We all definitely love the Himalayas but for those of us who live in the southern parts of India, they could prove to be a little too far for a quick weekend getaway. Although devoid of snow, the western ghats are a magical place to trek through, with rainforests, numerous waterfalls and rich flora and fauna. Not just this, if you are in Bangalore, the glorious rock formations and hills make for the perfect one day trek. Being centrally located, the surroundings of Bangalore offer everything from a one day hike to weekend treks and much more which perfectly suit the hustle culture that the city boasts.
This article provides a full list of hikes and trails around Bangalore with varying levels of difficulty and accessibility, giving you a wide range to choose from for your next adventure!
DIY One Day Hikes
1. Channagiri
Distance from Bangalore: 60 kms
Starting Point: Shree Kanive Basaveshwara Swamy Temple in Chikkaballapur
Total Distance: 3 kms
Time: 2-2.5 hours
Altitude: 1350 M
Located in Chikkaballapur, Channagiri is in the northwest of the Nandi Hills range and makes for a great day hike from Bangalore. Also known as Channakesava Betta, this is the origin of North Pinakini River. The trail covers a total distance of 3 kms and takes around 2-2.5 hours to complete. The base of the trek is at the Shree Kanive Basaveshwara Swamy Temple and the trail is accessible to almost all age groups. The trail is covered with shrubs and thorny bushes along with rocks and boulders which make it slightly challenging at certain points. The top offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills gradually blending into the plains with a nice hint of breeze for you to enjoy. It is advisable to do this hike in the early hours of the day to avoid scorching heat and enjoy dewy mornings at the top. Don’t forget to carry some snacks and lots of liquids to keep yourself hydrated!
2. Channarayana Durga Trek
Distance from Bangalore: 98 kms
Starting Point: Channarayana village
Total Distance:
Time: 4 hours
Altitude: 1188 M
A hill fort located in Madhugiri in Tumkur district, Channarayana Durga is a marvelous trek through the strategic fortress which was the centre of numerous battles during the medieval period. It can be classified as a moderate trek with climbing on bare rock with no tree cover. The steeper sections can be challenging but the hike through history is rewarding to say the least. The trail can prove to be exhausting if done later in the day. Ensure to carry adequate water and food to keep yourself charged!
3. Halu Chilume Gange
Distance from Bangalore: 60 kms
Starting Point: Mallasandra Road
Total Distance: 5 kms
Time: 3.5-4 hours
Altitude: 1008 M
This hike near Bangalore stands out from most others due to its trail that takes you through dense shrubs and trees to the top where a quaint temple sits. Bells can be seen tied to the rocks in clusters which adds to the mystic nature of the trail. The trail is located in Doddaballapur, and the summit offers sprawling views of neighbouring villages and countryside landscapes. The trail itself is fairly easy but for those of you who wish to explore more, there are a number of caves that can be found on the unmarked trails. Carry a raincoat if you are visiting during the monsoon and be wary of the overgrown thorny bushes on the trail!
DIY Weekend Treks
1. Bandaje-Arbi Falls
Distance from Bangalore: 308 kms
Starting Point: Gowdara Mane, Ujire
Total Distance: 7 kms
Time: 8 hours
Altitude: 1524 M
The Bandaje-Arbi falls can be reached through the dense and lush green trail of Ballalarayana Durga trek. Located near Ujire, in Belthangady taluk of Dakshina Kannada district, the trail is a sneak-peak into the beauty of the western ghats. In order to embark on this trek, one must first procure forest permits from the Belthangady wildlife range office in Kudremukh National Park. The trail is a strenuous one but is extremely rewarding with the sight of Bandaje falls gushing to join the Netravati river. The best time to visit the falls is post monsoon when there is enough water. During monsoons the trail can be mucky and chances of encountering leeches are high. It is one of the few trails which covers both a fort and waterfall in one shot with the Ballalarayana Durga Fort appearing first and the trail leading further up to the falls.
2. Ettina Bhuja
Distance from Bangalore: 290 kms
Starting Point: Byrapura Village
Total Distance:
Time: 3 hours
Altitude: 1300 M
Literally translating to “Ox’s Shoulder”, Ettina Bhuja is an ox-hump shaped hill in Charmadi Ghats. The trail takes you through thick forests with birds singing in the background to the top of the ox-hump which gives you panoramic views of the Charmadi Ghats and Shishila Valley. There are two trails that reach the top, the one through Shishila village requires a guide given the tricky route with stream crossings, and the one through Byrapura village is straightforward and can be done by yourself. While the trail itself is easy, it can prove to be tricky during monsoons. The final leg of the trail has steep inclinations and will test your endurance but it is definitely not impossible!
3. Mullayanagiri Peak
Distance from Bangalore: 265 kms
Starting Point: Mullayanagiri
Total Distance:
Time: 2 hours
Altitude: 1925 M
The highest peak in Karnataka with a height of 1925 M, Mullayanagiri is located in Chikkamagaluru district. The trail to the top is easy with a clear path and steps laid out. The views from the peak are stunning with the western ghats sprawling in front of you and a cool breeze that will put you at ease after the short climb. Sunsets from the top are a sight you wouldn’t want to miss.
DIY Long Treks
1. Kudremukh
Distance from Bangalore: 332 kms
Starting Point: Kudremukh National Park
Total Distance: 18 kms
Time: 12 hours
Altitude: 1892 M
Literally translating to “Horse Face”, Kudremukh is one of the most sought after treks in Karnataka. Located in the Western Ghats in Chikkamagaluru district, the trek has so much to offer - wildlife, waterfalls, lush green forests, meadows and so much more! The trail starts with a muddy path and takes you through forests and stream crossings, making the trek an adventurous and fun filled one. The trail starts at Kudremukh National Park and is accessible to beginners with no prior trekking experience. However, good fitness levels will help complete the trail with ease. The best time for this trek is monsoon and post monsoon where the scenery is at its best.
2. Kumara Parvatha Trek
Distance from Bangalore: 280 kms
Starting Point: Kukke Subramanya Temple
Total Distance: 28 kms
Time: 2 days
Altitude: 1712 M
Located in the Coorg region, the Kumara Parvatha trek is one of the toughest treks in the western ghats. The trail is moderately difficult and is a gateway into the lush forests and rich flora and fauna of the western ghats. It typically involves an overnight stay so get your camping gear on! The trail starts through dense forests and gradually opens up into wide grasslands where you will take a permit for camping and set up your camp for the night. The following day is the hike to Shesh Parvath and the final summit. This involves multiple steep climbs and possible encounters with cobras so keep an eye out! While this trek can be attempted by beginners, it always helps to have good stamina. Since this trail involves an overnight stay, make sure you carry a few camping essentials to get you through the night.
3. Tadiandamol Trek
Distance from Bangalore: 270 kms
Starting Point: Kakkabe
Total Distance: 15 kms
Time: 7-8 hours
Altitude: 1638 M
Tadiandamol is the highest peak in Coorg and the summit offers panoramic views of the Shola forests and streams cutting through it in the distance. Rare mountain birds and a variety of butterflies are common on the trail. The trail takes you through dense forests and wide open meadows before you reach the summit that offers staggering views of the western ghats. The 15 km trek is easy but does warrant a good fitness level.
The above list acts as a good guide for those of you with varying time limits and experience levels, thus helping you choose what suits you best! Should you have further questions about these trails, please feel free to reach out to our team!
