Best Trekking Destinations in the Western Ghats of Karnataka
Western Ghats hold a paradise for trekkers. Beautiful forests, green grasslands, misty mountains, rushing water falls and amazing variety of animals and birds have been called 'paradise of trekkers'. The state of Karnataka owns many of the best trekking spots of the Western Ghats, which include easy nature walks to strenuous climbs to the topmost peaks.Table of ContentsIntroductionBest Western Ghats Treks in KarnatakaTips for Western Ghats Treks in KarnatakaConclusionIf there's any place where trekkers can barely imagine the ideal combination of lush jungles, vast green meadows, mist-covered peaks, breathtaking waterfalls and incredible wild animals, that place will definitely be none other than the Western Ghats of Karnataka. These mountain ranges, which are estimated to be 50 million years old, stretch through western Karnataka and are known to be one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth. Whether it's trekking to Kudremukh, Kumara Parvatha, Netravati, Bandaje Falls, Kurinjal, Brahmagiri, Gangadikal or Valikunja, all of these trekking destinations provide excellent trekking experiences from easy to difficult terrains in the lofty ranges. Whether it's enjoying fantastic viewpoints from the top of the mountains or exploring the exotic flora and fauna in the middle of the jungle, the Western Ghats offer the best trekking opportunities in Karnataka. Many of Karnataka's most scenic mountain trails are featured in our comprehensive Treks In Karnataka guide for adventure enthusiasts.Explore Karnataka's Most Scenic Peaks, Forest Trails and Waterfalls1. Kurinjal TrekSTARTING POINT: Mundaje VillageENDING POINT: Kurinjal PeakDIFFICULTY LEVEL: ModerateTREK DISTANCE: 14 KMBEST SEASON: October to FebruaryKurinjal Trek- Unknown treasure of Western Ghats. The trail is bordered by dense forest, open grassland and lofty ridges rising to the peak. Beautiful and vast panoramas of the surrounding peaks and valleys await the travellers. A peaceful and green trek that provides Trevor a good spot to relax for nature lovers. Known for its beautiful ridgelines and Western Ghats scenery, Kurinjal Trek is a rewarding adventure for nature lovers.2. Brahmagiri TrekSTARTING POINT: Iruppu FallsENDING POINT: Brahmagiri PeakDIFFICULTY LEVEL: ModerateTREK DISTANCE: 12 KMBEST SEASON: October to FebruaryThe Brahmagiri trek is a very beautiful trek with its green forests, grassy meadows and beautiful viewpoints; it is super fun for good wildlife and beauty, and there are also very nice Western Ghats viewpoints. Trekking is pure heaven in the cool, misty and wonderful weather. With dense forests and panoramic summit views, the Brahmagiri Trek remains a favorite among trekking enthusiasts.3. Gangadikal TrekSTARTING POINT: Near Kudremukh RegionENDING POINT: Gangadikal PeakDIFFICULTY LEVEL: HardTREK DISTANCE: 18 KMBEST SEASON: October to JanuaryOne of the pristine and untouched jewels in the Kudremukh range, the Gangadikal Trek will make trekkers travel over thick woods, flowing grassland, and makeshift rocky slopes. People come to this mysterious and deserted location for its pristine beauty and awesome views of the Rajas in valleys; behest for pros in trekking the Western Ghats. The challenging terrain and spectacular mountain views make Gangadikal Trek a rewarding Western Ghats adventure.4. Valikunja TrekSTARTING POINT: SunkasaleENDING POINT: Valikunja PeakDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to HardTREK DISTANCE: 16 KMBEST SEASON: October to FebruaryValikunja Trek is popular because of its rolling grasslands and beautiful mountain scenery. The topography is a combination of gentle ups and some sharp climbs. At the top, you can appreciate the entire expanse of the Western Ghats on the horizon. Keeping them in their virgin state turns out to be the major attraction. Surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, Valikunja Trek offers a peaceful escape into the heart of the Western Ghats.5. Netravati TrekSTARTING POINT: Samse VillageENDING POINT: Netravati PeakDIFFICULTY LEVEL: ModerateTREK DISTANCE: 14 KMBEST SEASON: October to FebruaryAttracts trekkers with the majesty of its green canopy tilted to the path, which involves forests, grassy slopes and ridges. At the summit spot, spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys are available, especially at sunrise. The meld of a fair challenge and beautiful scenery has made the trek popular with trekkers. Known for its stunning ridge walk and panoramic summit views, Netravati Trek is one of Karnataka's most sought-after trekking experiences.6. Kudremukh TrekSTARTING POINT: Mullodi VillageENDING POINT: Kudremukh PeakDIFFICULTY LEVEL: HardTREK DISTANCE: 22 KMBEST SEASON: Post-Monsoon & WinterSeared in the hearts of Karnataka ladys, and men, the hurled hike straight to the horse-shape-shaped peak of the mountain, named after its equine form, parallels a pleasant trail across lush sholas, open grassy plains and streams, as the trekker approaches the peak; and once reached, the view of greener pastures, mistshto colour terrible valleys, and wild, untamed hinterland make good the long trek. Famous for its rolling green hills and iconic horse-face peak, Kudremukh Trek remains one of Karnataka's most popular treks.7. Kumara Parvatha TrekSTARTING POINT: Kukke SubramanyaENDING POINT: Kumara Parvatha PeakDIFFICULTY LEVEL: HardTREK DISTANCE: 28 KMBEST SEASON: October to FebruaryKumara Parvatya is reportedly one of the toughest treks in Karnataka. The trek has a lot of sharp climbs, dense forests loopy trails on steep locations that keep gamers on edge, but the sight from the summit is worth the ground. Panorama of the Western Ghats crazy of adventure, adrenaline rush lures folks from all over the country. Regarded as one of the toughest treks in Karnataka, the Kumara Parvatha Trek attracts serious adventure seekers from across the country.8. Bandaje Falls TrekSTARTING POINT: Sunkasale VillageENDING POINT: Bandaje Falls ViewpointDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to HardTREK DISTANCE: 16 KMBEST SEASON: October to JanuaryThe Bandaje Falls Trek has a wonderful combination of incredible mountain trails and one of the most gorgeous waterfalls found in Karnataka. Several trails run through spectacular forests and impressive grasslands all the way to the glorious Bandaje Falls. The marvel of this waterfall dropping by thousands of feet into the surrounding valley is awe-inspiring. The fine views and beautiful landscape make Bandaje Falls Trek a top choice for lovers of nature. Combining waterfalls, forests, and high-altitude grasslands, Bandaje Falls Trek is one of the most scenic trails in Karnataka.Tips for Western Ghats Treks in KarnatakaStart your trek early to avoid the afternoon heat and enjoy better views.Wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip, especially during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.Carry at least 2–3 liters of water and stay hydrated throughout the trek.Pack light but include essentials like snacks, a rain jacket, and a first-aid kit.Check weather conditions before planning your trek.Wear full-sleeve clothing to protect yourself from insects and leeches.Carry a cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen for open grassland sections.Follow designated trails and avoid taking shortcuts.Do not litter; carry all waste back with you.ConclusionThe Western Ghats of Karnataka have some of the most spectacular trekking experiences in the country. Whether it be the extremely popular Kudremukh or Kumara Parvatha or the relatively unknown but spectacular treks of Gangadikal and Valikunja, there is something for everyone. A moderately easy trek if you are not interested in difficult trails, an exciting and arduous climb if you are up for a real challenge, or even a moderately difficult one for those who just want to see spectacular sights choose from the various treks offered in the Western Ghats and return with a storehouse of memories. For travelers seeking lush forests, grasslands, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, explore our complete Highest Peaks in Karnataka for Trekking guide.
Activity location: Coorg, KarnatakaStarting day: FridayEnd day: SundayKumara Parvatha Trek Distance: 14 km (both ways) Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Kumara Parvatha Height: 5,617 ft. Distance from Bangalore: 270 KmAbout Kumara Parvatha Trek, Coorg: Kumara Parvatha Trekking can be one of the most rewarding treks a trekker can embark on. Boasting challenging gradients and stunning Western Ghat views, this trek will test both your physical and mental limits while helping you grow both personally and physically stronger. Beedahalli, home of the revered Kumara Parvatha temple, marks the starting point of this trail with its small gate and board marking its starting point. From here, it progressively becomes steeper as one progresses on this trek. As soon as you reach the summit of Kumara Parvatha, take in its breathtaking panoramas from up top. Take some time to soak in this experience before beginning to descend the mountain; don't forget to visit the shrine on top if desired and offer your prayers as well! Kumara Parvatha should be hiked during post-monsoon and winter months from October to February, when the Western Ghats come alive with lush vegetation, vibrant streams & waterfalls, and rejuvenated streams & waterfalls. Love lush green landscapes and misty trails? Explore more Monsoon Treks From Bangalore.
