Kudremukh Trek: How to Plan Your Perfect Weekend Adventure

Kudremukh Trek is a must-do for people looking for a weekend getaway from Bangalore. This is one of the most loved treks in the Western Ghats. The trek offers unique experiences including wildlife encounters, passing through numerous waterfalls, lush green grasslands, and bamboo shrubs, and trekking through dense forest trails.

Situated in Karnataka’s Chikmagalur district, Kudremukh is called the Himalayas of the South. The changing scenery while trekking will make you fall in love with it. Surrounded by misty mountains and lush green hills, Kudremukh Trek offers a perfect mix of leisure and adventure.

This 18 km long trek can be easily done in a day, making it ideal for a weekend trip from Bangalore. We have mentioned all the essential details in this blog to help you plan a perfect Kudremukh Trek adventure.

A Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Day 0: Friday

Leave from Bangalore in the evening by 7:30 pm.

This will be an overnight journey and you’ll reach Kudremukh by the next morning.

Day 1: Saturday

After reaching, freshen up and have breakfast by 6:45 in the morning.

After breakfast, you will head towards the starting point of the trek by jeep.

The trek will start at 7:30 in the morning. You’ll cover a distance of 9 km for one way.

Have your lunch packed lunch on the way and reach the summit by afternoon.

Spend some time at the top, admire the views of the surroundings and start descending to the base by 5:30 pm.

Head back to your homestay, have dinner and retire for the day.

Day 2: Sunday

Wake up and have breakfast before leaving for Bangalore.

If time permits, you can visit the Kodige Waterfalls.

Have lunch and drive back to Bangalore.

You’ll reach Bangalore by 10:00 Pm.

When To Visit

While planning for the Kudremukh Trek it is important to select the right time. The most suitable time for trekking to Kudremuk is Between October and February. This is when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for trekking and other outdoor activities.

Lush greenery and vibrant atmosphere. Going on the trek during monsoon season, Between June and september, as the trail can be slippery and it can increase the challenges. You should also avoid trekking from March to May (summer months) because the weather during this time can be hot and uncomfortable.

Gather Information and Set a budget

1. Do your Research

Start your research about the Kudremukh Trek and gather information. Look online, join trekking forums, read travel blogs, and check out the trek routes, the best time to visit, the difficult stage, and what to expect. Familiarize yourself with trekking trails and gain knowledge to avoid unexpected situations during the trek.

2. Set Your Trek Budget

Set the budget for your trek and break down your expenses such as stay charges, travel costs, meals, trek permits, and important trek gear.

Travelling to Kudremukh

By Road: Kudremukh has good roadway connectivity from Major cities in Karnataka and the nearest town Kalasa is just 20 km away. You can easily reach this town by car or by bus from major cities like Bangalore, around 340 km away. You can also take a bus or self-drive from Mangalore, around 140 km away. Then from Kasala, you’ll have to reach Mullodi village, the start point of Kudremukh Trek, around 13 to 14 km from Kalasa.

By Train: Shimoga and Mangalore railway stations are nearest to Kudremukh. You can take a train to either of these stations and then hire a taxi or bus to continue your journey to Kalasa. Upon reaching here, you’ll have to take a hus or hire a taxi to reach Mullodi village, Kudremukh Trek’s start point, around 13 km away.

By Air: Almost 130 km from Kudremukh, the Mangalore International Airport is nearest to Kudremukh. One can fly to Mangalore from their city and hire a bus or taxi to get to Kalasa for Kudremukh Trek. Around 13 km from Kalasa lies Mullodi village, the start point of Kudremukh Trek, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach this village.

Learn About the Kudremukh Trek Route

The base village of Kudremukh Trek is Mullodi. Starting the trek from here you will pass through rolling grasslands, lush forests, and a few steep sections to finally reach the summit and you will be rewarded with panoramic views of lush hills and misty mountains nearby. It usually takes 5 to 7 hours to reach the peak, but the duration depends upon your pace and fitness level.

What to Expect

1. Trek Through Dense Forests: The first few kilometres of the trek involves passing through the lush green forests which serve as a home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Be ready for unexpected encounters and spot various butterflies, birds, and the region’s rare flora.

2. Vast Lush Grasslands: As you move further on the trail, you’ll see vast grasslands, offering spectacular sights of the valleys and hills.

3. Gushing Waterfalls: Adding a charm to your trek, the waterfalls can be seen during the monsoon or post-monsoon season.

4. Flora and Fauna: Kudremukh is home to a lot of animals and plants including birds. You may spot some species like gaurs, elephants, Malabar grey hornbills, kingfishers, and many other animals and migratory bird species.

5. The Summit: Upon reaching the Kudremukh Peak, trekkers will be rewarded with scenic views of the forests, valleys, and mountains surrounding it.

6. Local Culture: Trekkers get an opportunity to visit the villages around and learn about the local culture. During the village visits, you can meet locals and get a glimpse into their agriculture, and way of living, and savour the local cuisine.

Where to Stay

Kudremukh has many stay options, suitable for people with different preferences and budgets.

1. Book a Homestay: Book your stay in Homestays in Kudremukh and experience the region’s local culture. The homestays here offer comfortable stay facilities and meals prepared at home.

2. Guesthouses: Villages like Kalasa and Mullodi have a few guesthouses that provide basic amenities to guests for a comfortable stay.

3. Campsites: Those seeking thrill and adventurous experiences can stay in camps at designated camping areas. Don’t forget to obtain the required camping permits from the forest department.

Supplies and Essential Gears to Pack

Clothes and Footwear

You must have comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes with good grip to help you maintain a pace and avoid slipping on steep terrain.

Wear breathable clothes and keep a few warm jackets for cooler evenings.

A raincoat and waterproof jacket are a must for unexpected rains.

Others

You must have a lightweight backpack that stores all your essentials.

Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated

Pack energy-boosting snacks like fruits, energy bars, and trail mix.

Always have a first-aid kit with essential medicine and basic emergency items like bandages, antiseptic cream, and pain relief spray.

Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Conclusion

The Kudremukh Trek in Karnataka’s Chikmagalur district is an adventure that guarantees great panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and a chance to connect with nature and rejuvenate. Whether you are a trekking enthusiast or looking for a weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of your busy and boring 9 to 5 life, the Kudremukh trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and challenges that will leave you amazed. So, don’t waste your time and gear up to explore the charm of Western Ghats. Happy trekking!