kurinjal trek vs kudremukh trek

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A Tale Of Two Treks: Comparing Kurinjal Trek And Kudremukh Trek

India > karnataka > chikmagalur, ashis mathew 17 jul 2023, explore in chikmagalur, table of content.

Discover Serenity: The Kurinjal Gudda Trek in Karnataka's Western Ghats

The Kurinjal Gudda Trek unfolds as a verdant escapade into the heart of nature. Located near Kudremukh, this offbeat trek is a journey through dense forests, rolling hills, and pristine landscapes.

Commencing from the base village of Mullodi, the trail winds its way through vibrant greenery, revealing the diverse flora of the region. As trekkers ascend Kurinjal Gudda, the views of the surrounding hills and valleys become increasingly panoramic, creating a picturesque backdrop against the clear sky.

The trek is a harmonious blend of nature’s wonders and cultural experiences. The trail passes through quaint villages, offering trekkers glimpses of the local way of life. The verdant meadows atop Kurinjal Gudda provide a serene setting for relaxation and reflection.

The summit, standing at an elevation of around 1,650 meters, rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The cool breeze, the melodious sounds of the forest, and the tranquility of the summit make the Kurinjal Gudda Trek a rejuvenating experience for those seeking a connection with Karnataka’s pristine Western Ghats.

Upcoming Treks to Kurinjal Gudda

Roaming Owls

Wildlife tales of vinod & mathi, kurinjal peak trekking – kudremukh, trekking inside kudremukh national park.

If you were expecting details about the most popular Kudremukh peak trek , this is not about that. We always love to visit the not so famous place, thus avoiding the crowd and enjoy the forest path without much human interactions.

In India , Himalayan trekking is seeked by adventurous people around the globe but only few know that there are some amazing peaks with exceptional views in Western Ghats. We always wanted to do trekking in Kudremukh region , so once the COVID situation got subsided in 2021 we decided to do a hike in Kudremukh. Through the media we knew only about the Kudremukh peak trekking. But during our stay in Bhagavathi Nature Camp , the staffs mentioned about other treks in that region. Of that Narasimha Parvatha is the longest trek with 70 kms to cover , so that includes an overnight camping in the jungle. We were very interested to do that trek but with the unexpected rains and our plans to visit few other forest areas in Karnataka, we set aside our plan for a lengthy trek. We were told that the Kudremukh peak trek became very touristy, so we settled with the Kurinjal peak (Altitude 1159m) trek.

Next day after an early breakfast, we were geared up for the trek. There was another group with four people who were also prepped up for a trek. While they were dressed up in shorts and bright color shirts, we were dressed up in green along with knee length leech socks. So we thought they were going to some other trekking route but when the local guide came , the staff in the camp told that we were all going to the same Kurinjal Peak trek. The other group got confused as they had plans to Kudremukh peak trekking. Even after the guide told that it was already very late to start Kudremukh trekking they were very adamant about their plan , so they withdrew from our trek.

In this few minutes of confusion, we were happily watching a family of Malabar Gray Langur who were casually foraging on a fruit bearing tree.

Meeting Big Mammals in the forest

The scenery at the start of the trekking itself was very beautiful and now with just two of us and the guide, we walked in our own pace while observing the plants, butterflies and birds around us. There was an Indian Guar family casually grazing around which was so beautiful to look in that morning sunlight. They were alarmed on seeing us , so they ran deep into the grasslands and stared us from there. After few seconds of starring contest, they went back to their grazing job.

We continued our walk watching the streams and beautiful begonia plants on the rocks. We crossed a small grassland patch where all the Pansy butterflies were fluttering around.

We slowly moved to the Old growth forest section. The trees were so huge and the dense canopy made the place very dark. We couldn’t see much activities here but we heard birds sounds at the canopy level. Through the little gaps in the canopy, the Sun was throwing golden light and the beautiful tender leaves sprouting from the forest floor glowed. The trek route was very clear , so the guide gave us enough space and he went ahead. We walked very slowly in this section, just intaking the whole surroundings. I noticed many orchid plants but nothing was in bloom. Apart from the green shade, something caught up the eyes of mine and Vinod. On a closer look, we were thrilled to see the Mysore clock vines in bloom. Though they were brightly colored in red and yellow, inside that dark forest they were not clearly visible at all. Still they really added an enchanting effect to that evergreen forest patch.

