Kodachadri Trek: A Complete Guide

Are you looking for an incredible trekking experience in the heart of Karnataka? Then, the Kodachadri trek is perfect for you. It is considered a hidden trekking spot for thrill seekers. A trek to Kodachadri offers a unique trekking experience with its scenic beauty, cultural significance, and rich biodiversity. The trek is unique because there is history and many stories are linked to the same. Located in the Shimoga district, this trekking trail takes you via a quaint village with thick forests, paddy fields, waterfalls, and marvelous grasslands. The rolling hills and lush grasslands near the peak add to the experience.
Moreover, the decades-old temple is another massive attraction here. On a clear day, you can also see the Arabian Sea. Are you intrigued? Well, there are many approaches to this trek, so use this guide as your beacon to ensure your trek to Kodachadri is memorable.  

What does the trail look like? 

Kodachadri Trek’s trail has three approaches. You can take three different villages—Vallur, Kattinhole, and Nittur. For people taking their own vehicle, starting the trek from Kattinhole is ideal, and they can join the trail at the Hidlumane Falls. Or you can take the car to the top of Kodachadri. 

The trail starting from Vallur takes you via the beautiful forest section. It is an easy trail, but you will not be able to view the Hidlumane Falls. 

Best Time to Do the Kodachadri Trek

The best time for trekking to Kodachadri is between October and February. The beauty of the grasslands and forest is seen in the post-monsoon months only. The landscape is painted in a lush green color, which dominates the scenery. The winter months offer you clear views of the nearby mountains and the valley lying below. 

The summer month is not suitable due to the extremely hot temperature, making the trek challenging. Monsoons received heavy rainfall, so the trek became challenging. 

How to Reach the Base?

• Nittur is the base camp. To reach here, you can use a public or private vehicle. 
• Public transport: The KSRTC buses fly from Bangalore to Kollur. Ask to be dropped at the Sigandur and Nittur bus stops. 

Why does Kodachadri trek?

There are three reasons for heading to the Kodachadri trek. These include:

Trekking via the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

The trek takes you via the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, rich in flora and fauna. The trail is beautiful as you are exposed to a forest covered in thick vegetation and trees. Also, you will spot some of the rarest birds here, like the hornbill. 

The views of Hidlumane Waterfall 

One of the most beautiful views of the trek to Kodachadri is the Hidlumane waterfalls—a mix of seven waterfalls. The cascading water over overgrown roots and rock is a sight to behold. Trekking via the waterfall is challenging and exciting, yet this is the highlight of the trek. 

Watching the sunset and turning the sky into an orange beauty

The trail also has a sunrise point, offering one of the sunrises you would have ever seen in your life. The glowing of different colors while the sun comes out from the cloud is a wondrous sight, leaving you awestruck and speechless. 

Challenges of Kodachadri Trek 

Climbing the falls is challenging

Trekking the Hidlumane waterfall is not easy. If you head here in the monsoon season, it becomes more challenging as the flow of water is heavy and rocks are slippery. 

You will find leeks on the trail

Leeches on the Kodachadri trail are in abundance. The climate is also humid, and with the conditions of the rainforest, the ground is set for leeches. To overcome this challenge, it is best to carry salt and always have gaiters on you as they protect you from the leeches.

The trail is long

The trail starting from Nittur to Vallur is 20 km long, and it will take you 2 days to cover the same. Trekking the entire 20 km via the hills is challenging and long, even for trekkers who have experience. It is best to head to this trek with a guide only. 

Takeaway  

Heading to the trek in Kodachadri—the hidden gem—is one of the best experiences ever. The waterfalls and views of the sunset are something that will stay with you forever. Sure, there are some challenges, but the view from the summit is worth the climb.  

FAQs

Will I be able to find network connectivity on this trek?

No! The network connectivity on the trek is poor. It is usually none, but if you carry a BSNL sim, you might get a patch network.

Do we find any food stalls on the trail?

No, there are no food stalls on the trails. It is best to carry food with you from Nittur. Also, carry nuts, protein bars, and ready-to-make packets of food from there. Get reusable bottles and keep refilling them. 

Do we need a permit for the Kodachadri trek?

Yes, permission from the necessary authorities beforehand is necessary. If you book with a reputable travel agency, they will help you arrange the permits. Do remember that camping here is not possible.

Can beginners do this trek?

It is a moderate-level trek and will test your endurance levels. So, beginners without prior trekking experience cannot head to this trek.

How long is the trek?

The trek is 2 days long if the guide takes you from Vallur to Nittur.