combines nature’s bounty, wildlife, adventure, heritage locations, and coffee as well. The place welcomes you with fresh oxygen retreat and lush greenery, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. Apart from its fascinating beauty, Chikmagalur is known for being a melting pot of different cultures and religions. When translated in English, Chikmagalur means Young Daughter’s Town. Many believe that this place was given to the daughter of Rukmangada as a dowry. Located at the height of 3400 ft, this hill station transforms you to the magical land of tranquility. While there are plenty of things to do in Chikmagalur, here are 11 things that you do during your next weekend trip to Chikmagalur.
27 Exciting Things You Can Do In Chikmagalur
This whimsical destination has plenty of activities to do in Chikmagalur for kids and adults both that are going to make your weekend getaway blissful with your friends and family. Check out this list of amazing activities in Chikmagalur that you must not miss out on during your vacation.
- Hebbe Falls: Discover An Exotic Wonder
- Mullayanagiri: Enjoy A Stimulating Trekking Experience
- Coffee Estates: Refresh Your Taste Buds
- Sharadamba Temple: Pray To Goddess Saraswati
- Kalhatti Falls: Rejuvenate Yourself
- Jhari Falls: Have A Picnic
- Kemmangundi Peak: Go For Trekking
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Enjoy A Jeep Safari
- Bababudangiri: Get Some Thrill With Trekking
- Horanadu Temple: Pay Your Respects
- Sakleshpur: Go For Riverside Camping
- Kudremukh Trek: Taste Real Adventure
- Bhadra River: Engage In Rafting Rafting
- Chikmagalur Golf Club: Play A Round Or Two
- Alekan Falls: Take A Dip In The Cool Water
- Kallathigiri Falls: Hike To The Hidden Beauty
- Coffee Museum: Explore The History Of Coffee
- Yagachi Dam: Indulge In Jet Skiing
- Kadambi Falls: Dive In!
- Hoysaleswara Temple: Take Blessings
- Shanti Falls: Destress
- Tea Plantations: Take A Relaxing Walk
- Kayaking: For All Thrill Seekers
- Shopping: Buy Some Souvenirs
- Neelakurinji Blooms: Experience Bliss
- Makar Sankranti: Attend The Grand Celebrations
- Town Canteen: Relish The Local Food
1. Hebbe Falls: Discover An Exotic Wonder
Located approximately 10 km away from Kemmangundi, Hebbe Falls is one of the best natural wonders that you must explore during your trip to Chikmagalur. Because of the Hebbe Falls being inside a coffee estate, you will have to either walk or have a car drive you there. The water here plummets from 551 feet height. Divided into to stages i.e. Dodda Hebe and Chikka Hebbe, this fall is known for its beauty and serenity. Whether you want to rejuvenate yourself or spend some quality time with your family and friends, this is the best place to do so.
Location: Chikkamagaluru District, Kesavinamane, Karnataka 577131
Best Experience: Go for a picnic with your friends or family members. Don’t forget to explore the serene surroundings here.
Timings: 6 a.m to 6 p.m. everyday.
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2. Mullayanagiri: Enjoy A Stimulating Trekking Experience
Image Credit: Avinash Kumar Singh for Wikimedia Commons
Being the highest peak in the state of Karnataka, Mullayanagiri stands at a height of 6,330 feet. If you are looking for some adrenaline rush, this is the perfect thing for you to do in Chikmagalur. Climbing down the narrow path here gives you a thrilling experience that you would remember for your entire life. Whether you have always wanted to experience sylvan beauty or walk on velvet-like grass, Mullayanagiri makes all your dreams come true. Needless to say, you will get plenty of opportunity to do landscape photography as well.
Location: 21.7 km from Chikmagalur
Best Experience: Get an ecstatic experience as you climb Mullayanagiri through forests, waterfalls, and grassland.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. everyday.
3. Coffee Estates: Refresh Your Taste Buds
Chikmagalur is known for being home to many coffee estates. Strolling around the coffee plantations is one of the best things to do in Chikmagalur. In fact, there are many homestays in Karnataka located right inside coffee plantations in CHikmagalur and Coorg that offer this activity. If you are going for a guided tour, you will gain in-depth insights into the entire coffee production process. As the guided tour comes to an end, it’s time to rejuvenate your taste buds with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Don’t forget to look at the endless greenery here while you take a sip. If you have never tasted authentic coffee, this activity will ensure that you get a memorable experience.
Location: Depends on which coffee plantation you are planning to visit.
