kudremukh trek in april

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Kudremukh Trek: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide!

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Welcome to the Kudremukh Trek Guide – your go-to resource for embarking on an unforgettable journey through the Western Ghats. Navigate with ease as we provide the following:

• Detailed insights on reaching the starting point.
• Exciting highlights of the trek.
• Understanding the trail’s difficulty level.
• Choosing the best season to trek.

Dive in and equip yourself with all the information you need to experience the allure of Kudremukh, Karnataka’s third-highest peak, promising a rewarding blend of adventure and nature.

• Max Altitude:  6,214 Feet (1,894M)
• Distance: 18-21 KMs
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 8-10 hours
• Ideal For: Both Intermediate & Experienced Trekkers
• Best Season: June – February (Monsoon & Winter)
• Region: Karnataka

Table of Contents

Kudremukh Trek: An Overview

xplore the captivating beauty of Karnataka with the Kudremukh Trek. This exhilarating journey takes you through the untouched wilderness of the Western Ghats. Ascend the third-highest peak in Karnataka , Kudremukh, which sits at an impressive altitude of 1,894 meters. This trek unfolds through the Kudremukh National Park, a treasure trove of rich biodiversity teeming with unique flora and fauna.

Navigating the 21-kilometre Kudremukh Trek trail is like traversing through a painting – lush forests, serene streams, and expansive grasslands become your ever-changing backdrop. The path ranges from gentle to moderately difficult, challenging your stamina but with the reward of awe-inspiring vistas at every step.

Reaching the peak of the Kudremukh Trek, you are greeted with a panorama that takes your breath away – undulating valleys, rolling hills, and the shimmering Bhadra River in the distance. From here, the hill derives its name, ‘Kudremukh’ or ‘Horse Face’, for its unique shape .

The best time to embark on the Kudremukh Trek is post-monsoon , when the terrain is lush green, making your trekking experience feel like a walk in paradise. From beginners to seasoned trekkers, the Kudremukh Trek holds a special allure, offering a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity. The sheer diversity of wildlife is an added bonus for nature lovers, with the chance to spot species like the rare lion-tailed macaque or the Malabar giant squirrel.

Uncover the magic of the Western Ghats as you set off on the Kudremukh Trek. This journey promises a soul-stirring communion with nature and an unforgettable adventure.

How To Reach?

Reaching the starting point of the Kudremukh Trek, located in the Kudremukh National Park, from Bengaluru involves several convenient options:

Bengaluru has excellent railway connectivity with major cities across India. From Bengaluru, you can catch a train to Mangalore, the nearest major railway station to Kudremukh. The journey typically takes about 8-10 hours. You can hire a private cab from Mangalore or catch a local bus to Kudremukh, which is approximately 130 kilometres away and takes around 3-4 hours.

Regular state-run KSRTC buses are available from Bengaluru to Kudremukh. The bus journey can take around 8-9 hours. Shared cabs might also be available from the bus station to the starting point of the trek.

Private or shared cabs from Bengaluru to Kudremukh are another option, though they can be more expensive. The distance is approximately 350 kilometres and can take around 7-8 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

By Private Vehicle:

If you prefer to go by car, you can reach Kudremukh by private vehicle. The distance from Bengaluru to Kudremukh is roughly 350 kilometres, which takes about 7-8 hours via NH75. Check the road conditions and the vehicle’s fitness before the journey.

Remember, each transport mode has pros and cons, so choose the one that best suits your preferences, budget, and schedule.

Best Time To Do The Kudremukh Trek

Embarking on the Kudremukh Trek during different seasons gives you distinct and spectacular experiences, each marked by unique highlights and weather patterns.

Monsoon (June-September):  Kudremukh during monsoon is a sight, with the greenery coming alive under the gentle downpour. This period lends a mystic charm to the trek, as fog envelopes the hills, creating a dream-like experience. The cascading waterfalls and streams flowing along the trails offer a refreshing respite. However, be cautious of slippery trails and leeches, common during this season. It’s highly recommended to check the weather forecast before your trek. If heavy rainfall is expected, avoiding the trek is better due to the risks involved.

Post-Monsoon & Winter (October-February):  Post-monsoon and winter seasons are considered the ideal time for the Kudremukh Trek. The terrain, freshly bathed by monsoon rains, is lush and green, making the trails even more beautiful. With clearer skies, the view from the peak is outstanding, revealing the layered beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys. The weather is also more comfortable for trekking, with cooler temperatures and lesser humidity. Plus, you can spot various bird species migrating during these months.

So, whether you crave the thrilling monsoon trek or the cool winter climb, the Kudremukh Trek will surely mesmerize you. Each season paints the landscape in its shades, promising you an unforgettable adventure and lifelong memories. But remember safety first – always check the weather conditions before setting off on your journey.

Kudremukh Trek Route & Difficulty

The Kudremukh Trek, known for its scenic vistas and diverse terrain, is rated as  moderately difficult . The trek is around  21 kilometres  and presents a combination of easy, moderate, and steep sections, each adding to the thrill of the journey.

Your adventure on the Kudremukh Trek begins at the base, usually around early morning. From here, you traverse through dense forests that give way to stunning grasslands and serene streams. The initial part of the trek is moderately easy, with flat terrains and gradual inclines. It’s the perfect warm-up for the more challenging sections ahead.

As you move deeper into the trail, the path gets steeper and more rugged. The real test of stamina comes in the last stretch to the peak, where the steep inclines can be demanding, but the panoramic view at the summit makes it all worth it.

In terms of time, completing the Kudremukh Trek takes around  8-10 hours, including breaks . This might vary depending on your fitness level and trekking pace.

While trekking, you’ll find a few water bodies en route, making for perfect rest spots. The sight of exotic wildlife and the sound of chirping birds add to the enchantment of the trail.

To sum up, the Kudremukh Trek, with its varying topography and splendid views, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. Whether you are a beginner looking to step up your trekking game or an experienced trekker seeking new adventures, the Kudremukh Trek is a fantastic choice!

Highlights of the Kudremukh Trek

The Kudremukh Trek has numerous captivating highlights contribute to an unforgettable trekking experience. Here are the key attractions:

• Impressive Altitude:  Standing tall at 1,894 meters (6,214 feet), Kudremukh is the third-highest peak in Karnataka, making it a sought-after destination for trekking enthusiasts seeking a rewarding climb.
• Diverse Terrains:  Trekking through different landscapes, including dense forests, expansive grasslands, and crossing serene streams, presents a wide variety of terrains that are both challenging and pleasing.
• Breathtaking Panoramas:  The view from the top is unmatched, with panoramic sights of rolling hills, lush valleys, and the glimmering Bhadra River. The vantage point offers an incredible photographic opportunity.
• Distinctive Peak Shape:  ‘Kudremukh’ translates to ‘Horse Face’. True to its name, the hill resembles the face of a horse, adding a unique charm to your summit victory.
• Invigorating Water Bodies:  En route, you will encounter gorgeous water bodies. The sight of these cascading waterfalls and streams acts as a perfect rest stop and a natural stress-buster during the trek.
• Intriguing Trails:  The trek route, which stretches around 21 kilometres, is a mixture of flat, moderate, and steep sections. It challenges your stamina and endurance, making the journey an exciting adventure.
• Perfect for All Trekkers:  The Kudremukh Trek, with its moderate difficulty level, caters to novice trekkers looking for a stepping stone and seasoned trekkers seeking a refreshing challenge.

Embark on the Kudremukh Trek and immerse yourself in these unforgettable experiences nature has in store!

Safety Precautions and Tips

While embarking on the Kudremukh trek, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Here are some essential safety precautions and tips to keep in mind:

• Trek with a certified guide who is familiar with the route and terrain.
• Wear appropriate trekking gear and clothing to protect yourself from injuries and harsh weather conditions.
• Stay hydrated throughout the trek by drinking water at regular intervals.
• Pace yourself and take breaks whenever needed to avoid exhaustion.
• Do not litter; respect the natural environment by carrying back all your waste.
• Follow instructions from the guide and stay on the designated path.
• In case of any emergency or discomfort, inform the guide immediately.

Essential Things to Carry for the Trek

Packaging wisely is essential to make the most of your Kudremukh trekking experience. Here are some must-have items for your backpack:

• Sturdy trekking shoes for a comfortable and safe trek
• Ample water and energy drinks to stay hydrated
• Snacks and energy bars to keep you fueled
• Sunscreen, cap, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
• First aid kit with essential medications and bandages
• A camera to capture the stunning vistas along the way
• A light backpack to carry your essentials without weighing you down

The Kudremukh trek covers a distance of approximately 21 kilometres to and fro. It usually takes 8-10 hours to complete, including the breaks. However, the duration can vary depending on individual pace and fitness levels.

Yes, beginners can undertake the Kudremukh trek. While the trek is categorized as moderately difficult, with varying terrains and a few steep stretches, it’s still approachable for beginners. However, a decent fitness level is recommended for a smoother trekking experience.

Yes, trekking is permitted in Kudremukh but with some restrictions to protect the region’s rich biodiversity. A maximum of 50 people are allowed to trek daily, so securing your permit from the Forest Department is necessary. It’s also worth noting that overnight camping is not allowed on the trek.

The Kudremukh trek peak stands at an impressive altitude of 6,214 Feet (1,894 meters) above sea level. This makes it the third-highest peak in Karnataka, adding to the allure for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Kudremukh Trek is a captivating journey that unites the thrill of adventure with the serene beauty of nature.

From understanding how to reach, navigating the challenging terrains, and revelling in the trek’s highlights to choosing the best season for your expedition – this guide aims to equip you for an unforgettable experience.

As you embark on this remarkable adventure, remember to respect the ecosystem surrounding you.

The Kudremukh Trek is more than just a trek; it’s an experience that promises memories of a lifetime. So pack your bags, tie your laces, and step into the wild!

Kumara Parvatha Trek , Bandaje Falls Trek , Ettina Bhuja trek

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Kudremukh trek guide: The best rolling hills you’ll ever see

Would you like to experience an adventurous trek which has the best rolling green hills you’ll ever see, get engulfed in clouds and mist and walk through an evergreen forest full of water streams?

Then you must try the Kudremukh trek.

Known as the mini ‘Scotland of India ‘,  the Kudremukh trek is one of the best treks in Karnataka that exposes you to diverse natural sceneries and landscapes within the Kudremukh National Park. 

It is also home to the third-highest peak in Karnataka and the best part is that you can do it on your own even if you’re a beginner.

I did the Kudremukh trek from Mangalore and in this guide, I would like to tell you the itinerary I followed so that you can plan an effective solo trek to Kudremukh. 

• Section III: Ridge walk (zig-zag section) to Kudremukh peak

Which Kudremukh trek packages can I sign up for?

Where is kudremukh.

Kudremukh is also a small hill station cum mining town located 100 km from Chikmagalur.

It derives its name from its Kannada name  Kuduremukha  meaning horse-faced which is how the Kudremukh peak appears.

The Kudremukh trek happens inside the Kudremukh National Park which is home to several endangered and endemic species like lion-tailed macaque, leopard and gaur. 

Why should you do the Kudremukh trek?

The Kudremukh trek is ideal for nature lovers who want to experience a different side of Karnataka. The following are the 3 reasons why you should do the Kudremukh trek:

1. The best rolling hills you’ll ever see on a trek

Kudremukh has the best rolling hills you’ll ever see on a trek in the Western Ghats. They appear as if they’re taken from a Windows wallpaper. The best view is from the Kudremukh peak where you can see a range of never-ending rolling hills.

2 .  Ridge walk surrounded by clouds and mist

The last section of the trek wherein you walk through a ridge has some of the best views as you get to see sweeping valleys and mountain ranges all around you. To add to that, you’ll also be engulfed in clouds and mist if you trek after the monsoon season.

3. Hike through evergreen forests filled with water streams

The initial walk through the shola forest is filled with adventure as you’ll be crossing several water streams and surrounding yourself with a variety of trees and birds. If lucky, you can also spot several endangered and endemic species like the Malabar giant squirrel, lion-tailed macaque and deer.

How to reach Kudremukh?

The starting point for the Kudremukh trek is Mullodi which is a small village with few houses. It houses the Kudremukh Trek Forest Office from where you need to get a ticket for the Kudremukh trek.

Mullodi lies between Kudremukh and Kalasa, a nearby town which is accessible by public transport.

The two nearest cities to Kudremukh are Mangalore (100 km) and Bangalore (330 km). As such, it’s always ideal that you start your journey from these two cities as you’ll find various options for transport.

The Mangalore airport is the nearest airport to Kudremukh at 90 km followed by the Bangalore airport which is at a distance of 351 km. Both the airports are well-connected to all the major airports in the country.

The Mangalore railway station is 100 km from Kudremukh, followed by the Bangalore railway station which is at a distance of 330 km. 

If you’re travelling from Mangalore, there are limited buses from Mangalore to Kudremukh. There is one bus in the afternoon around 12-1 pm which leaves for Kalasa from the Mangalore private bus stand, also known as the State Bank Bus Stand.

As an alternative, you can take a bus to Karkala. From Karkala, you can find frequent buses to Kalasa.

Once you reach Kalasa, you can get another local bus/auto to the Balagal bus stop (10 km away). From here, you can hire a jeep to go to Mullodi, which is 5 km away.

If you’re travelling from Bangalore to Kudremukh, you can book an overnight bus from Bangalore to Horanadu via Kalasa from the  KSRTC website . You’ll reach Kalasa around 6 am. From Kalasa, you can take another bus/auto to the Balagal bus stop and then hire a jeep to go to Mullodi.

How to do the Kudremukh trek on your own?

There are two ways to do the Kudremukh trek as a solo traveller. 

The first way is to book an overnight bus to Horannadu via Kalasa (if you’re travelling from Bangalore), start your trek the next morning and leave by evening. This is ideal if you only have a day to spare.

But for the best experience, I recommend sparing two days for the Kudremukh trek. It ensures that you have a relaxed and hassle-free experience. If you choose this option, you can also book your stay with the Bella homestay, the best homestay in Kudremukh according to the internet and my personal experience. 

The advantage is that Bella homestay provides food and accommodation, and arranges your jeep to the base camp, your entry ticket for the Kudremukh trek and a trekking guide. 

It is what I did for my solo trek to the Kudremukh peak.

Chandan, the owner of Bella homestay, was beneficial in making sure that I had an amazing trek to the Kudremukh peak.

Before you start your trek, make sure you call Chandan to enquire about the availability of the Bella homestay for your dates. 

Search for ‘Bella Homestay Kudremukh’ on Google to get his number. You can also ask him for other details about the trek, transport options, accommodation options, etc. and he’ll be happy to help you out.

You need to pay a token amount to Chandan online to confirm your booking. 

Your DIY Kudremukh Trekking Itinerary

I’ll be talking about my solo Kudremukh trekking experience in great detail in the upcoming sections so that you too can follow the same itinerary. As mentioned, I booked my stay at Bella Homestay before I went for the trek.

I started my journey from Mangalore to Kudremukh for this trek. I chose this option as starting a journey from Bangalore would have taken more time.

