Kudremukh Trek
Kudremukh trek is considered as one of the most beautiful treks in the Western Ghats, and one of the best treks in Karnataka due to its gorgeous trail and the splendid views from the top. The trek is a mesmerizing blend of adventure and beauty and should be on everyone's bucket list.
The trail of the Kudremukh trek begins in the midst of fragrant coffee plantations, then through lush meadows of dewy grass and some patches of evergreen Shola Forests along with bamboo shrubs.
And once you reach the top, you are treated to the magnificent views of the green-carpeted hills lush with meadows and shola forests, and in the distance the sparkling view of the Arabian Sea. All of this comes together making Kudremukh trekking experience of a lifetime!
Kudremukh trek: more details
Kudremukh is the second highest peak in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, at an altitude of 6,207 feet above sea level. The name 'Kudremukh' translates to 'Horse Face;' the name is derived from the particular view of a side of the mountain that resembles the face of a horse.
The Kudremukh Peak is located in the Kudremukh National Park, known for its abundant flora and fauna, and mineral wealth. It is surrounded by lush green hills blanketed with grass and many patches of shola forests.
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Best time to go:
As with most treks in the Western Ghats, the best time to go for Kudremukh trek is during the months of monsoon and winter. During the monsoon season, the landscape is transformed into a green paradise, and the views from the peak are breathtaking. During the months of winter, the landscape is lush, the winds are cool and the hills are surrounded in the mist all around.
Itinerary:
For the Kudremukh trek, most operators provide transport from Bangalore to the base camp and back. So you first have to arrive at the pick-up point in Bangalore on the given time. From there, you board the bus that takes you to the starting point of the trek. The drive from Bangalore to Kudremukh takes 7 hours, covering a distance of over 300 km.
Once at the base camp, you either check-in at the homestay/campsite or begin the trek to Kudremukh. This depends on the timing of your Kudremukh trekking package. You begin the trek in the morning, so if you arrived at the base camp in the evening, you spend the night at the homestay/campsite. If you arrive in the morning, you have breakfast and begin the trek.
The trek to Kudremukh peak begins in the scented coffee plantations, followed by lush grasslands and some patches of evergreen forests. En route, you also cross many bubbling streams from where you can refill your water bottles. Reaching the top by afternoon, you enjoy the view from the top and then begin your return trek to the base camp.
If you arrived at the base camp the previous night, then you will board the bus back to Bangalore. However, if you had arrived at the base camp in the morning, then you will rest at the campsite/homestay for the night, and begin the drive back to Bangalore in the morning.
Timing of this depends on the package you're booking, so check the inclusions and trek details carefully before booking the trek. Some operators provide pick-up from Udupi, the timing of those packages vary a bit.
Difficulty level:
The Kudremukh trek is an 18-22 km trek consisting of a trail that has some rocky sections. Hence, the trek is of a moderate grade, best suited for fit beginners and experienced trekkers. If you're an absolute beginner but have decent fitness levels then you can finish the Kudremukh trek.
You can even begin preparing for the trek a few weeks prior by beginning a workout routine like cycling, running, swimming, etc.
Packing list:
For the Kudremukh trek, the packing list is rather simple. To begin with the clothes, you need to wear comfortable apparel like a quick-dry t-shirt and full-length trek pants. Apart from this, you need to also carry an extra pair of clothes. Pair this with sunglasses and a hat to protect your skin from sunburns.
If you're going for the trek in the monsoon, then carry a raincoat/poncho and carry a hoodie/jacket if you're going for the trek in winter. Lastly, you need a good pair of trekking shoes with an ample grip and comfort - to ensure a safe and comfortable trek.
Apart from these, you need to get a sturdy backpack that will hold your water bottle, dry snacks, personal essentials like sunscreen, toilet paper, sanitizer, and a personal first aid kit. The tour operator will also provide you with a packing list that you need to follow thoroughly to ensure a safe trek.
Kudremukh Trek Summary
- State: Karnataka
- Nearest city: Bangalore
- Total days: 3 days
- Grade: Moderate
- Max altitude: 6,207 feet
- Total trekking distance: 22 km
- Season: Monsoon and winter
- Avg temperature: 19 to 25 degree Celsius
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