Kumara Parvatha, also known as Pushpagiri, is said to be the most challenging trek in Karnataka. The trail spans over 2 days and takes you deep into the Western Ghats. Located in Kodagu district, Kumara Parvatha is the second highest peak in the region, standing at a height of 1700 M. The trail takes you through dense forests, grasslands and even occasional waterfalls that make this trek action packed and exciting!
(Best Trekking Places Near Bangalore)
At the base of this trek is the Kukke Subrahmanya temple, which is famous among most South Indians and is frequented by devotees throughout the year. The trail starts from here and takes you across Shesha Parvatha before leading you to the top of Kumara Parvatha.
This article lays down all the information pertaining to the Kumara Parvatha trek and is your go to guide when planning this trail!
The Kumara Parvatha Trail
The trail starts from Kukke Subrahmanya and leads you into the forest. There is a parking lot at the starting point of the trek. You can either drive up here by your own vehicle or walk from Kukke which is 1.4 kms away.
Enter the forest area through a small gate that is next to the parking lot. The trail is clearly demarcated and will take you deeper into the forest. You will be faced with moderate to steep ascents in the initial parts of the trail.
The forest is rich in flora and fauna. Although most wild animals keep away from the main path of the trail, you can always hear them in the distance if you listen closely. If you are someone who loves reptiles, you are in for a treat as you can spot different varieties of snakes.
Close to 3.5 kms into the trail, you will arrive at Bheema Rock. Catch a breath here, much on some snacks to recharge yourself for the trail ahead. Remember to keep hydrating frequently to avoid exhaustion and dehydration.
The forest section is filled with leeches so it is advisable to carry some salt with you to keep them away. Wearing gaiters will also offer an added layer of protection.
As you climb ahead, you will arrive at a clearing. This marks the end of the forest section. From here, the trail diverges. Taking the trail straight ahead will lead you to the Forest Office and the trail on the right will take you to View Point 1. Take the trail on the left and descend for a kilometre to reach Bhattara Mane/Bhatta’s House.
Inform Bhatta about your arrival so he can prepare lunch and dinner accordingly. You can also inform him if you want lunch on the following day as well. Trekkers can hire tents and sleeping bags from here if they wish to. He can be reached on +91 9480527765.
Once you settle in at Bhatta’s, head to the Forest Office to purchase your entry ticket which is priced at around INR 450. You can spend the remaining day exploring the surroundings and enjoying the stunning views of the Western Ghats around you. Get ample rest and eat heavy so you are all prepared for the following day.
Start your day early as you have a challenging trail ahead of you.
It is advisable to not wait for breakfast at Bhatta’s place as there will already be a long queue. Carry some fruits, nuts and granola/protein bars to save time and make the most of it. Fill your water bottles and you can leave any excess baggage at the Forest Office. Do not carry any camping equipment beyond the Forest Office as it is not allowed.
The trail is steep and the ascent through the grasslands with rolling hills around you is exhilarating and will also test your endurance. After climbing for close to 2 kms, you will reach Kallu Mantapa. Although the climb is difficult, you are constantly accompanied by captivating sceneries that will keep you motivated to move forward!
Take a rest stop at Kallu Mantapa before you make your way ahead to Shesha Parvatha. Remember that there is no tree cover here and the trail is steep which could cause exhaustion and dehydration. Keep drinking water and munching on nuts to keep the energy high.
You can see the vertical rock face of Shesha Parvatha along with green valleys on your right as you approach the mountain.
From Shesha Parvatha, the trail becomes easier. Continue on the trail and descend down to reach the forest section. The descent is extremely steep and can be tricky given the presence of loose mud and gravel. The forest is beautiful with dense tree cover and streams of water gushing through during the post monsoon months.
You will arrive at a vertical rock face, beyond which lies the peak of Kumara Parvatha. Climb the vertical rock face and exercise extreme caution as the surface can be slippery, particularly after rains with small waterfalls flowing over it. Once you climb the rock face, you will reach the peak of Kumara Parvatha in less than 20 minutes. Views of Coorg and the surrounding Western Ghats open up from this side and the landscape is bound to mesmerise you. Spend some time here, relax, soak in the views and have some snacks before making your way back to Bhatta’s place. Take the same route back and ensure you tread the tricky sections steadily to avoid any injuries.
Ensure you are back at Bhatta’s place before 2 PM in order to have sufficient time for lunch and return back to Kukke Subrahmanya before dark.
