Into the Heart of the Western Ghats: My Adventure on the Netravati Trek

Trekking isn’t always about reaching the top—it’s about losing yourself in the journey. That’s exactly what happened to me on the Netravati Trek, one of the lesser-known gems in Karnataka’s Western Ghats. Located deep within the Kudremukh region, this trail surprised me with its pristine forests, rolling meadows, and sheer serenity.

If you're someone looking to go beyond commercial trails and experience raw, untamed nature, then Netravati Peak should definitely be on your radar. Here’s a detailed travel blog to help you plan your own Netravati adventure—complete with travel tips, route details, best time to visit, and everything in between.

Where Is Netravati Peak and Why Should You Trek It?

The Netravati Peak lies in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, within the protected buffer zone of Kudremukh National Park. Unlike the famous Kudremukh Peak, the Netravati trail sees fewer crowds, making it ideal for solitude seekers and nature lovers.

This offbeat trek is about 14 km long (round trip) and takes you through rich evergreen forests, slippery streams, open grasslands, and finally, a stunning 360-degree viewpoint that makes every step feel worth it. The beauty lies not just in the view from the top, but in the ever-changing landscape on the way.

How to Reach Netravati Trek Base

To begin your journey, you first need to reach the small hill town of Kalasa, which acts as the staging point for the trek.

From Bangalore: Kalasa is about 330 km away. You can take an overnight KSRTC bus or drive down via Hassan–Belur. The roads are in good condition and the journey is scenic after Hassan.

From Mangalore: If you’re coming from the coast, Mangalore is around 110 km away. You can either rent a car or take a local bus to Kalasa.

Once in Kalasa, local jeeps will take you to the forest entry point near Samse or Balagal, where you need to register at the forest check post before starting the trek. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, and often mandatory as per forest department rules.

My Trekking Experience: What the Trail Felt Like

We started early in the morning, with a light drizzle hanging in the air and mist weaving through the trees. The trail opens with thick shola forest, where the sunlight barely touches the ground. It’s cool, moist, and teeming with bird calls. You’ll cross a few streams and muddy paths—nothing too difficult, but definitely slippery in the monsoon or post-monsoon season.

As you climb higher, the trees open up and suddenly you’re walking through lush green grasslands, with ridges stretching into the distance and clouds rolling over the peaks. These are the views that make you stop every few minutes, not out of exhaustion, but just to soak it all in.

After a steady 3–4 hour climb, you reach the top—and if you’re lucky with the weather, the view from Netravati Peak is jaw-dropping. Rolling hills, deep valleys, and a sea of clouds—you feel like you’re floating in the sky.

Best Time to Visit Netravati Trek

The ideal time to trek Netravati is post-monsoon, from September to February. During this period, the forest is at its greenest, the weather is cool, and the views are clear.

Monsoon (June to August): It’s incredibly lush but extremely slippery and leech-infested. Trekking is often restricted during heavy rains.

Summer (March to May): The grasslands turn dry and brown, and the sun can be harsh due to lack of canopy in the upper sections.

To enjoy both safety and beauty, plan your trek between October and December—this is when nature puts on her finest show.

Where to Stay and What to Pack

Kalasa offers a number of comfortable homestays and budget lodges. Some even provide package deals that include food, guide service, and transport to the base point. If you want a more immersive experience, look for plantation stays near Samse.

Packing tips:

Trekking shoes with strong grip

Rain jacket or poncho (even in winter)

2 litres of water (no refills on the trail)

Energy bars/snacks

Cap and sunscreen

First-aid kit

Leech socks (if you’re going close to monsoon season)

And don’t forget a camera or a phone with good battery—because the views are too good not to capture.

Budgeting Your Netravati Trek

Here’s a rough cost breakdown for a weekend trip from Bangalore:

Bus or fuel: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500

Homestay (incl. meals): ₹800 – ₹1,200

Local jeep + guide: ₹500 – ₹800

Misc (snacks, entry, tips): ₹300 – ₹500

Total per person: ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 (can be lower with a group)

It’s one of the more budget-friendly treks near Bangalore, especially given how remote and raw the experience feels.

Final Thoughts: Is Netravati Trek Worth It?

Absolutely. The Netravati Trek is not just another checklist hike. It’s for those who value raw beauty, who don’t mind a bit of effort for a lot of peace, and who want to explore the Western Ghats at their most untouched.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re an experienced trekker or just getting into weekend adventures—Netravati welcomes everyone with the same quiet magic. The trail gives you time to think, to breathe, and to disconnect in the best way possible.

So if you're planning your next weekend escape from Bangalore, skip the crowd and follow the call of the mountains to Netravati. You won’t regret it.