Kemmannugundi (Red Soil Pit) is a hill station in Tarikere taluk of Chikkamagaluru district in the state of Karnataka, India. It is at the elevation of 1434m above sea level, with its peak at 1863m. This was the summer retreat of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, and as a mark of respect to the king, it is also known as Sri Krishnarajendra Hill Station. The station is ringed by the Baba Budan Giri Range, with cascades, mountain streams, and lush vegetation. Kemmangundi has ornamental gardens and mountains and valleys views. History Kemmannugundi (or Kemmannagundi) derives its name from three Kannada words - Kempu (red), mannu (soil) and gundi (pit). Kemmannugundi was established as the summer retreat of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. He later donated this resort to the Government of Karnataka. The Horticultural Department of Karnataka now develops and maintains the resort and its surroundings. Landmarks Z point is a vantage point at Kemmangundi and is reached by a steep uphill trek of about 45 minutes from Raj Bhavan. Shanthi Falls is on the way. Krishnarajendra flower park and rock garden are maintained by the Horticultural Department of Karnataka. Many varieties of roses are cultivated there. Raj Bhavan guesthouse is located within the Krishnarajendra park. Hebbe Falls: A downhill trek or SUV ride of about 8 km from Raj Bhavan lies Hebbe Falls where water streams down from a height of 168 meters in two stages to form Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls). Kallathi falls is about 10 km. from Kemmangundi. Water cascades from a height of 122 metres and the temple here is attributed to times of the Vijayanagar empire. According to a local legend, this place is associated with the Hindu sage, Agastya. Mullayanagiri is the tallest peak in Karnataka and is known for the temple perched on the peak. Baba Budangiri is second tallest peak in Karnataka. It has a darga and Datta Peetha religious places. Manikyadhara falls and Galikere lake nearby are frequented by tourists. Honnammana Halla falls near Attigundi and Hirekolale lake are popular with tourists. Climate Kemmanagundi has a Sub-Tropical Highland climate influenced by Monsoon. It has three seasons: Winter (Nov-Feb temp 24-12) followed by Summer (Mar-May 28-16) and Monsoon (June-Oct 22-15) and has a cooler climate throughout the year than most cities in the sub-continent. December is the coldest month with mean temperature of 17, and April is the hottest with a