Kodachadri Trek: Chasing Clouds in the Western Ghats of Karnataka

If you’ve ever dreamt of walking through misty forests, hearing hidden waterfalls echo through the valley, and standing on a mountain top where clouds roll beneath your feet, then the Kodachadri Trek in Karnataka is exactly where you should be. Tucked deep in the Western Ghats, this offbeat trail is not just a trek—it’s a journey into pristine wilderness and spirituality.

1. Why Kodachadri is Special

Kodachadri (literally meaning Jasmine of the Hills) is the 10th highest peak in Karnataka at about 1,343 meters (4,406 ft). Unlike some popular treks that are crowded, Kodachadri still feels wild, untamed, and raw.

What makes it fascinating is the mix of dense shola forests, grasslands, hidden waterfalls, and ancient temples. The trek is not just about landscapes—it’s also linked to mythology. Locals believe that Goddess Mookambika defeated the demon Mookasura here, making it a sacred hill. At the summit, you’ll find a small temple dedicated to the goddess and even traces of Adi Shankaracharya’s meditation spot.

2. How to Reach Kodachadri

Kodachadri is located in the Shimoga (Shivamogga) district of Karnataka, about 400 km from Bangalore.

• By Road: From Bangalore, you can drive or take an overnight bus to Kollur or Nittur, which are the base villages. The journey takes around 8–9 hours.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kundapura or Shimoga Town, followed by a short bus/taxi ride.
• By Air: Mangalore International Airport (135 km) is the closest.

Pro Tip: If you want an adventure, some travelers take jeeps from Kollur through rocky forest trails to reach the Kodachadri summit directly. But trekking is the real magic!

3. Best Time to Visit Kodachadri

The ideal time for Kodachadri trek is between September and February.

• Post-Monsoon (Sep–Nov): The forests are lush green, streams are full, and the trail feels alive.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Clear skies and pleasant weather make trekking comfortable, though nights get chilly.
• Monsoon (Jun–Aug): The trail is slippery, leeches are common, but the waterfalls are at their best—great if you love raw monsoon adventures.

4. The Trek Route & Experience

The Kodachadri trek is around 12–14 km one way, depending on your starting point. It usually takes 5–6 hours to ascend and about 3–4 hours to descend.

The popular trekking trail starts from Nittur or Kattinahole village. Here’s what you can expect along the way:

• The Forest Section: A dense canopy of shola forests welcomes you. Sunlight barely enters, and the air is filled with the sound of crickets and streams. During monsoons, expect leeches—carry some salt or antiseptic.
• Hidlumane Falls: A highlight of the trek! You need to scramble a bit through boulders and shrubs to reach this waterfall, but the cool spray makes it all worth it.
• Grasslands & Meadows: Beyond the forests, the trail opens into rolling grasslands with sweeping views of the Western Ghats. Clouds drift in and out, giving you that “walking through the sky” feeling.
• The Final Stretch: The climb gets steeper near the summit, but the panoramic views at the top—especially during sunset—are unforgettable.

At the summit, you’ll find the Kodachadri Temple and Sarvajna Peetha, believed to be the meditation spot of Adi Shankaracharya. Watching the sun dip into the Arabian Sea from here is pure magic.

5. Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

• Overnight journey from Bangalore to Kollur/Nittur.
• Start trek early morning, visit Hidlumane Falls en route.
• Reach the summit by afternoon, relax at the temple, and enjoy sunset views.
• Overnight stay at the temple premises (basic) or trek back down.

Day 2

• If you stayed overnight, wake up for a serene sunrise.
• Descend after breakfast, reach base village.
• Explore Kollur Mookambika Temple or head towards nearby attractions like Nagodi Village or Arasinagundi Falls.
• Return journey to Bangalore by evening.

6. Budget & Costs

The Kodachadri trek is budget-friendly compared to commercial treks.

• Transport (Bangalore–Kodachadri): ₹1,000–1,500 (bus/train both ways).
• Food: ₹500–1,000 for simple local meals.
• Stay: ₹800–1,500 per night at homestays; temple stay is free but very basic.
• Guide: ₹500–1,000 (recommended, especially if trekking for the first time).

Average 2-Day Trip Cost: ₹3,000–5,000 per person.

7. Safety & Local Tips

• Start your trek early to avoid climbing in the dark.
• Carry sufficient water and snacks—shops are limited on the trail.
• Wear good trekking shoes with grip; the trail is rocky and can be slippery.
• Avoid littering; Kodachadri is an eco-sensitive zone.
• If trekking in monsoons, be prepared for leeches—don’t panic, they’re harmless.
• For a hassle-free experience, join trekking groups from Bangalore who organize weekend treks to Kodachadri.

Final Thoughts

The Kodachadri trek is one of those journeys that stays with you long after you return. It’s not just about reaching the top, but about the little moments on the way—the spray of Hidlumane Falls on your face, the play of mist over the grasslands, the warmth of chai at a villager’s hut, and the breathtaking view where clouds seem close enough to touch.

If you’re in Bangalore and craving a weekend escape that blends nature, adventure, and spirituality, Kodachadri is calling. All you need is a backpack, sturdy shoes, and a heart open to the wild.