Note : If you’re travelling from Bangalore to Kudremukh, you can book an overnight bus to Horanadu via Kalasa from the KSRTC website and start the trek after freshening up.

I reached Mangalore by 10 am via train, ate breakfast at one of the restaurants and went to the Mangalore private bus stand, also known as the State Bank Bus Stand. 

There is a bus which leaves at around 12-1 pm for Kalasa. You can enquire about this bus from anyone there (as I did). I boarded this bus and had a comfortable journey as the crowd was less and the roads were tidy. 

As we start nearing Kalasa, the air becomes cooler and the landscape becomes greener.

I finally reached Kalasa by 5 pm and got down at one particular location where Chandan (the owner of Bella Homestay) had told me to get down.

Chandan was there waiting for me and he took me to his homestay via his bike. 

The Bella Homestay is ideally located in a remote area surrounded by mountain ranges.

The homestay itself is well-maintained with options for rooms and camping. You get home-cooked food, free wifi and amazing hospitality from the hosts.

I occupied one of their tents, freshened up and had black tea with their homemade snacks. More people checked in as the sun sets in, and Chandan set up the campfire at night. 

Major tour operators like Plan the Unplanned and Bangalore Mountain Club also book their accommodation with the Bella Homestay for their Kudremukh trek packages.

At 8-9 pm, we had home-cooked dinner after which all of the guests retired for the night.

Note : If you love stargazing, you’ll in for a treat as you’ll observe clear skies with stars all over the place.

The next day, I woke up by 6:00 am, freshened up and had breakfast. We were also given packed lunches for the Kudremukh trek.

Chandan clubbed me with a group of five people for the Kudremukh trek. They were also staying in the same homestay.

We boarded a jeep and by 7 am, we departed for Mullondi, the starting point of the Kudremukh trek. It took almost half an hour for us to reach the starting point as the terrain was rugged and untarred. 

You’ll enjoy this ride as you get the first glimpse of what you can expect from the trek. You’ll cross coffee plantations and muddy roads with streams on the way. 

At the starting point, you’ll find the Kudremukh Trek forest office. This office is open from 6 am to 6 pm.

Here, you have to pay for the entry fees, guide and DSLR/camera (if you’re carrying any). Your bags will also be checked as you aren’t allowed to carry any plastic inside the Kudremukh National Park (including plastic-packed biscuits and snacks).

Note:  Only 50 people will get permission in a day. If you haven’t taken the help of a homestay, make sure you reach the forest office as early as possible.

From the forest office, you need to trek for 9 km to reach the Kudremukh peak. You can divide this trek into 3 parts:

1. Forest office to Ontimara (lone tree)

2. Ontimara to the zig-zag section

3. Ridge walk (zig-zag section) to Kudremukh peak

Section I: From Forest office to Ontimara (lone tree)

We started the Kudremukh trek by 8 am.

You’ll be walking through open grassland for less than a kilometre before you reach the First Tree View Point. During this walk, you’ll be able to observe mountain ranges and a valley in front of you covered in mist.

You’ll soon enter the Shola thick forest. In this forest, you’ll find multiple streams of water, the first of which you’ll cross after 15-20 minutes.

Note : You can fill your bottle with water from these streams as they’re very clean.

You’ll enjoy trekking through this forest because the ascent is gradual and if you’re lucky, you may even spot some animals.

Soon enough, you’ll be exiting the forest area. The landscape opens up and you’ll be able to see the Kudremukh peak for the first time from here. You’ll be surrounded by several shrubs and ferns until you see a lonely tree, known locally as Ontimara.

You can rest here for some time.

Section II: Ontimara to the zig-zag section

From Ontimara, the initial ascent is flat with the Kudremukh valley on the right. This trail soon enters a forest trail for some time with water streams before you exit it. 

After this, you’ll be trekking in a completely open landscape through a narrow path for at least an hour. There will be steep ascents and bamboo shrubs surrounding you.

You’ll be walking along the edges of hills as you observe people who are ascending from below.

While you trek from Ontimara to the zig-zag section, keep an eye out on the surrounding landscapes as you’ll observe rolling hills and sweeping valleys at different stages. You may want to take out your camera and capture the sceneries that keep changing.

As you near the zig-zag section, there will be a steep ascent. This is another section where you should keep an eye out for the scenery. The whole of Kudremukh valley opens up after some point.

Section III: Ridge walk (zig-zag section) to Kudremukh peak

From the start of the zig-zag section, you’ll be taking a complete u-turn as you got towards the peak. As the name suggests, you will be trekking through a zig-zag trail for 1 km.

After the zig-zag section ends, make sure you visit the ruins of the British era church which is a diversion on the right side. It has an interesting history as it used to be a resting house for the Britishers.

The entire structure is now completely dilapidated and covered with plants. After visiting the church, come back to the trail.

From here on, you’ll be walking on a ridge as you can see the trail and also the peak right in front of you. The walk from here to the peak is one of the most beautiful parts of the trek as you can see panoramic views of the valleys and hills around you.

If you’re lucky, you might also be surrounded by clouds and mist. It takes another 40 minutes from here to reach the Kudremukh peak.

We reached the Kudremukh peak by noon i.e. it took us four hours in total to complete the trek in one direction.

Without a doubt, the best view of the entire trek comes from the Kudremukh peak. You can get a 270-degree view of all the mountains surrounding you. Depending on the weather, you may also be engulfed in clouds and mist.

You will also be able to see the Kudremukh horse face in all its glory. It is a peak that resembles the face of the horse. You can try capturing the same and all the other beautiful sceneries you observe from here. 

Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere and have your packed lunch.

After spending a couple of hours at the top, we started trekking back (at 2 pm) to Mullodi via the same route. 

Note : Make sure you leave by 2 pm so that you’re able to reach the Kudremukh Forest Check Post before 6 pm.

Be careful while descending because some sections can be tricky. We reached back at the Kudremukh forest check post by 5 pm i.e. it took us 3 hours to descend back.

In total, we covered 9+9=18 km for the entire trek. At the check post, Chandan was there waiting for me. He picked me up as I went back to the homestay.

From thereon, I clubbed with another person I met on the trek as we went back to Mangalore together.

You can also go to Kalasa from where you can get frequent buses to Bangalore and connecting buses to Mangalore. Be sure to ask your host about the bus timings in advance so that you plan properly.

How difficult is the Kudremukh trek? 

The Kudremukh trek is a beginner’s trek that can be done by anyone with reasonable fitness. During the 18 km hike to the top and back, there will be some sections where the ascent might be steep but in general, it will be a gradual increase.

Best time for the Kudremukh trek

The Kudremukh trek is one of those treks where the trekking season plays a vital role. And hence, I suggest you trek after the monsoon season or during winters i.e September to February.  

The weather in Kudremukh during these months enhances the beauty of the Kudremukh trek. The landscape is greener and you’ll have pleasant weather throughout the trek with mist and clouds surrounding you.

You can also give the monsoon season a shot but the problem is that the terrains become slippery and there will be the added problem of leaches.

The summer season has to be avoided at any cost as the scorching heat of the sun drains your energy

Essential things to carry for the Kudremukh trek

The following are some essential things you must carry to ensure you have a pleasant experience on the Kudremukh trek.

• An ID Card to verify your details
• Sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
• A water bottle
• Dry fruits and nuts for the trek
• Quick-dry t-shirts to absorb the sweat
• Poncho, in case it rains
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Trekking poles to support your ascent/descent
• Strong backpack (Preferably waterproof)
• Mosquito Repellent Cream
• Camera (Optional)
• Salt to take care of leeches
• Shoes with good grip for trekking
• A small backpack to carry your essentials during the trek
• A warm jacket for the night’s stay
• Lunch Box & Spoon to carry your packed lunch
• Flip-flops for the homestay
• Extra pair of clothes to change after the trek

Where to stay for the Kudremukh trek?

If you have two days to spare and want a stress-free and organized trek, it’s always best that you sign up with one of the homestays in Kudremukh. It is why I signed up with Bella Homestay. 

Like hundreds of other people who have given great reviews about the Bella Homestay, I can also vouch for it. Chandan, his brother and his staff go to great lengths to ensure that you have a comfortable stay, a great trek and an overall memorable experience.

However, if you need more options, I can suggest the following homestays in Kudremukh that have a good reputation as well:

1. Bella Homestay Kudremukh (the best homestay in Kudremukh according to the ratings/reviews)

2. Raaje Gowda’s Home Stay

3. Sathish Mullodi House

Google for them online and you’ll find their contact number.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to trek kudremukh.

It can take 4-5 hours to do the trek from the Kudremukh Trek Forest Office (the starting point of the trek) to the Kudremukh Peak. While returning, it will take 3-4 hours.

So in total, you can take 7-9 hours to complete the entire trek depending on your speed.

Can we trek Kudremukh alone?

Yes, you can trek alone to Kudremukh. However, you’ll still need to arrange your entry tickets from the forest office (limited to 50 tickets per day) which might be difficult to get as a lot of homestays nearby have tie-ups with the forest office. 

Hence, I suggest that you sign up for one of these homestays. It ensures that you get your tickets in advance while you also get to trek alone. It is what I did as I trekked solo to Kudremukh but with the help of a homestay.

Do note that camping in Kudremukh is not allowed.

Which is the best time to visit Kudremukh?

The best time to visit Kudremukh is during the post-monsoon and winter months i.e. from September to February. During these months, the landscape is greener and the weather is cooler which makes the entire Kudremukh landscape appealing.   As a bonus, you’ll also be engulfed in mists and clouds in certain sections of the trek. Hence, ensure that you do the trek when the weather in Kudremukh is ideal.

You can sign up with tour operators like  Plan The Unplanned  (PTU) and  Bangalore Mountaineering Club  (BMC). They organise the Kudremukh trek and their packages include food, accommodation, transport to and from Bangalore, a jeep ride to base camp, the entry fees for the trek and a guide. 

Alternatively, you can sign up with homestays in Kudremukh like the Bella Homestay or Raaje Gowda’s Home Stay which also provide everything except the transport to and from Bangalore. Here too, you’ll be able to meet like-minded people who, just like you, have come for the Kudremukh trek.

I had an amazing time trekking to the Kudremukh peak as a solo traveller. The sights and sounds of nature along with the people I met on the trek made it an engaging experience. 

The best thing about the Kudremukh trek is that it is a beginner’s trek that can be completed within a day or two. 

If you’re coming from Bangalore, take an overnight bus and complete the trek on the same day. Alternatively, you can reach Kudremukh via bus in the afternoon, check in to a homestay there, and do the trek the next day. 

If you’re coming from Mangalore, I suggest you leave for Kudremukh in the morning/afternoon, check in to your homestay and do the trek the next day.

I strongly recommend staying at the Bella Homestay as they’re very helpful in ensuring that you have an amazing trek to the Kudremukh peak.

Choose the right season, ensure you’re fit and carry the essential things you need for the trek so that you have the best possible experience.

Rest assured, the Kudremukh National Park gives you access to some of the best natural sceneries you’ll see in Karnataka.

If you’ve more time before/after the Kudremukh trek, I suggest that you spend a couple of days in Chikmagalur as well as it also has some breathtaking sceneries that’ll blow your mind.

The distance from Chikmagalur to Kudremukh is barely 100 km and you’ll also enjoy the road trip between these two popular hill stations in Karnataka.

With that said, I hope you found this guide useful. Let me know if you have any doubts!

Jerry quit his 9-5 job to become a digital nomad and travel the world. Through Framedventures, he helps people have experiential and immersive travel adventures across India. He has travelled to 15+ states/UTs in India so far. Besides travelling, he's also passionate about landscape photography. Connect with him on his social media channels to get his latest travel updates!

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GANESH KRISHNA

Nice.we stayed in chandan’s brother’s doddamane home stay which is also best place and awesome home food. This was during may month.

Awesome Ganesh! 😃

SANTOSH KUMAR

Can you please share the contact details of the bella homestay, google is giving too many numbers

Here you go: +91-9483800447

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Kudremukh Trek: Everything you need to know about.

Why should you go for kudremukh trek.

Here are are the top 5 reasons to book Kudremukh trek package:

• Kudremukh is easily the most famous trek in South India. It attracts trekkers from all over the country because of its unique landscape.
• It has the most beautiful rolling grasslands you will ever encounter on any trek.
• Kudremukh sanctuary has a dense evergreen forest area owing to its location that attracts torrential rainfall.

Things to expect on the Kudremukh trek

• Kudremukh is a natural wonder. It’s very hard to find such a stunning landscape anywhere else in the country.
• It is a challenging trek given trekkers have to hike up 10 Km on an inclined terrain and also return the same distance before it gets dark.
• Trekkers have to cross at least 3 different streams to ascend Kudremukh. Get ready to remove your trekking shoes when you cross them.
• The area is blessed with plenty of waterfalls. After a strenuous trek, one can take a dip under one of them the next day.
• Being part of a protected wildlife sanctuary, it is highly restricted by the forest department in order to protect its pristine natural environment. So much that it allows only 50 trekkers per day. More demand and less supply make it even more precious.
• Kudremukh base has dedicated trekkers homestays who provide really basic facilities. Unlike other places (Coorg Tadiandamol, Kodachadri) you cannot get what you want in terms of facilities here. 
• It’s possible you may not get permission to trek on your first attempt. So it’s better to keep a buffer day to give it a second try.
• Whoever cannot get their number for Kudremukha does another trek called Kurinjal peak trek arranged by the forest department as an alternative. Kurinjal also belongs to Kudremukh National Park.

Kudremukh is located in the heart of western ghats at a distance of 330 Km from Bangalore. It is the 3rd tallest peak of Karnataka. It falls under Chikmagalur district which is also home to the highest peak of Karnataka called Mullayanagiri . All the mountain areas in Karnataka are logically named as a region called Malenadu . Watch this famous song describing its unique culture, beauty, and food.

Kudremukh trek experience

The action begins at the Forest department check post on the outskirts of Mullodi village. You have to present yourself early in the morning. The dedicated trekkers’ homestay would have already served a hot local breakfast along with freshly grounded coffee. They would have given you a lunch packet that is tucked inside your small backpack, preferably a waterproof one. The proximity of the homestay to the check-post will surely help you breeze past others to stand in line. Once we get our permission, there is no stopping us. Kudremukh peak is almost 10 Km from the base. The trek starts with the rich vegetation of the Shola forest which is typical to western ghats. The forest is followed by a patch of grasslands which usually knee heigh. This pattern will repeat many times for the next 3 Km until we reach a certain altitude. We will also cross 3 river streams along our trail. The rocks are slippery and it’s better to remove our shoes before attempting to cross them. One can expect an army of leeches usually either side of the stream as they thrive in the wet environment. If it’s a Kudremukh monsoon trek, it’s going to be wild and wet everywhere. After crisscrossing many iterations of forest and grassland, we will reach a point called Ontimara, translated to “lonely tree”. We can spot the “horse face” of Kudremukh peak close to this spot. The trail turns flat to lead us to the ruins of “Lobo house”. One would wonder how a family used to stay here at the time of no electricity.

