Kurinjal Trek – A Serene Escape into the Heart of the Western Ghats

Tired of overhyped trails and crowded tourist treks? Let me take you to a place that still feels like a well-kept secret—Kurinjal Trek, hidden within the pristine wilderness of Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka. If you’re craving clean air, lush greenery, and a day of walking through quiet trails with only nature as your company, Kurinjal is the perfect weekend trek for you.

Here’s a detailed and friendly guide to help you plan your own escape to Kurinjal, based on my recent experience.

Discovering Kurinjal: Why This Trek is Worth Your Time

Kurinjal Trek lies in the Chikmagalur district, one of Karnataka’s most picturesque regions, and is part of the Kudremukh range, known for its undisturbed shola forests, misty hills, and unique biodiversity. Unlike the more popular Kudremukh Peak trek, Kurinjal remains less explored, making it ideal for anyone looking for solitude and raw natural beauty.

What I personally loved about Kurinjal was how peaceful and untouched the whole place felt. The forests were dense, the air was cool, and every turn in the trail brought a new surprise—whether it was a small stream, a canopy of giant trees, or a sudden viewpoint opening up to green hills stretching endlessly.

The Best Season to Do the Kurinjal Trek

While Kurinjal is open throughout the year (with permissions), the best time to visit is from October to February, just after the monsoon when the forest is green and vibrant but the skies are clear.

I went in mid-January, and the weather was perfect—mildly chilly in the morning, warm by noon, and pleasantly breezy at the summit. Avoid June to August unless you’re prepared for heavy rains, leeches, and slippery trails.

Spring (March–May) is doable too, but expect dry grasslands and warmer weather.

My Trekking Experience: Forest Trails and Summit Views

We began our trek from the Kurinjal base, near Mullodi village. The forest officials checked our ID cards and permits, and a local forest guide accompanied us for the entire route.

The trail starts gently, taking you through thick rainforests filled with chirping birds and butterflies. There were moments when sunlight barely touched the forest floor because of the dense tree cover—it felt like walking through a green tunnel. The silence of the forest, broken only by the sounds of nature, was oddly meditative.

As we continued, the forest gave way to open meadows and ridge walks, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. There were a few short steep sections, but nothing too difficult if you have basic fitness. The final stretch leads to a small rocky viewpoint—the Kurinjal summit—where the breeze hit my face and made me forget all the tiredness of the climb.

The view from the top is nothing short of magic: rolling hills, deep valleys, and layered mountain ranges covered in shades of green. We spent over an hour just sitting there, chatting quietly and taking it all in.

How to Reach Kurinjal and Where to Stay

Kurinjal is located around 330 km from Bangalore, and the closest major town is Kalasa, which is also a great place to stay. From Kalasa, the trailhead is about 20 km away.

By Road: Drive or take an overnight bus from Bangalore to Kalasa or Kudremukh.

By Train: Nearest railway station is Mangalore, from where you can hire a cab.

By Air: Nearest airport is also in Mangalore (IXE), around 110 km from the base.

There are several budget homestays and eco-lodges near Kalasa and Mullodi that cater to trekkers. Most offer packages that include food, stay, and trek permissions. I stayed at a family-run homestay with basic but clean rooms, and delicious local food—think akki rotti, sambar, and spicy chutneys!

Things to Carry and Essential Trek Tips

Here’s what helped me make the most of the trek:

Good trekking shoes (especially if trekking in or after the rainy season)

Reusable water bottles (carry 2 liters minimum)

Quick snacks – trail mix, fruits, energy bars

Light jacket or hoodie for chilly mornings

Cap, sunscreen, and sunglasses for exposed sections

Camera or phone to capture the stunning views (network is weak—enjoy the digital detox)

Note: Kurinjal is inside a protected wildlife zone, so prior forest permissions are mandatory. Make sure to carry your ID proof and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the trek.

Budget and Itinerary Snapshot

If you’re coming from Bangalore or Mangalore, Kurinjal makes for a perfect 2-day weekend getaway. Here's a sample itinerary:

Day 0: Overnight journey to Kalasa

Day 1: Reach base, breakfast, start trek (takes about 4–5 hours roundtrip), return by afternoon, relax at homestay

Day 2: Visit nearby waterfalls like Elaneeru Falls or Hanuman Gundi Falls, then travel back

Estimated Budget: ₹2,500–₹3,000 per person, including travel, permits, stay, food, and guide.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Trek Kurinjal

Kurinjal might not be on every trekking bucket list, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. It’s a place where you walk for the joy of walking, not to tick off a famous Instagram spot. The beauty here is subtle and slow—it asks you to listen, breathe, and be present.