Best Experience: Try a cup of freshly brewed coffee at the coffee plantation.
Timings: Varies depending on the coffee plantation you are visiting.
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4. Sharadamba Temple: Pray To Goddess Saraswati
Image Credit: Naveenbm For Wikipedia
If you are spiritual, your trip to Chikmagalur won’t be a disappointing one because of the Sharadamba Temple. Dedicated to goddess Saraswati, this temple adorns itself with Dravidian architecture that carries detailed carvings, statues, and so on. Built in the domain of the 8th century, this temple doesn’t only attract travelers but also history enthusiasts willing to understand the craftsmanship that went into making one of the most beautiful temples in Chikmagalur. The presence of the Tunga river adds to the serenity of this place.
Location: Harihara St, Sringeri, Karnataka 577139
Best Experience: Experience Dravidian architecture in a serene environment by the bank of Tunga river.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
5. Kalhatti Falls: Rejuvenate Yourself
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Visiting Kalhatti Falls is one of the top things to do in Chikmagalur in 2 days. Located within close proximity from Kemmangundi, this falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in Chikmagalur. The tranquility of the waterfalls here will leave you amazed. This place is also visited by many pilgrims who come here to offer prayers to a Hindu temple located beside the Kalhatti Falls. If you are into trekking, you should consider trying the nearby trails. In addition, visit the Veerabhadreshwara Temple as well.
Location: Manchethevaru, Karnataka 577129
Best Experience: Refresh yourself by taking a bath at the Kalhatti Falls.
Timings: Open 24 hours.
Suggested Read: Karnataka Cuisine
6. Jhari Falls: Have A Picnic
Image Credit: Likhith N.P for Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking for offbeat things to do in Chikmagalur, visiting Jhari Falls should top your list. Located approximately 23 km away from Chikmagalur, this falls adds to your memory as you visit the falls on a jeep. Not only will you remember the bumpy ride but also the sylvan beauty of the forest that you will be passing through. In addition, you will also be able to experience a waterfall that is simply stunning. Jhari Waterfalls is also known as Buttermilk Waterfall because of the milky appearance of it.
Location: 23 km from Chikmagalur
Best Experience: Capture the milky appearance of the Buttermilk Waterfall.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
7. Kemmangundi Peak: Go For Trekking
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Being one of the best things to do in Chikmagalur, Kemmangundi Peak trek gifts you with memories that last forever. This trek is considered to be moderately difficult because of various reasons including steep climbs and narrow paths. However, many novish trekkers have overcome their fear and reached the top of Kemmangundi Peak. As you start walking toward the peak, you will be experiencing waterfalls, coffee plantations, sylvan forests, and so on. Soothing your body and soul, Kemmangundi Peak ultimately leaves you rejuvenated.
Location: 62 km away from Chikmagalur.
Best Experience: Enjoy trekking and rejuvenate your body and mind as your trek the Kemmangundi Peak.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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8. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Enjoy A Jeep Safari
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Located approximately 38 km away from Chikmagalur, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most exhilarating experiences that you can ever get. Known for being home to flora, fauna, and tiger reserve, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary paves your path to a wonderful day in Chikmagalur. This sanctuary amidst the Wester Ghats also gives you the opportunity to explore exotic species including sloth bear, gaur, barking deer, tigers, and so on. In addition, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is home to more than 250 bird species as well. Be ready for pleasant surprises with your camera as you will often come across elephants, tigers, and deer.
Location: Behind Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tarikere, Lakkavalli, Karnataka 577115
Best Experience: Go for a Jeep Safari and be surprised by the wildlife around you.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
9. Bababudangiri: Get Some Thrill With Trekking
Image Credit: Kkraj08 for Wikipedia
Located approximately 33 km away from Chikmagalur, Bababudangiri lies in the Western Ghats. This place is also known for being home to Sufi Saint Hazrat Dada Hayat Khalandar which attracts both Hindu and Muslim pilgrims. The Bababudangiri peak stands at a height of 1865 meters. Being widely preferred by adventure lovers of the region, this trekking provides you with an opportunity to experience the lesser-seen green foliage of the Western Ghats. It is best to start from Mullayanagiri. You will be needing around 5 hours to cover the 9 km distance between the two peaks.
Location: 33 km away from Chikmagalur
Best Experience: Capture the lesser-experienced lush greenery of the Western Ghats at Bababudangiri.
Timings: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday.