Activity location: Coorg, KarnatakaStarting day: FridayEnd day: SundayBrahmagiri Height: 5,276 ft.Brahmagiri Trek Distance: 10 km (both ways) Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Distance from Bangalore: 250 KmAbout Brahmagiri Trek, Coorg: Take an unforgettable trek through the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary to escape everyday stressors with this breathtaking trek through its untamed wilderness! Explore rugged terrains, lush flora and spiritual landmarks on your journey and experience Coorg's natural splendour at first hand! The Western Ghats offer one of the most spectacular landscapes for trekking. As you make your way along this trek's trail, the Western Ghats' shola grasslands will catch your eye with wide open meadows and dramatic skies providing the ideal setting. At its heart are its forests, home to many wildlife species, including deer, elephant footprints and even tiger pug marks in some sections! As you move along, you will come upon a small stream with a muddy trail crossing it, taking care not to slip. After traversing this treacherous terrain, you will reach a shady forest patch which provides welcome shade from the hot sun; here, there will be plenty of elephant footprints and heaps of elephant dung, marking this section as an important hotspot for wildlife movement. At the end of your shady forest patch, you will emerge into an open clearing where the silhouette of Brahmagiri Peak can be seen rising sharply from grasslands below you. Your final ascent to its summit can be an endurance test; therefore, it is vitally important that you follow your guides closely during this phase.Trending Packages: Tadiandamol Trek | Kumara Parvatha Trek | Kodachadri Trek | Mullayanagiri Trek
Activity location: Chikkamagaluru, KarnatakaStarting day: FridayEnd day: SundayKurinjal Height: 5,751 ft. Kurinjal Trek Distance: 10 km (both ways)Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Distance from Bangalore: 350 KmAbout Kurinjal Trek Chikmagalur:The Kurinjal Trek in the Western Ghats offers an unforgettable wilderness adventure, challenging both physically and mentally. Along the trail are dense forests, shola grasslands, rocky outcrops, stunning valley views of valleys and hills comprised by this region; coupled with sounds such as birds chirping away in harmony, waterfalls cascading down waterfalls or streams and leaves rustling underneath your feet - an experience which makes the entire trek truly special! This hike stands out from the pack in that it does not follow the conventional historical trail by featuring ancient temples or forts on top of hills; that makes it all the more special. Instead, this journey demonstrates how humankind can work alongside nature instead of trying to eradicate it; it offers us a glimpse into adventure travel's future when our natural surroundings can coexist without being exploited for commercial gain. No matter your level of trekking experience or desire for adventure, this moderately levelled hike offers something special. Discover breathtaking natural landscapes that will remain with you forever. As you prepare to embark on the Kurinjal Trek, the best way to prepare is by practising on hilly terrain similar to what will be encountered during your hike. Visit a nearby trekking spot and trek for 2-3 hours at a comfortable pace while stopping when needed and resting when necessary. Adventure seekers looking for challenging climbs can explore more Monsoon Treks Near Bangalore.
Activity Location: Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka Starting Day: FridayEnd Day: SundayKudremukh Height: 2,674 FtKudremukh Trek Distance: 18 kmTrek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Distance from Bangalore: 330 KmAbout Kudremukh Trek, Chikmagalur: Kudremukh Trek offers the ideal weekend escape from Bangalore. Filled with dense Shola forests, numerous streams, bamboo plants that reach up into the sky and lush green meadows - this trek makes an excellent photographer's playground! Additionally, during the monsoon and winter seasons, this path becomes even more breathtakingly beautiful. Trekkers can enjoy the lush beauty of this trail and spot wild animals like barking deer, lion-tailed macaques, Malabar giant squirrels and leopards along the route. Additionally, this trekking adventure provides breathtaking panoramic views of rolling hills and lush valleys that are sure to please nature enthusiasts alike. Kudremukh is one of the premier trekking trails in the Western Ghats, famed for its lush forests and breathtaking vistas. Although a difficult and rewarding hike that requires patience, endurance, and mental fortitude to complete successfully, Kudremukh nonetheless rewards you with breathtaking views from its cloud-covered peak at its conclusion! The trail begins at the Forest Department Office, where permits and guides must be obtained before beginning to trek across coffee plantations and muddy roads with waterfalls to reach Ontimara for your first glimpse of the forest. Once in the forest, the path becomes steeper and more difficult to traverse. After travelling a short distance, however, you'll reach a flat area covered by an impressive stand-alone tree where seating arrangements have been put in place so that you may rest at this scenic locale. This trek is one of the most popular experiences featured in our Monsoon Treks Near Bangalore collection.NOTE: Select the Friday date(Departure on Friday) for Saturday’s Trek.