Once we crossed this dense forest patch, we started seeing open grassland with scenic views. It was a continuous uphill climb and now it got steeper. The rainy season in Karnataka was long over , so the grassland was all dried up. Still we saw few plants like Bicolor Persian Violets ( Exacum tetragonum) were popping around here and there.

The guide took us through the shortest but steepest path to reach the peak. One of the most amazing aspects of hiking is to stand amidst the clouds and enjoy the scenic bird eye view. The last mile would be always tough in a hike, but the moment you reach the peak you would forget how hard it was and it all would be really worth it. We started getting glimpses of the surrounding hillocks during our climb. Vinod climbed on a huge rock to get a better view and he saw a Blue Rock thrush sitting on a rock.

Mist started coming in , so when we reached the peak we couldn’t get the perfect scenic view. But I saw the Blue Rock thrush through the mist which made it look more beautiful. There were few butterflies like Plain Hedge Blue, Blackvein Sergeant fluttering around. We just sat on a rock and enjoyed the view from Kurinjal peak. It may not be the tallest or the most adventurous peaks in the world but I was at peace once I reached the peak. I thoroughly enjoyed the view and the hike.

Downhill we thought the guide would take us in the same route. But as we mentioned him we loved the dense forest trail, he took us inside the dense foliage. He warned us though that we had to be careful for leeches. Anyway we were fully prepared for leeches, so we didn’t mind about them and enjoyed the walk amidst rainforest trees. Soon we started hearing mixed flocks birds sound and we rushed to the source of the sound. There were White-bellied treepies, Velvet-fronted nuthatch , Brown-cheeked fulvetta and many other birds. It is always hard to see birds inside dense forest but if you see them, the effect is totally mindblowing.

After few kilometres in different path we were back to our original trail. We were expecting small showers seeing the cloud pattern when we reached the peak. But the sky was bright with no hint of clouds. It was noon, so the butterfly activity was much more than morning. We clicked on everything that was sitting and we chased the rare ones that were not sitting. Vinod was chasing Colour Sergeant from the time we entered Kudremukh forest area but the butterfly kept on flying away when we went closer. Finally I got a click of female Colour Sergeant who resembles Lascar butterfly a lot. They are very rare ones in Tamil nadu but in Karnataka forest section we saw them in quite a few places.

The guide was very patient with our frequent stops for butterflies in the return walk. We were very exhilarated with our quick hike to Kurinjal peak and that too without any other tourists. The entire place was only for us which added more attraction to this trek. This was our first trek after the COVID Pandemic and we were glad that we did this trek. It was really a calming experience.

Wandering Boots

Kurinjal and Netravati Peak – Hidden Gems around Kudremukh

• Trip Type Adventure , Hiking , Moderate
• Activities No Activities
• Group Size 14 Max
• Dates Jan 25, 2024 - Jan 28, 2024
• Trek Overview
• Inclusions / Exclusions

Hiking in the western ghats and craving for a secluded trail are two things that are increasingly not going well together. But we have curated just the right adventure for you!

We have combined 2 beautiful day hikes in Chikmagalur District of Karnataka and together they are a great option for hikers craving something which is both offbeat and a multiday adventure!

Kurinjal Peak: 

Kurinjal Peak, tucked away in Karnataka’s Chikmagalur district within the Kudremukh National Park, stands tall at 1752 mts above sea level. This lesser-known treasure of the Western Ghats offers a trekking escapade that immerses adventurers in the lap of unspoiled nature.

Trekking to Kurinjal Peak unveils a world of pristine beauty—lush tropical forests, meandering streams, and vibrant green meadows. The trail, though challenging with some steep sections, beckons hikers to embark on an unforgettable journey.

Netravati Peak: 

Netravati Peak, standing proudly at 1520 meters, is a hidden marvel nestled between Belthangadi Taluk of Dakshina Kannada and Chikmagalur District in Karnataka. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Western Ghats, this trek spans around 15 kilometers from its base, offering an adventure off the beaten path.

