Kurinjal Trek: An Untouched Trail in the Western Ghats

The Western Ghats are filled with trekking gems, but while peaks like Kudremukh and Kodachadri steal the spotlight, there’s a quieter trail that deserves just as much love—the Kurinjal Trek. Nestled deep inside Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka, Kurinjal is the kind of trek where you don’t just climb a peak, you immerse yourself in raw wilderness.

I went on this trek recently, and what I loved most was the sense of calm. Unlike popular trails crowded with groups, Kurinjal felt untouched and peaceful, almost like a secret between the hills and the forest.

The Trail and Trekking Experience

The trek is about 7 km one way (14 km round trip), making it a perfect one-day adventure. The first half of the trail winds through thick evergreen forests where sunlight barely filters in. You hear birds calling, streams gushing, and the forest floor crunching beneath your feet—it feels like a walk straight into nature’s heart.

After the forests, the trail opens up to rolling grasslands. This transition is stunning—you suddenly see sweeping views of valleys and distant peaks. The climb gets steeper toward the summit, but the reward is worth it. Standing at the top, surrounded by layers of misty green hills, you get that rare feeling of being far away from everything.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to do Kurinjal Trek is from September to February. Post-monsoon, the landscape is lush, the weather is cool, and the skies are often clear. Trekking in the monsoon (June–August) can be adventurous too, but leeches and slippery trails are common. Summer months (March–May) are drier and warmer, making the trek less scenic though still doable.

How to Reach Kurinjal

From Bangalore (320 km): Take an overnight bus or drive to Kudremukh/Kalasa. From there, Balegal village is the base point.

From Mangalore (100 km): You can travel by road after arriving by train or flight.

Since Kurinjal is part of a protected national park, a forest permit is required. Usually, trekking organizers handle this, but independent trekkers can get permits at the Kudremukh forest office.

Things to Keep in Mind

Carry enough water and energy snacks—there are no shops on the trail.

Wear sturdy trekking shoes, especially in monsoon.

Avoid plastics as the area is strictly protected.

Start early to complete the trek comfortably before evening.

Why Choose Kurinjal Trek?

The beauty of Kurinjal lies in its simplicity. It isn’t the tallest or toughest trek in the Western Ghats, but it offers a perfect mix of forest trails, meadows, and panoramic views—all without the usual crowds. It’s ideal for those who want an offbeat trekking experience near Bangalore or are looking for a moderately challenging day hike.

For me, Kurinjal was more than just a trek—it was a reminder of how refreshing it feels to step into nature without distraction. If you’re looking for peace, greenery, and a trail that still feels wild, Kurinjal is the place to be.