Kudremukh trek

Location: Western Ghats, Karnataka District, Chikmagalur Total distance: ~22 km (round trip) Difficulty: Moderate to DifficultTrek Type: Full-day trek (start before sunrise) Second highest peak in karnataka

Altitude: 1894 meters

Time: 6am onwards to 5pm

This full-day trek through the Western Ghats begins before sunrise and unfolds like a living painting. You cross multiple waterfalls, walk through dense tropical rainforests, and move through landscapes so layered in green and earth tones that no photograph can truly capture them. The forest feels alive — towering, ancient trees, moss-covered roots, and a deep, rhythmic quiet broken only by flowing water and birdsong. At several points, the sound of the Malabar Whistling Thrush echoed through the valley. The landscapes constantly shift — from dark, dense rainforests to open, magical grasslands that glow in autumn colours. Every step feels intentional:

• crossing small streams • climbing using tree roots as natural steps • watching the ground clay change shades — mustard yellow, earthy red, soft orange

The valley views and rolling mountains were breathtaking — even more stunning than the Chocolate Hills of the Philippines.

My 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Bangalore → Homestay (6hrs drive)

•Left Bangalore in the afternoon Reached the homestay by evening Homestay: Sunil Homestay (its right at the start of the trek - last 5 km is off-roading experience - you can find jeeps on hire from the main road)

Note: Homestays here are very basic — go with simple expectations.

Enjoyed a hot Karnataka-style meal, followed by a cozy bonfire.

The sky was incredibly clear — filled with stars and constellations. Early dinner, early sleep.

Day 2: Trek Day

• Wake up: 4:30 a.m.• Start trek: 5:30 a.m.• Carry packed breakfast & lunch.

The trek itself was long, demanding, and incredibly rewarding — forests, grasslands, streams, steep climbs, and wide-open views that made every tired muscle worth it.

We reached back to the homestay by 3:30 p.m., completely exhausted and deeply content.

Just 200 meters from our homestay was a year-round waterfall. We went straight there, and I sat under the icy cascade—it felt like a natural cold-water jacuzzi, washing away all the post-trek aches.

Day 3: Slow Morning & Departure

The day began gently with a delicious homestyle Karnataka breakfast.

The homestay opens up to a beautiful valley view, and this morning was meant for stillness — sitting in silence, bird watching, reading, and simply taking in the sounds of nature.

Optional stops on the way:• Visit the famous Annapurna Temple• Explore local shops around the temple area• Stop for the most famous neer dosa and coconut water with local spice kottigehara.

Mandatory Things to Carry 🎒

• 2 litres water bottle (mandatory)• Sun cap 🧢• Torch / Head torch 🔦• Trekking shoes 👟 (good grip is crucial)• Small backpack• Sunscreen & sunglasses• Umbrella• Power bank / charger• Extra pair of flip-flops• Xerox copy of PAN card (or document used during booking)• Empty lunch box

Must-Do Experiences ✨

• Drink water directly from the streams — naturally cold, fresh mineral water• Meditate near a waterfall — find a quiet corner and just sit• Pause often and soak in the views — they only get better as you move

What Makes the Trek Challenging ⚠️

• 2–3 very steep patches• Slippery sections, especially while descending (strong grip trek shoe will help

• Almost no shade for major portions of the trek even in winter, the sun can be harsh and draining.

Tip: Carry salt, electrolytes, sugar, and protein bars. Eat small portions frequently to keep your energy up.

How to Book 📝

• Official booking via Karnataka Forest Department portal

• Or let a trek operator like Karnataka Hikes (highly recommended - I do all my hikes with them)  manage permits, guides, food, and logistics 🌿🥾