This lesser-known trek holds a special charm as it reveals the birthplace of River Netravati, considered one of India’s sacred rivers. Its journey from the heights to merging with the Kumaradhara River at Uppinangadi is a vital water source for Bantwal and Mangalore.

Located within the Kudremukh National Park, this trek showcases diverse flora and fauna, with opportunities to spot deer and peacocks along the way. The trek presents an ever-changing landscape—majestic waterfalls, lush forests teeming with wildlife, and a chorus of bird songs that accompany the journey.

Day 1: Drive to Kurinjal base

Drive time – 7 hours

• 10:00 PM : Departure from Bangalore (Pick up from designated points in Bengaluru)

Day 2: Kurinjal peak hike (1752 mts) Total Distance – 9kms

• Approx. 5:00 AM : Arrival at the Kurinjal Base
• 5:00 AM - 6:00 AM : Breakfast at the Base
• 3 hours to reach the summit
• 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM : Exploration and Relaxation at the Summit
• 10:00 AM : Begin Descent
• Approx. 12:00 PM : Return to the Base
• 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM : Lunch at the Base
• Afternoon : Rest and Relaxation
• 4.00 PM: Drive to a homestay at the base of Netravati peak and enjoy a fun evening at homestay.
• 8PM: Dinner

Day 3: Netravathi peak hike (1520 mts) Total Distance – 15 kms

• Approx. 5:00 AM : Breakfast at the Base
• 4 hours to reach the summit
• 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM : Exploration and Relaxation at the Summit
• 12:00 PM : Begin Descent
• Approx. 3:00 PM : Return to the Base
• 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM : Lunch at the Base
• Evening : Rest and clean up. We will provide a room to freshen up.
• 9 PM: Depart for banglore after dinner.

Day 4: Drive back to Banglore

• 4:00 AM : Reach Banglore

(Drop off points with be the same as pick up points)

Trek price includes:

• Travel from Bengaluru to base village and back in a tempo traveller
• Breakfast and lunch on the hike
• Guide and expertise charges
• First aid kit
• All permit costs

Trek price Excludes:

• Meals or drinks purchased by participants during the travel or trek (example biscuits, fruits etc)
• Meals enroute road travel

Can a beginner do this trek?

Yes, this trek is perfect for first timers and beginners.

Is this trek child-friendly?

Yes. An active child above the age of 5years, accompanied by his/her parent/guardian can do this trek.

What fitness level does one require for this trek?

This is an easy trek and suitable for beginners and first timers. However we expect participants to have a basic level of fitness and an active lifestyle. Participant be able to brisk walk 4 km and climb 10 floors in one go to achieve the fitness level required for this trek.

What are the things to carry?

20 litre day pack – 1..... 2 litre water bottle – 1 (alternately you could carry two 1 litre bottles of water) (hot water / thermos not required)..... Trek pants – dry fit..... T-shirt – dry fit (preferable full sleeves)..... A jacket (it may be cold in the morning when we start, and on reaching the top you may require one)..... Trekking shoes / Hiking shoes..... Sunglasses..... Sun cap..... Sunscreen lotion..... Napkin..... Trail Snacks (energy bars, biscuits, nuts (dry fruits), etc.)..... Trekking pole (optional)..... An extra pair of clothes (optional)

Who will accompany us on the trek?

A trek leader, an assistant trek leader, and a local guide will accompany you on this trek. We will be carrying a First Aid kit and we will ensure a safe and supportive outdoor experience.

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Book your slot in 3 simple steps!

Step 1. Register yourself – Click on this link and fill the Registration form

https://forms.gle/LFy2MRjadMLFaJPFA

Step 2. Make an advance payment –

Make a payment of 50% of the Trek fee to this account

Bank details

RBL Bank Account Number -409000968477 Name – Adventum Escapade private limited Ifsc – RATN0000159 Current account

Send a screenshot of the transfer made to us on WhatsApp 9041139949 or Email [email protected]

Congratulations! You have booked your slot!

For assistance you could contact us on the contact info given in step 3.