Activity location: Madugundi, Karnataka Starting day: FridayEnd day: SundayBandaje Falls Height: 700 m Bandaje Falls Trek Distance: 9 - 12 km Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Distance from Bangalore: 308 KmAbout Bandaje Falls Trek, Dakshina Kannada:If you're searching for an exhilarating monsoon trek near Bangalore, the Bandaje Falls trek offers an exhilarating weekend adventure. Boasting scenic trails, an ancient fort and breathtaking sunrise views - its centrepiece is undoubtedly Bandaje Arbi waterfall - an incredible natural marvel that stands as testament to nature's splendour. Start your trek off right with an enjoyable drive through mist-covered roads and lush countryside, stopping briefly in Ujire before arriving at Mundaje village - your starting point. Surrounded by dense forests and towering trees that create natural tunnels overhead while filtering sunlight onto the ground below, Mundaje village promises an escape from city life as you begin trekking through its lush jungle environment. As you journey through the dense forest, you will reach Ballalarayana Durga Fort perched atop a hill, providing breathtaking views and access to ancient relics. Once finished exploring this marvel, head towards Bandaje Falls; this magnificent sight consists of cascading falls crashing over cliffs before plunging into a lush gorge below; an experience which will leave you speechless! While you can travel independently on this trek, travelling in a group will make the experience more enjoyable and secure. Escape2Explore guides have extensive experience and training to provide expert guidance, so that your trekking experience remains safe and memorable. The trek can easily be reached from major cities in Karnataka, such as Bangalore and Mangalore, making it easily accessible for travellers from across India. As this trek is popular among visitors from various corners of the globe, early booking is necessary as tickets sell quickly! This trail is perfect for travelers planning scenic Monsoon trekking from Bangalore.
Activity location: Chikkamagaluru, KarnatakaStarting day: FridayEnd day: SundayNetravati Peak Height: 4,986 ftNetravati Peak Distance: 14 km approx.Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Distance from Bangalore: 320 KmAbout Netravati Trek, Chikmagalur:The Netravati Trek is one of the most beautiful and less crowded treks in Karnataka. Located in the stunning Western Ghats, the trail takes you to the breathtaking summit of Netravati Peak. This trek is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape the busy city life. The Netravati Peak Trek offers a refreshing journey through dense forests, green hills, and open grasslands. As you walk through the peaceful Netravati hills, you will experience fresh mountain air, beautiful landscapes, and amazing views all around. The trail is exciting but still suitable for beginners who enjoy trekking and exploring nature. One of the best parts of the Netravati Trek is reaching the summit. From the top, trekkers can enjoy wide views of the surrounding Western Ghats, rolling hills, and clouds floating below. The peaceful environment and natural beauty make the climb truly memorable. If you are looking for a weekend adventure, the Netravati Trek is a perfect choice. With simple Netravati trek booking, you can easily plan your trip and enjoy a safe and well-organized trekking experience. Whether you are trekking with friends, solo, or with a group, this trek promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Love lush green landscapes and misty trails? Explore more Monsoon Treks From Bangalore.
Activity location: Chikkamagaluru, KarnatakaStarting day: FridayEnd day: SundayGangadikal Height: 4,806 ftGangadikal Trek Distance: 16 km approx.Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Distance from Bangalore: 320 KmAbout Gangadikal Trek, Chikmagalur:The Gangadikal Trek offers an entrancing adventure nestled within the Kudremukh National Park in the Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka. A lesser-known trail that blends physical challenge with spiritual renewal, this offbeat adventure lets you witness the raw beauty of the Western Ghats. Famed for its peak that resembles a horse's head ("Kudremukh" means "horse-face") and sense of seclusion that draws hikers from far and wide, famous personalities such as Kalpana Chawla have explored this rugged terrain, thereby adding an aura of mystery that only adds further allure. Gangadikal Trek offers stunning panoramas and intimate environments to provide an escape from daily stressors while experiencing nature at its finest. Popular among experienced hikers, this trek offers unparalleled tranquillity - with its remote villages, rugged terrains, abundant biodiversity and plentiful amenities along the trail of Gangadikal, it's sure to please all who choose to embark upon it. This trail is an ideal option for both experienced and novice trekkers, offering moderately challenging terrain that suits almost every fitness level. Additionally, this path is home to various animals and birds such as deer, lion-tailed macaque monkeys, Malabar giant squirrels, Leopards, and Common Langurs; many of which make an appearance on this trek! As soon as you reach the peak, take in stunning views of the entire ridge and its deep valleys. Additionally, it may prove challenging but ultimately enjoyable, climbing Gangadikar Peak offers you a rare and exclusive vantage of the Kudremukh range, unlike any other summit. Want more trekking getaways? Discover the best Monsoon Treks Near Bangalore for nature lovers.
