Netravati Trek: Exploring Karnataka’s Untamed Wilderness One Step at a Time

Trekking isn’t always about scaling the highest peaks. Sometimes, it’s about walking into silence, letting the forest breathe around you, and finding moments that feel untouched by time. That’s exactly what the Netravati Trek in Karnataka offers—a trail not just through the Western Ghats, but through pure, unfiltered nature.

When I first heard about Netravati Peak, it wasn’t from a glossy travel brochure or an Instagram reel. A local trekker in Chikmagalur mentioned it almost like a secret: “Fewer people, more forest, and mist that follows you like a shadow.” That was enough to convince me.

If you’re looking to get off the tourist radar and dive deep into Karnataka’s green heart, this is your sign.

Why Netravati Trek Is Perfect for Nature Lovers

Located within the Kudremukh National Park, the Netravati Trek is a moderate yet exhilarating adventure, ideal for those who crave solitude over selfies. Unlike Kudremukh Peak, which attracts a lot of footfall, Netravati remains relatively quiet—making it perfect for true nature lovers.

At an elevation of around 1,520 meters, the peak offers dramatic views of the surrounding valleys, carpeted with dense shola forests and grasslands. What sets it apart is the untouched quality of the trail—you won’t find trash, honking jeeps, or loud crowds here. Just you, your breath, and the occasional rustle of leaves.

There’s no permanent campsite or food stall on the trail, which adds to its authenticity. You hike, you pause, you reflect. It's not just about reaching the summit—it's about the journey itself.

How to Get There: Reaching the Starting Point of the Trek

The base village for the trek is either Samse or Balagal, depending on the route you choose. Both are about 20–25 km from Kalasa, a small town that serves as the nearest hub for supplies, ATMs, and accommodation.

Here’s how to get there:

From Bangalore: You can take a KSRTC sleeper bus to Kalasa (approx. 8 hours), then hire a jeep or local transport to the base.

From Mangalore: A 3-hour drive via Belthangady brings you to the same area. You can rent a car or take a cab directly.

Once you reach Kalasa, mobile connectivity starts fading, so it’s best to keep offline maps and inform your family or friends in advance.

Tip: Book a homestay in Kalasa or Samse a day before the trek. They often help arrange guides and forest permits too.

The Trek Itself: What the Trail Feels Like

The trail distance for the Netravati Trek is around 6–7 km one way, and though it may seem short, it’s packed with diverse terrain.

The trek begins through dense evergreen forests, thick with ferns and fungi. The air feels heavier here—cool, damp, and filled with earthy smells. If you start early, sunlight streams through in scattered rays, giving the place a surreal, otherworldly glow.

Midway, the forest opens into wide grasslands, gently sloping hills that give you your first glimpse of the surrounding peaks. This section is both beautiful and exposed—perfect for photography, but also quite sunny if you're trekking in the afternoon.

Finally, the trail narrows again and climbs to the peak. From the top, you get a 360° view of the Kudremukh range, stretching endlessly in waves of green. The mist moves fast up here—one moment you’re basking in sun, the next you're enveloped in cloud.

Best Time to Visit Netravati Trek

October to February is the best time to go. During these months, the monsoon has just ended, leaving the forests lush and the skies mostly clear. I trekked in early December—the mornings were chilly, the days were pleasant, and the grasslands looked like they’d been washed fresh.

Avoid June to September, as heavy rains make the trails slippery and increase the leech population significantly. Even in the dry season, it’s wise to carry leech socks just in case.

If you enjoy slightly colder weather and golden landscapes, go in January. But if you prefer misty forests and overflowing streams, opt for October or November.

Packing Tips, Permissions & What You Should Know

Unlike some other treks in Karnataka, Netravati lies within a protected forest, so you’ll need permission from the Kudremukh Forest Department. Most local guides include this in their service, but always double-check.

Here’s a list of essentials to pack:

A sturdy pair of trekking shoes

Rain jacket or poncho, even in winter (weather changes fast)

Reusable water bottles (carry 2L minimum)

Snacks and energy bars

Leech socks, especially for the forest stretch

A daypack to carry essentials comfortably

Also, remember: there are no toilets, food stalls, or shelters on the trail. You’re completely on your own—or with your guide—so be prepared for a true wilderness experience.

Itinerary and Budget-Friendly Tips

Here’s a simple 2-day itinerary that worked well for me:

Day 1:

Arrive in Kalasa by afternoon

Stay overnight in a local homestay (many include meals)

Walk around coffee plantations or visit Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple nearby

Day 2:

Begin the trek early (6:30–7:00 AM)

Summit by late morning

Return to base by afternoon

Drive back to Kalasa or continue exploring nearby waterfalls

Budget estimate per person:

Bus or train travel: ₹1,200 – ₹1,500

Homestay with meals: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500

Guide + forest entry: ₹800 – ₹1,200

Miscellaneous (snacks, local cabs): ₹500

That brings your total to about ₹4,000 to ₹5,000, making it one of the more affordable treks in Karnataka with incredible payoff.

Final Thoughts: Is the Netravati Trek Worth It?

Absolutely—but only if you're the kind of traveller who appreciates silence, nature, and slow journeys.

Netravati Peak doesn’t offer luxury, phone signal, or fancy cafes. What it does offer is something far more rare—the chance to be alone with the earth, to breathe forest air untouched by pollution, and to walk trails where your footsteps feel like the first ones.

So if your soul is aching for a break, and your legs are ready for a climb—give Netravati a shot. It may just be the most beautiful secret you keep.