Journey to Netravati Peak: A Trek into Karnataka’s Hidden Wilderness

I’ve always believed that some of the best experiences in life come when you least expect them. My trek to Netravati Peak proved exactly that. Nestled deep in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, this trail isn’t as famous as its sibling, Kudremukh Peak—but that’s precisely what drew me in.

I wanted to step off the usual tourist map and discover something wild and untouched. And Netravati delivered far beyond my expectations.

Setting Off for Netravati

I started my journey from Bangalore, catching an overnight bus to Kalasa, a small, sleepy town surrounded by rolling hills and coffee plantations. As dawn broke, the air smelled of wet earth and coffee flowers. I could already feel the excitement building in my chest.

A local jeep took my friends and me closer to the trailhead. The driver, a cheerful man named Gopal, entertained us with stories of tigers once spotted near the forests and the spirits local people believe guard the hills. I’ve done my share of trekking in Chikmagalur, but there was something mysterious about Netravati that felt different.

Into the Forest We Go

The trek began gently, winding through thick shola forests. Shafts of sunlight filtered through the canopy, turning the path into a dance of gold and green. The forest floor was alive with tiny frogs, rustling leaves, and vibrant mushrooms after the recent rains.

Every few minutes, I’d stop just to breathe in the freshness and listen to the forest. It felt as if I was stepping into a forgotten world.

As we climbed higher, the forest gave way to vast rolling grasslands. Hills upon hills spread out before me, their slopes covered in velvety green. Here, the trail became steeper, and the sun grew harsher. I was grateful for the cool breeze sweeping in from the valleys.

The Summit: Standing on the Roof of the Ghats

The final ascent was tough. The trail turned narrow and slippery in places. My legs burned, and sweat dripped into my eyes. But the moment I reached the top of Netravati Peak, I knew it was all worth it.

The view was spectacular.

Clouds floated beneath us like a white ocean. To the west, the sun peeked through breaks in the clouds, casting golden rays across endless ridges. I could see the vast stretches of Kudremukh National Park, hills folding into each other like green waves. It felt as though I’d reached the roof of the Western Ghats.

We sat there for nearly an hour, silent, just taking it all in. A cool breeze carried the sweet scent of wildflowers, and the world seemed blissfully far away.

Why Netravati Stole My Heart

I’ve trekked in many places—the Himalayas, Sahyadris, Nilgiris—but Netravati Peak holds a special place in my heart. It’s untouched, raw, and serene. There are no crowds, no shouting tourists—just pure, unfiltered nature.

The Netravati trek isn’t just about climbing a hill; it’s a journey into a wilderness that still feels wild and sacred. I saw rare birds, giant squirrels leaping between trees, and even traces of wild boar in the mud. The sheer diversity of life in these forests amazed me.

And perhaps most importantly, I felt peace—deep, genuine peace that city life rarely allows.

Practical Tips From My Trek

If you’re tempted to follow in my footsteps, here’s what I’d share:

Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (October to February). The trail is dry enough for safe trekking but still lush and green.

Fitness: It’s a moderate to challenging trek. Prepare your legs for some steep sections.

Permits: You’ll need permission from the forest department since it’s part of Kudremukh National Park.

Guides: Hire a local guide. They know the trails, and their stories make the journey richer.

Essentials: Carry plenty of water, energy bars, a rain jacket (just in case), and good trekking shoes. The terrain can get slippery.

Leave No Trace: The forest is pristine. Let’s keep it that way.

Would I Go Back?

Without a doubt—yes. If you’re someone who loves trekking, solitude, and breathtaking natural beauty, Netravati Peak deserves a place on your bucket list. It’s a trail that reminds you why we seek adventure: to challenge ourselves, to reconnect with nature, and to discover corners of the world—and of ourselves—that we never knew existed.

So if you ever find yourself craving a journey into Karnataka’s wild heart, lace up your boots and head for Netravati. Trust me—it’s a trek you’ll remember for the rest of your life.