• Kurinjal Peak Trek In Chikmagalur
• Chikmagalur
• July 11, 2020 July 23, 2020
• Suraj Kumar Manohara
• Chikmagalur , Trekking and Hiking

Kurinjal peak trek is a lesser-known trail that hides in the Kudremukh National Park of Western ghats, Chikmagalur. Nature unfolds and keeps surprising you with its beauty, as you tend to climb the 1159 meter peak.

The first and foremost thing is you need to obtain permission from the Kudremukh forest office before you start your trek. You will be allotted with a local guide, who will be accompanying you throughout your trek.

As the Kurinjal peak is located in a remote place, you will not find any public transport. However, you can hire a jeep in Balegal village, which is 18 km away from the Kurinjal hill base. Jeep rides here are fun-filled and adventurous, as the routes you take will be amidst lush green forests and Lakshya dam.

 Kurinjal Summit Trekking Route

As you begin the trek, you will find a small bridge and water stream running swiftly welcoming you. Trekking trail will take you through rainforests, meandering streams, misty mountains, tall grasslands, and of course fluctuating scenic beauty. Not to mention, the great view of mist-filled green carpet laid Kudremukh valley while trekking. The initial part of the trek till the ”Network point” will mostly be easy, as you will be hiking through the jeep track. 

Once you reach the “Network point”, all of a sudden you will witness a huge lofty mountain standing in front. You need to climb this mountain to reach the Kurinjal peak. Actual trek begins from this point, take a small one-person trail that will lead you to a steep rocky surface. You need to continue walking on rocky paths that are absolutely windy and be careful as they can knock you off the ground. In the last phase of the journey towards the peak, the path tends to get narrower. And, at certain times, you will probably be walking on slim ridges with the steep valley on both sides without railings. Clouds running all over you and cool breeze rubbing against your face on top of the peak will make the whole experience perfect.

It is, without doubt, a must-do trek for all the trekkers who love offbeat destinations.

Kurinjal Peak Trek Information

Trek Distance:14 Km (To & Fro).

Trek Duration: 5 Hours.

Difficulty Level: Easy.

Best Time To Trek: September To March.

Camping: Not Allowed.

Permission From Forest Office: Required

Also, read: Bandaje Arbi Falls Trek

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Incredible Malnad

• Chikmagalur

Kurinjal Peak trek

You don’t have to see lush green meadows and gurgling streams only in photographs or movies. Here, in the midst of the Western Ghats, you can actually see and touch it for real. Welcome to the Kurinjal Peak trek, which is housed in the Kudremukh National Park, Chikmagalur.

This peak is considered one of the best treks in the Western Ghats, not just for its difficulty level (which is moderate) but also for its mesmerizing landscapes, gushing streams and misty mountains. Verdant tropical forests complete the picture of this unique countryside, beckoning you to be part of the enticing Chikmagalur trekking scene.

Location and height

Situated in Kudremukh National Park, this peak stands majestic at a height of 1159 meters. Taking the Kurinjal Peak trek is bound to remain in your mind for a long, long time. This region has a lot to offer trekkers, so a weekend away is sufficient to enjoy this trek, rejuvenate you and fill your lungs with fresh, unpolluted air. So, come on over, the Kurinjal trek is waiting for you.

Details about the trek

A lesser-known peak in the Kudremukh National Park, Kurinjal is the perfect destination for anyone seeking a little respite from the hectic pace of city life. Set in the midst of mesmerizing natural landscapes that are further heightened by the tranquillity of the region, a trek to Kurinjal Peak is of moderate difficulty and can easily be done by anyone. Anyone on this trek virtually enters another world of picturesque settings and never before landscapes. The air is truly rejuvenating and pure as you ascend to a higher plane, leaving the plains below.

You will pass from lush green meadows with several streams and verdant tropical forests to misty mountains and finally to the Kurinjal peak. There are a few challenges for trekkers along the way, but in the end it’s well worth the effort. There’s excitement, there are thrills and finally when the peak is in sight, there’s pure ecstasy.

Yet another thrilling aspect of this trek is that you get a chance to stay at a homestay, something city life does not afford. Not only is it a home away from home, but you also enjoy local cuisine and a warm and inviting ambience.

