Top Places for Trekking In Karnataka for the Adventure Junkie in You

Nestled in Kemmangundi and offering exquisite views of the Western Ghats, Z Point is a vantage point which can be reached after undertaking a thrilling trek, thereby making it a must-visit place for all the adventure lovers out there. On the trek which is quite challenging, one also comes to beautiful surroundings and lush green valleys. Comprising of some of the deepest ravines, the trek to reach the Z Point is likely to offer you some of the best views of Kemmangundi. Listed amongst the most picturesque places to visit in Chikmagalur, Z Point is a magnificent sunrise and sunset point.

This famous place for trekking in Karnataka is also known as Dattagiri Hill Range, as the shrine here is believed to be associated with Hindu God Guru Dattatreya. This mountain range proudly exhibits one of the highest mountain peaks, with altitude lying between that of the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. Legend has it that via the Chikamagalur district, coffee was first brought into India when the coffee crop was grown in Baba Budangiri Hills by Sufi Baba Budan during 1670 AD.

Kudremukh, with its diverse landscapes, provides a wide variety of trekking trails. You have to obtain permission from the forest department for trekking here, but it is well worth the trouble to go trekking in Karnataka here.

Kodachadri Hills serve as a stunning backdrop of evergreen forests to the town of Maravanthe. Located in the Western Ghats at a height of 4411 feet above the sea level amidst Karnataka’s Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, they also prove to be one of the good trekking trails, beginning at the South Kanara Forest.

Trek Duration : 1-2 days depending on the route

Difficulty Level : Easy to Moderate

Perched at an altitude of 1930 m above the sea level, Mullayanagiri peak is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range of Western Ghats. It serves as the highest peak between the Nilgiris and the Himalayas offering its visitors a relaxed environment with temperature ranging between 20 - 25 degrees Celsius. Known for its peaceful ambience and nature's raw beauty, this peak is adorned with verdant grassland, rugged rocks, and a good trek path is also quite popular among adventure lovers. Mullayanagiri is also known for coffee plantations that are situated nearby.

Situated 60 km from Bangalore, Savandurga hill is one of the largest pieces of single rock formations in the Asian continent. Since it is located 1226 m above sea mean level, it has a steep slope which makes it capable of providing an adventurous trekking experience. Secluded from the city, the hills are an ideal place to spend some peaceful time with your loved ones. Trekking up to the hill within a serene environment is no less than bliss. Trekking enthusiasts are even seen camping for a few days at the top after completing the trek. Imagine how wonderful it would be to lie atop the hill beneath the quilt of stars!

This beautiful place for trekking in Karnataka is surrounded by sugarcane fields, paddy fields and coconut trees that makes the place look beautiful and mesmerizing. Situated at an elevation of 2882 feet, the picturesque scenic views that this place comprises of will make you feel rejuvenated. A number of rocks with fascinating shapes are located here.

The Anthargange mountain is a structure of small and big rocks coupled with natural springs and dense forest at the foot of the hill. This provides to be an excellent place for trekkers. The mountains at an altitude of 1712 meters from sea level with rocky boulders, small caves and dense plantations are one of the best getaways for trekking, rock climbing and cave exploration enthusiasts.

Also known as Sita Falls, Kudlu Falls is famous for its picturesque beauty. The waterfall cascades down the Western Ghats from a height of 150 feet in the midst of a dense green cover of the hilly terrain. It requires a moderate level of trekking through the green zone to reach the enchanting waterfall. The attraction is, thus, a favourite amongst trekkers and nature lovers.

From Pandavar Gudda or the Betta Byraveshwara Temple, you can trek to Jenukallu Peak, the second-highest in the state. Also known as ‘honey stone mountain’ or “Hodachalli”, Jenukal Trek of 8 kilometres will challenge your skill and treat you with the coffee plantations, green woods and the views of the Arabian Sea and the peaks namely Sheshaparvata, Kumara Parvata and Ettina Bhuja.