From here we have to follow a gradually ascending path climbing uphill after the hill that looks like gigantic steps designed by nature. The fascinating thing with Kudremukh trek is, once we climb up a hill, we can look back to find a clear picture of the hill we just climbed. It’s a linear and inclined trail that makes it possible. This pattern repeats numerous times. After a while we can find a captivating setting of stacks of hills carpeted by thick green grass arranged together. This is the most unique backdrop of Kudremukh that etches in every trekker’s mind. The tranquility of the Kudremukh National Park will make this extremely beautiful cascade of hills even more appealing. With such a clear picture, there is a good chance of finding a bit of wildlife, if you are alert enough to spot it. A series of zig-zag trails will take us to the penultimate hill where we can see Kudremukh peak one final time. A 20-minute steep climb from here will take us right on top of the horse face. On a clear day we will get to see the almost 360-degree view as Kudremukh is the highest peak of its mountain range. Thick clouds hovering around during monsoons may play a spoilsport to bask in the panorama. But then, you can never get that pure greenery in other seasons.

The all-important: Stay

The stay at Kudremukh is very basic. There are about 3 dedicated homestays which cater to trekkers in Mullodi village. They provide gender specific dormitories and common bathrooms. One may find trekkers of different locations and groups in the same stay. The food is basic but edible. They give small foam sheets to sleep at night instead of beds or mattresses. It’s better to carry your own blanket or sleeping bag.

Kudremukh in different seasons

• Monsoons: Being in the heart of western ghats, the months of June to September bring plenty of rains to Kudremukh. Thick clouds, intermittent rains, and leeches constantly accompany trekkers. There will be lots of water in the streams. Monsoon trek to Kudremukh is indeed famous among trekkers as it poses a different kind of experience. This is one of the best times for the raw Kudremukh trekking experience.
• Winter: Months from October to January attract plenty of trekkers. The rains would have reduced and landscapes would have turned slightly brownish. Still there will be plenty of water in the hills because of the amount of rainfall and huge retention capacity of grasslands. The weather is mostly pleasant to climb during the day. Cold evenings and colder nights are the new normal. This is probably the best time for Kudremukh trek if you want uninterrupted panoramic views of rolling hills.
• Summer: February to May offer clear views but the forest department may block the trek to protect it from human-induced forest fires.

10 Interesting facts about Kudremukh

• Kudremukh from Kannada translates to “horse face” which appears like a Knight in Chess.
• At a height of 1892 meters, Kudremukh is the 3rd highest peak of Karnataka. The 1st being Mullayanagiri and 2nd being Bababudangiri. Incidentally all these peaks belong to Chikmagalur district of Karnataka.
• Kudremukh trek distance is 20 Km up and down. Trekkers usually start early morning around 7 AM and get back by evening 5 PM
• The tremendous amount of rainfall received by this area gives birth to 3 rivers – Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravathi.
• Kudremukh is carpeted by grasslands which have a high water retention capacity. Because of this it looks green most of the year. There used to be active iron ore mining at Kudremukh which was later banned. There is a huge abandoned township today which is called a “ghost town” in the western ghats.
• Kudremukh is part of Kudremukh national park which is home to several animals like Malabar Civet, Leopard, Slot Beer, Giant Flying Squirrels, Sambar, Lion-tailed Macaque.
• The area around Kudremukh is blessed with many streams and waterfalls.
• Kudremukh trek difficulty level is classified as “Moderate to Difficult”. One would need prior trekking experience to do this trek.
• Trekking is restricted to 50 people per day for Kudremukh by the forest department. There is no prior reservation. Every trekker has to appear in person at the check post.

Check out about this Kudremukh Trek Experience !

Kudremukh Trek Package

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Author - Shirky

Shirky is a passionate traveler, He keeps exploring the world and sharing his experiences through captivating storytelling. Through his leadership, Muddie Trails has become an advocate for responsible travel, leaving a positive impact on both the environment and the local communities.

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Kudremukh Trek

Karnataka • 3 days.

MAX ALTITUDE

₹ 3950 + 5% GST

Bangalore to Bangalore

Available Batches

Brief description.

The Kudremukh Trek is the perfect weekend getaway from Bengaluru. It is one of the most sought after treks in the Western Ghats. There are a lot of things that not many treks can offer- a wide variety of wildlife, an ample number of waterfalls, vast green grasslands, forest trails, and bamboo shrubs. Situated in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, it is often called the Himalayas of the South. Kudremukh in itself is the third highest peak (6,214 km) and the name literally translates to ‘horse face’ in Kannada as it refers to a particularly picturesque view of a side of the mountain that resembles a horse's face. Covered with lush hills and misty mountains, Kudremukh trek proves to be the perfect mix of adventure and leisure. It is thus suitable for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The Kudremukh trekking trail is of 18 km which can be traversed within a day and the best season to visit is the Monsoon or Winter. When it comes to treks in South India, the Kudremukh Trek is of a moderate level difficulty meaning it needs a good fitness level and endurance to successfully undertake this trek. Stay on the page for Kudremukh trek complete itinerary, photos, videos, and other details. Scroll to the end to read Kudremukh trek blogs.

Drive from Bangalore to Mullodi - 332 Kms.

On Friday night at around 7:30 PM, get picked up from common boarding points - Malleshwaram (near KC General Hospital), Rajajinagar (Metro Station - Tata Motors Showroom), Yeshwanthpur (Govardhan Theater) and Jalahalli (Bureau of Indian Standards) in Bangalore. This ensues the overnight journey to reach the base camp of Kudremukh.

The trek begins from Mullodi Village and the approximate trekking distance is 10 Kms one way.

On Saturday, the first day of your trek, we will reach Kudremukh National Park around 06:00 AM. After having a delicious breakfast, we will reach the base camp. It has a full view of the various peaks of Kudremukha National Park along with Somavati river. The trek commences at 09:00 AM, towards the top of Kudremukh Peak which is approximately 11 Kms from the base. It starts with an uphill climb on a muddy path and there are many water streams that pass throughout the trail. There will be a lunch stop at a scenic spot. Once we reach the top of the Kudremukha Peak, enjoy the panoramic view sitting at the top of the hill. The view from up there makes it worth all the adversity of the climb. Then begins the descent around the same trail. We will return to the base camp by around 06:00 PM. Have a sumptuous dinner later and retire for the night.

Drive to nearby falls and head back to Bangalore - 332 Kms.

On Sunday we will have breakfast around 08:00 AM and start our return journey from Kudremukh National Park. As this day marks the end of the trek, we can take a relaxing dip in the cool waters of a nearby waterfall. The return journey will cross different plantations such as coffee and tea, and the beautiful mist covered hills of the Western Ghats. Later, have a self-sponsored lunch on the way. We shall return to Bangalore at around 10:00 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pick your question, eligibility: experience required.

Since Kudremukh is a beginner’s trek, you need no special prior experience. Although one is required to have mental preparedness and stamina before he begins the trek. Running exercise is recommended.

Eligibility: Fitness benchmark

1. Jog/Run for 3 Kms in 30 mins and 2. Hold your breath for 20 seconds If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.

Eligibility: Requisite Skills

1. How to choose a right rucksack: It is essential that you choose a right rucksack for the trek since you are going to carry it all the time while trekking. Make sure you don’t make these common mistakes while buying a rucksack. 2. How to pack a rucksack: Trekking in mountains become more fun when your rucksack is well-organized. It also makes it easier for you to carry without being much load on your shoulders. Follow the guidelines on how to pack a rucksack.

Packing List: What to pack

Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?

Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?

About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?

Best season: what are the best months to visit this trek.

The best seasons to do the Kudremukh trek are the monsoon months of June-August and the winter months of November-February.

Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?

BSNL Network will be available in Kudremukha town. As Kudremukh is dense in greenery, there won’t be any cellular network inside the forest. Otherwise, all networks are available in Bangalore.

Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?

The minimum age limit is 9 years. However, minors aged between 9 to 17 should be accompanied by their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.

Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?

Before you reach the base camp of Kudremukh, there will be plenty of time to explore the Chikmagalur district. It is surrounded by tall and short peaks, coffee, tea and, spices plantations which give the entire area a nice and rich aroma. There are a few coffee tasting tours, one can undertake and temples which have a splendid architecture such as the shrine of goddess Bhagavathi and the Sri Kalaseshwara temple of Lord Shiva are among the must visit places. Also, the beautiful quaint town of Kasala nearby is worth a visit.

Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?

During Monsoon season, although, the region experiences heavy rain, the climate is pleasant and good for witnessing the best of nature. During Winters season, the weather is very pleasant and the average temperature ranges between 14 and 33 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature even reaches to 10 degrees Celsius. It is the best time to visit Kudremukh.

Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?

Transportation will be taken care from Bangalore to Bangalore from common pick up points - Malleshwaram (near KC General Hospital), Rajajinagar (Metro Station - Tata Motors Showroom), Yeshwanthpur (Govardhan Theater) and Jalahalli (Bureau of Indian Standards).

Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?

No special documents for Kudremukh trek but do carry at least one ID proof with you. (Aadhar Card, Passport, or Voting ID Card)

Accommodation: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?

Accommodation during the trek will be in tents on a twin sharing basis.

Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?

We use four-season Gipfel tents and sleeping bags. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward, provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.

Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?

Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.

Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?

There will be no snow on this trek.

Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?

Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.

Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?

You can rent trekking shoes, rucksacks and poncho for the trek from us.

Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?

No, there is no option to offload your backpack.

Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?

A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.

Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?

No, trekking pole is not necessary.

Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?

It is recommended that you come prepared with all the stuff. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.

Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?

Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.

Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?

Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.

Learning Experience

• We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
• We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
• To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
• These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.

Loyality Programs

Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.

• Currently we have three levels:
• Basic Membership
• Summiteer Membership
• Leader Membership

Personalized Attention

• Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
• Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
• On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.

Best Expedition Leaders

• Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
• Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.

Eco-friendly Practices

• Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
• Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
• We follow a rolling campsite model.
• We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.

For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.

• To ensure this:
• Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
• The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
• Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
• Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.

What's Included

Whats included.

• Food as per menu on the trek (Starting Breakfast on Day 1)
• Forest Permits/Camping Charges, if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
• Safety Equipment
• Trek guide, cook, helpers.
• Services of a Trek Leader
• Transportation from Bangalore to Bangalore

Whats Not Included?

• Meals during road journeys
• Cost of any kind of travel insurance
• Any expense of personal nature
• Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
• Portage of personal rucksacks

Cancellation Policy

Cash refund.

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date 5% Deduction

Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure 50% deduction

Less than 15 days of departure No Cash Refund

Voucher Refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date No Deduction

Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure No Refund

Please note

• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
• This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

How to avoid and treat blisters on the Trek

Dhaarna Kukreja 29 September 2017

How to avoid shoe bite and treat blisters during hiking!

How to select a perfect pair of hiking shoes

Campcraft Basics : How to Pitch a Tent

How to maintain Personal Hygiene on the trek

Experiential.

My experience of Western Ghat through Kudremukh trek

Informative.

Counting The Best Sights Of Kudremukh Trek

Must visits on your way to Kudremukh

Must Do Treks Near Bangalore

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Kudremukha Trek: A Journey to the Heart of Western Ghats Adventure (2024)

Embark on a breathtaking adventure with the Kudremukha Trek, a journey to the heart of the Western Ghats. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and diverse flora and fauna as you trek through this iconic destination. This guide provides essential insights into the trail, ensuring you maximise your trekking experience. Unveil the natural beauty and rugged charm of the Western Ghats with this unforgettable expedition. Discover the allure of Kudremukha as you navigate its scenic trails and elevate your adventure to new heights.

One of my earliest treks in the Western Ghats was the Kudremukha trek, a memorable exploration of the renowned mountain in the Western Ghats ranges, also known as Kudremukh in Kannada. This trek holds a special place in my heart due to the verdant greenery of the mountains and the unique aspect of trekking within a tiger reserve. The journey was spectacular, offering breathtaking views of the valley, dense forests, and majestic mountains.

Page Contents

PIN for later reference – Kudremukha Trek

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

Disclaimers:

• The prices mentioned in the post are valid only at the time of publication. Ensure that you check the booking websites for up-to-date information and prices.
• My opinions and views are unbiased. If the post is a collaboration, then they are specifically mentioned.
• Ensure that you check the relevant websites for up-to-date information on COVID protocols.
• For any adventurous activities, please note that there is a risk that can be dangerous. Ensure you read the terms and conditions recommended by individual agencies and do them at your own risk.
• For visas, it is best to see the embassy website for changing rules.
• While using the recommended guides, auto-drivers or taxi drivers, do your due diligence and trust your judgement.

Introduction to Kudremukha

Kudremukha, translating to the ‘head of a horse’ in Kannada, is one of the prominent peaks in the Western Ghats. Ranking as the third highest peak in this mountain range, it reaches an elevation of 1892 meters (6207 feet). It claims the second-highest position among Karnataka’s mountains, following Mullayana Giri.

The trekking trail winds through lush valleys and the encompassing hills, offering a journey worth undertaking. The stunning greenery throughout the trek adds to the allure, making the entire experience captivating.

How to Get to Base of Kudremukha?

• By Road – Traveling by road is the optimal and most convenient way to reach Kudremukha. Situated in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, the mountain is approximately 320 kilometres away from Bangalore. Due to the unsealed roads, the journey from the Mullodi forest checkpoint to the trek’s base camp requires a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

While trekking through the national park, keep a vigilant eye out for wildlife. During our hike, we encountered a bison, emphasizing the importance of caution. Maintaining a safe distance from wildlife and avoiding confrontation is crucial, especially with the robust and sizable bison. Exercise extreme care when in their vicinity.

• Upon reaching Kalasa, local buses or auto-rickshaws are available to transport you to the mountain base, Mullodi. To access the homestay, which also serves as the base camp for the trek, a 4-wheel drive vehicle is necessary.

For those considering air travel, the nearest international airport is located in Mangalore, approximately 100 kilometres away from Mullodi.

Logistics of Kudremukh a Trek

• Starting and Finishing Points : Mullodi village.
• Trek to the peak: The round-trip distance from the base camp is approximately 20 to 22 kilometres. The base camp is situated at a homestay in Mullodi village.
• Grade: The trek difficulty level is categorized as moderate to difficult. While the trail is reasonably well-defined, it is advisable to hire a guide. This recommendation is primarily due to the abundant wildlife in the area. The trek fee for hiring a guide is approximately INR 1000 per person.

If you are looking for a very challenging trek in the Western Ghats, read the trek in Kumara Parvatha .

• Suitable for : Experienced trekkers.
• Best Season : The ideal seasons for trekking in Kudremukha are spring, winter, and summer, spanning from October to May. While trekking might be challenging during the monsoons, the mountains exhibit a breathtaking allure with lush greenery and scenic beauty amid the rains.
• The trek must be undertaken between 6 AM and 6 PM, and all trekkers are required to exit the national park range before 6 PM.
• Note: Overnight stays within the Kudremukha National Park are prohibited; therefore, you must return to the home stay. A daily limit of 150 people is imposed for trekking. Given the abundant wildlife, exercise caution and stay vigilant for bison or birds during the trek. The base camp is easily accessible via a short jeep ride from the nearest village.