Trekking Packages

At Incredible Malnad, we want you to enjoy our trek and homestay packages as far as possible. So, we have designed three tour packages – Gold, Silver and Platinum – so that you choose any one of them depending on the availability of your time and affordability. All these packages are designed for weekends and booking them in advance is mandatory, as space at the homestays is limited.

Temple package

Standard package

Silver package

Gold package

Platinum package

We in Chikmagalur, Karnataka, are in a fortunate position to be in the midst of so much lush greenery and natural trekking trails. We now present you a wide variety of trekking options to fuel your desire to go trekking in enjoyable and scenic environs. Trekking peaks here of varying altitudes, but they all come with things to see and do. However, our homestays are just few in number, so access our site and click the package of your choice that will bring you here soon.

Though you might live in a homely environment, we take your stay very seriously and offer you our professional services, including home-like cuisine and good quality rooms. We can also arrange for guide service and any specific needs that you may have. Our attitude is professional, our hearts are warm and our invitation to you to join us here is absolutely genuine. Do drop by whenever you can and enjoy our treks and homestays.

Gatikallu Homestay

Nagagiri Comforts

Katikhan Homestay

Bella Homestay

Balgal Homestay

Sometimes, it’s nice to take in the simple pleasures of nature and enjoy it to the hilt. That’s what we have on our plate for you, so come on over soon. We await your pleasure.

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Ravindra Joisa

Photographer | Traveler | Trekker | YouTuber | IT Engineer

Kudremukh Trek – Truly a trekkers paradise

Kudremukh trek is a must-see if you’re in Bangalore, and it’s well-known among trekkers for its stunning scenery. This is a round journey that includes more than 10 streams to cross as well as wide meadows. Kudremukh means “horse’s face” in Kannada. The unusual form of the summit inspired its name. Historically, this was known as Samseparvath because it was accessible from Samse village. Kudremukh is located in the Chikkamagaluru district, in the heart of the Western Ghats. It is part of the Kudremukh National Park, which is the western ghats’ second-largest wildlife protected area.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is the best time to visit Kudremukh?

The best time to visit this wonderful location is during the monsoon and winter. You may come at any time of year, although it is most beautiful during the monsoon season. If you’re lucky, you could glimpse “Neelakurinji” purplish-blue flowers during the monsoon, which bloom just once every 12 years. We were quite fortunate to witness this since the entire mountain range was blanketed with either green or purple-blue flowers.

The trail is clean and is plastic-free . The peak is at an altitude of 1894 meters above sea level. The meadows are so beautiful that it reminds me of my Himalayan trek to Roopkund , on day two we had to cross Asia’s largest high altitude meadows – the famous Bedni Bugyal which has some amazing campsites.

How long does it take to trek Kudremukh?

The Kudremukh trek is an easy to moderate hike that takes around 11.5 kilometers one way from Mullodi to the peak. Because you are not permitted to camp or remain overnight, you must return all the way to Mullodi. So, a total of around 23 kilometers must be accomplished in one day, which is achievable. Can novices attempt the Kudremukh Trek? – Yes, of course. This hike is suitable for first-time hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Kudremukh trekking package

It’s not that difficult to complete the Kudremukh trek. I would strongly advise you to undertake this on your own because it is more of a DIY trek and a one-day journey. Kalasa/Kudremukh is the nearest town, and there are direct buses from Mangalore, Bangalore, and Udupi. The distance from Bangalore is 340 kilometers. As a result, board an overnight bus to Kalasa or Kudremukh. From Kalasa Bus, you may trek on your own or contact the base camp owner (homestay) – Raje Gowda (Ph: 9481179008), who can organize pickup and drop-off at the base camp/homestay as well as an overnight stay if you wish to stay for a long time and depart the next day.

Kudremukh Trek Route

Kudremukh trek begins at the base camp/Mullodi guesthouse, where the forest department headquarters is located. Purchase admission tickets to the forest. This is the last home before the trek begins. You will have to cross more than ten creeks. The Kudremukh trek trail features a 30-degree incline.

Carry a raincoat during the Kudremukh trek and be prepared for severe rain and cold wind once you reach the summit. There is no need to bring an extra water bottle because there are several streams even as you reach the summit. When you reach the top, bring a packed lunch, spend some time there, and then return the same way to the base camp around 5 or 6:00 p.m. During the monsoon season, you should pack salt and soak your socks in saltwater before wearing them to keep the leech away. There are also creams that are readily available at any medical store.