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10. Horanadu Temple: Pay Your Respects
Image Credit: Kgpramod2 for Wikimedia Commons
With Western Ghats in the backdrop, Horanadu Temple is one of the most revered Hindu temples in Chikmagalur. The sylvan beauty of landscape here will leave you refreshed with its aura. What adds to that is the mist that you will often see here. The Horanadu Temple has been dedicated to Goddess Annapoorna who is known for being the deity of plentiful food. If you are visiting this temple, you should wait for the three-course vegetarian meal prasad. This is certainly one of the best things to do in Chikmagalur in 1 day Karnataka.
Location: Mudigere – Taluk, Chikmagalur – District, Hornadu, Karnataka 577181
Best Experience: Dip yourself into spirituality here and get a three-course vegetarian meal prasad.
Timings: 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. everyday.
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11. Sakleshpur: Go For Riverside Camping
If you are looking forward to things to do in chikmagalur at night, you must go for riverside camping in places like Sakleshpur. Located within close proximity from the Hemavathi river, camping unravels the opportunity for you to spend a night under the broad horizon. Most of the campsites here are adorned with comfortable tents, hygienic washrooms, and cottages as well.
Location: 59 km from Chikmagalur.
Best Experience: Spend a perfectly lazy weekend at the riverside campsite in Sakleshpur.
Timings: Varies depending on how long you want to stay.
12. Kudremukh Trek: Taste Real Adventure
Image Credit: iMahesh for Wikimedia Commons
The Kudremukh Trek is among the most adventurous treks in India and a real treat for adrenaline junkies. Offering an unforgettable experience of climbing hills, treading into refreshing streams, hiking through dense jungles, and basking in scenic views, this trek is among the most enjoyable and adventurous things to do in Chikmagalur. The trek’s difficulty level ranges from medium to high and is best suited for trekkers who are physically fit and regular with exercise. Kudremukh is the third highest peak in Karnataka that offers spellbinding panoramic views of misty valleys from the top.
Location: Mudigere Taluk Chikmagalur district, Karnataka, India
Best Experience: Gorgeous views and a peek into the local village life
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
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13. Bhadra River: Engage In Rafting Rafting
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Among other enjoyable and thrilling activities to do in Chikmagalur is river rafting in the Bhadra River. This activity is suited for both beginners as well as experienced rafting enthusiasts who are looking for an enormous dose of excitement. This 8 km long stretch of sparkling and gurgling river provides an absolutely exhilarating experience of rafting on rapids of levels 3 to 5. All you have to do is rope in some adventure loving friends of yours and gallivant away to Chikmagalur to engage in this feat, but with caution.
Location: Karnataka
Best Experience: A range of rapids to choose from
Timings: 6:00 am to 4:30 pm daily.
14. Chikmagalur Golf Club: Play A Round Or Two
There’s more to Chikmagalur than just trekking, coffee, hills, and temples. The Chikmagalur Golf Club is the perfect place to indulge in just a little bit of adventure and unwind at the same time away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This lush green expanse is frequented by international golfers as well as tourists looking for their perfect weekend retreat. Playing a round or two of golf at these vedant pastures is among the most fun things to do in Chikmagalur.
Location: 154, Chikmagalur., Karadihallikaval, Karnataka 577101
Best Experience: Relaxing in a cool weather
Timings: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
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15. Alekan Falls: Take A Dip In The Cool Water
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The Alekan Falls are easy to locate as they are right next to the road while one is driving from Chikmagalur to Charmadi. But they still end up getting ignored and missed by many travelers since people end up passing them by without realising what the lush forest cover on the right hides behind it. It’s a majestic 90-feet high waterfall where the water noisily gushes down into a small pool and is surrounded by dense greenery. Soaking your feet into the cold water or taking a dip is among the most refreshing activities to do in Chikmagalur when you’re hanging out here.
Location: Chikkamagaluru District, Karnataka
Best Experience: Swimming and diving
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
16. Kallathigiri Falls: Hike To The Hidden Beauty
Image Credit: Vinayak Kulkarni for Wikipedia
Kallathigiri Falls is among the most beautiful spots in the city to hang out. Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply seeking an escape to relax in the lap of nature, this waterfall provides all. You’ll find a trip to the serene and scenic Kallathigiri Falls to be one of the many cool things to do in Chikmagalur since not many people know about it and this refreshing avenue deep in the dense jungle is rather secluded. You can get here via a long yet enjoyable hike through the thicket that will bring you to this beauty set amidst lush foliage. Other than hiking, your little excursion will also reward you with a swim in the cool waters here.
