Rathnagiri Bore

Chikmagalur is best experienced through its hills, coffee estates, waterfalls and viewpoints. Yet, right within the town is a green space that offers a much simpler experience.

Rathnagiri Bore, better known today as Mahatma Gandhi Park or M.G. Park, is located on the northern side of Chikmagalur. It occupies a small hillock that was once used mainly by morning walkers and has since been developed into one of the city's popular recreational spaces.

What I liked about the place was the setting.

The garden rises gradually along the hillock, with walking paths, steps, lawns, ornamental plants and flowering shrubs spread across different levels. As we climb higher, the surroundings begin to open up. On a clear day, the Mullayanagiri range forms an impressive backdrop.

That alone gives Rathnagiri Bore an advantage over an ordinary city park.

The garden has fountains and small water features, including a lotus pond. The landscaped sections contain a variety of colourful plants, while the pathways make it suitable for both casual walking and morning exercise.

There is also a rose garden with a large collection of roses. Depending on the flowering season, this can become one of the more colourful portions of the park.

Children probably have more reasons to enjoy Rathnagiri Bore than adults.

The toy train is one of the best-known attractions. It travels around part of the park and remains popular with families. There are play areas as well as an amphitheatre intended for children's activities.

At the top of the hillock is a viewpoint. A telescope has also been provided here, although it was hardly functional when I visited. Even without it, the elevated position provides good views towards the surrounding hills.

The district administration also mentions two small temples on top of the hillock.

Rathnagiri Bore does not need to compete with Chikmagalur's famous mountain destinations. Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri and the waterfalls around the district offer a completely different experience.

This is essentially a well-laid-out neighbourhood park.

But after a day spent driving through the hills or visiting places around Chikmagalur, it is a pleasant place to slow down for an hour or two. The greenery, flowers and distant hills make the evening particularly enjoyable.

I would especially recommend it to families travelling with children or anyone staying within Chikmagalur town and looking for a relaxed evening without another long drive.

Sometimes a travel destination need not be grand.

A comfortable walking path, a few flowers, children enjoying a toy train and the Mullayanagiri hills appearing in the distance are enough.

Rathnagiri Bore offers exactly that.

Happy travelling.