The Best Time to Visit – Kudremukh Trek
Kudremukh, the mini Scotland of India is situated in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Kudremukh trek is one of the best treks that offers you to discover diverse biodiversity & breathtaking landscapes. The best part of this trek is that you can venture out on your weekend & you can try this trek as a beginner. In addition, the ‘horse-faced’ mountain peak trail goes through the national park which is the habitat of numerous endangered species.
You will enjoy the mesmerising view of rolling hills. They seem to be painted by a superb artist. The picturesque view from the peak is the best prize you will have reaching the peak.
Surrounded by the cloud & mist will have enchanting imprints on your mind & heart. As you proceed, the changing vegetation & landscapes will definitely draw your attention. Crossing numerous unknown streams & trailing through dense woods are real treats for the adventurers. If nature is pleased, you can have sight of giant squirrels, lion-tailed macaques & barking deers.
Kudremukh Trekking Itinerary
Day 1
You can start your journey from Mangalore or Bangalore, a journey from Bangalore will take more time. You can take the bus service to reach Kalasa & avail a homestay. Your homestay location & facilities may offer you a great picturesque, thrilling experience of tent staying. You can have dinner & required rest for your coming journey.
Day 2
The next day, have your breakfast, pack lunches for the trek & proceed to Mullondi, starting point of the Kudremukh trek. You will enjoy the journey for sure since the landscape increases your expectation & excitement. Once you reach the forest office you have to pay the entry fees. Since only 50 people get permission each day, you have to ensure that you reach the spot as early as possible.
From the Forest office to Ontimara
Walking through open grassland for less than a kilometre you will reach the first tree view point. This journey offers you sights of mountain ranges and a valley covered in mist.
You will shortly penetrate the Shola vegetation. In this woodland, you’ll find numerous streams. This trekking is easy because the ascent is gradual. You will have enchanting effects of the forest unless you exit the forest.You will discover a new vista next decorated with numerous varieties of shrubs, ferns & crowned by Kudremukh peak. A lonely tree would be visible that is locally named Ontimara.
Ontimara to the zig-zag section
On the trail from Ontimara to the zig-zag section, You will be mesmerised by changing landscapes. As you proceed to the zig-zag section, there will be an abrupt ascent. The whole Kudremukh valley spreads up after some moment.
Ridge walk (zig-zag section) to Kudremukh peak
You will have a zig-zag trail for 1 km. After the zig-zag section ends, you’ll be walking on a ridge as you can catch the trail and also the peak challenging you. The trek from here to the peak is the most stunning part of the trek because you can witness panoramic sights of the valleys and hills around you.
You can reach the Kudremukh peak by noon. Now, you can relish your prize of observing the horse-faced mountain & panoramic landscape. Having lunch, and experiencing the environment for a few hours you can get off trekking back to Mullodi. It would be convenient if you could reach the Kudremukh forest check post before dusk. Reaching Kalasa You can take a bus to Bangalore.
Best time for the Kudremukh trek
September to February is considered the best time for trekking in Kudremukh. After the monsoon, the landscape becomes greener & more attractive. During the months the weather remains pleasing & soothing. The attraction of monsoon season is unavoidable because of rejuvenated streams, floating clouds and surrounding mist. But, the incessant rain makes trekking a little bit difficult.