The Kudremukh hike is a one-day excursion. Here’s how to plan for the Kudremukh trek and have a fun weekend. Leave Bangalore on Friday night at 10:00-10:30 p.m. via Karnataka Sarige (about 500 rupees)/Volvo bus from Kempegowda Bus Stand. Arrive at the Kalasa Bus Stop around 5:00 a.m.

You may reserve a jeep in advance by calling Raje Gowda, as well as the Kudremukh trek. The jeep trip (Rs. 500 to 700 – one way for 5 people) takes about an hour to reach the base camp/Mullodi guesthouse. There are two large rooms, each with its own bathroom. After breakfast, freshen up at base camp and be ready to start hiking by 8:00 a.m.

How to plan for Kudremukh trek

When you return from your journey from the Kudremukh trek, have a hot water bath at the base camp, followed by warm food and tea, and prepare for the campfire. You may either spend the night at the homestay and depart the next day for Bangalore, or you can leave the same day. From 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., buses leave from the Kalasa Bus Stand. You will arrive in Bangalore around 4:00 a.m. Raje Gowda would charge Rs 650 for breakfast, packed lunch, evening snacks, supper, overnight lodging, hot water, and breakfast the next day (as of 2014).

Don’t forget to obtain forest department clearance by paying Rs. 275; else, as the locals would warn you, you may end up in trouble. Because this is a national park, the forest authority is tough about poaching. You must submit your information and pay the fee at the homestay. The aforementioned fee is current as of this writing and is subject to change. Mobile signal quality may be an issue at base camp, but as you climb higher, you should expect full signal strength.

Kudremukh National Park – Kurinjal

In brief, the Kudremukh trek may be completed in one day. The next day, in addition to the Kudremukh trek, you could wish to explore another famous hiking track, Kurinjal Peak, which is a bit shorter but is a perfect weekend trip from here.

Kurinjal is a lesser-known peak in the Kuduremukh National Park, that acts as the perfect destination for people seeking a respite from the fast-paced and stressful city life. The trekking trail abounds in a mesmerizing natural beauty that is further enhanced by the calm and peaceful ambiance of the region.

Undertaking the trek takes the participants to another world, where the noise and pollution of the concrete jungles are replaced by picturesque surroundings, a breathtaking landscape, and an enchanting environment. As raw nature unravels itself at every step of the Kurinjal trek, it tickles the drowsy nerves of the participants and makes them feel truly alive besides redefining their concept of beauty and satisfaction.

Places near Kudremukh

Other places that we visited include the Somavathi waterfall, Kalasa temple, Hornadu temple, Tea Estate, and a hanging bridge. Hope you enjoyed reading this blog spot and watching my videos. Consider subscribing to my YouTube channel and you may buy me a coffee to support my work. Also, join my FriendZone by signing up for a free newsletter.

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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

Kudremukh Trek With Kodige Waterfalls

Western Ghats Treks

Kudremukh trek: passing 7 milestones to reach the land amid the clouds.

There is a magical and enchantingly beautiful place hidden amid the clouds and you don’t get a ladder to climb up to the top of Kudremukh Trek.

To reach there, you must follow the trail through the dense Shola forest, cross the paths of blood-sucking monsters, witness excessive green color that hurts eyes, step through mud and puddles, dodge rocks across 10 streams of cold rushing water, climb altitude against stormy winds and necessarily push against your exhausted body and the illusions of mind.

Not, but almost literally.

Kudremukh is an undulating mountain range that is a part of the Western Ghats of the Indian peninsula. Known for its lush and green stretches, the range looks so appealing and surreal that the landscape seems to appear right out of a painting.

Located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, Kudremukh is also a national park and a peak. At 1894 meters of altitude, it is one among the highest peaks in Karnataka.

Kudremukh literally means horse’s head. The range appears to be in the shape of a horse’s head from a certain viewpoint and angle. However, right from where we started, we were blessed with continuous rains and breathtaking combinations of greens (lush) and whites (clouds) that obscured our view.

