History of Chikkamagaluru
One of Karnataka’s most important districts both historically and economically, Chikkamagaluru is the junction of nature, history, and culture.
Explore Rich History of Chikkamagalur
Chikmagalur, known for its rich historical history, gorgeous scenery, and luscious coffee farms. Chikkamagaluru—also written Chikmagalur—is a district in Karnataka, India. In Kannada, the name “Chikkamagaluru” means “Land of the Younger Daughter”; this area has great historical importance.

Early Days
Chikkamagaluru has been populated from ancient times; evidence of prehistoric communities can be found there. Among the several South Indian kingdoms that dominated Karnataka over centuries—the Gangas, the Hoysalas, the Rashtrakutas, and the Vijayanagara Empire—it was part of several. One of the most well-known dynasties in Karnataka's history, the Hoysalas left a major architectural and cultural legacy on the area under their control over Chikkamagaluru, then part of their kingdom. Near Belur, the capital of the Hoysala Empire, Chikkamagaluru's proximity to Belur made it a significant hub during their rule (12th to 14th century). Particularly the exquisite temples of Belur and Halebidu, the Hoysalas are renowned for their contribution to temple architecture.

Medieval Period
Following the fall of the Hoysalas, Chikkamagaluru came under the Vijayanagara Empire's control, which kept supervising the growth of trade, agriculture, and culture in the area. After the Vijayanagara Empire lost the Battle of Talikota (1565), the area was divided and thereafter came under the authority of several minor kings, including Tipu Sultan's Mysore state and the Marathas. Late in the 18th century, Tipu Sultan of Mysore battled valiantly against British colonial soldiers. Following Tipu Sultan's death and defeat in 1799 during the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, the British East India Company acquired the area as well as the rest of Mysore. Coffee farming was brought to Chikkamagaluru during the British colonial era, therefore altering the local economy and identity. Originally among India's biggest areas of coffee production, Chikkamagaluru is still sometimes referred to as Karnataka's "Coffee Land".
Contemporary Development
Chikkamagaluru kept flourishing as a main agricultural and tourism center after independence. Following the loss of her seat in the post-Emergency period, Indira Gandhi, former Prime Minister of India, challenged a by-election from Chikkamagaluru in 1978, drawing national political interest for the district. Her political comeback was significantly influenced by her triumph from Chikkamagaluru.
Cultural and Economic Growth
Rich in cultural legacy, Chikkamagaluru boasts various temples, forts, and monuments from the Hoysala and Vijayanagara periods. One of the oldest and most revered Hindu mathas (monastic institutions) founded by philosopher-saint Adi Shankaracharya in the eighth century resides in the town of Sringeri, in the district.
The main crop in the area is coffee; its economy is mostly based on agriculture. Here also grown are pepper, cardamom, and areca nuts. Chikkamagaluru is a well-liked travel destination for trekking and tourism thanks in great part to its coffee fields and picturesque hills, including Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka.
Principal Historical Highlights
Hoysalas: 12th to 14th century architectural and cultural inspiration.
Embracing trade and culture, Vijayanagara Empire
Rule of Tipu Sultan: Resistance against British troops.
British colonial era: Coffee plantations’ introduction
Political relevance: Indira Gandhi’s 1978 by-election triumph
Plan an Unforgettable Experience in Chikkamagalur Today!
Book Your Stay Now
- +91-7676 221100