Kudremukh Trek Experience – Chasing Clouds in the Western Ghats

There are treks that test your endurance, and then there are treks that steal your heart. For me, the Kudremukh Trek in Karnataka’s Chikmagalur district was both. This wasn’t just a climb — it was a dance through misty trails, grass-covered mountains, and cloud-kissed peaks.

If you're looking for a mountain adventure that gives you the best of the Western Ghats — lush greenery, waterfalls, wildlife, and panoramic views — Kudremukh is where you should be. Here's my full experience of this unforgettable weekend escape into the wild.

Starting the Journey – Escaping the City’s Chaos

I began my trip from Bangalore late on a Friday night with a bunch of friends. We booked a weekend trek package that included transportation, food, and stay. The overnight drive to Kudremukh National Park was smooth, and as dawn broke, we were greeted by rolling hills and fresh mountain air — a far cry from the concrete chaos we’d left behind.

We arrived at Mullodi village, the base for the trek. The homestay here was basic but cozy, with piping hot breakfast and views of mist floating over the valleys. The excitement was building — the Kudremukh peak, standing tall at 6,214 ft, was calling.

The Trek Begins – Into the Heart of the Forest

After grabbing our permits (yes, you need Kudremukh trekking permission from the forest department), we began our journey. The trail is about 9 km one way, making it an 18 km round trip. But let me tell you — every single step was worth it.

The first stretch of the trek took us through dense shola forests. It was damp, dark, and absolutely magical. We crossed narrow streams, slippery roots, and even spotted fresh elephant dung on the trail — a reminder that this was their home before ours.

Birdsong echoed all around. We saw butterflies in vibrant colors, and the occasional rustle made us think of langurs or maybe even a Malabar civet hiding in the trees. Trekking in this forest felt like being inside a real-life nature documentary.

Through the Rolling Meadows – The Iconic Western Ghats Views

After about an hour and a half of climbing, the forest opened up into vast rolling green meadows. This part is what Kudremukh is most famous for — gentle grass-covered hills that stretch out as far as the eye can see.

The breeze here was cool and refreshing, and clouds occasionally drifted across our path, making the scenery feel straight out of a dream. With every step, the view kept getting better. Behind us, the forest faded into the mist, and ahead, the horse-face shaped peak of Kudremukh loomed tall.

We paused frequently — partly to catch our breath, but mostly to soak in the view. We sat on grassy patches, shared snacks, clicked endless photos, and just let nature do its magic. This was why we came.

The Final Push – Reaching Kudremukh Peak

The last stretch of the trek was steep and challenging. The wind had picked up, and mist began to roll in. We could barely see 10 feet ahead. It felt like we were walking through clouds.

Finally, after nearly 4 hours, we reached the Kudremukh summit.

There was no grand welcome, no loud celebration — just a deep, overwhelming silence and the soft sound of the wind. We stood at the peak, surrounded by clouds, feeling tiny and alive all at once.

We took photos with the summit marker, shared energy bars, and let the moment sink in. It was hard to believe that just 24 hours ago, we were stuck in Bangalore traffic.

Descending Through the Mist – A Trek to Remember

The descent was easier but slippery in parts. As the mist cleared, we saw waterfalls tumbling down distant hills, more herds of grazing cattle, and even the outline of Kudremukh National Park’s vast forest cover.

We reached back to Mullodi by late afternoon, tired but glowing with happiness. A hot lunch awaited us — rice, sambar, local pickles, and a feeling of pure satisfaction.

Planning Your Kudremukh Trek – Quick Tips

If you’re planning this trek, here’s everything I wish I knew before going:

Best time to visit Kudremukh: October to February is ideal for clear skies and lush greenery. Monsoon treks are also beautiful but slippery.

Kudremukh trek difficulty: Moderate. Requires basic fitness. Total trek is around 18 km.

Trekking permissions: Must be obtained from the forest department. Most local organizers handle this.

Where to stay: Homestays in Mullodi offer food, stay, and local guidance. They’re simple but warm and perfect for trekkers.

What to pack: Trekking shoes, raincoat (in monsoon), water bottles, energy snacks, sunscreen, and a cap.

How to reach: Kudremukh is 330 km from Bangalore. You can drive, or take a bus/train to Kalasa or Chikmagalur and a jeep from there.

Why Kudremukh Stays With You

Kudremukh isn’t just a trek. It’s a story — one that begins in a quiet village and ends on a cloud-covered peak. It teaches you patience, endurance, and how to be present in every moment.

What I loved most was how unspoiled it felt. There were no crowds, no plastic waste, no loud music — just pure, untouched beauty. In a world that’s constantly speeding up, Kudremukh makes you slow down and breathe.

If you're ever looking for a trek that combines challenge, beauty, and a deep connection with nature, head to Kudremukh. Let the mountains humble you, let the mist surround you, and come back with a heart full of stories.