Kemmangundi was originally a private estate owned by the Maharaja of Mysore. It was developed as a hill station by Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV in the early 20th century. He built a summer retreat there, attracted by the area's cool climate and scenic beauty. The name Kemmangundi is believed to be derived from 'Kempu', meaning red soil, and 'Mannu Gundi', meaning pit or deep valley, reflecting the region's terrain. After Indian independence, Kemmangundi was taken over by the Karnataka government and developed further as a tourist destination. It continues to be a popular getaway, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance.