Kudremukh is a tiny hamlet in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka which is widely known for its coffee plantations. Kudremukh means "horse face," because one of the mountain sides resembles a horse. It is a popular place amongst hikers for a variety of scenery and breathtaking vistas. Streams, bamboo bushes, waterfalls, and lush greenery are the Kudremukh monsoon trek highlights. In this article, our experts will provide you with all the Kudremukh trek details - distance, permissions, difficulty level, starting point, entry fee, route, and the best time for the Kudremukh trek. Scroll through to know more about the awesome adventure - the Kudremukh trek.

An Overview Of Kudremukh Trek

Kudremukh means "horse's face" because of its unique structure. The Kudremukh trek in Karnataka is also known as Samseparvath since it is the only way to go to Samse village. It lies in the Chikmagalur district, in the heart of the Western Ghats and is the third tallest mountain in Karnataka. It is situated behind Mullayyangiri and Baba Budangiri having an altitude of 6,207 feet. Kudremukh Trek Chikmagalur has a diverse range of flora and wildlife, including deers, peacocks and other animals. The foggy valleys and rolling green hills alongside the meadows, woodlands, and several minor waterways are some of the amazing aspects of Kudremukh trekking.

  • Kudremukh Trek Area: Chikmagalur, Karnataka
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Trek Type: Beginner - Intermediate
  • Base Camp: Kudremukh
  • Trek Duration: 8 hours, approximately
  • Maximum altitude: 6,207 feet
  • Best time for Kudremukh Trek: Monsoons

What To Watch Out For On Kudremukh Trekking

Horse’s face structure

From the side, the Kudremukh peak trek has a peculiar structure similar to a horse's face. This horse face structure becomes evident after around three hours of hiking.

Shola forest

Shola refers to the grassland and shrublands on the Western Ghats. This forest is home to deer, lion-tailed macaques, Malabar giant squirrels, leopards, common langurs, and other animals. You need to be careful during the rainy season as there are leeches seen on every step in this stretch.

Rolling hills

After exiting the Shola forest, you will see a breathtaking view of the rolling hills which facilitates green slopes and cloudy valleys. During monsoons, the area is covered in mist.

Why Monsoons Are The Best Time For Kudremukh Trek?

Monsoons:

Kudremukh is located in the Western Ghats and receives a lot of rain from June to September. Hikers always witness thick clouds, sporadic showers, and leeches. The Kudremukh monsoon trek is well-known among hikers since it offers a unique experience making it one of the best seasons to travel.

Winter:

Between October to January, the rainfall decreases and the terrain is somewhat brownish. There is plenty of water retention in the hills and the weather is most suitable for climbing. Evenings are cooler and nights even colder. Hikers witness panoramic vistas of undulating hills, making it the best time for the Kudremukh trek.

Summer:

Between February to May, you will notice clear views throughout the forest. However, the forest service department may close the trail to preserve it from human-caused forest fires.

How To Reach Kudremukh Trek Basecamp?

The Kudremukh trek in Karnataka begins at Mullodi hamlet, about 15 kilometres from Kalasa. It is difficult to reach Mullodi directly.

You must first go 10 kilometres from Kalasa to Kudremukh Entrance. Hire a vehicle from the entrance point to Mullodi village, where the forest office is located.  It is at the Mullodi village where you must obtain Kudremukh trek permissions before beginning your journey.

By car or public transportation, one may get to Kalasa and then to the Kudremukh Entrance point. 

Nearby Railway Station:

Mangalore railway station – 120 km

Nearby International and Domestic Airport:

Mangalore International Airport – 115 km

How to reach the Kudremukh trek from Bangalore?

Begin your journey in the evening from Bangalore. As there are no direct buses to Kudremukh; you must descend to Kalasa. There are also very few buses serving Kalasa. Depending on your preference, you can order a seater or a sleeper.

You will be dropped near the police station by bus. Take a right from there and go a few feet forward to the gas station, where you may catch the next bus to Kudremukh. The city buses start running around 6:30 a.m. The distance between Kalasa and the start of the Kudremukh trek is around 10 kilometres.

You can get down at Balegal if you're going with a group. You may hire a jeep once you get to Balegal.

How to reach the Kudremukh trek from Mangalore?

Kudremukh is only accessible by road, with buses running regularly from Mangalore, 100 kilometres away (2 hours 15 minutes away). Mangalore is the nearest railway station, with trains connecting to several places. Mangalore is also home to the nearest airport, serviced by taxis.

How Long Is The Kudremukh Trek Chikmagalur?

The Kudremukh trek distance is 18 kilometres long. To finish the journey in a day, you'll need endurance and a little trekking expertise. The walk does not include any challenging aspects. As a result, even a physically fit novice may do this.

Route Map For Kudremukh Trek Karnataka

The Kudremukh trek map can be divided into 3 sections. They are:

Section I: From Forest Office to Ontimara 2 (Lone tree)

Trek Distance: 5 km

Trek Duration: 2 hours

Only 50 people are granted permission in a single day. Therefore, book your journeys in advance. The hike begins at the forest office where you can easily hear the sound of falling water at Somawathi Falls. You will also notice the foliage as you reach the Shola forest. If you're lucky, you could see some animals here. After 15 minutes of moderate elevation, you reach a creek crossing. As soon as you leave the jungle, you'll notice the Ontimara and a large canopy encircling the area. The route is level from Ontimara, with the Kudremukh valley on your right and a mountain on your left. After an hour and a half of hiking, you arrive at the second Ontimara.

Section II: Ontimara 2 to Final stretch

Trek Distance: 3 km

Trek Duration:  1 hour

The trek from the second Ontimara combines trekking along a mild incline with a sharp rise. This portion is charming, with gorgeous rolling green hills can be seen. The route steepens after 20 minutes of a moderate hike from the first half. The Kudremukh valley becomes more evident as you rise.

Section III: Final stretch to the Kudremukh Peak

Trek Distance: 1 km

Trek Duration: 30 minutes

If you start your hike at 8 a.m., you should arrive at this spot at about noon. Drink some water and take a rest. Take in the scenery. From here, one can see the rear of the Kudremukh. You are currently travelling in the heart of the Kudremukh valley, where the route to the Peak can be seen. After then, it's another 35 minutes of climbing to the peak. Your turnaround time (TAT) should be at 2 p.m. It takes nearly 4 hours to come back and the Forest department has restrictions after 6 pm.

2 days itinerary to cover the Kudremukh monsoon trek

Day 1:

05:30 AM -

Reach Kudremukh National Park

07:30 AM -

Check the homestay, have breakfast, get a brief from the Trek Leader and begin the trek

12:30 AM -

Reach the top. Catch the view of Kudremukh Falls, and spend some time enjoying the enchanting views of the fall.

01:00 PM -

Descend towards the homestay

05:00 PM -

Reach homestay and have snacks and hot tea

08:00 PM -

Dinner and campfire (optional)

Day 2:

07:00 AM -

Make your breakfast and head towards Somavati falls

09:00 AM -

If time permits, explore the local market at this place and buy tea powder or coffee beans

11:30 AM -

Depart and reach home by 9:30 PM 

Is Kudremukh Trek Difficult?

The walk to Kudremukh is moderately challenging. You must travel 9 kilometres one way. There are no particularly challenging areas; however, there are a few things to remember when trekking.

  • The woodland segment of the trek might be slick. Ensure to carry good hiking shoes and a trekking pole with you.
  • When you have to cross the tiny streams in the forest, the portion is tough. The water's mossy pebbles might be treacherous.
  • The trail climbs steeply over 3 kilometres from the second Ontimara to the final stretch. If you want to appreciate the scenery, you need to be fit enough to trek in those portions.

Kudremukh Trek Guide: Expert Tips On How To Prepare And Pack For Kudremukh Peak Trek

  • Start your trip as early as possible because the sun will be set by the time you reach the top and the last ascent. As a result, walking in the sun becomes more difficult.
  • Don't be concerned about the water. Water is accessible throughout the hike, even at the summit.
  • If the journey starts late, the guides may not want you to summit the top because it will be dark. As a result, it is preferable to begin early.
  • We saw a wild cow and a deer on our way back, so if you're lucky, you could see them as well.
  • Bring a small bag with you to leave your other belongings at the homestay and carry items like water bottles, cameras, and food in the bag, making the weight smaller and allowing you to walk faster.
  • Wear good-grip shoes since the possibilities of sliding and falling on steep slopes increase dramatically in the summer and monsoon.

Things To Carry On Kudremukh Monsoon Trek

Bare necessities

  1. Trekking shoes
  2. Backpack
  3. Identity Card
  4. Water (Minimum two litres)
  5. Lemon and salt OR Electrolyte Powder/Drink (Electoral/Gatorade/Glucon D, etc.)
  6. High-calorie snacks (Nuts & dry fruits, a home-baked cake, etc.)
  7. Safety Pins, Rubber bands & Whistle (Useful in emergencies)

Clothes

  1. Trek pants
  2. Collared t-shirts
  3. Thermals

Accessories

  • For summer season
  1. Sunglasses
  2. Headlamp
  3. Suncap
  • For winter season
  1. Woollen cap
  2. Scarf
  3. Waterproof gloves
  4. Socks

Others

  1. Toilet paper
  2. Sunscreen
  3. Moisturiser
  4. Soap
  5. Cutlery

Mandatory Personal Medical Kit

  1. Scissor
  2. Band-aids 
  3. Analgesic spray 
  4. Antiseptic Liquid 
  5. Antiseptic powder 
  6. Cotton roll & Bandage
  7. Crepe Bandage
  8. 1-inch wide medical tape (paper or cloth.)
  9. Micropore tape
  10. Tablet for motion sickness
  11. Mild pain relief tablet 

Kudremukh Trek Permissions

Kudremukh trek requires permission because it is part of the Kudremukh national park in Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru district. The cost of admission is Rs 600 per person. Only the first 50 people will be granted permission in a single day. You can ask the homestay’s owner for assistance obtaining permission if you are staying there. Alternatively, you must obtain authorisation from the forest office early in the morning. Camping is not permitted on the Kudremukh trip.

Food And Water Source On The Kudremukh Trek

The trekkers are fed in homestays in Mullodi hamlet (near the forest office). It must, however, be reserved in advance. Breakfast and a packed lunch will set you back roughly Rs 200. Many streams and waterfalls may be seen on the path during the monsoon season. Fill the water bottle at the homestay if you are not comfortable drinking groundwater. Make sure you have at least 2 litres of water with you.

3 Kudremukh Homestays That Make You Feel Like ‘Home Away From Home’

Near Kudremukh, several homestays provide excellent services, particularly to hikers. Organisers such as BMC, Nature Walkers, and Escape to Explore employ these Homestays. The majority of these Homestays charge between Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 per person. The following are some of the essential services provided by these homestays.

  • Breakfast is served upon arrival, along with tea or coffee.
  • For the trek, pack a lunch.
  • In the morning, we will take you to the Kudremukh trek base, and in the evening, we will collect you up (Maybe Extra Chargeable)
  • Getting permission and a guide for the hike ahead of time (Extra Chargeable)
  • In the evening, a campfire will be organised.

Here is a list of the stays for you and your loved ones:

Bella Homestay

The building is very new, and the rooms are pleasant and extensive. 

Rating:

4.7 (24 reviews) as of Dec 2017

Contact:

9483800447/9480196796

Raaje Gowda’s Homestay

One of the oldest homestays on the Kudremukh trek in a beautiful setting. In the morning, you may visit the Somavathi waterfalls. There have been several complaints regarding the cuisine.

Rating:

4.3 (39 reviews) as of Dec 2017

Contact:

08263-249333 / 09481179008

Satish Mullodi House

Raaje Gowda's Homestay is closer. Almost all of the amenities are the same as those listed above.

Rating:

3.8 (28 reviews) as of Dec 2017

Contact:

08263-249595 / 9481074530 / 8722847688

Places To Visit After Kudremukh Monsoon Trek

If you want to see additional destinations and embark on further treks after Kudremukh, check out the list below:

Towards Bangalore

  • Horanadu Temple: Located on the banks of the Bhadra River in a Chikkamagaluru district corner, it is 16 kilometres away from kudremukh.
  • Ballarayanadurga Fort Trek: The Bandaje walk includes a visit to this fort. Durgadahalli is a good place to start. Kudremukh Entrance is 36 kilometres away.
  • Aane Gudda Trek: Haluvalli is the starting point for this walk. To get to the base, you must take a detour from Kalasa. The Kudremukh Entrance is 15 kilometres away.
  • Meruti Hill: This is Karnataka's seventh-highest summit. Basarikatte is the starting point for the hike. Kudremukh Entrance is 30 kilometres from Basarikatte.

Towards Mangalore

  • Lakya Dam Lake: This dam spans the river Lakya, a tributary of the Bhadra. The Kudremukh national park has this dam. Kudremukh Entrance is 13 kilometres away.
  • Kadambi Falls: This fall is one of the most popular tourist destinations for those who wish to see the flora of the Western Ghats.  This is 22 kilometres from Kudremukh Entrance and near the highway.
  • Hanuman Gundi Falls: This waterfall is 22 kilometres from the Kudremukh Entrance in the Kudremukh National Park.
  • Kurinjal Peak: This is a short journey around 20 kilometres from the Kudremukh Entrance. In Kudremukh National Park, it is a lesser-known summit. As a result, the route will be less crowded.

Conclusion

These were all the facts about the Kudremukh trekking adventure in India. We hope that this comprehensive information will assist you in properly planning your Kudremukh trek Karnataka. However, before finalising anything on their trip, our experts highly urge readers to obtain the most up-to-date status of numerous elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kudremukh trek open now?

Yes, the Kudremukh trek is open now for camping and trekking activities.

Can beginners do Kudremukh Trek Karnataka?

Yes, the trek has a moderate difficulty level and is apt for beginners.

How long is the Kudremukh trek?

Kudremukh Trek is approximately 20-22 km in the distance.

What is the best time for the Kudremukh trek?

Undoubtedly, Monsoon is the best time for the Kudremukh trek.

CHECK OUR MONSOON TREKKING RANGE
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