Kudremukh Trek-Overview
Kudremukh is an unique mountain range which is situated in Chikkamagaluru district in the state of Karnataka. Nestled at a height of 6,207 feet above sea level the place is located in the heart of the Western Ghats. The name of this place came from the word ‘Kudra’ means horse and ‘mukh’ means mouth which means horse face, as a particular side of the mountain looks like a horse face. The place is also regarded as the heaven in South India and is also the third highest peak in Karnataka after Mullayangiri and Baba Budangiri. The place showcases changing sceneries and some mind-blowing views due to which it is called the Himalayas of South. The trek enables its participants to cross several waterfalls and narrow streams and also enables walking through the thick with a variety of trees and whistling birds which will never fail to mesmerize a soul. After reaching the top of the trail one will surely lose his consciousness after admiring the picturesque views of this place. Unlike other treks there is no option for camping in this particular trek except the base camp. For those who are bored with the hectic lifestyles and city lights in Bangalore, then for them it is a must visit place during weekends.
Total distance: 20 km
Difficulty level: moderate
Trek duration: 2 days
Starting point: Bangalore
How to reach here
Kudremukh is 333 km away from Bangalore and 100 km away from Mangalore. Road is the best way to access Kudremukh
By Air
The nearest airhead to Kudremukh is the Mangalore Airport and the KempeGowda International Airport of Bangalore. Both airports have sound connectivity with the major cities of the country. From there many buses and private cabs are available to reach Kudremukh.
By Train
There is no railhead at Kudremukh and the nearest railway station is Mangalore station. From there one can take cabs or buses to Kudremukh.
By Road
Road is the best option to reach Kudremukh. From Bangalore and also Mangalore many buses are available at regular intervals to Kudremukh. Buses are also available from Horanadu.
Kudremukh Trek-Brief schedule
Day-0
Commencing the overnight journey of 300 km from Bangalore to Kudremukh.
Day-1
On the first day one needs to reach the Kudremukh National Park.
After having breakfast, move towards the base camp.
Then start the trek of 22km to the top of the Kudremukh Peak.
While hiking one must finish having lunch in the midway.
After reaching the Kudremukh summit enjoy the stupendous views of the peak and its surroundings.
Then start the return journey towards the base camp after enjoying this adventurous trek.
After reaching the base camp start the overnight camping by enjoying the bonfire.
Day-2
On the next day freshen up and have breakfast.
Then start from the Kudremukh National Park to visit some local attractions Kudremukh like the nearby waterfalls.
After enjoying the mesmerizing beauties of this place have a self-sponsored lunch and then return back to Bangalore.
Kudremukh Trek-Best time to do
The ideal time to do Kudremukh Trek is from June to February that is during the monsoon and winter season. The trek is not advisable during the summer season as some parts of the trek involve trekking under the open sky.
Things to do in Kudremukh Trek
1.To witness the horse face structure
The peak is structured in a very unique way which resembles a horse face. While reaching the top of the peak one will definitely get the ultimate feeling of this place.
2.Trailing through the Shola forests
Trekking through the Shola forests where one can get to witness many waterfalls and small streams. The one who hikes this place can spot many animals in this forest like deer, lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel and many more.
3.View of the rolling hills
The other famous attraction to witness in Kudremukh is the panoramic view of rolling hills and green valleys. Trekkers who trail here during the winter can get to witness the hide and seek of the valleys in between clouds which is a mesmerizing sight to witness.
Other places to visit near Kudremukh
- Kudremukh National Park
- Hanuman Gundi Falls
- Kalasa
- Ganganoola
- Jantam Market
Kudremukh Trek-Things to carry
- Photo ID proof is mandatory for each member to obtain entry permits from the forest department.
- Good quality shoes with nice traction and water proof body.
- Wear cotton socks or sports socks to avoid feet from getting wet on long walks.
- T-shirts or light cotton shirts with full sleeves are preferable to avoid sunburns.
- Jacket and sweater required for the morning and night as it is cold.
- Caps or hats to get protected from the direct sunlight.
- Toiletries include soap, towels, shampoos etc.
- Personal medical kit if any.
