Karnataka is a trekker’s dream. From the lush Western Ghats to mist-covered peaks and dense forests, the state offers treks that are not only scenic but also deeply enriching. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, here are six treks you must add to your adventure list.
Hidden deep within the Kudremukh National Park, the Netravati Peak trek is an offbeat trail surrounded by raw wilderness. Unlike its more popular sibling Kudremukh, this trail is less crowded and offers unspoiled views of the Western Ghats.
Total Distance: ~18 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Terrain: Forest trails, grasslands, multiple stream crossings
Highlight: Remote route, panoramic views, peaceful nature
How to Reach
Nearest Town: Kalasa
From Bangalore: ~320 km
Base Village: Samse or Mullodi (jeep ride needed)
Stay & Food
Homestays in Samse offer stay + food packages
Forest permit required (via local guides)
Located near Kollur, Kodachadri offers a mix of spirituality, adventure, and nature. It’s one of Karnataka’s most iconic treks with routes through jungle trails, waterfalls, and ridgelines.
Total Distance: ~14 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Forest, waterfalls, jeep tracks
Highlight: Hidlumane Falls, Sharavathi valley views, sunset from peak
How to Reach
Nearest Town: Kollur (~20 km)
From Bangalore: ~430 km
Base: Nittur village
Stay & Food
Homestays and lodges in Nittur and Kollur
Forest permissions available at the base or via local operators
Famous for its vast green slopes and a summit shaped like a horse's face, Kudremukh is one of Karnataka’s most popular treks. The route passes through grasslands, misty hills, and forest patches with multiple streams.
Total Distance: ~18 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Grasslands, shola forests, rivers
Highlight: Wide panoramic views, rolling meadows
How to Reach
Nearest Town: Kalasa
Base Village: Mullodi (jeep ride required)
From Bangalore: ~330 km
Stay & Food
Homestays in Kalasa/Samse with meals included
Forest permission mandatory, limited to 50 trekkers/day
Known as the toughest trek in Karnataka, Kumara Parvatha (Pushpagiri) offers a rewarding climb with forest routes, steep ascents, and an incredible view from the summit.
Total Distance: ~28 km round trip
Difficulty: Difficult
Terrain: Steep inclines, dense forest, open hills
Highlight: Sunset views, thrill of challenge
How to Reach
Nearest Town: Kukke Subramanya
From Bangalore: ~280 km
Entry: Via Kukke temple (forest checkpoint en route)
Stay & Food
Lodges at Kukke; carry food and water for the trek
Overnight camping allowed only in designated spots with permission
Tadiandamol offers a gentle introduction to the Western Ghats, making it perfect for first-time trekkers and nature lovers. The climb through coffee estates and cloud-draped forests is pure bliss.
Total Distance: ~14 km round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Forest, plantations, open peak
Highlight: View of the Coorg valley and surrounding hills
How to Reach
Nearest Town: Kakkabe
From Bangalore: ~275 km
Base: Nalaknad Palace
Stay & Food
Plenty of homestays in Kakkabe
Food available in town; carry snacks for the trek
Close to Bangalore, Skandagiri is known for its night trek that ends with a surreal sunrise above a sea of clouds. It’s perfect for a quick weekend escape.
Total Distance: ~8 km round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Rocky trail, forest patch
Highlight: Sunrise above the clouds, night hike experience
How to Reach
Nearest Town: Chikkaballapur (~5 km)
From Bangalore: ~70 km
Trek starts at Papagni Mutt
Stay & Food
Not required; return same day
Street food and basic eateries in Chikkaballapur
Best Season: October to February (Post-monsoon to winter)
Carry: ID proof, rain cover, torch (for night treks), water, snacks, good trekking shoes
Permissions: Mandatory for Kudremukh, Kumara Parvatha, Netravati, and Kodachadri
Avoid Plastic: Let’s help preserve the pristine Ghats