Kurinjal Trek – Into the Misty Forests of Kudremukh

Every once in a while, you come across a place that feels like a hidden chapter in nature’s storybook — untouched, quiet, and soul-stirring. That’s exactly how I’d describe my experience of the Kurinjal Trek in Karnataka.

Tucked away in the lush expanse of Kudremukh National Park, the Kurinjal Peak isn’t the most famous trek in the region — but that’s what makes it so special. If you’re looking for an offbeat trail that offers panoramic views, dense forests, and a satisfying climb, Kurinjal is a perfect pick.

The Journey Begins – A Road Trip to Kudremukh

Our journey started from Bangalore late on a Friday night. With weekend bags, trekking shoes, and a speaker loaded with road-trip playlists, we hit the highway toward Chikmagalur district. The drive was long but scenic, passing through coffee estates and winding forest roads.

By early morning, we reached Balegal, a small village that serves as the starting point for the Kurinjal trek. Our homestay was a cozy traditional house run by locals who greeted us with hot filter coffee and warm smiles. The air was cool, the surroundings lush, and the excitement for the trek was real.

Into the Wild – Starting the Kurinjal Trek

After breakfast and a quick briefing from our guide, we headed toward the Kudremukh National Park checkpost to get the necessary Kurinjal forest trekking permission. Only limited trekkers are allowed each day, which helps preserve the pristine environment.

The trail to Kurinjal Peak is around 7 km one way and takes about 5-6 hours round trip. It starts gently, winding through thick shola forests that instantly make you feel like you're in another world. Mist hung low among the trees, birds chirped in the canopy above, and the earthy smell of wet soil surrounded us.

Unlike popular treks crowded with weekend warriors, Kurinjal felt incredibly peaceful. For long stretches, all we heard was our own footsteps and the rustling of leaves. It felt like we were discovering the forest for the very first time.

Through Forests and Grasslands – Kurinjal’s Changing Landscape

As we climbed higher, the dense foliage gave way to rolling grasslands that stretched out like green waves under a cloudy sky. The transition was almost cinematic. One moment we were inside a dense jungle, and the next we were walking through vast open spaces with wind whipping across our faces.

This is what makes trekking in Kudremukh so unique — the ever-changing landscapes. You get the best of everything: forests, meadows, streams, and spectacular valley views.

Our guide pointed out distant peaks — some part of Kudremukh Range, others fading into the horizon. We paused often, not just to catch our breath, but to truly soak in the beauty around us. Kurinjal might not be the tallest or toughest trek, but its charm lies in its raw, untouched feel.

The Final Ascent – Reaching Kurinjal Peak

The final stretch of the trek was the steepest. The trail narrowed, the rocks got looser, and the mist got thicker. But with every step, the excitement of reaching the top grew stronger.

And then — we made it. Kurinjal Peak, standing at about 1,150 meters above sea level, welcomed us with sweeping views of endless green hills, cloud shadows dancing over the valleys, and the feeling of being on top of the world (at least for a moment).

There was no concrete structure, no summit board — just raw nature and a sense of quiet victory. We sat down, shared some energy bars, and let the wind dry our sweat. Looking around, we all agreed: this was one of the most rewarding treks we’d done.

Descending into Calm – The Way Back

Coming down was easier, but slippery in parts. The mist began to lift as we descended, revealing more of the valley and forest that had been hidden on our way up. We spotted a couple of Malabar giant squirrels leaping from tree to tree, and a barking deer that dashed off into the undergrowth.

Back at the homestay, a hot meal was waiting for us — simple rice, rasam, papad, and a sweet made from jaggery and coconut. We were tired, sore, sun-kissed… and completely at peace.

Planning Your Kurinjal Trek – Essentials and Tips

If Kurinjal is calling you, here are some handy tips:

Best time to visit Kurinjal: October to February is perfect — cool, clear, and lush. Monsoon treks are gorgeous but come with leeches and slippery trails.

Trek difficulty: Easy to moderate. Suitable for beginners with a bit of stamina. The total distance is around 14 km round trip.

Permission required: Yes, from Kudremukh National Park Forest Office. Most local guides handle this.

How to reach: Kurinjal is near Balegal, about 320 km from Bangalore. Closest towns are Kalasa and Kudremukh.

What to pack: Good trekking shoes, water bottles, energy snacks, a poncho/raincoat (if monsoon), and a camera for those views.

Stay options: Homestays in Balegal or Samse are ideal — they offer food, stay, and local guidance.

Why Kurinjal Should Be on Your Trek Bucket List

In a world full of hyped-up travel spots, Kurinjal is a breath of fresh air — literally and figuratively. It’s not crowded, commercialized, or complicated. It’s just you, the trail, and the mountains.

For me, the Kurinjal trek wasn’t just about reaching a peak — it was about reconnecting. With nature. With friends. With myself. The simplicity of the trail, the kindness of locals, and the raw beauty of the Western Ghats made it one of the most memorable treks I’ve done.

If you’re someone who enjoys nature in its purest form, skip the mainstream and choose Kurinjal. It’s not just a trek — it’s a conversation with the wild.