Netravati Trek: A Hidden Gem in Karnataka’s Western Ghats

If you're searching for an offbeat trekking experience in Karnataka—one that takes you deep into untouched forests, across breezy ridges, and finally to a summit where clouds drift beneath your feet—Netravati Trek might be just what you’re looking for.

Nestled in the Chikmagalur district, near the more popular Kudremukh, this trail offers everything that makes the Western Ghats special: rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and the kind of peace you don’t get on crowded trails. Here’s your complete travel guide to Netravati Peak—crafted from experience and meant to help you plan the perfect weekend trek.

Why Choose Netravati Trek?

Unlike commercial treks like Kumara Parvatha or Mullayanagiri, the Netravati Trek is relatively untouched. It remains hidden in plain sight, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. But those who’ve taken this trail know—it’s one of the most soulful and rewarding treks in the region.

The trail offers:

Diverse terrain: Thick evergreen forests, open grasslands, and ridge-line climbs

Stunning views: On a clear day, the summit reveals a vast sea of green hills stretching endlessly

Raw experience: No shops, no crowds—just you and the wilderness

This is not just a trek. It’s an escape.

How to Reach the Base Village

The trek starts near Samse or Kalasa, small towns that act as the gateway to many trekking routes in the Kudremukh range.

From Bangalore: ~320 km (approx. 7-8 hours by road)

By Bus: Overnight KSRTC buses to Kalasa or Horanadu are available from Bangalore

By Train: Nearest railway station is Chikmagalur or Mangalore

By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (~125 km away)

From Kalasa, local jeeps or autos take you to the trek’s starting point. Many homestays in Kalasa or Samse also help arrange transportation and guides.

Best Time to Do the Netravati Trek

The best season for this trek is from October to February. During this time, the weather is cool, the forests are lush post-monsoon, and the skies are usually clear enough to give you those much-desired summit views.

If you love monsoon treks and don’t mind leeches or getting wet, June to September is a dreamy time to go—expect misty forests, flowing streams, and cloud-covered meadows. But do be cautious—trails can be slippery, and visibility drops drastically.

Trail Experience: What the Trek Feels Like

The Netravati trek is around 10–12 km round trip, and takes 5 to 6 hours to complete at a relaxed pace.

Here’s a breakdown of the trail:

Forest Entry: You begin with dense forest, filled with towering trees, bird calls, and filtered sunlight. The air here feels ancient.

Shola Grasslands: As you climb higher, the terrain opens up into lush meadows with uninterrupted views of rolling hills and distant peaks.

Ridge Walk and Final Ascent: The final stretch is the most thrilling—walking along a narrow ridge with the valley on either side, and then a steep, grassy climb to reach the summit.

The Summit: Standing at around 1,520 meters, the peak offers a surreal panorama—especially early in the morning or late afternoon when the sun cuts through the mist.

The trek is of moderate difficulty. It requires decent stamina but no technical climbing.

Local Tips and Things to Carry

To make the most of your experience, keep these insider tips in mind:

Hire a local guide: It’s mandatory and essential—the trail isn't marked, and guides ensure your safety.

Start early: Begin the trek by 6:30–7:00 AM to return before dusk.

Wear trekking shoes with good grip. Avoid slippers or worn-out sneakers.

Carry leech socks and salt during the monsoon season.

Essentials: 2L water, ORS, snacks, light rain jacket, sunscreen, power bank, basic first-aid kit.

Keep your phone on airplane mode—no signal, and you’ll save battery for pictures!

Budget and Stay Options

Netravati is a budget-friendly trek, especially if you travel in a small group.

Estimated costs:

Bangalore to Kalasa (bus): ₹500–800 one way

Homestay in Kalasa/Samse: ₹800–1200 per person (including meals)

Guide and forest fee: ₹500–700 (shared among the group)

Local jeep to the base: ₹100–200 per person (shared)

Total: ₹2500–₹3500 per person for a 2-day trip

You’ll find clean, friendly homestays around Kalasa with hot food and warm hosts. Most provide local Malnad meals like akki rotti, sambar, and filter coffee.

Suggested Weekend Itinerary

Day 0 (Friday Night):

Leave Bangalore by overnight bus or car

Day 1 (Saturday):

Arrive at Kalasa early morning

Check into homestay, freshen up

Begin trek by 7:00 AM with guide

Reach summit by noon, descend by 2:30 PM

Relax at homestay or explore local spots

Day 2 (Sunday):

Optional visit to Hanumana Gundi Falls or Horanadu Temple

Head back to Bangalore by afternoon

Reach by late evening/night

Final Thoughts: Why Netravati Trek Stays With You

What sets Netravati apart isn’t just its beauty—it’s the feeling of being completely disconnected, immersed in nature, without the noise of the outside world. Every step through the forest, every gust of wind on the ridge, and every cloud that brushes past you at the top adds to a memory that lingers long after you’re back.