Mullayanagiri Peak

Mullayanagiri Peak is the highest peak in Karnataka at about 1,930 metres, located in the Baba Budangiri range of the Western Ghats near Chikkamagaluru. It is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys and coffee plantations, a small Shiva temple at the summit dedicated to Mullappa Swamy, and its popularity as a trekking and sightseeing destination. The peak is accessible by road and a short steep climb of stone steps.

Visitors can expect a drive through coffee plantations and forested ghat roads to a parking area near Sarpadhari, followed by a short steep climb of about 400-500 stone steps to the summit. At the top is a small Shiva temple and cave shrine, open rocky terrain and 360-degree views of the Western Ghats, valleys and nearby peaks like Baba Budangiri and Sitalayyana Giri. The area is windy and often misty, with basic food stalls and viewpoints along the way.

The peak is named after Mullappa Swamy, a saint believed to have meditated in a cave near the summit. The small temple at the top dedicated to Lord Shiva reflects its long-standing religious association and gives the peak its name.

Revered as a Shaivite pilgrimage site due to the summit Shiva temple and cave shrine. It is also culturally significant as the highest point in Karnataka and a landmark of the Baba Budangiri range in the Western Ghats.