Brief Description
The Kudremukh Trek is the perfect weekend getaway from Bengaluru. It is one of the most sought after treks in the Western Ghats. There are a lot of things that not many treks can offer- a wide variety of wildlife, an ample number of waterfalls, vast green grasslands, forest trails, and bamboo shrubs. Situated in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, it is often called the Himalayas of the South. Kudremukh in itself is the third highest peak (6,214 km) and the name literally translates to ‘horse face’ in Kannada as it refers to a particularly picturesque view of a side of the mountain that resembles a horse's face. Covered with lush hills and misty mountains, Kudremukh trek proves to be the perfect mix of adventure and leisure. It is thus suitable for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The Kudremukh trekking trail is of 18 km which can be traversed within a day and the best season to visit is the Monsoon or Winter. When it comes to treks in South India, the Kudremukh Trek is of a moderate level difficulty meaning it needs a good fitness level and endurance to successfully undertake this trek. Stay on the page for Kudremukh trek complete itinerary, photos, videos, and other details. Scroll to the end to read Kudremukh trek blogs.
Itinerary
Itinerary
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Drive from Bangalore to Mullodi - 332 Kms.
On Friday night at around 7:30 PM, get picked up from common boarding points - Malleshwaram (near KC General Hospital), Rajajinagar (Metro Station - Tata Motors Showroom), Yeshwanthpur (Govardhan Theater) and Jalahalli (Bureau of Indian Standards) in Bangalore. This ensues the overnight journey to reach the base camp of Kudremukh.
The trek begins from Mullodi Village and the approximate trekking distance is 10 Kms one way.
On Saturday, the first day of your trek, we will reach Kudremukh National Park around 06:00 AM. After having a delicious breakfast, we will reach the base camp. It has a full view of the various peaks of Kudremukha National Park along with Somavati river. The trek commences at 09:00 AM, towards the top of Kudremukh Peak which is approximately 11 Kms from the base. It starts with an uphill climb on a muddy path and there are many water streams that pass throughout the trail. There will be a lunch stop at a scenic spot. Once we reach the top of the Kudremukha Peak, enjoy the panoramic view sitting at the top of the hill. The view from up there makes it worth all the adversity of the climb. Then begins the descent around the same trail. We will return to the base camp by around 06:00 PM. Have a sumptuous dinner later and retire for the night.
Drive to nearby falls and head back to Bangalore - 332 Kms.
On Sunday we will have breakfast around 08:00 AM and start our return journey from Kudremukh National Park. As this day marks the end of the trek, we can take a relaxing dip in the cool waters of a nearby waterfall. The return journey will cross different plantations such as coffee and tea, and the beautiful mist covered hills of the Western Ghats. Later, have a self-sponsored lunch on the way. We shall return to Bangalore at around 10:00 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick your question
Eligibility: Experience required
Since Kudremukh is a beginner’s trek, you need no special prior experience. Although one is required to have mental preparedness and stamina before he begins the trek. Running exercise is recommended.
Eligibility: Fitness benchmark
1. Jog/Run for 3 Kms in 30 mins and
2. Hold your breath for 20 seconds
If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.
Eligibility: Requisite Skills
1. How to choose a right rucksack: It is essential that you choose a right rucksack for the trek since you are going to carry it all the time while trekking. Make sure you don’t make these common mistakes while buying a rucksack.
2. How to pack a rucksack: Trekking in mountains become more fun when your rucksack is well-organized. It also makes it easier for you to carry without being much load on your shoulders. Follow the guidelines on how to pack a rucksack.
Packing List: What to pack
Click here for packing list.
Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?
Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?
About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?
Kudremukh Trek
Kudremukh Trek is a popular weekend trek in the Western Ghats. It is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka and is the third highest peak of the state. The entire trail is for 18 km and can be enjoyed by both beginners and experienced trekkers. The Kudremukh trek is famous for its lush green trail and the views that one can witness from the entire trail.Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?
The best seasons to do the Kudremukh trek are the monsoon months of June-August and the winter months of November-February.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
BSNL Network will be available in Kudremukha town. As Kudremukh is dense in greenery, there won’t be any cellular network inside the forest. Otherwise, all networks are available in Bangalore.
Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit is 9 years. However, minors aged between 9 to 17 should be accompanied by their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?
Before you reach the base camp of Kudremukh, there will be plenty of time to explore the Chikmagalur district. It is surrounded by tall and short peaks, coffee, tea and, spices plantations which give the entire area a nice and rich aroma. There are a few coffee tasting tours, one can undertake and temples which have a splendid architecture such as the shrine of goddess Bhagavathi and the Sri Kalaseshwara temple of Lord Shiva are among the must visit places. Also, the beautiful quaint town of Kasala nearby is worth a visit.
Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?
During Monsoon season, although, the region experiences heavy rain, the climate is pleasant and good for witnessing the best of nature. During Winters season, the weather is very pleasant and the average temperature ranges between 14 and 33 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature even reaches to 10 degrees Celsius. It is the best time to visit Kudremukh.
Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?
Transportation will be taken care from Bangalore to Bangalore from common pick up points - Malleshwaram (near KC General Hospital), Rajajinagar (Metro Station - Tata Motors Showroom), Yeshwanthpur (Govardhan Theater) and Jalahalli (Bureau of Indian Standards).
Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?
No special documents for Kudremukh trek but do carry at least one ID proof with you. (Aadhar Card, Passport, or Voting ID Card)
Accommodation: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
Accommodation during the trek will be in tents on a twin sharing basis.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?
We use four-season Gipfel tents and sleeping bags. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward, provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.
Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.
Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?
There will be no snow on this trek.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.
Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?
You can rent trekking shoes, rucksacks and poncho for the trek from us.
Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?
No, there is no option to offload your backpack.
Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?
A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.
Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?
No, trekking pole is not necessary.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
It is recommended that you come prepared with all the stuff. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.
Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?
Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.
Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.
Why Bikat
Why Bikat
Learning Experience
- We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
- We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
- To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
- These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.
Loyality Programs
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
- Currently we have three levels:
- Basic Membership
- Summiteer Membership
- Leader Membership
Personalized Attention
- Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
- Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
- On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.
Best Expedition Leaders
- Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
- Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.
Eco-friendly Practices
- Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
- Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
- We follow a rolling campsite model.
- We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.
Safety
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
- To ensure this:
- Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
- The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
- Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
- Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.
Reviews
What's Included
Whats Included
- Food as per menu on the trek (Starting Breakfast on Day 1)
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges, if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- Safety Equipment
- Trek guide, cook, helpers.
- Services of a Trek Leader
- Transportation from Bangalore to Bangalore
- Home stays
Whats Not Included?
- Meals during road journeys
- Cost of any kind of travel insurance
- Any expense of personal nature
- Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
- Portage of personal rucksacks
Cancellation Policy
Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Voucher Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Please note
- Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
- This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.
Blog Posts
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