The picturesque grasslands, meadows, and forests embellished by the stark white clouds appeal to trekkers and photographers alike. Kudremukh National Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna—you can either visit the national park or choose to trek to the peak.

We recently did a trek to the Kudremukh with Nature Walkers  who are a bunch of enthusiastic travelers from Bangalore and organize similar treks and trips.

The most favorable time to trek to Kudremukh peak is from October To February. We went at the peak of monsoons and no wonder, the weather added to the thrill.

It is best and preferred to book a homestay that the localities of Mullodi village offer, to get closer to nature and for the convenience of the trek. For easy availability, you must do the booking a month before the day of the journey.

The Nature Walkers team had planned everything in advance. We simply had to board our bus on Friday night, from the respective pickup points in Bangalore. In our 6-7 hour journey, we stopped for dinner at New Green Palace Dhaba at Kunigal Road.

We also stopped at a roadside dosa shop at 4 am early morning to have Neer Dosa and the much-needed hot cup of tea. Drizzle and chilling winds welcomed us, indicating that we were closer to our destination.

You can’t miss the scenic beauty on the way to Balgal, but we did as we all slept away until we reached there at 6 in the morning.

From there, it was an uphill drive of about 4 kilometers to Mullodi village, which you can either trek through mud and puddles or hire a jeep to reach there.

The jeep takes 500-600 rupees for a group of 8 people. Our jeep bellowed, wobbled, jigged on the rocky terrain and occasional tiny streams throughout the climb.

Check out the video of our jeep ride .

We reached the homestay in about 15-20 minutes, finished our breakfast of hot idli- sambar and chutni and set out on the trek. The guides were hired to lead the way while the organizers took their positions with one as the lead and the other tailing at the back.

Pumped up with adrenaline were 15 people, trekking up the rocky trail to Kudremukh peak.

The first hour of the 9-hour trek (both ways) passed smoothly—all we did was walk through the greens.

1. Crossing 10 Streams Of Cold Rushing Water

We weren’t able to see much—the scenic view included the color green of the lush and white of the clouds. Soon, we came across a stream of fresh water—that looked right out of a fancy ‘Windows’ wallpaper.

Dodging the slippery rocks, stepping onto the visible ones, falling at every second step, we were slow while the local guides who wore chappals and usual footwear rushed ahead as if they were walking through their backyards.

Note: Waterproof shoes would be of no use to you here.

We crossed 10 such freshwater streams—some flowed as tiny waterfalls, stark white against the dark stones.

2. Entering The Dense Tropical Jungle

The streams made their way through dense shola forest. We had already drenched our ‘waterproof’ shoes when it started raining. The rain was expected—after all we were passing through the tropical jungles of the Western Ghats in monsoon.

Though the raincoats protected us from drizzle, our trail became mucky and slippery. We did halt for a while here, to take rest and pull out leeches stuck into our skin.

3. Fighting Off The Blood-Sucking Monsters

Where there are shade and moisture, there are leeches. No wonder, most of us were quite a feast for the blood-sucking predators. Slithery and receptive towards body heat, leech removal proved to be an absolute mess since we didn’t want to kill them. Lol.

For those who aren’t familiar, leech bites are painless, non-venomous and harmless in most cases—but, the wound can get quite itchy even after days. At most, you will bleed from the bite—an immediate treatment is pressing turmeric powder over the wound.

Read on to know how to manage in a leech-stricken moist place .

4. Witnessing Excess Green That Hurt Our Eyes

The green color dominated everywhere except the sky. The pouring didn’t stop and neither did we. You can’t miss out on a single vibrant shade of green while passing through the valley below. It is an absolute pleasure to the eyes.

5. Climbing Altitude Against Stormy Winds

The trek got tougher with the rains bestowing upon us the fresh water from heavens above and the gales pushing against us with all their might. All we could see when we looked up were clouds and after every 100 meters of trekking uphill, there still appeared another climb to ascend.

We neither get a clear view nor of the downhill trail nor of the way upwards. I am sure people weren’t discouraged that they couldn’t see how far they have come and how much more they had to trek up—in fact, that was the best part.