Tour Agency

My friends and I chose a well-known tour agency for our Kudremukha trek.

• Agency : Exotic Expeditions .
• Cost : INR 3000. This information dates back to a while ago. For current costs, please check the relevant website.
• This trek stands out as one of the finest experiences I’ve had in Karnataka. The entire journey was meticulously organized, ensuring a comfortable adventure.
• The homestay provided basic village food, contributing to the authentic experience.
• Accommodations were in tents pitched near the home stay, adding to the overall charm of the trip.

Important Tips

• Forest Department Permission : To embark on the Kudremukha trek, acquiring a permit at the Mullodi forest checkpost is essential. A trekking fee of INR 525 is applicable for venturing into the forest on this trek. For the most current and accurate information regarding the trekking fee, it is advisable to check with the forest check post directly.
• Light Backpacks: Keep your backpacks lightweight. Tents at the homestay can secure them.
• Wildlife Caution: Beware of scorpions and other wildlife. Zip up your backpacks; my friend found a baby scorpion after our trek.
• Ample Water: Carry sufficient water for the trek.
• Sturdy Footwear: Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
• Respect Wildlife: Do not disturb or engage with wildlife.
• Garbage Disposal: Carry your garbage; do not litter.
• Flashlight: Bring a torch in case it gets dark before exiting the national park.
• Time Management: Ensure you exit the national park before 6 PM.
• Mind Your Steps: Be mindful of where you step.
• Extra Socks: Carry an extra pair of socks for unforeseen blisters during the trek.
• Day Pack Essentials: Use a small, lightweight day pack for sunscreen, snacks, extra socks, a first-aid kit and water.
• Leech Protection: Be prepared for leeches, especially during monsoons. A solution of Dettol (1/4th) and water (3/4th) works best. Leech socks are advisable during the trek.

Trekking Kudremukha by Yourself

Planning a trip to Kudremukha independently is certainly feasible, although it’s recommended to engage a local guide. The local guide charges are typically around INR 1000 per group. The forest department restricts entry to the national park, issuing a limited number of tickets (approximately 150 people). A trekking fee of INR 575 per person is required and should be paid at the forest checkpoint.

Remember to carry a government-issued identification, such as an Aadhar card, that includes your photograph and address for necessary documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Kudremukha Trek

Q: how high is kudremukha peak.

The summit of Kudremukha stands tall at an elevation of 1892 meters (6207 feet), securing its position as the third-highest peak in the Western Ghats.

Q: How long is Kudremukha trek?

The Kudremukha trek is approximately 22 kilometers round trip, commencing from Mullodi village.

Q: Is Kudremukha trek difficult?

The Kudremukha trek is considered challenging due to the scarcity of shade along the trail and its consistently steep terrain.

Q: Can we trek Kudremukha alone?

Following Trek 101 guidelines, it’s advisable to trek with a buddy or a group when undertaking the Kudremukha trek. Despite the trail being straightforward, hiring a local guide is recommended as they possess in-depth knowledge of the forest and trail. Being in a group is beneficial, especially considering the presence of wildlife along the trail.

Q: What is the best time to trek Kudremukha?

The Kudremukha trek is suitable at any time of the year except during the monsoons. The rainy season can make the trail challenging and uncomfortable, despite the breathtaking beauty of the mountains in the rain.

Q: Are there leeches on Kudremukha trail?

Certainly, the Kudremukha trail is known for its abundance of leeches. Come prepared and carry a solution of Dettol and water to effectively deal with them during the trek.

Q: What are the other treks in Kudremukha national park?

In addition to the Kudremukha trek, the Kudremukha National Park offers several other trekking trails. Among them are Kurinjal Peak, Seethabhumi Peak, Gangadikal peak , Valikunda peak, and Narasimha Parvatha Peak . Moreover, the national park is adorned with numerous waterfalls, each accompanied by short and scenic trails.

Do you have more questions about the trail? Contact me by writing an email at [email protected] . I will get back to you.

Is Trekking in Kudremukha Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

As a standard practice, it’s advisable to embark on the Kudremukha trek with a group or, at the very least, a trekking companion. Specifically for the Kudremukha trek, I recommend either opting for a tour agency or hiring a guide at the mountain’s base. This precaution is crucial due to the abundant wildlife in the park. Additionally, make sure to register at the Mullodi forest check post (Kudremukha Forest Department) before commencing the trek.

Solo treks are not recommended. Instead, it’s safer to rely on the guidance provided by the forest department or trustworthy locals for trekking information.

Closing Notes

As mentioned previously, the Kudremukha trek stands out as an incredible and among the best treks in the Western Ghats. The allure of the mountains and the enchanting forests is an experience that transcends description; it must be personally encountered. Without a doubt, I highly recommend exploring this pristine beauty, especially if you have a passion for trekking.

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Kudremukh Peak

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Kudremukh Peak - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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Kuduremukha is a mountain range and name of a peak located in Chikkamangaluru district, in Karnataka, India. The name Kuduremukha literally means 'horse-face' (in the Kannada language) and refers to a particularly picturesque view of a side of the mountain that resembles a horse's face. It was also referred to as 'Samseparvata', historically since it was approached from Samse village. Kuduremukh is Karnataka's 3rd highest peak after Mullayangiri and Baba Budangiri. Check out a photoblog of our trek to Kudremukha here .

• Start journey from Bengaluru to Chikkamangaluru in an AC TT/Mini Bus.
• Reach Balegal and hire a jeep to reach our base camp at Mullodi
• Enjoy an adventurous 4W drive in the jeep for around 6 km through forest trails, gushing streams of water and bumpy roads
• Freshen up, have breakfast, get ready to start the trek
• Leave all your luggage at base camp. Carry an only water bottle, packed lunch and snacks-if required
• Trek through one of the beautiful and serene routes in western ghats to reach the peak of Kudremukha
• Have lunch alongside the water stream nearby to the peak
• Start descending after lunch and reach base camp by early evening
• Take bath, freshen up for a hot cup of coffee/tea and enjoy the beautiful views of peaks in and around the base camp
• Have authentic hot dinner and take a sound sleep in the lap of nature.
• Wake up to the sounds of nature quite early in the morning
• Have coffee/tea and get into the water stream/falls nearby to base camp. You can also take bath here
• Freshen up and have breakfast
• One more jeep ride to descend and to reach Balegal
• Have lunch en route and go for sight-seeing if time permits
• Start our journey back to Bengaluru.

Trek Insurance

Trekking comes with its own set of risks. While adventure is fun and can be extremely thrilling, nature can be unpredictable, and to help secure you during your trek, it is of utmost importance that you are covered with insurance.

We've gone a step ahead and made sure that you don't have to worry about scouting for the best insurance option out there. When you trek with us, your insurance comes as a part of your inclusions.  To know more about the benefits covered and sum insured, click here . 

What is included in the tour

• Travel: To and fro travel from Bengaluru to Kudremukha in a TT/Mini Bus
• Stay: Accommodation for a night at base camp with basic amenities
• Food: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Packed Lunch, 1 Dinner
• Jeep Ride: To and fro - Balegal to Mullodi
• Forest Entry Tickets
• Guide Fees and Driver Bata

What is NOT included in the tour

• Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions.
• Personal expenses.
• Any additional expenses due to emergencies
• Altitude: 6,214 ft (1,984 m)
• Distance from Bangalore: 332 km
• Trek Gradient: Moderate
• Trek Start Point: Balegal and Mullodi
• Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
• Trek Distance: 20+ km

Kudremukh trek FAQs

How to reach kudremukh trek.

The Kudremukh trek begins in Mullodi village, about 15 kms from Kalasa. It is difficult to reach Mullodi directly. You must first reach Kudremukh Entrance, which is approximately 10 kms from Kalasa. Hire a jeep from the entrance point to Mullodi village, where you will find the forest office. This is where you must obtain permission and start your journey. One can drive to Kalasa or take public transportation to the Kudremukh Entrance point.

With TrekNomads, your ride from Bengaluru to Kudremukh in an AC TempoTraveller / Mini Bus is included.

When is the best time for Kudremukha trek?

The best time for Kudremukha trek is between June and February. The Kalasa region, on the other hand, has pleasant weather all year. During the monsoon and winter, you can see many streams, dark shola forest, bamboo trees tall enough to touch the sky, and rolling green hills. Some sections of the trek involve trekking under the open sky. As a result, trekking in the summer is not advised.

Also, trekking in summer can also be banned due to forest fires. So, planning your trek only after checking all the updates is strictly advised. 

Kudremukh is in the Western Ghats and experiences heavy rains from June to September. Hikers get to experience dense clouds, sporadic showers, and leeches. The Kudremukh monsoon trek is well-known among hikers because it provides a unique experience, making it one of the best seasons to travel.

What are some highlights of the Kudremukha hiking?

Kudremukha peak has a unique structure that resembles a horse's face. After an hour of hiking from the forest office, this horse-like structure is visible clearly. This appears to be closer, but it will take another three hours of trekking to get there. 

The Shola forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, lion-tailed macaques, Malabar giant squirrels, leopards, monkeys, and many others. You may also spot different reptiles along the way. If you're lucky, you might come across them while hiking. During the monsoon season, you can find leeches for every step in this section. The waterfalls and small streams are among the most fascinating aspects of this section. On the way to the summit, you must cross several streams. While crossing, your shoes might get wet. So, during monsoon trek it is recommended to carry an extra pair of sandals (preferably rain wear) that you can put on while crossing water streams.

What are the Things to carry for the Kudremukha Trek?

Given below is the list of things that you will need while you were on the Tadiandamol 

A single backpack of 20 to 30 litres 

Good Hiking shoes/Sandals (Make sure you wear good shoes with a great grip) + socks

Toiletries, Towels, Spare clothes

Water Bottles - 2 litres (Compulsory)

Cap/Hat/Sunglasses

Snacks, Energy Bars, Fruits (There are no options of eatery nearby and during the trek)

ID Proof 

Will snacks be provided on the Kudremukha trek?

2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner are the meals that are included in the Kudremukha trek package. You may bring additional snacks along with you if you wish. However, we recommend carrying nutritious and light snacks such as fruits and energy bars that will be beneficial for you during the trek.

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Alone not Lonely: Kudremukh Trek on a weekday

Rolling green hills, clouds kissing the mountains, forest trails, bamboo shrubs and a dozen waterfalls, the Kudremukh Peak trek has it all; No wonder it is called the Himalayas of the south. The scenery keeps changing on the trek and will surely amaze anyone. Kudremukh is not the highest peak of Karnataka, but it is the third highest (6207 ft) and hence a good trek, it is known for the variety of scenery it offers.

Kudremukh, which literally means Horse’s Face, was on my list for quite some time and I decided to tick that off the list this year. The reason I chose Kudremukh Trek was I wanted to experience the Western Ghats, the clouds passing over the rolling green hills was a sight I wanted to see for real. Also, it was really hot and humid in Mumbai, so Kudremukh Trek seemed like the best option.

Reaching Base Village/ HomeStay:

Kudremukh peak is in the Kudremukh National park which comes in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. The nearest airport is Mangalore but I got a good deal for Bangalore flight tickets and as I was planning solo, I thought it would be better to go via Bangalore. The base village for Kudremukh Trek is Mullodi, which is a remote village hence there is no direct connectivity. There are KSRTC buses to Hornadu from Bangalore bus stop; one can stop at Kalasa (you may need to request the driver to drop at the square before Kalasa). From there another vehicle or SUV to reach Kudremukh forest check post. There are many homestays around. Some homestays also arrange transport from Kalasa.

I had done my entire research and was planning to follow the same route and connect with a local person at Kalasa or any homestay. But social media is amazing, and I met Jatin from Plan the Unplanned who joined me for the trek and he has been an amazing trek lead and trek mate. We took a non-stop bus to Hassan and then another bus to Chikmagalur. From Chikmagalur to Kudremukh we went on a bike. The distance is around 95 to 97 km. It was an awesome experience on the bike, surrounded by trees, lush green patches, bamboos, jackfruit trees and coffee estates. Clouds and hills accompanied us as well. We crossed Kalasa, Kalasa main road is very cute. It seemed like a lovely quaint town. After Kalasa, we had planned a stop at a waterfall near Coffee Gudda. The area is also called Coffee Gudda, named on a famous homestay.

Coffee Gudda

The waterfall is called Elneeru. Elneeru means Sweet coconut, it is said that water is as sweet or tastes similar to coconut water. The ride to Elneeru is through muddy roads and one can drive till the motorable area. Then one has to descend down a little to reach the waterfall. On the way, came across another beautiful waterfall, it looked like a wallpaper. I was overwhelmed by that waterfall itself. Jatin had to tell me that this isn’t our final destination. :)

After further descend and a then little hike, one can hear the sound of falls in full flow and birds chirping. In some time the Elniru falls become visible. It is a huge waterfall full of energy, feeling the water on your face was a bliss. I even tasted the water, it actually tastes sweet !

After a rejuvenating break at Elniru falls, moved towards our Homestay- Bella Homestays. Bella Homestays is a beautiful cosy home away from home. It is a traditional style cottage with amazing views, surrounded by trees. The upper deck or aangan is a beautiful place for chai and the food tasted even better in such a setting. The sounds of nature are always there with you – birds chirping, crickets and the raindrops. Post some delicious home cooked food, we hit the bed as we had a long day the next day.

Bella homestay

The Trek day:

One has to start early in order to be back at the homestay on time. The forest department also advises being back before 6 at least. As we were trekking on a weekday, we had the leverage to start the trek a little late. It was a rainy night and morning, so was difficult for me to get up. ???? We had chai on the deck, got ready and packed my daypack. Had some tasty Idli and Sambhar for breakfast followed by filter coffee. We started for the base village Mullodi in a jeep. The distance is approximately 6 km to the Forest department office, from where the trek actually starts. The ride is adventurous as one crosses coffee plantations, muddy roads with waterfalls and streams as well on the way. The forest department office is a small structure where one needs to take permission and a guide. After all required permissions we started the trek, with a guide and a dog named Pandu. At the start itself, after few minutes of walking there comes a stream crossing. As it was raining heavily and continuously the flow and depth of the stream was heavy.

Kudremukh National Park Museum

After the stream crossing, there is a slight ascent on a muddy path surrounded by ferns, several shrubs and lush green grass. This continues for around 1 to 1.5 km and then there comes an elevated plain and a stand-alone tree which is called Ontimara.

On the left on Ontimara, the trail becomes flat for some time, on the right one can see the Kudremukh valley and Somavati river flowing below. The trail soon converts into a forest trail- dark shola forests with water streams. There were a lot of leeches at this point, I initially thought I am saved from them, but later realized that it’s difficult to actually avoid them. Another stream crossing there are open meadows. It was an amazing feeling to trek through dense forests, with open meadows in between. The transition of scenery played kept the thrill till the end.

Kudremukh peak becomes visible after some point. The clouds were coming closer and nearer as if to kiss and hug you. Amidst the open meadows, after further walking, there is a board by Forest Department Office stating the direction and distance (7 km) to Kudremukh peak. After another dense patch of trees, is another stream of water, and the last water source before the peak. After stream crossing, there is a steep ascent. All of us were walking at our own pace, and I achieved what I wanted to from the trek- deep connection with nature and solitude, all this mid-way itself.