Location: Kallathigiri, Chikmagalur, Karnataka-577129
Best Experience: Hiking
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
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17. Coffee Museum: Explore The History Of Coffee
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Chikmagalur is famous for its expansive coffee estates, so visiting the Coffee Museum is among the top things to do in Chikmagalur for sure. Located in the main town of Chikmagalur, this wonderful museum was established by the Coffee Board of India and educates visitors on the history of coffee in Chikmagalur. The first ever plantations of coffee in India were planted right here in Chikmagalur in the 18th century. This is among the most fascinating places to visit in Karnataka for coffee lovers, history geeks, and kids.
Location: Dasarahalli, Karnataka 577101
Best Experience: Learn the history of coffee
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
18. Yagachi Dam: Indulge In Jet Skiing
Jet skiing at the Yagachi Dam is an electrifying activity and one of the best things to do in Chikmagalur for kids and adults alike. It will surely enhance your overall holiday experience to indulge in a round of boating and jet skiing at this scenic dam area located just 25 km away from the main city of Chikmagalur. It’s a picturesque site that offers a range of water sports and is an unmissable point for all adventure junkies visiting this hill station.
Location: Halebid, Karnataka, India
Best Experience: Indulge in kayaking and jet skiing
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
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19. Kadambi Falls: Dive In!
Taking an excursion to the delightful Kadambi Falls is among the most rejuvenating things to do in Karnataka for couples, families with kids, and adventure seekers. It’s a spectacular marvel of nature immersed in the lush greenery of the Kudremukh National Park within which it is located. This waterfall is a great spot for a picnic with your loved ones as well as a light swim with your gang in the cold and frothy waters at the base. The soothing ambience and scenic beauty also makes it an ideal retreat for lovebirds and photographers.
Location: Kudremukh National Park, Chikmagalur, India
Best Experience: Click stunning pictures
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
20. Hoysaleswara Temple: Take Blessings
You ought to visit the Hoysaleswara Temple in Chikmagalur if you wish to soak in the spiritual aura of this town and witness age-old history embellished in the fascinating architecture of this city. Located just 38 km away from the main city of Chikmagalur, the Hoysaleswara Temple is among the most fascinating temples in South India where you can spend a blessed day in the sanctuary of Lord Shiva. The architecture and intricate carvings of this massive sanctum attracts pilgrims, travelers, and history geeks from far and wide and leaves them awestruck!
Location: Halebeedu, Karnataka 573121
Best Experience: Check out the awesome architecture
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
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21. Shanti Falls: Destress
The Shanti Falls is among those hidden wonders of nature located in Chikmagalur that only a very few travelers visiting this city ever get to know about. But its seclusion also means that it is the most undisturbed and untarnished blessing of nature located deep in the beautiful jungles of Karnataka. Located en route the Z Point, it’s a great place to find peace and solace away from the clutter and chaos of crowded cities. This is why, visiting the Shanti Falls and taking a dip in its cool and clear waters is among the most offbeat things to do in Chikmagalur with your friends or partner. What makes it more charming is the fact that the water here is considered to possess medicinal properties that heals those who enter it.
Location: Z Point, Chikmagalur, Karnataka 577129
Best Experience: Swimming in medicinal water
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
22. Tea Plantations: Take A Relaxing Walk
Image Credit: Mallikarjuna Sarvala for Wikimedia Commons
Chikmagalur is known for its tea plantations. One of the best things to do in Chikmagalur is to explore these lush green tea plantations that will relax your mind and soul. Surrounded by the beauty all around, these tea plantations lures a lot of travelers who admire all that mother nature has created. Take a walk along these tea plantations in Chikmagalur and soak in the serenity spread all around. After the walk, you can even relish a cup of authentic tea served at these tea plantations.
Location: SH 106, Chikmagalur, Karnataka 577101
Best Experience: Organic Tea Plantation
Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
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23. Kayaking: For All Thrill Seekers
Image Credit: Shivkumar Sd for Pexels
Channelize your inner adventure junkie by heading to the Bhadra dam in Chikmagalur and by indulging in kayaking. Chikmagalur not only offers all travelers lush greenery, stunning waterfalls, and pristine temples but this city is a great spot for trying water sports. Get ready to kayak your way through the Bhadra rivers and savor the picture-perfect surroundings. Carry your on kayaking accessories and wear comfortable clothes to make the most of your kayaking trip.
Location: Bhadra Dam, Chikmagalur
Best Experience: Rowing over the sparkling water body
Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
24. Shopping: Buy Some Souvenirs
Location: Nature Craft, Market Road
Best Experience: Purchase Ancient Souvenirs and natural crafts.
Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
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25. Neelakurinji Blooms: Experience Bliss
Image Credit: Bernad Thampan for Wikimedia Commons
Neelakurinji is a beautiful shrub that blooms once in 12 years and if you want to witness this beautiful sight then you must visit Chikmagalur in April or May. One of the most enthralling things to do in Chikmagalur is planning your visit when the Neelkurinji shrub blooms. The whole area turns purple and looks ravishing. Add this to your bucket list and do witness this extraordinary sight.
Location: Devaramane in Chikmagalur
Best Experience: Mesmerizing view of the purple blossom flowers.
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
26. Makar Sankranti: Attend The Grand Celebrations
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To peek into the culture and traditions of the local people in Chikmagalur, you must attend the Makar Sakranti celebrations. Makar Sakranti is an eminent festival that is celebrated wonderfully in the city. Makar Sakranti is celebrated in January every year and sesame ladoos and sugar are served as prasad at temples. Rituals are performed at the temples and the whole city celebrates this festival. With this, you probably solve your doubt of what to do in Chikmagalur in Makar Sakranti. Ganesh Chaturthi is another festival that you can attend on your vacation to know more about the traditions of the locals.
Location: Sringeri Sharada Peeth Temple
Best Experience: Mesmerizing view of the purple blossom flowers.
Timings: Throughout the day.
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27. Town Canteen: Relish The Local Food
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Your visit to Chikmagalur is incomplete without tasting the local delicacies. To relish the most delicious delights you should stop by Town Canteen in Chikmagalur. This city is known for Malnad cuisine and some of the dishes that you must try are Butter Masala Dosa, Kesari bath, Jamoons, curd vada, and bisi bele bath. Town Canteen serves all these toothsome dishes and is one of the most popular restaurants in Chikmagalur. This canteen was opened in the 1960s and since then it has been serving the best dosas and filter coffee.
Location: SH 57, RG Road, Opposite Government Polytechnic, Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Best experience: Enjoy the authentic taste of Malnad cuisine
Timings: 6:30 am –9 pm
Further Read: Places To Visit In Belur
Amongst plenty of things to do in Chikmagalur, here’s a list of things that will leave you spoilt for choice. Make sure you add these enticing experiences to your list and enhance your holiday experience on your next trip to Chikmagalur!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Chikmagalur
What are the best outdoor activities in Chikmagalur?
You can go for a sightseeing tour and explore Mahatma Gandhi Park, Chikmagalur Gandhi Park, Gandhi Park, or trek to Mullayanagiri Peak. You can also spend peaceful hours at Hirekolale Lake.
How many days is enough for Chikmagalur?
You must plan at least 2-3 days trip to Chikmagalur to capture an ultimate experience of the region. The first stop of your Chikmagalur trip can be the Mullayanagiri Peak.
Why is Chikmagalur famous?
Located at a height of 3400 feet, Chikmagalur is one of the pristine hill stations in the state of Karnataka. What adds to the beauty of Chikmagalur is the combination of lush greenery, misty mountains, and a tranquil environment. Chikmagalur is also much known for its coffee plantations.
Which month is best to visit Chikmagalur?
You should visit Chikmagalur during the months between September and March. Located on the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range, Chikmagalur enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year.
How is the road from Bangalore to Chikmagalur?
The fastest route between Bangalore and Chikmagalur takes you on National Highway 75. It should take approximately 4-5 hours depending on the traffic.
What should I wear in Chikmagalur?
Apart from warm clothes, you need to carry appropriate clothes in case you want to visit the temples here. Women are not allowed to enter the temples wearing sleeveless clothes. Men are expected to wear long pants as well.
How do you travel around Chikmagalur?
Public buses are both cheap and easy to get when it comes to travelling around Chikmagalur. These buses are frequently available too. You can opt for public buses even while visiting the places surrounding Chikmagalur.
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Anjana is a writer, journalist, and a full-time wallflower. She holds a Master’s degree in Media and Mass Communication and firmly believes that travel blogging is nothing less than art. Combining her love for writing with her passion for globetrotting, she brings to you some amazing tips on traveling perfectly, be it any season of the year! In her spare time, she loves reading, listening to obscure indie bands, and writing poetry – all of this while being a crazy dog lady.
