Kodachadri Trek: A Beautiful Escape into the Western Ghats

If you’re looking for a trek that’s not too hard but still gives you big rewards—lush forests, waterfalls, misty peaks, and wide-open views—then the Kodachadri Trek is perfect. Nestled in Karnataka’s Shivamogga district, Kodachadri is the 10th highest peak in the state and a part of the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s about 1,343 meters tall, which makes it high enough to feel like an adventure but not so tough that beginners can’t enjoy it.

This isn’t just a climb to the top of a hill. The trail itself feels like a journey through nature’s many moods—cool, shaded forests, open grasslands, small streams, and even a secret waterfall on the way. And when you finally reach the summit, you’re standing above the clouds, looking at rolling green hills and even the distant Arabian Sea on a clear day.

What Makes Kodachadri Special?

Every trek has its charm, but Kodachadri feels different because it’s a mix of nature, history, and spirituality. The peak is connected with the goddess Mookambika, and many pilgrims visit the Kollur Mookambika Temple nearby.

For trekkers, the highlight is the variety on the trail. One moment you’re pushing through a jungle path, the next you’re standing in front of Hidlumane Falls, cooling your face with icy spray. And then, as you climb higher, the forest opens up into rolling meadows where the wind feels like it’s pushing you forward.

The view at the top is unforgettable—especially at sunrise or sunset when the sky turns shades of pink and orange. It’s the kind of sight that makes you pause, breathe deeply, and just be grateful you came.

Best Time to Go

You can trek to Kodachadri almost all year, but the experience changes with the seasons.

Monsoon (June–September): Everything is super green, and waterfalls are full. But the trail is slippery, and leeches are common. Good if you love raw adventure.

October–February: This is the most comfortable time. Clear skies, cool weather, and safe trails. Sunsets are magical during these months.

March–May: Hotter and drier, not the best season, but still possible.

If you want the best mix of beauty and comfort, go between October and January.

How to Reach Kodachadri

Getting to Kodachadri takes a bit of travel, but it’s straightforward.

From Bangalore, it’s about 400 km. You can take an overnight bus to Kollur or Nittur and start the trek from there.

The nearest railway stations are Kundapura and Byndoor (about 40–50 km away).

The closest airport is Mangalore (around 140 km).

Most people combine the trek with a visit to Jog Falls or spend some time at Udupi’s beaches for a complete trip.

The Trek Route

The trek usually starts from villages like Nittur or Nagodi. The most popular trail is through Hidlumane Falls—it’s tougher but much more scenic.

The total distance is around 14 km one way, which takes 5–6 hours. The first part is a shaded forest trail, then you pass Hidlumane Falls, where most trekkers stop for a break. From there, the climb gets steeper and leads into wide meadows before reaching the rocky summit.

At the peak, clouds often drift in and out, so sometimes you’ll see far into the distance, and sometimes you’ll just be surrounded by mist—it feels magical either way.

If you don’t want to trek both ways, jeeps are available from Kollur that take you to the top through a bumpy off-road route. But honestly, walking the trail is what makes the experience unforgettable.

Staying and Eating

Most trekkers stay in homestays around Kollur, Nagodi, or Nittur. These are run by local families and give you simple but tasty meals—usually rice, sambar, and spicy Malnad-style curries. They also pack food if you want to carry lunch for the trek.

Staying in a homestay adds warmth to the trip—you’ll often sit with the family, talk about the area, and eat food made from ingredients grown nearby.

A Simple 2-Day Itinerary

Here’s how most people plan their trip:

Day 1: Travel from Bangalore to Kollur/Nagodi. Check into a homestay, rest, and enjoy a quiet evening with a hearty meal.

Day 2: Start the trek early morning. Reach the summit by noon, spend some time soaking in the views, and begin your descent after lunch. Return to your homestay by evening.

If you have another day, you can visit Kollur Temple or Jog Falls before heading back.

Budget-Friendly Adventure

The Kodachadri trek is not heavy on the pocket. Here’s an idea of what you’ll spend:

Travel (bus/train from Bangalore): ₹800–1,200 one way.

Stay at a homestay: ₹800–1,500 per night (with meals).

Food: Around ₹400 a day.

Guide (optional): ₹500–800 per group.

Jeep ride (if you choose it): ₹300–400 per person.

In total, you can do the trip in about ₹3,000–4,000 for a weekend.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Go

The Kodachadri Trek is not just about reaching a peak. It’s about the whole journey—the sound of the forest, the splash of waterfalls, the taste of home-cooked food, and the quiet moments when you feel far away from city life.

It’s the kind of place where you come back not just with photos but with a calmer mind and lighter heart. Whether you’re going with friends, family, or even solo, Kodachadri welcomes everyone.

So if you’ve been craving fresh air, open skies, and a real adventure, pack your bag and set your sights on Kodachadri. Trust me, it’s worth every step.