6. Against The Exhausted Body And Mind

We couldn’t distinguish between the sweat and the rains that had now drenched our clothes completely. We breathed hard, stopped multiple times in between, but we were asked/poked/encouraged by our organizers to keep moving.

Despite the exhaustion and feeling the strength drain away from our bodies, despite constant rains and strong winds pushing us down, despite the clouds slapping against our faces, we reached a plain ground at the top—but, no, this wasn’t it!

7. And There Was No Stopping Till The Peak

It so happens that when you have only a single choice left with you, you don’t let it go to waste. So, we dragged our legs and walked, singing our way up to the peak, which was another 100-150 meters away from the flat, walkable base.

“5 minutes!”, one said. “Just 30 more steps”, said another who was now coming down from the peak. Nothing felt more annoying than watching their contended faces appear from between the clouds.

We slogged and crawled our way to the peak.

The Zenith 1894 Meters 2:00 PM

We had reached the Kudremukh peak. Just being there felt exhilarating. Words are less to describe the excitement of finally arriving at the peak.

Wind speed : >20 kilometers per hour

Temperature : 15 degree Celsius,

Visibility : 2 meters

It was the time to celebrate, with high chances that we would be pushed off the cliff by the combination of clouds, winds, and rain.

The winds were so strong and cold that our teeth started clattering—your fingers and toes could almost approach a state of hypothermia—blame the chill of the monsoon. Don’t even try to take off your shoes to have a look at your feet.

We ate our food (we had received fried rice/pulao to carry along) picking up each morsel with unstable and shaky hands. The downward descent was to begin soon and turned out to be more difficult than the climb.

If it is not tiring, back-breaking, not about leech biting, shivering, teeth-clattering and mesmerizing, it is not worth it.

It was already dark while we were coming back and the jungle came alive with strange sounds in the evening. We reached back by 6 pm.

At the homestay, the facility for a refreshing hot bath, tea, and hot pakoras had been arranged for us. We were revived after feasting on the meal (they offered non-vegetarian food as an option—rice, chicken curry, pappad).

Post dinner, a campfire was arranged for us. The warmth of the fire slowly awakened us to life

We started singing and chatting while it was still raining out there in the dark cold night. The sleep gently took over our tired bodies.

Day 2: 7:00 AM

We went to a stream nearby ( 5minutes away from the homestay) to take a dip in the fresh, leech free and cold rushing waters. Since it was raining heavily the last night, we were asked not to climb up the rocks over the falls as it was too slippery and dangerous.

However, we had a fun time, fixing our feet at the base of the stream and struggling to avoid getting carried away by the strong flow.

Before You Begin

1. Prefer going with an organized group than doing it alone—you won’t have to bang your head for arranging transport, food and stay.

2. Wear long track pants and leech socks (yes, they exist) over your socks for a double layered protection from leeches. You could also tuck your tracks inside your socks—avoid ankle length socks. Carry salt to remove leeches.

3. Always carry a raincoat. No ponchos please—you won’t know where you are stepping and they can fly away with air, restricting movement. Don’t forget to carry a torch—it might get dark while coming back.

4. Don’t venture away from the group—stay with your clan. The jungle can get dark and tricky. There is no campsite permission.

5. Trekking shoes with good grip are a must if you want to trek in monsoon.

6. Carry a waterproof cover for the mobile phone. Energy bars will help you on the way.

7. There is a pile of stones and pebbles like above to mark the trail and distances. Keep a track of these to make sure you are going on the right trail.

8. Don’t run/race while ascending, you will get tired at the beginning itself—start slow, be steady and make your halts shorter.

9. While descending, turn sideways and take one step at a time—let your step be side-facing. Don’t rush or run downhill—land on your heel than on your toe.

We had Prashant (wearing a grey t-shirt with white stripes) and Santosh (wearing a vibrant blue t-shirt, sitting in the first row) from the  Nature Walkers  team and here we all are posing tautly in front of the camera for our last pic together before departing from the homestay.

No camera can capture the beauty that you witness through your eyes—the reason there aren’t as many pictures as should have been. Kudremukh is like a heaven on earth, especially in the monsoons when it becomes more challenging to reach the peak and you have to strive for it because it is worth it.

You can follow her trail at 2littlemoments.wordpress.com.

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