Chandra Drona Parvatha: Distance, Timings and Tips

Chandra Drona Parvatha, also known as Baba Budangiri, is where Indian coffee began. Legend has it that in the 1600s the Sufi saint Baba Budan smuggled seven coffee beans from Yemen and planted them on these slopes. Many people still call the range Baba Budangiri after him and coffee covers almost every slope you see on the drive.

The shrine here, known as the Shri Guru Dattatreya Baba Budan Swamy Dargah or Inam Dattatreya Peetha, is sacred to both Hindus and Muslims. The cave shrine and its surroundings have a calm, layered feel to them.

Getting there from Tranquil Terrain

It is about 25 km and takes around an hour, passing the Kaimara check-post where the online vehicle booking is checked. The road branches away from the Mullayanagiri route and winds through grassland and shola forest.

What to see

• The cave shrine and the peaceful courtyard around it.
• Manikyadhara Falls, a short drive away.
• Galikere, a lake set in rolling meadows.
• Sweeping grassland views that are especially green after the monsoon.

Respect the place

This is an active place of worship. Dress modestly, remove footwear where asked and keep voices low. During Datta Jayanti and the Urs, entry for tourists is often restricted, so check dates before planning.