Activity location: Chikkamagaluru, KarnatakaStarting day: FridayEnd day: SundayValikunja Height: 3,573 ft.Valikunja Trek Distance: 16 km (Both sides)Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Distance from Bangalore: 350 KmAbout Valikunja Trek, Chikmagalur: Valikunja Trek, located within Kudremukh National Park, is one of the least frequented treks around. While other popular trails such as Kurinjal draw many hikers on weekends, Valikunja remains off the radar, making for a more relaxing experience with no crowds on weekends to compete with. As a result, trekkers enjoy plenty of opportunities to admire distant views of grassy hilltops from a distance and experience serene forest sections, open terrains, and windy ridge climbs that reveal panoramic vistas over all Western Ghats mountain range. Your trek begins by walking through a forest section. This trail is well-marked, and its initial 100 meters offer a gradual ascent through evergreen tropical forests with tall and thick trees, the latter of which may even yield unexpected bird sightings! As you advance further into the forest, vegetation becomes sparser until, after about one kilometre, you reach an open ridge where the trail steepens toward its peak in the Valikunja trek. Here lies another open ridge stretching out for another kilometre with wonderful open terrains offering you stunning views of Western Ghat mountains - including Kurinjal peak! As soon as you reach the peak of a ridge, you will come upon a small temple dedicated to Vali and an old repeater station used by Forest Department anti-poaching camps nearby. On a clear day, this viewpoint provides stunning panoramic views across Sringeri. Love lush green landscapes and misty trails? Explore more Monsoon Treks From Bangalore.
Kaiwara Hills Sunrise Trek was amazing! Escape2explore made sure the whole experience was seamless, from transportation to breakfast. Kayaking afterward was so much funI didn’t want the day to end
Kishore
Reviewed: Jun 1, 2026
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5/5
Really nice trip from escape2explore
Devansh Ahuja
Reviewed: Apr 29, 2025
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5/5
Trekking to Narasimha Parvatha was an absolute delight! The Narasimha Parvatha Trek view point offers an unforgettable sunrise experience. The location is serene and unspoiled, which made the effort feel... Read More
Namrata Joshi
Reviewed: Apr 29, 2025
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5/5
Loved every bit of my Narasimha Parvatha Trek with Escape2Explore. Though the Narasimha Parvatha Trek distance from Malandur was long, the vibrant forests and peaceful streams kept our spirits high.... Read More
Priya Nair
Reviewed: Apr 24, 2025
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5/5
Our Chikmagalur trip with e2e was unforgettable. The guided trek through the lush landscapes was an enriching experience, and Mullayanagiri offered spectacular views. The zip-line was a fun adventure that... Read More
Meenal Gupta
Reviewed: Dec 24, 2024
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5/5
Just got back from the Chikmagalur trip with e2e, and it was an amazing experience. The guided trek to Mullayanagiri was so worth it—the views were absolutely stunning. The zip-line... Read More
Arvind Kumar
Reviewed: Dec 19, 2024
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5/5
The experience with escape2explore was amazing! We did a guided trek to Mullayanagiri, and the views were breathtaking. The zip-line activity was thrilling, and the campfire in the evening added... Read More
Tanmay Kapoor
Reviewed: Dec 18, 2024
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5/5
Our Chikmagalur trip with escape2explore was truly fantastic. The guided trek to Mullayanagiri was a great experience with some of the best views I’ve ever seen. The zip-line was a... Read More
Kajal Singh
Reviewed: Dec 11, 2024
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5/5
I can't express how much I enjoyed the Chikmagalur trip with e2e! The guided trek was so enjoyable, and Mullayanagiri had the most incredible views. The zip-line was the highlight... Read More
Karthik Joshi
Reviewed: Dec 5, 2024
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5/5
Had a blast on our Chikmagalur trip with e2e! The guided trek to Mullayanagiri was the highlight of our trip. The climb was challenging, but the views from the summit... Read More
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