TOP 5 TREKS IN KARNATAKA, INDIA

Trekking not only pushes you beyond your boundaries but also shows you the beauty of our mother Earth

Karnataka has been home to some of the most powerful empires of ancient and medieval India and geographically a blessed place for hikers. With lot of varieties Karnataka has to offer listing my top 5 treks.

1. Kudremukha Trek – Chikmagalur

Kudremukha Trek, Chikkamagaluru district

The Kudremukh National Park forms an important area of the Western Ghats forests. It is comprised of  tropical evergreen forests, the Shola Grasslands & mixed evergreen forests with plantations in the peripheries. The name Kuduremukha literally means ‘horse-face’ (Kannada) and refers to a particular picturesque view of a side of the mountain that resembles a horse’s face. Kuduremukh is Karnataka’s 3rd highest peak after Mullayangiri and Baba Budangiri. This 22 KM trail is covered with lush green never ending meadows with more than 10 water streams is an trekkers paradise and a perfect getaway from Bangalore. The best time to enjoy a trek to Kudremukha is during the post monsoon season, when the surroundings have attained a fresh appeal after the rains.

Trek Distance : 22 KMs to and fro

Trek Type : Moderate

Distance from Bangalore : 330+ KMs

2. Kodachadri Trek – Shimoga

Hidlumane Falls, Kodachadri Trek

One of my favorite trail in western ghats due to the diversity on the trail of 13 KMs. Starting with crossing the small water stream we head into the Jungle which leads to the heavenly “Hidlumane Falls” which is the best part of the trek. It surely gives a bit of challenge but gives the ultimate view of Sharavathi backwaters, lush green meadows, jeep trail and dense forest feel. Its the 10th highest peak of Karnataka with elevation of 1,343 m (4,406 ft). If lucky enough we can witness the magical view of Arabian sea horizon. No its not a myth, I am one among the lucky one to get this view. The trek ends with the bumpy and interesting jeep trail of 40 mins. This must visit destination is 440+ KMs from Bangalore.

Trek Distance : 13 Kms one side

Trek Type : Moderate

Distance from Bangalore : 440+ KMs

3. Hampi Heritage walk and Bouldering

No need to mention that its an recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Hampi is more than the beautiful temples, ruins of palaces, remains of aquatic structures, ancient market streets. We can also enjoy the greenery, coracle ride and amazing sports called : Bouldering.

Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that is performed without the use of ropes or harnesses. While it can be done without any equipment whatsoever, most climbers use climbing shoes to help secure footholds, chalk to keep their hands dry, and bouldering mats to prevent injuries from falls. This will be carried out under expert guidance

Hampi is a backpacker’s paradise, the same way a pilgrim’s delight.

Trek Distance : 12 – 15 KMs

Trek Type : Easy to Moderate

Distance from Bangalore : 380+ KMs

4. Tadiandamol Trek – Coorg

Tadiandomol Peak

Tadiandamol peak hold the pride of being the highest peak of Coorg. It comes under the moderate trek and best for the beginners. The distance is 8+ Kms to and fro. The trail takes to through the jungle, water stream (during monsoon), lush green meadows and zig-zag steep trail by which trekkers can feel the satisfaction of the challenge it gives.

Trek Distance : 8 Kms to and fro

Trek Type : Easy to Moderate

Distance from Bangalore : 280+ KMs

5. Gokarna Beach Trek

This is for the beach lovers. Gokarna beach Trek takes us through all the “Five Beach (Paradise, Half moon, Om, Kudle and Gokarna) which makes it a memorable and incomparable journey. The multi-cuisine food, magical sunset, chance to see Dolphins and much more. The place is cheaper than Goa and has clean and less crowded beaches. We can complete the five beaches in a single day and next day we can plan for  famous Shiva Temple ‘Aatmalinga’. Gokarna is hailed as one of the seven ‘Muktistalas’ or pilgrimage centres of the state of Karnataka in India.

Trek distance : 12 – 15 Kms

Trek Type: Easy to Moderate

Distance from Bangalore : 490+ KMs

If you also wants to explore these places and looking out for some company checkout : www.naturewalkers.in

Keep exploring and stay fit 🙂