Kurinjal Peak Trek: Into the Heart of Kudremukh’s Wild Beauty

Nestled deep within the Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka, the Kurinjal Peak Trek is one of the Western Ghats’ best-kept secrets. With dense forests, vibrant wildlife, misty meadows, and panoramic summit views, this trek offers a refreshing escape for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. My journey to Kurinjal Peak was not just about reaching the top—it was about immersing myself in the wild, raw beauty of nature.

1. Reaching the Base: A Journey Through the Western Ghats

Our trek began from Bangalore with an overnight bus ride to the small town of Kalasa. From there, we took a jeep ride to the forest checkpoint near Mullodi, the entry point for the trek. The drive itself was a teaser of the adventure ahead—twisting roads flanked by green hills, mist clinging to treetops, and the sound of distant streams.

After checking in at the forest department gate and briefing with our guide, we were ready to begin. The air was fresh, earthy, and slightly chilly—the perfect setting to escape city noise and reconnect with the wild.

2. The Forest Trail: Green, Silent, and Alive

The trail to Kurinjal Peak cuts through thick Shola forests, home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Every step on the forest floor felt soft and damp, padded with fallen leaves. Bird calls echoed through the trees, and we even spotted langurs swinging between branches.

This part of the trek was relatively gentle, with gradual ascents and plenty of shade. The tranquility of walking under a green canopy, with filtered sunlight dappling the path, was therapeutic. Occasionally, clearings in the woods would open up to give us glimpses of the valley below, each view more mesmerizing than the last.

3. Meadows and Climb to the Summit

As we climbed higher, the forest gave way to expansive grasslands. This transition from dense canopy to open meadows was one of the highlights of the trek. The sun was brighter here, and the wind picked up, carrying the scent of wildflowers and earth.

The final ascent to the Kurinjal Peak summit involved a slightly steeper trail, but the excitement kept us going. When we finally reached the top, the view was absolutely worth it. Rolling hills stretched out in every direction, their tops kissed by clouds. The silence was powerful. We sat there for a while, letting the wind cool our faces and the view settle into our memories.

4. The Return Journey: Downhill Reflections

Descending the same trail, we took our time to soak in everything we missed on the way up. The forest felt different now—warmer, quieter, and more familiar. Back at the base, we shared a hearty meal and some laughs before saying goodbye to the hills.

Though the trek lasted just a day, it left a lasting impression. Kurinjal is not as crowded or commercialized as other treks, which adds to its untouched charm.

Trek Essentials & Tips

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours round trip

Altitude: Approx. 3,600 ft

Best Time to Visit: September to February (cool and dry with clear views)

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Forest Entry: Requires permission from the forest department (arrange in advance)

What to Pack: Good hiking shoes, raincoat (especially post-monsoon), water, energy snacks, cap, sunscreen, and binoculars for bird watching

Why You Should Do the Kurinjal Peak Trek

If you crave a trekking experience that offers solitude, raw nature, and stunning views without the hustle of commercial trails, Kurinjal Peak is for you. It’s ideal for beginners as well as seasoned hikers looking to explore the lesser-known gems of the Western Ghats.

Walking through forest silence, spotting rare birds, and standing above a sea of hills—Kurinjal is a reminder of how much beauty exists off the beaten path. This trek may be short in duration, but it’s long in experience and connection with nature.