Highlights: Things to Look Forward to on This Trail
1. Views of the Western Ghats
Kumara Parvatha trek offers unparalleled views of the sprawling valleys and the Western Ghats with hints of mist and clouds that enhance the beauty of the lush green scenery.
2. Dense Forest Sections
The forest sections on the trail are covered in thick vegetation and are home to a variety of flora and fauna. You can hear birds chirping and you might even spot a snake slithering by!
3. The Unending Grasslands
The sight of expansive grasslands stretching as far as the eye can see is a captivating sight. To be walking amidst them with views of the surrounding mountains is nothing short of exciting!
Challenges: Things to be Prepared For on This Trail
1. Steep Sections
The trail is almost a continuous ascent all the way to the peak of Kumara Parvatha. Certain sections are quite steep, making it challenging even for trekkers with some prior experience. Take it slow and steady and ensure you sip on water frequently to avoid dehydration.
2. Near Vertical Descent into the Forest Section of Shesha Parvatha
The near vertical descent right before the climb to the Kumara Parvatha peak can be challenging with the presence of loose mud and gravel. The path is slippery and it is important to get a good grip before stepping forward. A good pair of trekking shoes and a trekking pole will make this section easier for you.
3. Vertical Rock Face Climb
The climb up the vertical rock face to reach the peak of Kumara Parvatha is a difficult one given that it is inclined at almost 80 degrees. Trekking this section post monsoon is even more challenging given the steady flow of water on the rock which makes it more slippery.
Difficulty Level and the Bikat Rating Scale
Kumara Parvatha is a level 1 trek on the Bikat Rating Scale and hence a good choice for a beginner.
About the BRS: The Bikat Rating Scale rates the difficulty level of all treks and expeditions in our portfolio after taking into account their geographical and climatic conditions.
According to this scale, if you are a beginner who is unsure of your fitness level and don’t know what to expect on a trek, a trek rated one will be a good place to start.
If you liked your very first trekking experience and are looking to test your limits next, the treks rated 2 or 3 will do the job for you.
A beginner who is sure of their fitness level on the other hand is welcome to skip the first two levels and directly start with one of the treks rated 3.
From 4 onwards, the rules change a little. It is mandatory to have trekking experience of the previous level to participate in the next level.
Best Time to do the Kumara Parvatha Trek
Kumara Parvatha is closed from 1st March to 30th September as a precautionary measure by the forest department. The post monsoon winter months are the best time to do this trek. The summer months are too hot and dry to be trekking in the grasslands with no tree cover.
How to Reach the Base
The base for Kumara Parvatha is the town of Subrahmanya which is home to the Kukke Subrahmanya temple. It can be reached by your own vehicle or by public transport.
Kukke Subrahmanya is at a distance of 280 kms from Bangalore.
If you are reaching Kukke by public transport, you can take the KSRTC bus from Bangalore to Kukke Subrahmanya. Buses ply regularly from Majestic Bus Station. The ticket costs around INR 950 and takes 7 hours to reach your destination.
You can also reach Kukke Subrahmanya by train. The Kannur-Karwar Express departs from Bangalore at 8 PM and reaches Subrahmanya Road Junction at 5:30 AM. From here, the temple is 11 kms away. You can take shared taxis or an auto to reach the temple.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kumara Parvatha Trek
1. Is there cellular network connectivity on the trail?
You will get network coverage from major operators till the Forest Office. There is no connectivity from the Forest Office to Kumara Parvatha.
2. Do I need any permits for the trail?
Yes, you have to report at the Forest Office and buy the entry ticket before trekking to Kumara Parvatha. Camping is only allowed at designated spots near the Forest Office and not anywhere beyond that.
3. Are there food stalls on the trail?
There are no food stalls on the trail. You can get food at Bhatta’s house if you inform him prior to your arrival. You can also get food at Kukke Subrahmanya. Remember to refill your bottles at the Forest Office on Day 2.
4. How long will the trek take?
The trek takes two full days to complete. You will need to camp one night near Bhatta’s house or the Forest Office.
5. Is this trek for beginners?
Kumara Parvatha is a moderately difficult trek and it is advisable to have prior trekking experience before attempting this trail.
6. Are there any stay options on the trail?
A number of stay options can be found in Kukke Subrahmanya if you wish to stay the night.
That’s all about the Kumara Parvatha trek! Should you wish to know more or need help planning your weekend adventure to Kumara Parvatha, please feel free to reach out to our team.