It started raining heavily at around 11 am. On the right, the view was mesmerizing, clouds passing over rolling lush green hills. Tried taking few time lapses there. After further ascend you reach the second Ontimara.

Before reaching the Ontimara, I was amazed by the Kudremukh range all around me. From the ontimara, the view on the right was enthralling- rolling green hills vibrant, full of energy passing all the energy on to us. We jumped in joy and then sat there soaking in the beauty of the moment.

After the Ontimara, the trail is a mix of narrow paths between dense forests, bamboo shrubs and steep ascents.

The whole of Kudremukh valley opens up after some point. The guide tried to explain the structure of the peak in Kannada. He pointed at the part of the mountain which resembles the face of a horse and mentioned Kudre-mukha, and then pointed at the stomach and back of the horse and explained how the mountain resembles a horse. Language is not a barrier when both want to have a conversation. He also explained that we will climb the “horse’s back” part of the mountain and the climb is steep and zig-zag.

The zig-zag steep climb is difficult comparatively but the views encourage to keep going. It was raining so much, along with the winds that I felt as of the raindrops are slapping me. There were times I could not even open my eyes.

After the end of the zig-zag point, paused for some time to look and appreciate how far I have come. The rolling hills, lush green and full of life, the open meadows, the grasslands everything on the trail was just perfect, why go to Scotland when you can experience this in India itself.

At the end of zig zag point, there is a rock cluster with a blue arrow mark showing the direction to the peak. Jatin pointed at some ruins and mentioned there used to be a British Rest house there. The last part of the trek is not a steep climb because of the shape of the mountain. It is a level walk past green fields.

Kudremukha Peak

As we went closer to the highest point, the rains kept increasing. It stopped for sometime when we reached the peak. At the peak, there is Forest Department Board as well showing the details of Kudremukh peak and other peaks of Kudremukh national park. As it was raining continuously, there was no visibility, all I could see was clouds below.

Kudremukh Peak Top

Waited sometime there to see the hills and clouds play peek-a-boo. After sometime started the descent, capturing and soaking in as much as possible. The descent was a fast one, as we wanted to reach on time and I was hungry as well. We crossed a skull as well near a stream. Jatin saw a wild boar running ahead as well. We reached back till the jeep drop point by 4:30 pm.

Leech bites, heavy rains, gusty winds nothing could stop us to conquer the peak. It was just us at the peak. Kudremukh trek is otherwise a popular trek but as it was a weekday, it was only we three on the entire trail. At many points, I was walking alone and got answers to many questions. I was alone, but not lonely; Inspired by ontimara and nature.

Straight From My Heart,

Prakriti Singh

https://prakritisingh.com/

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Kudremukh Trek

Kudremukh trek chikmagalur.

Kudremukh Peak is a natural wonder in Karnataka's Chikmagalur district, India, known for its striking resemblance to a horse's face. At an elevation of 1,894 meters (6,214 feet) above sea level, this iconic peak boasts stunning beauty and rich biodiversity.

Situated in Karnataka, Kudremukh is a haven of dense forests, rolling hills, and pristine landscapes. The Kudremukh Trek offers a moderate challenge, making it accessible to both novice and experienced trekkers. It involves uphill and downhill stretches, suitable for various fitness levels. Approximately 20 kilometers, covering a round trip from the base to the peak and back.

Discover a trekker's haven, where the invigorating climb and crisp, fresh air rejuvenate both body and soul. Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of this region, encountering diverse wildlife, from vibrant plants and birds to elusive reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, and insects. Explore the unique microclimate of stunted evergreen forests, enriched with mosses and orchids, creating a visual spectacle for every nature enthusiast. Experience the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility on the Kudremukh trek, where every step unveils a new chapter in the natural wonders of Kudremukh National Park.

The following detailed itinerary provides a day-by-day breakdown of your exciting Kudremukh trek. From your late-evening departure from Bangalore to the moment you arrive back home, we've outlined your activities and experiences to make the most of your trip. Let's dive into the specifics.

Day 0 : Departure from Bengaluru

Day 1 : kudremukh trek (6,214ft) (distance - 22 km), day 2 : sightseeing and departure.

For more information, please dont hesitate to give us a call at +91 93640-99494

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Kudremukh, where lush greenery stretches as far as the eye can see, pristine streams meander through the landscape, and rich biodiversity thrives. This tour seamlessly combines expert-guided exploration with opportunities for optional activities, guaranteeing days brimming with unforgettable moments. Be assured of cozy accommodations and the knowledgeable companionship of our certified local guides throughout your journey.

Homestay with Dorm or twin sharing Tents(Trek leaders will allot based on the availablity)

Backpackers experts will accompany the entire trip, and local backpackers will join us along the way.

You can directly reserve your slots by booking on the website, please ensure proper dates are selected before confirming your booking.

Safety and Security Guidelines are followed at all times, and it is our topmost priority. We have certified trek leads (Male/Female) accompanying the participants at all times and our stay follows well-rounded safety measures.

We have multiple payment options on the website that you can refer to.

Kudremukh is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, lush green landscapes, and being a popular destination for trekking and wildlife enthusiasts.

Netravati Peak Trek, Chikmagalur

Bandaje Falls Trek, Chikmagalur

Kumara Parvatha Trek - Kukke Subramanya

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• Kudremukh National Park

Kudremukh   National Park

The Kudremukh (literally meaning Horse Face) Range gets its name from the unique shape of its main peak. The broad hills overlook the Arabian Sea and are chained to one another by deep valleys and steep precipices. It is believed that Kudremukh served as a landmark for sailors on the western coast for over 2000 years. As yet ‘undiscovered’ by tourists, Kudremukh is a trekker’s paradise, apart from the main trek to Kuduremukha Peak, other trekking trails are Kurinjal Peak, Gangadikal Peak, Seethabumi Peak, Valikunda, and Narasimha Parvatha. Let the wonderland of lush green forests interspersed with rivers, grassy slopes, captivating cascades, caves, and ruins amaze you as you trek your way through it. The best time to visit is after the monsoon when everything is lush green and the rivers, streams, and waterfalls like Kadambi waterfalls, Hanuman Gundi Falls are at their best. Ganga Moola is a scenic place located in the Bhagawathi forest where the three rivers Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravati originate. A shrine to Goddess Bhagavathi and a 1.8m high Varaha image inside a cave are the chief attractions here.

The Kudremukh National Park is spread across 600.57 sq km. in Chikkamagaluru and Dakshina Kannada districts, houses a variety of wildlife such as the leopard, Malabar giant squirrel, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, jackal, mongoose, tiger, wild dog, common langur, porcupine, spotted deer, barking deer and giant flying squirrel. The park is home to a variety of birds such as the Malabar trogon, Malabar whistling thrush, and the imperial pigeon.

At 1892 meters, Kuduremukh is the second highest peak in Karnataka (after Mullayyanagiri ). Kuduremukh is declared one of 34 biological hotspots of the world because of its tropical biological richness. It is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka.

Kudremukh Township was primarily developed as an iron ore mining town where the Government ran Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Ltd., (KIOCL)

Things to do in Kudremukh National Park:

Bird-watching in Kudremukh : Over 200 species of birds reside or visit during the migratory season to the forests of Kuduremukh.

Trek to Kudremukh Peak : With permission from forest officials, day treks can be undertaken in the hills of Kuduremukh. Camping is not allowed. Hence, hikers need to return before sunset. Besides the popular trek to Kuduremukh peak, other trekking trails are Kurinjal Peak, Gangadikal Peak, Seethabumi Peak, Valikunda, and Narasimha Parvatha.

Overview Guide

Best Season To Visit

October - May

The Park is home to over 200 species of migratory birds

INR 200 Per Person for Indians, INR 1000 Per Person for Foreign Tourists

Places To Stay

Few Homestays and Eco Resorts are available at Kudremukh

How To Reach

Mangalore International Airport ( IXE ) is the nearest airport ( 95 Kms )

Mangalore Railway Station is the nearest railway station ( 95 Kms )

One can drive from Bengaluru to Kudremukh National Park which is 332 Kms

Nearby Places

Kadambi Falls (13 Kms), Hanuman Gundi Falls (20 Kms), Gangamoola Viewpoint (17 Kms), Sirimane Waterfalls (59 Kms) are some of the other attractions that can be visited along with Kudremukh National Park.

Tour Location

Incredible Malnad

• Chikmagalur

Kudremukh trek

Not for nothing is the Kudremukh Peak called the Himalayas of the South. Kudremukh also know as Kudremukha literally means ‘horse face’ because it is generally believed that this mountain range resembles the face of a horse. It has all the natural attributes that the Himalayas have–cascading waterfalls, dense forests, narrow streams and birds whistling in the woods. A trek here can easily win as one of the Western Ghats’ most naturally beautiful. As you explore this divine territory, you will see the vast variety in its landscape–not something other treks can come close to.

On your way to the peak, you’ll come across several gushing streams, dense Shola forests, rolling green hills, tall bamboo shrubs and the majestic peak itself in all its glory. As you stop to take in the scenery here, you get blown off both by the magnificence of the peak and by the sharp and gusty winds.

Situated in the heart of the Chikmagalur District, taking a Kudremukh trek is an adventure buff’s dream come true. It has an altitude 1,894 metres above sea level and ranks No. 3 in terms of height after the Mullayanagiri and Bababudangiri peaks.

This mountain peak is sprawled across a small village in Chikmagalur district. Here’s where you can see miles and miles of coffee plantations, which enrich the air and make you feel invigorated. There are several sceneries here that give you a slice of everything wonderful. Check out the gushing streams, lush flora and waterfalls dot your way as you trek through this range.

Details about the trek

Starting Point of Kudremukh Trek : A small village called Mullodi, about six kilometers from the main road is the starting point of this trek. You will find a couple of homestays here that are ideal for being the base camp of this trek.

How To Reach Mullodi : Take a KSRTC or a private bus to Mullodi and get down at Kalasa. Take a connecting bus to Kudremukh. Alight at Balegal, 10.5 kms from Kalasa. You can also hire a private jeep from Balegal bus stop for about Rs. 600 for eight people. Make Balegal your starting point of your trek, though by starting at Kalasa, your trek is shorter and less difficult to complete in a day.

Kudremukh Trek Difficulty Level : The trek from Mullodi to Lobo’s house is an easy one. From here to Ontimara, the difficulty level increases slightly. The trail turns steep on two short stretches here, but as you move on from Ontimara to the end of the Zig-Zag route, the difficulty level increases. Again from the Zig-Zag trail till you reach Kudremukh peak, the trek becomes moderate in its difficulty level. So, the overall difficulty level is moderate.

Total distance : Mullodi: 4.5 km Lobo’s house: 2.5 km Zig-zag starting point: 1 km Zig-zag end point: 1.5km Total distance: 9.5 km from Mullodi

Time required : Mullodi: 1-1.5 hrs Lobos house: 1-1.5hrs Zig-zag starting point: 30-45 mins Zig-zag end point: 1hr-1.5 hrs to the peak Total time required to trek from Mullodi to peak is 3.5hrs – 5hrs

Trek packages

If you’re out for adventure, there’s no better place than the trekking trails here in Chikmagalur, and more precisely at Kudremukh. Come with like-minded friends so that your experience here is great and you visit all there is to see and enjoy.

For you to choose from, we have several packages. Just choose the one that suits you best. Here they are for you:

Temple package

Standard package

Silver package

Gold package

Platinum package

To make your experience here memorable for a long, long time, we have several homestays in various parts of charming Chikmagalur. They are superbly equipped with modern conveniences so that you don’t miss out on your comforts even though you’re far away from home. We take the best care of you with our home-cooked food filled with regional flavours, apart from being in a Wi-Fi enabled environment amidst unique landscapes.

Gatikallu Homestay

Nagagiri Comforts

Katikhan Homestay

Bella Homestay

Balgal Homestay

To experience this exotic holiday, call us on +91-82965-38447​ or email us at [email protected] . We’re not far away from you.

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• Long Weekends
• New Year Treks

The Kudremukh trek is every orophile's dream. Kudremukh trek is through steep hills and valleys. The hills, which bear the brunt of the severe monsoon wind, preclude any tree growth as a result the landscape is covered with grass. The valleys which are tucked in, have reasonable protection from wind and a deep soil profile, as a result of which stunted evergreen forests exist creating a unique microclimate, rich with mosses, orchids, etc. The whole scenery of grassland interspersed with narrow strips of forests provide a fantastic vista for a trekker. The totally fresh air and the climb up and down invigorates the body and soothes the soul. During the trek, one can view and study several wildlife species of plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, insects, etc.

About Kudremukh National Park: Kudremukh National Park is spread partly over the thick hilly forests near the coastal plains on the western portion and the shola vegetation on the Western Ghats uplands, covering parts of 3 districts, viz., Chikmagalur, Udupi, and Dakshina Kannada. The Kudremukh peak by which the National Park derived its name, is the highest elevation at 1892 meters.

Special features of Kudremukh National Park (KNP) : KNP is made of steep hills and valleys. The hills, which bear the brunt of the severe monsoon wind, preclude any tree growth as a result the landscape is covered with grass. The valleys which are tucked in, have reasonable protection from wind and a deep soil profile, as a result of which stunted evergreen forests exist creating a unique microclimate, rich with mosses, orchids, etc. The whole scenery of grassland interspersed with narrow strips of forests provide a fantastic vista for a trekker. The totally fresh air and the climb up and down, invigorates the body and soothes the soul. During the trek, one can view and study several wildlife species of plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, insects, etc.

• Difficulty level : Moderate to Difficult
• Trek Length : 22 Kms in total (Two way)
• Altitude : 1894 Meter
• Distance from Bangalore : 330 Kms (One Way) 
• Minimum Age : 10 Years 
• Weather : 28 to 30 Degrees (March to June)
• Attraction : Beautiful Landscape
• Transport : Non AC Private Coach
• Food : Veg Food
• Washrooms : Only at Base Camp
• Accommodation Type : Dorms separate for Male & Female

For a bulk booking discount, call 9902027262.

Few important points to note before you decide to register: Click Here

What is included in the tour

• Forest Permission Charges
• Non A/C Transport from Bangalore to Bangalore
• Accommodation in Tent or Dormitory 
• Veg Meals (2 Breakfast, 1 lunch , 1 Snacks & 1 Dinner)
• Jeep Charges
• Basic First aid support
• Instructor from BMC

DUE TO HIKE IN KARNATAKA FOREST DEPARTMENT PERMISSION, THE  PRICES OF TREKS ARE SLIGHTLY INCREASED. 