Situated at a distance of about 100 kilometres from the capital city of Bangalore in Karnataka, Bheemeshwari is the perfect location to enjoy a number of activities in the wilderness. The area is blessed with lush greenery and the wild waters of the River Cauveri, and hence, has ample opportunities for nature walks, sightseeing and adventure sports. The highlight of a trip to Bheemeshwari, however, is no doubt the trekking experience that one can enjoy here. In fact, the area is a paradise for all trekkers. The terrain in the area is gentle and strewn with rocks, but slopes slightly at places, which attracts trekkers and adventure enthusiasts from all across the world to trek here.

Ballalarayana Durga is a hill fort in Chikmagalur that is situated in the village of Bettabalige between the towns of Kottegehara and Kalasa. Boasting of rich history and cultural significant, the vantage point is perched at a height of 1509 metres and offers some of the best panoramic vistas and picturesque views in the region. Cosily tucked up in the Western Ghats, it can only be reached through a trek amidst the dense forests. Although the hill fort is currently in ruins with only periphery walls, a few arches and a basement, it is a major tourist destination, a popular picnic spot in addition to being an ideal campsite.

A collection of solid rock structures, Shivagange offers climbers an exciting and tough trek. Being a rocky hill, the climb is difficult but thanks to the railings put up all along the way it becomes significantly safer to go trekking in Karnataka here.

The guides from the adventure camps will take you around the lake area on a short trek, depending upon your stamina. This place for trekking in Karnataka will take you from various spots that are particularly conducive to bird watching.

Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta is almost 16 kilometres from the town of Kanakapura is a great trekking destination for a day trek. It is one of the highest hills in the neighbouring area with an elevation of 3780 feet, the hill also houses a temple devoted to Lord Rangaswamy that is constructed under a large white granite monolith. It is one of the most striking features of the hill with the hill drawing its name Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta from the rock.

The name ‘Ghatikallu’ refers to a peak that offers panoramic views of the valley. A two-hour drive from Chikmagalur takes one to Ghatikallu, a gem in the crown of the Western Ghats. Surrounded by lush green valleys and acres and acres of coffee and areca nut plantations, this place in Chikmagalur district has everything that a nature lover could ever wish for: streams, waterfalls, hills, thick forests and above all, its resounding quietude. Travellers come all the way here seeking the bliss of camping, star-gazing, trekking and river walks.

The Agani Peak in Agni Gudda or ‘fiery mountain’ (for its volcanic nature) is accessible from Agani village by a moderate 3 kilometres trek of one hour and from the summit, you can have the clear view of the green pasture lands and plains filled with paddy fields. You can pitch your tent and camp overnight at the summit to enjoy the magical starlit view of the sky.

These limestone caves with their winding tunnels and 375 entrance steps were formed by volcanic activities. They are home to snakes and bats. The huge stalagmite here is a major attraction for Shiva devotees.

If you thought that trekking is an activity only to be done in the morning, you are certainly wrong. Skandagiri, a hilltown near Bangalore, gives you the opportunity to trek and explore the hills in the night while the moon is casting its light. Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga, is at an elevation of 1450 meters surrounded by the Nandi Hills. The hill has a ruined fort on the way which makes the night trek even more interesting by adding the element of horror. And the best part is that you can spend the night at the hilltop under the star. Not to forget the bonfire that is especially lit for the trekkers to sit around and enjoy the warmth. The serenity of the night will make you feel at ease.

Devarayanadurga or DD Hills which translates to “the fort of God” is a tranquil hill station located near Tumkur district in the state of Karnataka. Situated at an elevation of 4000 ft, Devarayanadurga is a perfect weekend getaway to live among the lush green trees and explore the hilly terrain. This place is replete with not only picturesque beauty but also has a rich historical, cultural and religious significance. There are a number of beautifully crafted temples which will provide you with inner peace and leave you awestruck. Untouched by Industrialization, in Devarayanadurga you will be able to witness the magic and serenity of nature.