How To Reach Z Point Chikmagalur? (With Location, Fees, Timings, Nearby Attractions, And More)
The last time I visited the mighty Hebbe Waterfalls, I shared how I wanted to go to the Z Point, but could not make it at that time.
This year, I am once again set to make a Hyderabad to Chikmagalur trip in the winter, and I don’t want to miss Z Point. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Z Point is a favorite of all types of travelers.
Offering a panoramic view of the Western Ghats, this zigzag-shaped vantage point near Kemmangundi also lures adventure lovers with misty trekking paths and a moderate difficulty level. Also, the trekking path is blessed with lush greenery, gurgling streams, and small fountains.
Moreover, it is a beautiful Sunrise and Sunset point, allowing you to take the most amazing snaps of the surrounding valleys and the Western Ghats from here.
Quick Facts You Need To Know About Z Point Chikmagalur
- Z Point Distance from Kemmangundi: 5 Km
- Z Point Distance from Chikmagalur: 60 Km
- Height: 1434 Meters
- Trek Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore
- Nearest Railway Station: Birur Junction
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Jeep Ride Fees: INR 100 at the Checkpost and INR 600 for the Jeep Ride
- Hours to Stay: 2-3 Hours
- Places to Stay Near Z Point: Horticulture Department Guest House (Raj Bhavan) (+91- 008026579231), Dhoopada Giri Lodge, Kallahatti Lodge (094486 49751)
How To Reach Z Point Chikmagalur?
For your trek to Z Point, you have to first reach Kemmangundi. Kemmangundi is connected to the Mangalore Airport and Birur Junction by road.
Furthermore, with a distance of 250 Km, Z Point is also a popular 2 days trip from Bangalore.
Nevertheless, once you reach Kemmangundi, you can trek all the way to Z Point or take a jeep ride to the midway and then trek to the summit.
The Trek Route From Kemmangundi To Z Point
The 3 Km trek from Kemmangundi to Z Point takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to cover. You will start trekking from the Kemmangundi Raj Bhavan or the Horticulture Department Guest House.
Initial Trail Of The Trek To Z Point
The trekking route, from the start to the Shanti Waterfalls, passes through forest areas and open areas. Also, it is a mud trail.
This lap of the trek is easy.
Taking A Break At The Shanti Waterfalls
1.5 km down the trek, you will meet Shanti Waterfalls. You can take a bath here, stop, and rejuvenate.
Trekking After The Falls
Now, you will have to pass through narrow trails, and you will have mountain slopes on one side and deep valleys on the other side. This stretch of the trek is the most beautiful.
However, the last 30-40 minutes of the trek are the most strenuous as there is no railing or protective barrier as you climb up a narrow ridge.
Still, once you reach the summit, the panoramic views of the Western Ghats more than make up for your toil.
Why Is The Trek To Z Point From Kemmangundi So Amazing?
The trek to the Z point is popular due to the breathtaking natural views and, of course, the cultural experience Kemmangundi has to offer.
The surrounding villages here boast distinct cultural identities.
Furthermore, Kemmangundi and Z Point have become important hotspots in the ecotourism landscape of Chikmagalur and the state of Karnataka.
Nevertheless, here are the main attractions during your trek from Kemmangundi to Z Point.
1. Shanti Falls
You will find Shanti Falls in all its glory if you are trekking in the Autumn, and the cascade is well-fed with the monsoon water.
The clean and cool water of the fall makes it a popular relaxation point on the way to Z Point.
2. Meet Wildlife And Fauna
The trek to Z Point will give you a glimpse of the biodiversity of the Western Ghats. As you walk through dense patches of wildflowers and bamboo, you will spot Bulbuls and many other birds.
Malarbar Squirrels are also quite common here.
What Are The Places To Visit Near Z Point?
Z Point is a part of the Kemmangundi Hill Station, once a popular summer retreat for the Maharajas.
This vantage point has the following nearby attractions.
Raj Bhavan Gardens
The Raj Bhavan Gardens are maintained by the Horticulture Department, and it also has a beautiful Rose Garden.
Also, from the Raj Bhavan Gardens, you will get a beautiful view of the Western Ghats.
Hebbe Waterfalls
You can take a jeep ride or a short trek to reach Hebbe Waterfalls at a distance of 7 km. It is a two-tiered waterfall, and it looks stunning amidst coffee plantations.
Kalathgiri Falls & Veerabhadra Temple
Natural beauty and spiritual immersion meet at Kathgiri Falls and Veerabhadra Temple. This site is 10 kilometers from Z Point, and the temple is located under the waterfall.
Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri is located at a distance of around 35 km from Z Point. It is a popular pilgrimage and a trekking hotspot.
The hill is named after Bababudan, a famous Sufi Saint, who brought seven seeds of coffee from Saudi Arabia to India. Baba Budangiri is also a prominent iron reserve, and it is famous for coffee production.
Moreover, it is home to the Kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years.
What Are The Things To Do At Z Point?
Trekking and photography are the two most popular activities at Z Point. Also, this is a great place for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Also, you can just relax and soak in the spirituality that nature has to offer. Unfortunately, camping is not allowed here. However, it would have made a great camping spot.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Z Point?
October to February is the best time to visit Z Point. Pleasant weather and clear views of the Western Ghats and less mist through the trekking path make these months ideal for trekking.
March to May is also good for trekking if you want to avoid the crowd.
However, June to September is not suitable for trekking to the Z Point due to heavy rainfall and a slippery surface.
What To Eat In Z Point Chikmagalur?
The local cuisine here is wholesome and easy to digest. Start your day with the strong and unforgettable aroma of filter coffee.
Also, don’t miss a chance to eat Akki Roti or a rice-flour flatbread with chutney and Kori Kaddi, the best chicken curry with all the spices in the world.
Things To Keep In Mind For Trekking To The Z Point
Here, I will discuss the safety protocols, environmental etiquette, tips for first-timers, and basic travel tips.
| Safety Protocols | Do not trek solo after Sunset Check the weather conditions before starting your trek Share your trek plan with someone you trust and the authorities of your accomodation |
| Environmental Etiquette | No littering Follow the Karnataka Horticulture Department rules and signage Watch wildlife from a distance |
| Tips for First-Timers | Carry a light jacket Keep a first-aid kit handy Use a walking stick for stable moves |
| Travel Tips | Start the trek earlyWear shoes with a good grip Carry water, snacks, and sunscreen |
Z Point Chikmagalur: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Z Point Chikmagalur.
Yes, the trek is beginner-friendly. The 3 km trek distance can be covered within 1 hour.
However, you will need a basic level of fitness as the route is quite difficult toward the end.
The vantage point, at an elevation of around 1500 meters, got its name from its zigzag shape.
Yes, you can take a bath in the Hebbe Waterfalls, and the mighty waterfall forms a beautiful pool beneath.
Monsoons are not ideal for treks and exploring waterfalls. Hebby Waterfalls is not an exception, as during the monsoon season, the rocks here will be slippery and there will be leeches.
Yes, Z Point is safe for solo travelers. However, if you are trekking solo, you must avoid trekking after dark as the trekking route passes through a lush forest with diverse wildlife.
Also, share your trekking plan with the authorities of the place you are staying before your trek.
