Kodachadri Trek: A 2-Day Adventure into Karnataka’s Hidden Wilderness

There are treks that challenge your stamina, and then there are treks that heal your soul. The Kodachadri Trek in Karnataka is a little bit of both. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Kodachadri is the tenth highest peak in Karnataka, standing tall at 1,343 meters. It’s not just a trek—it’s an experience of walking through dense forests, hidden waterfalls, mountain ridges, and finally, reaching a summit that gifts you a golden sunset above a sea of clouds.

I did this trek last year, and it remains one of the most rewarding weekend getaways from Bangalore. If you’re planning your own Kodachadri adventure, here’s a detailed guide blending my journey with all the practical details you’ll need.

Getting There: Reaching Kodachadri

The trek starts from a small village called Nittur in the Shimoga district. From Bangalore, it’s about 400 km away, which makes it ideal for a weekend trip. You can take an overnight bus to Kollur or Nittur, or drive if you prefer flexibility. The roads are scenic, cutting through small towns and green stretches, but they do get winding closer to the Ghats.

If you’re relying on public transport, buses to Kollur are frequent, and from there, local jeeps can take you to the Kodachadri base. For trekkers with their own vehicle, parking is available near the base village.

Day 1 – Into the Forests and Waterfalls

We started early morning from the base, with mist still lingering in the air. The first stretch of the Kodachadri trek trail passes through thick tropical forests. The air felt heavy with the smell of wet soil and leaves, and all you could hear were cicadas and the crunch of boots on damp ground.

About halfway into the day, we reached Hidlumane Falls, one of the most beautiful parts of this trek. Unlike the touristy waterfalls, this one feels wild and untouched. The water cascades down in multiple tiers, and the best part? You can dip your feet into the icy pool to cool off before continuing your climb. It’s refreshing, but be careful—the rocks are slippery.

Post the waterfalls, the trail becomes steeper, with sections where you need to push yourself a little. But with every climb, the view gets better. By late afternoon, we reached a meadow-like clearing where trekkers usually set up tents or stop for packed lunch. Watching the mist drift across rolling green hills was worth every drop of sweat.

We camped that night at a designated site near the top. If you’re not carrying camping gear, there are homestays in the village below, and local jeep rides can drop you to and from the campsite. But honestly, nothing beats the thrill of a night under the stars.

Day 2 – The Summit & A Sea of Clouds

The second day was all about reaching the Kodachadri summit. We started before sunrise, and the trail was tougher here—narrow ridges, rocky patches, and open grasslands. But the sight of the first rays of sunlight breaking through the valleys was more energizing than any breakfast.

By mid-morning, we stood at the Kodachadri peak, where the view stretched endlessly in all directions. On one side, you could see the dense forests rolling into the horizon, and on the other, the golden coastline of Karnataka faintly visible. If the weather is kind, you’ll see the famous “cloud bed,” where you’re literally standing above the clouds.

There’s also a small temple, Mookambika Temple, near the summit, adding a spiritual calm to the raw beauty around. After spending some time soaking in the views, we began our descent. The downhill route can be tough on the knees, so trekking poles really help here.

By late afternoon, we were back at the base, tired but with memories that would stay for a long time.

Best Time to Do Kodachadri Trek

The best time for Kodachadri trek is between September and February, right after the monsoons. The forests are lush, waterfalls full, and the weather cool. Summers (March–May) can get hot and humid, making the trek more tiring. Monsoons (June–August) are risky because of leeches, slippery trails, and heavy rains, though the hills look the greenest.

Travel Tips, Budgeting & Safety

Fitness: The trek is about 14 km (one way) and takes 6–7 hours depending on your pace. Moderate fitness is enough, but be ready for steep climbs.

Budget: If you go with a trekking group, packages usually cost between ₹3,500–₹5,000 including travel, food, and camping. On your own, you can manage in ₹2,000–₹3,000.

Accommodation: You can camp at designated sites or stay in homestays near Nittur and Kollur. Camping gear is available with most trek operators.

Food: Carry energy bars, fruits, and snacks for the trail. Meals are usually provided at homestays or by trek organizers.

Safety: The trail is well-marked but can get confusing in misty weather, so always trek with a group or local guide. Watch out for leeches in monsoon. Carry salt or Dettol if you’re trekking in rainy season.

Essentials: Good trekking shoes, a rain jacket, torch, and enough water. Don’t forget sunscreen, as the grasslands are fully exposed.

Why Kodachadri Trek Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

The Kodachadri trek isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about everything you see and feel along the way. From the chill of hidden waterfalls to the thrill of ridges, from the calm of temples to the chaos of clouds rolling around you, it’s a trek that leaves you both tired and refreshed.

For me, the best part wasn’t even the peak—it was the small moments: washing my face in cold waterfall streams, spotting birds in the forest, and lying under a starlit sky at the campsite. If you’re looking for a weekend trek near Bangalore that combines adventure, nature, and peace, Kodachadri is calling.

And trust me, once you’ve seen that golden sunset above the clouds, you’ll carry it with you long after you return to city life.