Kurinjal Trek: An Untouched Gem in the Heart of Kudremukh

There’s something magical about trekking in the Western Ghats—the rolling green hills, mist swirling through the valleys, and trails that lead you deep into untouched wilderness. While the Kudremukh Peak often steals the spotlight, the Kurinjal Trek remains an underrated beauty. Nestled inside the Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka’s Chikkamagaluru district, Kurinjal offers the perfect mix of challenge, solitude, and breathtaking scenery. If you’ve been searching for an offbeat adventure away from the usual crowded trails, this one should definitely make it to your list.

Why Kurinjal Trek Deserves Your Attention

Standing tall at about 5,751 feet, Kurinjal may not be the tallest peak in the region, but it’s one of the most rewarding treks for nature lovers. The trail is moderately challenging—long enough to test your endurance but not so difficult that it demands professional experience. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys trekking and wants to push themselves just a little.

What makes Kurinjal truly special is the variety of landscapes you pass through. The trek begins in dense shola forests, with tall trees creating a natural canopy that feels like walking through an ancient green cathedral. As you climb higher, the forest gives way to wide-open meadows where the mountains unfold in every direction. The final stretch rewards you with sweeping views of the Kudremukh range, valleys wrapped in mist, and endless layers of rolling hills. On a clear day, you can even spot Kudremukh Peak itself from the summit.

Unlike some popular treks, Kurinjal is quieter, which means you can soak in the raw wilderness without distractions. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of wildlife such as Malabar giant squirrels, deer, or hornbills along the way.

Best Time to Visit Kurinjal

Choosing the right season can make a huge difference in your experience. The best time to trek Kurinjal is from October to February, when the skies are clear, temperatures are pleasant, and the monsoon-fed greenery is still vibrant. Winters in Kudremukh are crisp but comfortable, making it perfect for long hours of trekking without getting exhausted.

If you’re someone who loves the monsoon, trekking here between June and September can be incredibly scenic, with the forest at its greenest and streams flowing at full strength. However, keep in mind that the trail gets slippery, leeches are common, and visibility may be reduced due to constant mist. Summers (March to May) are relatively warm, but the mornings and evenings remain cool enough for a comfortable trek.

How to Reach Kurinjal

The base for the trek is the small village of Balegal, located within the Kudremukh National Park. Getting there depends on your starting point:

From Bangalore: The most common option is a road trip, covering about 330 km in 7–8 hours. The route via Hassan, Belur, and Kalasa is scenic and filled with charming pitstops.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Mangalore, about 120 km away. From Mangalore, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Kalasa, then continue to Balegal.

By Air: The closest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 130 km from Kudremukh.

If you’re traveling with friends, renting a car makes the journey more flexible and allows you to enjoy the beautiful ghat roads lined with coffee plantations.

The Trekking Experience: Trail to the Summit

The Kurinjal Trek covers around 7 km one way, which usually takes about 6–7 hours to complete as a round trip. The adventure starts with a gradual climb through thick forests, where the only sounds are the crunch of your footsteps and the calls of hidden birds. The fresh air here feels cleaner and cooler than anywhere else.

As you ascend, the landscape shifts dramatically. Meadows open up, revealing panoramic views of peaks and valleys. This is the part where most trekkers stop for short breaks, both to catch their breath and to soak in the views. The last leg of the climb is slightly steeper, with rocky patches demanding careful footing.

Reaching the summit feels like stepping into another world. The horizon stretches endlessly, the hills roll into one another like green waves, and the cool breeze carries with it the scent of earth and rain. Many trekkers bring a packed lunch to enjoy at the top—it’s hard to think of a better picnic spot.

Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itinerary

The beauty of trekking Kurinjal is that the journey doesn’t end once you descend. The surrounding Kudremukh region is rich in natural and cultural attractions.

Kudremukh Peak: If you have more time, dedicate another day to conquering the famous Kudremukh Trek.

Hanuman Gundi Falls: A cascading waterfall perfect for a refreshing dip after your trek.

Gangamoola: Known as the origin point of three rivers—Tunga, Bhadra, and Nethravathi.

Kalasa Town: A small temple town surrounded by coffee estates, ideal for a relaxed evening.

A 3-day itinerary works beautifully here:

Day 1: Travel from Bangalore to Kalasa, settle into a homestay, and explore local coffee plantations.

Day 2: Start early for the Kurinjal Trek, spend the day hiking, and return by evening.

Day 3: Visit Hanuman Gundi Falls or explore Gangamoola before heading back.

Local Tips, Safety, and Budgeting

Since Kurinjal lies within Kudremukh National Park, you’ll need a trekking permit from the forest department. This can usually be arranged through local guides or at the park’s entry gate. The entry fee is around ₹500 per person, though it’s best to confirm in advance as policies can change.

A few important tips to keep in mind:

Start your trek early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.

Carry at least 2 liters of water, energy bars, and fruits—there are no shops on the trail.

Wear sturdy trekking shoes with a good grip.

If trekking in monsoon, keep a raincoat and salt handy (useful against leeches).

Respect nature: avoid littering, loud music, or plucking plants along the way.

In terms of budgeting, a 2–3 day trip from Bangalore can cost anywhere between ₹3,000–₹5,000 per person, depending on your accommodation and travel choices. Homestays in Kalasa or Kudremukh are affordable and give you a taste of local hospitality with delicious home-cooked meals.

Final Thoughts

The Kurinjal Trek is one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. It’s not just about reaching the summit—it’s about the journey through lush forests, the quiet moments in the meadows, and the overwhelming beauty of the Western Ghats.

If you’ve been craving an offbeat trek that’s moderately challenging yet immensely rewarding, Kurinjal is the perfect choice. It combines adventure, solitude, and natural beauty in a way few treks can. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to discover one of Karnataka’s best-kept trekking secrets.