Nestled in the heart of Karnataka’s Western Ghats, Kudremukh – which means “horse face” in Kannada – is a gem for nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Famous for its mountain peak shaped like a horse’s head, Kudremukh isn’t just about its silhouette. It’s home to one of the most pristine stretches of tropical evergreen forest in India, protected under the Kudremukh National Park, a biodiversity hotspot and UNESCO World Heritage Site. From rolling grasslands and crystal-clear streams to rare wildlife and stunning treks, Kudremukh offers the perfect escape into untouched wilderness.
About Kudremukh National Park
Declared a National Park in 1987, Kudremukh sprawls across 600 square kilometers, making it the second-largest protected wildlife area in the Western Ghats. Located in Chikkamagaluru district, it extends into parts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi as well. The region is known for its shola forests, high rainfall, and rich river systems – three major rivers, the Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravathi, all originate here from Ganga Moola, a sacred mountain cave.
Why Visit Kudremukh?
- Scenic Trekking Routes
- Abundant Wildlife & Birdwatching
- Waterfalls & River Origins
- Eco-Friendly Tourism
- Remote & Less Commercialized
Trekking in Kudremukh
Kudremukh Peak Trek
The Kudremukh Peak, standing at 1,894 meters, is the third-highest in Karnataka. The trek is an 18–22 km round trip, beginning from Mullodi village, near Kalasa. It’s a moderately challenging hike that takes about 7–8 hours to complete, traversing through grasslands, dense forests, waterfalls, and stream crossings.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Fitness Required: Jog for at least 5 km
- Permit Required: Yes (₹600 per person approx.)
- Guide Mandatory: Yes (1 guide per 10 trekkers)
- Camping: Not allowed inside the park
- Best Time: October to March
Tip: Carry socks to protect yourself from leeches, rain protection, and plenty of water. Trekking is prohibited without a guide or permit.
Other Attractions in Kudremukh
Hanumanagundi (Suthanabbe) Falls
Located inside the park, this 22-meter cascading waterfall is surrounded by lush forest. There’s a stairway to the base for a better view.
Kadambi Falls
A roadside waterfall, best enjoyed during or after monsoon, especially en route to the main trekking point.
Ganga Moola
A revered spot near a Bhagavathi shrine where the Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravathi rivers originate. The site also houses a 1.8-meter Varaha idol inside a small cave.
Wildlife Safari (Limited)
Although there are no formal safaris, sightings of lion-tailed macaques, gaurs, leopards, Malabar giant squirrels, and rare birds are frequent during treks.
Flora and Fauna
Kudremukh is a treasure trove of biodiversity:
- Mammals: Tiger, leopard, dhole, sambar, barking deer, sloth bear, lion-tailed macaque
- Birds: Malabar trogon, imperial pigeon, great hornbill, Malabar whistling thrush
- Flora: Mesua ferrea, Syzygium cumini, Hopea parviflora, wild orchids, medicinal herbs
The park is especially important for the conservation of endangered species, including the elusive tiger and lion-tailed macaque.
How to Reach Kudremukh
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (99 km)
Taxis or buses can be taken from Mangaluru to Kalasa or directly to Kudremukh.
By Train
- Nearest Railway Stations:
- Mangaluru Junction (MAJN) – 99 km
- Udupi Railway Station – ~90 km
From either station, continue by road to Kalasa.
By Road
- From Bangalore: ~330 km via Hassan – Belur – Kalasa (~7–8 hrs)
- From Chikmagalur: ~100 km
- From Mangaluru: ~99 km
- Public buses run to Kalasa from all major towns, from where you can take local jeeps to Mullodi village (base of trek).
Where to Stay
There are no hotels inside the national park, but plenty of homestays and eco-lodges are available in:
- Kalasa (base town with basic amenities)
- Mullodi (trek starting point; offers forest permits, food, and local guides)
- Samse and Kottigehara (nearby villages)
Best Time to Visit Kudremukh
- October to March: Ideal for trekking, clear skies, and wildlife spotting.
- April to May: Warmer but less crowded.
- June to September: Monsoon transforms the park into a green wonderland but trekking becomes slippery and leech-infested. Some treks may be closed.
Travel Tips
- Carry your Aadhaar card for permit registration.
- Forest department rules mandate entry between 6:30 AM – 1:30 PM only.
- Do not litter or make loud noises inside the park.
- Mobile signals are weak or non-existent in some areas.
- Dress in layers and carry rain protection.
Summing Up
Kudremukh is not just a trekking destination – it’s a sanctuary of natural wonder, ecological richness, and spiritual serenity. Whether you’re hiking to the majestic peak, chasing waterfalls, or marveling at the rare wildlife, the region offers a deeply immersive and grounding experience. Less commercial than nearby Coorg or Chikmagalur, Kudremukh is perfect for those who crave the raw beauty of the Western Ghats. Plan your journey with the right permits, travel responsibly, and let Kudremukh’s wild spirit leave you awe-inspired.
