Coffee has been grown in Karnataka for over 400 years, dating back to the 17th century at the height of the Mughal Empire. This region represents the true genesis of the Indian coffee industry. Legend has it that the Baba Budangiri region of the state is linked to a Muslim pilgrim named Baba Budan. 400 years ago, during a pilgrimage to Mecca, Baba Budan discovered coffee in Yemen. He smuggled seven mocha coffee beans back, hiding them in his chest, as the Arabs were fiercely protective of their coffee industry at the time. He planted these beans in Chikmagalur in the Karnataka region. As a tribute, the hills of Chikmagalur are now known as the Baba Budan Hills. Over the centuries, coffee cultivation spread throughout Karnataka, shaping the region's economy and culture.
Today, Karnataka accounts for nearly 70% of India's total coffee production, making it the leading producer, ahead of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The region produces Arabica coffee at altitudes between 1,000 and 1,500 meters above sea level. The appellation covers 15,000 hectares and the main varieties grown are S795, SL9 and Cauvery. Coffee growing here is traditional and it is very common for coffee trees to be grown under canopies and combined with spices and fruit trees.