What is NOT included in the tour

• Soormane Water Fall Entry
• Sunday Lunch
• Anything not mentioned above in Inclusion

PACK LIGHT, CARRY ONLY WHAT IS NECESSARY

• Personal Medication (if any)
• Strong Backpack (Preferably water proof)
• Fresh pair of clothes for two days.
• Empty Lunch Box
• Toiletries.
• Water bottles (at least 2 liters of water)
• A torch with new batteries (must in case of emergency)
• You can carry Energy Food (Chocolate bars, flavored milk, Electrolyte drinks - Glucose etc.)
• Sunglasses, Sunscreen.
• Camera (Optional)
• Rain Coat (Highly Suggested)
• Trekking Shoes (Highly Suggested)

Kindly don't carry single use plastic ( for eg: chocolates, chips, water bottle etc) items during the trek. There will be detailed check done by the forest department before starting the trek and if found any there will be fine and can be also denied permission for trekking from the Forest Department.

If you need chocolates or chips during the trek, unwrap it and bring it in reusable tiffins.

Tentative Schedule: Day 1 06:30 PM -  Pick up from BMC, Indiranagar 06:45 PM -  Pick up from Domlur Sky Walk, Opp to Domlur Bus Stop 07:00 PM -  Pick up from Sapphire Toys, Richmond Road (Near Sacred Heart Church) 07:30 PM -  Pick up from Yesvantpur, Elite Restaurant

Day 2 05:00 AM Reach Homestay 06:00 AM Freshen up & Breakfast 07:30 AM Reach Trek Start Point & Avail permission 08:00 AM Start trekking to Kudremukh Peak 12:00 PM Reach the peak. Have packed lunch on the way 01:30 PM Start climbing down 06:00 PM Reach base camp & have Tea/Coffee Snacks 06:00 PM Campfire, Dinner & Overnight Stay

Day 3 08:00 AM - Have breakfast, Start from KNP 09:00 AM - Visit Soormane Waterfalls or Samse Tea Estate with Belur Temple. Have lunch (Self-sponsored) on the way 08:00 PM - Reach back to Bangalore

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• There is a different permission charge for Foreigner & the difference amount should be paid by the participant on spot.
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Kudremukh National Park Chikmagalur (Entry Fee, Timings, Safari, Best time to visit, Images, Facts & Location)

Kudremukh National Park Chikmagalur Entry Fee

• 200 per person for Indians
• 1000 per person for Foreigners

Kudremukh National Park Chikmagalur Phone

082771 47417, 080 2211 1401.

Kudremukh National Park Chikmagalur Address : Kudremukh , Chikmagalur , Karnataka , 577101 , India

Chikmagalur Tour Packages

Kudremukh National Park Chikmagalur Timings

The Kudremukh (literally means "Horse Face") Range receives its name from the distinctive shape of its major summit. The vast hills, which overlook the Arabian Sea, are connected by deep valleys and sharp cliffs. For over 2000 years, Kudremukh has been functioning as a navigational aid for mariners on the western shore.

All About Kudremukh National Park

The Kudremukh National Park spans 600.57 square kilometres in the districts of Chikkamagaluru and Dakshina Kannada. It is home to various animals, including the leopard, bear, gaur, sambar, jackal, mongoose, tiger, wild dog, spotted deer, barking deer, and giant flying squirrel. In addition, the park is home to a variety of species, including the Malabar trogon, Malabar whistling thrush, and imperial pigeon.

#Trivia: Kudremukh, at 1892 metres, is Karnataka's second-highest peak (after Mullayyanagiri). Because of its tropical ecological diversity, Kudremukh has been designated as one of the world's 34 biological hotspots. In addition, it is among Karnataka's top tourist attractions.

There is much to see and do at the Kudremukh National Park, from high rising peaks covered with a profusion of flora and fauna to gorgeous trekking routes overlooking luscious grasslands. The flora and animals of Kudremukh Township are diverse.

The deadly leaping leopard, tiger, endangered lion-tailed macaque, langur, spotted deer, barking deer, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, giant flying squirrels, and many other animals may be found in these dense forests. In addition, three endangered and seven vulnerable amphibian species are listed on the IUCN red list for the region. Reptiles can also be found in abundance in the area.

The abundance of about 7000mm of annual rainfall has resulted in a dense forest cover primarily consisting of semi-evergreen and evergreen trees.

#Trivia: The national park has one of the most significant regions of high-altitude meadows in the Western Ghats, with grasslands spreading out gracefully across the rolling hills.

Many indigenous, endangered, medically, and commercially important species of flora can be found in Kudremukh. Rare flora on the edge of extinction, such as the Nilambur Cobra Lily and the South Indian Jewel Orchid, can be found here. In addition, there are many trees, including eucalyptus, acacia, silk oaks, casuarinas, and others.

History of Kudremukh National Park

The Kudremukh area was designated as a natural reserve in 1916 during British rule to safeguard endangered tigers. However, in the late twentieth century, the Kudremukh township and surrounding areas grew primarily as iron-ore mining centres.

The public sector Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL) operated for over 30 years and became one of the world's largest iron ore mines until 2006, when it was shut down due to environmental threats to the Kudremukh biodiversity hotspot and conservationist concerns about preserving the region's natural beauty. The corporation made additional proposals to create a commercial resort and cater to eco-tourism. Still, these attempts were futile due to natural, logical reasons to preserve the site's sacredness.

Image Gallery of Kudremukh National Park Chikmagalur

Things to do at kudremukh national park.

1. Bird Watching : The vastness is an ornithologist's dream. Around 200 different bird species can be found here. Bird enthusiasts flock to the area to see mass migrations and uncommon bird species, including the imperial pigeon, great pied hornbill, Malabar whistling thrush, and Malabar Trogon. So if you enjoy bird watching, get up really early.

2. Hiking and Trekking : The Kudremukh summit is a joy for hikers and trekkers. Its elevation of about 1,900 metres offers spectacular views of blue skies, rolling hills, dense forests, and lush pastures. A blend of the stunning scenery will steal your breath away!

There are alternative trekking routes to consider depending on your initial point, so prepare appropriately. It may be completed in a single day since camping is not permitted on park grounds. The activity is approved from sunrise to sunset by the forest ranger's office (a necessary permit must be obtained). The permission can be obtained at the town of Kudremukh. This is undoubtedly one of the most incredible treks you can do.

3. Watch the stunning waterfalls : The Kadambi Waterfalls and the Hanumangundi Falls are two of the most popular and unusual attractions in the Kudremukh Wildlife Sanctuary. The water cascading down the rocks among the green hills, valleys, and trees is, without a doubt, the simplest method to enhance your travel experience.

4. Enjoy spotting wildlife : The park is home to a diverse range of fauna, including tigers, leopards, wild dogs, Malabar giant squirrels, common langurs, sloth bears, and more, so you'll have enough to view. Aside from that, the park is home to 200 different bird species, which you can readily spot if you have a keen eye and enjoy bird watching.

5. Take a walk through the lovely green plantations : The national park is surrounded on its northeastern bounds by wealthy coffee and tea plantations, in addition to wildlife and waterfalls. Walking among them or simply resting and admiring their pure beauty is a delight for both your eyesight and your camera.

6. Swimming in the natural pools : Following a day of trekking or climbing in the national park will undoubtedly make you sweat, and there's no better way to recharge your batteries for the evening than a swim in the area's natural pools. Just make sure you don't have any dirt on you when you enter and make the most out of your time inside.

Kudremukh Peak Trek

With its steep routes and floral and faunal diversity, the Kudremukh Peak at an elevation of 1894 m above sea level is a destination for travellers and naturists alike.

The scenery is stunning, with a view of the heavens and mists over the Arabian Sea from the peak. The many vistas that this walk offers en route, varying from substantial bamboo shrubs and shola rainforests to flowing streams and rolling hills, are one of its most distinctive features. The mountain is located within the Kudremukh National Park, which contains a broad diversity of plants and flowers.

Kudremukh, in addition to the Western Ghats' natural beauty and strange sceneries, offers a variety of hikes through the rolling hills of the Western Ghats. The walk up Kudremukh Peak is Kudremukh's most famous and spectacular excursion.

The walk begins in Mullodi, a small village. The short journey of 9 kilometres (one way) will take you to an elevation of 1,894 kilometres above sea level, with some of the most stunning vistas of the Western Ghats. You may witness everything from the grandeur of the Western Ghats to numerous streams and waterfalls, as well as aromatic coffee plantations, all in one area.

However, the Hanuman Gundi Falls, which tends to fall on your journey uphill to the tallest peak, is the most crucial attraction, along with the Kudremukh peak. Hanuman Gundi Falls, a spectacular water cascade in Kudremukh, is located in the hilly landscape of the Western Ghats.

At every step, you will be surrounded by vast expanses of lush greenery and an undulating serene atmosphere that will present you with stunning sensations. The region is traversed by three important rivers: the Tunga, Bhadra, and Nethravati. They arise in the Kudremukh National Park's Gangamoola hill (also known as Varaha Parvata).

The area has seen many inbound tourists, wildlife fanatics, photographers, nature lovers, and trekkers since its designation as a national park. There are also various tea and coffee estates in the region where you may quench your hunger for a delectable hot beverage.

Permit to Kudremukh National Park : Remember to get a trekking permit before entering the mountain for hiking. Permits are available at the Reserve Forest Office in Kudremukh town. You can obtain authorization from the office and, if necessary, hire a guide. Camping is not permitted on national park grounds, and anyone caught camping will face severe consequences.

Entry Fee and Timings of Kudremukh National Park

The entry fee to visit Kudremukh National park is INR 200 for Indians and INR 1000 for Foreign tourists.

One can visit the national park from 10 am to 5 pm. The trekking timings are from 6 am to 5 pm.

Best Time To Visit Kudremukh National Park

The months of October through May are peaceful and pleasant, making them an ideal time to explore the national park, which is lush with flora. The preceding monsoon season breathes new life into the wilderness, resulting in many faunas and vast carpets of truly breathtaking grasslands.

The rainy season, which runs from June to September, is particularly unpleasant and can derail your climbing or trekking plans. However, the annual precipitation in the area is over 7000mm.

How to Reach Kudremukh National Park

Kudremukh is located between the Karnataka districts of Udupi and Chikmagalur and is easily accessible from adjacent large towns such as Karkala (50 kilometres) and Horanadu/Kalasa (25 kilometres). Mangalore, the nearest large city, is 100 kilometres away.

Kudremukh is roughly 350 kilometres from Bangalore. These locations provide daily bus service but remember to check the itineraries ahead of time. Unfortunately, this area does not have any train service.

You can hire a private taxi from top car rental companies in Chikmagalur to easily explore the sightseeing attractions of Chikmagalur .

Apart from the main climb up Kudremukh Peak, Kudremukh is a trekker's dream. Other trekking trails include Kurinjal Peak, Gangadikal Peak, Seethabumi Peak, Valikunda, and Narasimha Parvatha. As you stroll through it, be amazed by the utopia of lush green forests intermingled with rivers, meadow slopes, enticing cascades, caverns, and ruins.

After the monsoon, when everything is lush green and rivers, streams, and waterfalls like Kadambi and Hanuman Gundi Falls are at their best, it is the perfect time to visit. The river systems Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravati all originate at Ganga Moola, located in the Bhagawathi jungle. The main attractions here are a temple to Goddess Bhagavathi and a 1.8m high Varaha figure inside a cave.

Book a Chikmagalur tour package with Chikmagalur Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA and explore everything that this beautiful destination has to offer. We offer customisable packages at pocket friendly prices, so choose what suits you best and have an amazing holiday experience. Please fill the Contact Us form to know more.

Location Map for Kudremukh National Park Chikmagalur

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Popular Tourist Places to Visit in Chikmagalur

• Kudremukh National Park Chikmagalur
• Mullayanagiri Chikmagalur
• Sringeri Mutt Chikmagalur
• Baba Budangiri / Datta Peeta Chikmagalur
• Kemmangundi Chikmagalur
• Hebbe Falls Chikmagalur
• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary / Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary Chikmagalur
• Bhadra Dam Chikmagalur
• Kalhatti Falls Chikmagalur
• Jhari Falls Chikmagalur
• Annapoorneshwari Temple Chikmagalur
• Sharadamba Temple Chikmagalur
• Hanumana Gundi Falls Chikmagalur
• Coffee Museum Chikmagalur
• Amrutesvara Temple Chikmagalur
• Z Point Chikmagalur
• Kodanda Ramaswamy Chikmagalur Temple
• Ayyanakere Lake Chikmagalur
• Mahatma Gandhi Park Chikmagalur
• Hirekolale Lake Chikmagalur
• Shanti Falls Chikmagalur
• Manikyadhara Falls Chikmagalur
• Inam Dattatreya Peetha Chikmagalur
• Shankar Falls Chikmagalur

Kudremukh Trek

Fitness Regime for your Western Ghats Treks   (Comprehensive plan to make you fit for any trek in 4 weeks)

Kudremukh Trek starts from the a forest check post of small village – Mullodi Hills, which is located at 96km in the district of Chikmangalur, ie. just 10km away from the hub Kalasa. Its takes an overnight journey of 335km from Bangalore to reach here. The word “Kudremukh” means ” horse face” in local Kannada Language. The name is given to the mountain for its resemblance to the face of a Pony. Kudremukh Trek includes dense forest of trees with water steams flowing at its every corner. The Trek is paradise for trekkers from bangalore and the peak is the third highest peak of Karnataka. 

The beauty of Kudremukh Trek enhances during monsoon and post-monsoon  , The view from the peak looks no less than a green carpet of trees. Kudremukh is also kown as mini  Scotland of India. 

It is a perfect trekking spot to venture on from Bangalore, which makes it most advantageous goal for weekend escapes. Natural grasslands and dense Shola forests make the greenery of these undulating hills eye-catching.

Important Notice: 

The Forest Permission has changed for Kudremukh trek. Only 50 Participants are allowed in the mountain range in a Day to Trek. Although we try our best to gain the permission, sometimes it happens that we do not get permission from the forest department. The decision of acceptance and rejection from DF (Department of Forest) happens at the start point check post of the trek based on the count.

If in case we do not reach the check post in time to gain permission for Kudremukh Trek, nature walkers would try to do the trek on Next Day or Arrange another beautiful trek like Kurinjal or Bavikonda from the same region. We do not wish to change our plan at any cost but considering DF we do not own any control over the national park region.

• Short Itinerary
• Start from Bangalore
• Reach Balgal
• Jeep ride to Mullodi hills homestay
• Fresh-up and breakfast at homestay
• Start the Kudremukh trek
• Have packed lunch
• Back to homestay
• Start from homestay
• Waterfalls visit
• Back to Bangalore.

Price Inclusions

• To and Fro journey
• Accommodation (Homestay or Tented)
• Two breakfasts (Saturday, Sunday)
• One lunch (Saturday)
• One dinner (Saturday)
• Snack/Power packs for trek
• Lots and lots of FUN.

Price Exclusions

• Lunch(Sunday)
• Dinner (Friday/Sunday)
• Any kind of insurance
• Personal Expense:( snacks, mineral water etc)
• Anything not included above
• Sharing basis accommodation
• Separate accommodation for boys and girls
• We offer hot vegetarian food.

Transportation

• Non-A/C Mini-bus with push back seats depending on group size

Pickup Points

• Koramangala Water Tank | 7.30 PM | (Sarjapur Main Road, Near St. John’s Hospital)
• New Shanti Sagar Hotel | 8.15 PM | (HAL Road, Near Domlur Bridge)
• MG Road | 9.00 PM | (Hard Rock Café, near Anil Kumble Signal)
• Detail Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary of Kudremukh Trek

Day 0: departure from bangalore, day 1: kudremukh trek.

Day 2: Return back to Bangalore

• Things to Carry

Mandatory Things to Carry

• Xerox Copy of you Aadhar/Voter ID (Mandatory requirement for forest permit)  
• Water Bottle – 2 (1 liter each) 
• Raincoat – if in case it rains. 
• Torch with New Batteries 
• Shoes with good traction on it. 
• One cover sheet – Good to have one 

Other Things to Carry

• Cargo/track pants -2 
• T-shirt -2 
• Extra pair of Socks 
• Personal medication kit 
• Toothpaste 
• Toothbrush 
• Rain Coat/Poncho 
• Flip-flops 
• Portable chargers 
• One bag to keep wet cloths 
• Little extra cash for meal not included in the itinerary 

Refund & Cancellation

• https://naturewalkers.in/cancellation-policy/  
• you can send your cancellation request to [email protected]  

Safety,Risk and Advisory

Safety at nature walkers.

• Please carry Xerox copy of Pan Card or Aadhar Card, as its same is required to permission from the Forest Department. 
• Non – Indian nationals will have to pay additional cost of Rs. 1300/- toward forest permission. 
• We strictly DO NOT ALLOW consumption of Alcohol, Beer, smoking or intoxicants on out trek. We request you to please co-operate with us to the make the experience more enjoyable. 
• Requesting our participant to DO NOT EXPECT any kind of luxury on the trek. We host our treks in remote location and do our best to arrange the basic necessary facilities for our participant. The objective is to experience the local outdoor. 
• We provide hot vegetarian food on our treks. If in case we can arrange Non-Veg, we would inform you on the trek. 
• DO NOT wear tight pants; tight pants are not comfortable for treks as the leg motion is restricted. 
• DO NOT carry valuable ornaments; it can cause unnecessary trouble if misplaced. (Nature Walkers do not take any responsibility of your ornaments). 
• DO NOT wear black or dark cloths and perfume on the trek (as some insects get attracted to dark color and perfumes) 
• Please put the little at its place, we request to not trash the trek or the accommodation facility. 
• If in case of traffic delay, we request our participants to expect little delay in reaching the destination. 
• 8 to 20 Members 
• We get equal boys to girls ratio for most of our treks/trips 
• We require a minimum of 8 participant to confirm the event 
• If in case, we fail to obtain the required minimum number of participants. We would initiate full refund or transfer to another event for the same departure date. (Option of transfer shall be subject to payment/refund of balance amount if any) 

What are the COVID Guidelines for the Trek?

What are the good treks or trips to do in march and april 2021.

• Kashmir Backpacking Trip
• Sandakphu Trek
• Goechala Trek
• North Sikkim Backpacking Trip
• Munnar Meesapulimala Trek
• Brahmatal Trek
• Kedarkantha Trek

I am Solo Traveler, Can I join?

I am first time trekker/traveler, will the trek/travel be difficult for me, i am women/girl. is the trek/trip safe for me, if you have more questions, please check our “ frequently asked question ” (or) ask in the comment section..

• Reviews (34)

34 reviews for Kudremukh Trek

Kesil Augustin (verified owner) – January 25, 2020

Review for KUDREMUKH TREK ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Veda KM (verified owner) – January 23, 2020

Nirmal Singh – December 18, 2018

It was my first and successful Kudremukh trek with Nature Walkers. It was an amazing trek with fun loving and awesome trekers and ODL’s(Subir, Aastha and Shashank). Special Thanks to Subir for making this trip memorable with his jokes and inspiration.

Rashmi – December 17, 2018

Thank you for the super trek Nature Walkers 🙂 It was my first and successful trek 🙂 Thank you ODLs(Shashank, Astha and Subir) for the super duper energy 🙂 A special thanks to Shashank who helped me in completing the trek 🙂

Thank you for the super trek nature walkers😊 It was my first and successful trek 😊 Thank you ODL’s (Shashank, Astha and Subir )for the super duper energy 😊 A special thanks to Shashank who helped me in completing the Kudremukh trek 😊

Jayasimha – December 17, 2018

Thanks for an awesome Kudremukh trekking experience Nature Walkers team !!! The accommodation & food was very nice. ODLs : Shashank, Subir and Astha did a great job in boosting all of us to successfully complete one of the most tiring and difficult treks. Also, it was good to see that our feedback from previous “Kodchadri trek” related to “Time management” was taken care of during the recently concluded trek 🙂

Improvement areas: 1) As part of power-packs which are provided during trek, it would be nice if the biscuits and chocolates are replaced with fruits like apple/orange. It would help us from not getting dehydrated and also it would achieve your goal of “Trash-free trekking”. 2) Bus condition could have been slightly better.

Looking forward for more treks with you guys. Keep up the good work and keep rocking !!!

Suvankar Giri – September 18, 2018

It is awesome Kudremukh trek. We did it last weekend. trek leaders were helpful and supportive. They made sure that we reached places on time and also conducted various games and activities. The trek leaders (Karthik and Anupam) really kept the group together, encouraged and motivated us. Thanks to leaders. Trekkers were also good, friendly lot of fun.

Thanks Naturewalker Suvankar.

Ananth S Rao – June 29, 2018

Kudremukh trek was a really fun and amazingggg trek. Though the 24km climb and return was tiresome, the trek leaders (Anupam and Shreesha) really kept the group together, encouraged and motivated us. They made sure that we reached places on time and also conducted various games and activities. Homestay was the best! Food was amazing! Cheers to the organising team ! Hope to be a naturewalker.forever.

Mithula – June 28, 2018

Kudremukh is one of the most beautiful place i ever been. Excellent organisation by nature walkers. The homestay jeep drive everything was perfect. Special thanks to shreesha and anupam our kudremukh trek leads nice persons ever met. Other than trek they made this trip full of fun and memories. Spent the most memorable time with the whole trek group.

Ajit Yadav – June 27, 2018

Life time memories

Sudharsanaraj R – June 25, 2018

It was an amazing experience. Trek leaders( Sheesha Vittal and Anupam Ghosh ) are very kind, joyful and helpful. Homestay experience is really nice. I enjoyed every single moment in this trip. I would suggest people do visit this Kudremukh trek, it would be fun filled and action packed!!

Rasmita Sahu – June 21, 2018

I had an absolutely fabulous time with NatureWalkers!!! Everything, every place and everyone was so wonderful.!! The homestay, the food, bonfire night …everything more than exceeded my hopes. Every moment was filled with something interesting – I can barely remember what we did from the beginning. The scenery was fantastic and my eye witnessed the heaven..!!!! Managing a group of people has its unique challenges, but everything went very smoothly. It was a great group of people. Thanking you… Hemant, Shailesh and Amogh[YO..🤘] so very much for your attention to our happiness and satisfaction. Truly a wonderful trek, an unforgettable experience. I hope to come on another of your trekking and would recommend your treks to “Any” active person – anytime. Outstanding, fun and action packed…!!!👍

I had an absolutely fabulous time with NatureWalkers!!! Everything, every place and everyone was so wonderful.!! The homestay, the food, bonfire night …everything more than exceeded my hopes. Every moment was filled with something interesting – I can barely remember what we did from the beginning. The scenery was fantastic and my eye witnessed the heaven..!!!! Managing a group of people has its unique challenges, but everything went very smoothly. It was a great group of people. Thanking you… Hemant, Shailesh and Amogh[YO…🤘] so very much for your attention to our happiness and satisfaction. Truly a wonderful trek, an unforgettable experience. I hope to come on another of your trekking and would recommend your treks to “Any” active person – anytime. Outstanding, fun and action packed…!!!👍

Florita Andrade – June 21, 2018

Had an amazing time at Kudremukh trekking the Bhavikonda trail! As I sit back and recall , it looks like the last weekend passed with a blink of an eye. It all started with few known faces but as the journey continued all became familiar, if not by names at least by the adjectives. The fun games, bonfire, visit to the waterfall and trek leaders Abhilash and Lavanya added more colors and beauty to the trek. Overall a perfect solution for a boring long weekend. Thank you Nature Walkers for making it possible

Amogh Dwaithi – June 20, 2018

Kudremukh trek was the perfect weekend trip. It was a well deserved break from our stressful busy routine. It was beyond my imagination of how nature walkers would organise this trip for us. We literally had nothing to do except enjoy the whole weekend. The views from the peak was overwhelming😘. Kudos to Hemanth😎 and Shailesh😎 and the forest official guide😎 for an amazing trek and for keeping us safe every minute. Also there were lot of fun surprises for us like campfire which was such a relief for our sore feet after long and exhausting trek, and visiting belur temple( the big surprise) , and the ecstatic dancing in the bus… Also nature walkers is like a platform for meeting new people with similar interests. None of the other members were in my age group, but not even for a minute I felt like I was left out. I went to kudremukh with a bunch of strangers and we all came back as a family. I recommend this kudremukh trek to everyone especially to youngsters who wants to travel with their friends. You’ll be in for a treat!!

Ankur Arora – June 20, 2018

This was my 6th trek and the first with Nature Walkers. What made this trek special to me wasn’t the well planned itenary, or the light and yummy food at the homestay, or the scenic beauty of Kudremukh. These things were perfect and flawless so sure need to acknowledge these as well. What made it special is the attention which Hemant and Shailesh gave to each and every detail and to each and every trekker. Every moment of the trip is something to remember, weather it was the initial intro during our journey to the base, or our ride back home where we danced all the way. I came solo but I went back with many friends and an experience to remember. These guys work with all their heart and ensure that you go back all smiling and leave you with a hangover of smile. I could write an essay on things that were comepletely unique but will hold my horses for now. God bless you guys ! Thank you for this beautiful experience.

Chiranjeeb Mishra – June 20, 2018

Had a wish of trekking Kudremukh for last 2yrs and finally did it last weekend with Nature Walkers. It was an amazing trek and u can have an experience of a monsoon trek from here.. the trekkers were awesome and fun loving.. had a great time with them.. And special mention to Hemant and Sailesh from Nature walkers who made the trip a memorable one.. Looking forward to many more treks with you guys..

Hansa Gupta – June 19, 2018

My first solo trek with Nature Walkers and a memorable experience for lifetime. What else I could have asked for in the extended weekend!! The journey started with briefing about yourself to strangers and ended at being friends with them. Trek was beautiful and the journey to the peak is cherisable. Organizers Hemant and Shailesh were simply fantastic. They made sure we are full of energy and kept motivating us throughout the journey. Had a great time and looking forward for more such treks!!

Mansi Bhandari – June 19, 2018

One of the best trips I have ever been to especially with a bunch of strangers…. And yes the view and the destination was totally worth the effort we put into a day’s trekking… The coordinators couldn’t have been more supportive and engaging , special thanks to Abhilash and Lavanya ofcrc who ensured all the people traveling bonded well with one another….. Looking forward to an another trip by Nature Walkers already.. 😇 Can’t wait… 😉

supratik Mulia – June 19, 2018

Thanks Nature Walkers… I wanted to do the Kudremukh trek from the moment i laied my eyes on the pics. The view is so awesome it has no words to describe, the only thing you can do is experience it. And the experience with nature walkers made it 10 time more awesome.The trip was full of energy and fun. Found new good friends also. After this treck i want to do as many treks as possible with nature walkers. I will always remember the trip and the people who were part of it. Special thanks to Hemant and Sailesh.

Naresh Kumar Gunjalli – June 19, 2018

“Its all about the Journey, not the destination” This quote holds really well with this trip. We had an amazing fun with the co trekkers with variety of fun activities and games which involves each and every person and express themselves and have loads of fun!

And when the destination also adds more to the trip! Its a double bonus 😀 😀 The trek was beautiful with green mountains on all the sides, it is an easy trek and anyone can do it. we were also taken to a waterfall nearby the homestay which was amazing! I couldn’t ask more from this trip 😀 😛

Vikash Tiwary – June 19, 2018

Trek to Kudremukh was a well spent long weekend. We couldn’t have asked for a better scenery and greenery in the trek. Spotting a peacock dancing in the wild was icing on the cake. Kudos to group leader Hemant for keeping everyone motivated and entertained. Looking forward for the next Trek with NW.

Sushant – June 19, 2018

The trip started with calling yourself as a nature Walker..tht itself gives a feel of explorer ..it was my first trekking experience.and being an introvert..communication was never an issue..special wow to abhilash..the trip coordinator ..is full of energy…and we can see him engaging with everyone to keep the moral going…definitely worth .for a weekend ..u guys were amazing ..keep spreading happiness…hope u meet sometime again…

samantha sawan – June 19, 2018

This was my first trekking experience and Nature Walkers did not disappoint me on that. Had a great experience and have collected so many memories for lifetime. Abhilash was great as a coordinator and a great person to hang out with. The view from the peak, the waterfalls, bonfire and the fun we had during the travel is unforgettable. Have made good friends from the trip.

Really looking forward to have a trip in future with Nature Walkers. 😍

Nethra – June 19, 2018

Great trek with superb guide……The trekking was amazing, the view were so good completely worth it. Abhilash was so helpful and kind, he was very friendly! Definitely the best tour guide in Kudremukh. This was the best part here… Hope to see you for next adventure….

ʇɐɥq dǝǝpɐɹԀ – June 19, 2018

Spent perfect weekend. All thanks to the organizers Abhilash and Lavanya. Though we couldn’t visit Kudremukh, the alternative plan was good. Visit to waterfall was amazing. Surprise call to Belur was just coool. Hope to trek more peaks with Nature walkers.

Theresa – June 19, 2018

This was the perfect weekend trip, and was very accommodating to foreigners! The hike was beyond beautiful and well-prepared with more food and fun surprises than you would believe. Even more than the itinerary, though, the fun group activities made it like a friend group who had known each other for a long time on a trip to explore the outdoors. The guides went out of their way to make sure everyone was having fun and even added in extra stops so that every single moment was enjoyable and entertaining! I would recommend this trip to everyone, don’t miss out on an amazing experience! If you are lucky enough to get Abhilash as one of your guides, you are definitely in for a treat!

Nitin – June 19, 2018

kudos organisers !you gave us a sweet n memorable trek. Hope you guys plan for more treks.

Sunil Kumar – June 19, 2018

Amazing experience with Nature walker trek group. Organizers were helpful all the time.

View from the summit is breathtaking. Enjoyed every moment of the trip. Stay, food and games were excellent.

Kaushik chakraborty – June 19, 2018

Sad start but happy ending.

We couldnot get the pass for the Kudremukh trek , so I was certainly disheartened. Having said that we went to an alternate trek of Bavikunda, which is quite easy and provides a good panoramic view at the top.

The trek coordinators handeled the situation gracefully and there was no chaos during change of plans.

The visit to a local waterfalls area was probably the best thing that have happened in the journey.

I have been to enough trips and treks to say that ‘abhilash’ (the trek coordinator) kept eberyone going and he gave his cent percent involvement in the trip to make it worth for everyone else.

It was a good trip at the end.

Thanks Nature Walkers

Abhijith S Keshava – June 19, 2018

I had the expectation of having an amazing time and wonderful trek..And it exceeded my expectations.. Also the crew of Nature Walkers make sure we are fine and mingle with everyone individually.. So to sum up.. Thanks a lot for this! Hope to have many more treks and adventures with you guys

Shivam Gupta – June 12, 2018

It was an amazing experience. I was really impressed with how outdoor coordinators(NW team) were extremely patient and helpful. Apart from the fact that trekking 22 km is a tiring affair, everything else was mesmerising, the view, the stay, the food, the ambience. I would definitely recommend this trek to test your limits and have an amazing time!

Hirak Banerjee – June 5, 2018

I had an amazing Trek in Kudremukh along with my friends. Thanks to the Nature Walkers team for the planning & guidance throughout the journey. Special thanks to Hemant Bhau 🙂

I’m glad I chose Kudremeukh as my first Trekking expedition. It was such a beautiful place to explore.

For the first time trekkers I would say Kudremukh is not an easy trek, though the difficulty can be overcome if an individual invests some time in preparation for the same.

Thanks again NW Team. Keep up the good work & I hope we meet again in the near future.

Regards, Hirak

Ekta – June 5, 2018

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• Trek Group Leader Details: Please ensure that all details provided for the trek group leader match the information on their official ID card, which they will carry during the trek. Accurate details are essential for safety and identification purposes.
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Happy trekking!

New to Paramount+ in April 2024

I t’s a bittersweet April for Star Trek: Discovery fans at Paramount+. The series finale of the Star Trek series will premiere on April 4, according to Get Your Comic On.

While waiting for the third installment of Paramount’s smash hit Sonic the Hedgehog movies, this April also marks the debut of the new Sonic: The Hedgehog spinoff series Knuckles. Idris Elba will voice Knuckles the Echidna as he teaches the way of the Echidna warrior to deputy Wade Whipple (Adam Pally). The six-episode animated series will debut on April 27.

For the Sonic the Hedgehog movie Jim Carey is rumored to reprise Dr. Robotnik, while Jessica Jones star Kristen Ritter is also joining the sequel .

The 2023 British crime comedy film Sumotherhood will make its streaming debut on April 10. The movie follows the story of two friends who get into trouble after an attempted bank robbery gone wrong.

The Challenge All-Stars season four will also make its two-episode premiere on April 11.

The Ewan McGregor-led A Gentleman in Moscow continues with the rest of its episodes next month.

Here are the rest of the titles available on Paramount+ this April.

Star Trek: Discovery – season 5, episodes 1-2

A Gentleman in Moscow – episode 2

Sumotherhood – exclusive film

Star Trek: Discovery – season 5, episode 3

The Challenge All Stars – series 4, episodes 1-2

A Gentleman in Moscow – episode 3

Star Trek: Discovery – season 5, episode 4

The Challenge All Stars – series 4, episode 3

A Gentleman in Moscow – episode 4

Star Trek: Discovery – season 5, episodes 5

The Challenge All Stars – series 4, episode 4

The Retirement Plan – exclusive film

A Gentleman in Moscow – episode 5

Knuckles – box set drop

Like ClutchPoints’ content? Be sure to follow us.

The post New to Paramount+ in April 2024 appeared first on ClutchPoints .

More From Forbes

Fans unite to save ‘so help me todd’.

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Pictured (L-R): Marcia Gay Harden as Margaret and Skylar Astin as Todd on CBS legal drama "So Help ... [+] Me Todd" (Photo by Michael Courtney/CBS via Getty Images)

Star Trek , Cagney & Lacey , Roswell , Family Guy, Futurama, Firefly , Jericho , Designing Women, Friday Night Lights and Quantum Leap .

If you are wondering what these 1o primetime TV series have in common, think of the fans. All of the series were prematurely canceled, and each found a new lease on life (in an era where there was no social media) thanks to passionate viewers.

Star Trek , of course, is the proverbial poster child for why the fans matter. After three seasons of the original run on NBC in the 1960s, and the countless TV and movie spinoffs ever since, the Star Trek universe continues to surge. Others, like Cagney & Lacey , Designing Women and the animated comedies, were extended thanks to the viewers. And, if fans have their say this time (which, in this era of social media, gives everyone a voice), the legal dramedy So Help Me Todd, starring the Oscar winner Marcia Gay Harden and Skylar Astin , could be the next canceled TV series to return.

After CBS opted against a third season, a petition on the change.org website, titled “ Save So Help Me Todd on CBS,” requests that CBS “reconsider canceling So Help Me Todd . “The show is so entertaining and it is family oriented . It can be enjoyed by all ages,” the petition says.

Fans of So Help Me Todd , meanwhile, are using social media to lobby for a reprieve.

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‘baby reindeer’ star says real martha searches need to stop, false rumors bytedance denies it is exploring a tiktok sale after ban bill, a surprise cancellation.

Unlike most axed series, viewers were caught off guard by the unexpected sophomore cancellation o f So Help Me Todd . By the numbers (according to Nielsen), So Help Me Todd i s averaging a respectable 6.2 million total viewers per week, which is consistent with its first season. For any broadcast network other than CBS, this Top 25 occupant would likely have been renewed. But CBS, at present, is home to 14 of the Top 20 most-watched TV series. Recent (and renewed) dramas Tracker and Elsbeth further limit the shelf space on the Eye network. And, like any legal-themed hour, the audience skew for So Help Me Todd tends to be older (over age 50). Translation: the younger demo categories remain more alluring to the broadcasters and advertisers.

Even so, ABC. Fox and The CW are hungry for scripted hits. The endless streaming services offer an option. Remember when Netflix picked up the sci-fi drama Manifest for a fourth season after being canceled by NBC? And for a platform like Paramount+, original episodes of So Help Me Todd could give CBS’ lackluster streaming partner a shot of much-needed adrenaline.

As the broadcasters prepare the blueprints for their strike-free primetime lineups for next season (the official announcements will be the week of May 13), the fans are the voices that matter. And the more attention these viewers give to So Help Me Todd , the better the chance of it continuing.

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Original ‘Star Trek’ Enterprise Model Is Found After Being Missing for Decades

The 33-inch model surfaced on eBay after disappearing around 1979. An auction house is giving it to the son of Gene Roddenberry, the creator of “Star Trek.”

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By Emily Schmall

The first model of the U.S.S. Enterprise, the starship that appeared in the opening credits of the original “Star Trek” television series , has been returned to Eugene Roddenberry Jr., the son of the creator of the series, decades after it went missing.

“After a long journey, she’s home,” Mr. Roddenberry wrote on social media on Thursday.

For die-hard Trekkies, the model’s disappearance had become the subject of folklore, so an eBay listing last fall, with a starting bid of $1,000, didn’t go unnoticed.

“Red alert,” someone in an online costume and prop-making forum wrote, linking to the listing.

Mr. Roddenberry’s father, Gene Roddenberry, created the television series, which first aired in 1966 and ran for three seasons. It spawned numerous spinoffs, several films and a franchise that has included conventions and legions of devoted fans with an avid interest in memorabilia.

The seller of the model was bombarded with inquiries and quickly took the listing down.

The seller contacted Heritage Auctions to authenticate it, the auction house’s executive vice president, Joe Maddalena, said on Saturday. As soon as the seller, who said he had found it in a storage unit, brought it to the auction house’s office in Beverly Hills, Calif., Mr. Maddalena said he knew it was real.

“That’s when I reached out to Rod to say, ‘We’ve got this. This is it,’” he said, adding that the model was being transferred to Mr. Roddenberry.

Mr. Roddenberry, who is known as Rod, said on Saturday that he would restore the model and seek to have it displayed in a museum or other institution. He said reclaiming the item had only piqued his interest in the circumstances about its disappearance.

“Whoever borrowed it or misplaced it or lost it, something happened somewhere,” he said. “Where’s it been?”

It was unclear how the model ended up in the storage unit and who had it before its discovery.

The original U.S.S. Enterprise, a 33-inch model, was mostly made of solid wood by Richard C. Datin, a model maker for the Howard Anderson Company, a special-effects company that created the opening credits for some of the 20th century’s biggest TV shows .

An enlarged 11-foot model was used in subsequent “Star Trek” television episodes, and is now part of the permanent collection of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum , where it was donated by Paramount Studios in 1974.

Mr. Roddenberry, who said he gave the seller a “reward” for its recovery but did not disclose the terms, assembled a group of “Star Trek” production veterans, model makers and restoration specialists in Beverly Hills to authenticate the find.

The group included a “Star Trek” art supervisor, Michael Okuda, and his wife, Denise, an artist on “Star Trek” television series and films, and Gary Kerr, a “Trek x-pert” who served as technical consultant for the Smithsonian during a 2016 restoration of the 11-foot model.

“We spent at least an hour photographing it, inspecting the paint, inspecting the dirt, looking under the base, the patina on the stem, the grain in the wood,” Mr. Roddenberry said.

“It was a unanimous ‘This is 100 percent the one,’” he said.

Gene Roddenberry, who died in 1991 , kept the original model, which appeared in the show’s opening credits and pilot episode, on his desk.

Mr. Kerr compared the model to 1960s photos he had of the model on Mr. Roddenberry’s desk.

“The wood grain matched exactly, so that was it,” he said on Saturday.

The model went missing after Mr. Roddenberry lent it to the makers of “Star Trek: The Motion Picture,” which was released in 1979, Mr. Maddalena said.

“This is a major discovery,” he said, likening the model to the ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz,” a prop that was stolen in 2005 and recovered by the F.B.I. in 2018, and that Heritage Auctions is selling.

While the slippers represent hope, he said, the starship Enterprise model “represents dreams.”

“It’s a portal to what could be,” he said.

Emily Schmall covers breaking news and feature stories and is based in Chicago. More about Emily Schmall

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Picture This

George takei 'lost freedom' some 80 years ago – now he's written that story for kids.

Samantha Balaban

George Takei was just 4 years old when when President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066:

"I hereby authorize and direct the Secretary of War, and the Military Commanders... to prescribe military areas in such places and of such extent as he or the appropriate Military Commander may determine, from which any or all persons may be excluded..."

It was Feb. 19, 1942. Japan had attacked Pearl Harbor two months earlier; For looking like the enemy, Japanese and Japanese American people in the U.S. were now considered "enemy combatants" and the executive order authorized the government to forcibly remove approximately 125,000 people from their homes and relocate them to prison camps around the country.

Book Reviews

George takei recalls time in an american internment camp in 'they called us enemy'.

Star Trek actor George Takei has written about this time in his life before — once in an autobiography, then in a graphic memoir, and now in his new children's book, My Lost Freedom.

It's about the years he and his mom, dad, brother and baby sister spent in a string of prison camps: swampy Camp Rohwer in Arkansas, desolate Tule Lake in northern California. But first, they were taken from their home, driven to the Santa Anita racetrack and forced to live in horse stalls while the camps were being built.

"The horse stalls were pungent," Takei remembers, "overwhelming with the stench of horse manure. The air was full of flies, buzzing. My mother, I remember, kept mumbling 'So humiliating. So humiliating.'"

He says, "Michelle's drawing really captured the degradation our family was reduced to."

Michelle is Michelle Lee, the illustrator — and researcher — for the book. Lee relied heavily on Takei's text and his excellent memory, but it was the research that both agree really brought the art to life.

"I'm telling it from the perspective of a senior citizen," Takei, 87, laughs. "I really had to wring my brains to try to remember some of the details."

So Takei took Lee to the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, where he is a member of the board. They had lunch in Little Tokyo, got to know each other, met with the educational director, and looked at the exhibits. Then Lee started digging into the archives.

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From 'star trek' to lgbt spokesman, what it takes 'to be takei'.

"I looked for primary sources that showed what life was like because I feel like that humanizes it a lot more," Lee explains. She found some color photographs taken by Bill Manbo, who had smuggled his camera into the internment camp at Heart Mountain in Wyoming. "While I was painting the book, I tried as much to depict George and his family just going about their lives under these really difficult circumstances."

Takei says he was impressed with how Lee managed to capture his parents: his father, the reluctant leader and his mother, a fashion icon in her hats and furs. "This has been the first time that I've had to depict real people," Lee adds.

To get a feel for 1940s fashion, Lee says she looked at old Sears catalogues. "What are people wearing? All the men are wearing suits. What kind of colors were clothes back then."

But a lot of information has also been lost — Lee wasn't able to see, for example, where Takei and his family lived in Arkansas because the barracks at Camp Rohwer have been torn down — there's a museum there now. "I didn't actually come across too many photos of the interior of the barracks," says Lee. "The ones I did come across were very staged."

She did, however, find the original floor plans for the barracks at Jerome Camp, also in Arkansas. "I actually printed the floorplan out and then built up a little model just to see what the space was actually like," Lee says. "I think it just emphasized how small of a space this is that whole families were crammed into."

One illustration in the book shows the work that Takei's mother put in to make that barrack — no more than tar paper and boards stuck together — a home.

"She gathered rags and tore them up into strips and braided them into rugs so that we would be stepping on something warm," Takei remembers. She found army surplus fabrics and sewed curtains for the windows. She took plant branches that had fallen off the nearby trees and made decorative sculptures. She asked a friendly neighbor to build a table and chairs.

"You drew the home that my mother made out of that raw space, Takei tells Lee. "That was wonderful."

Michelle Lee painted the art for My Lost Freedom using watercolor, gouache and colored pencils. Most of the illustrations have a very warm palette, but ever-present are the barbed wire fences and the guard towers. "There's a lot of fencing and bars," Lee explains. "That was kind of the motif that I was using throughout the book... A lot of vertical and horizontal patterns to kind of emphasize just how overbearing it was."

Takei says one of his favorite drawings in the book is a scene of him and his brother, Henry, playing by a culvert.

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"Camp Rohwer was a strange and magical place," Takei writes. "We'd never seen trees rising out of murky waters or such colorful butterflies. Our block was surrounded by a drainage ditch, home to tiny, wiggly black fishies. I scooped them up into a jar.

One morning they had funny bumps. Then they lost their tails and their legs popped out. They turned into frogs!"

"They're just two children among many children who were imprisoned at these camps," says Lee, "and to them, perhaps, aspects of being there were just fun." The illustration depicts both childlike wonder and — still, always — a sense of foreboding. Butterflies fly around a barbed wire fence. A bright sun shines on large, dark swamp trees. Kids play in the shadow of a guard tower.

"There's so much that you tell in that one picture," says Takei. "That's the art."

"So many of your memories are of how perceptive you are to things that are going on around you," adds Lee, "but also still approaching things from a child's perspective."

Even though the events in My Lost Freedom took place more than 80 years ago, illustrator Michelle Lee and author George Takei say the story is still very relevant today.

"These themes of displacement and uprooting of communities from one place to another — these are things that are constantly happening," says Lee. Because of war and because of political decisions ... those themes aren't uncommon. They're universal."

Takei agrees. "People need to know the lessons and learn that lesson and apply it to hard times today. And we hope that a lot of people get the book and read it to their children or read it to other children and act on it."

He's done his job, he says, now the readers have their job.

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