Kodachadri Trek – Chasing Sunsets in the Heart of the Western Ghats

There are some journeys that stay with you long after they are over, and my trek to Kodachadri was one of them. Nestled in the mystical charm of the Western Ghats, Kodachadri is more than just a trekking trail—it’s a soulful blend of nature, history, and adventure. Standing tall at 1,343 meters, this peak in Shimoga district, Karnataka, is a haven for trekkers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers alike.

As I packed my bag and laced up my trekking shoes, I didn’t realize I was about to experience one of the most enchanting trails of South India—a journey through dense forests, meadows, waterfalls, and a hilltop sunset that would take my breath away.

The First Steps into the Wilderness

The trail to Kodachadri begins with a burst of green—thick forests, chirping birds, and the earthy smell of damp soil after the morning dew. Unlike treks in the Himalayas, Kodachadri feels tropical and wild. Every step felt like walking into a storybook, with sun rays sneaking through the canopy and the sound of insects humming like background music.

The trek has multiple routes, but the most popular one starts from Kollur village, about 20 km away. From there, the journey takes around 5–6 hours to reach the peak, depending on your pace. What makes this trek special is its constantly changing scenery. One moment, you’re inside a dense forest, the next, you’re crossing open grasslands where the wind dances through the tall grass.

Hidlumane Falls – A Hidden Gem Along the Way

Halfway through the trek, I stumbled upon one of the highlights of the Kodachadri trail—Hidlumane Falls. To reach the waterfall, you have to navigate through slippery boulders and narrow forest paths, but the reward is worth every step. The water gushes down in multiple tiers, creating a refreshing natural shower that rejuvenates tired trekkers.

I couldn’t resist dipping my feet into the icy water, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. If you’re trekking during the monsoon or just after, the falls are at their fullest, roaring with an energy that perfectly mirrors the spirit of the trek.

The Final Climb and the Magical Sunset

The last stretch of the trek is both the most challenging and the most rewarding. The trail gets steeper as you ascend, and the weather starts to shift unpredictably. Sometimes mist covers everything, and sometimes the sky opens up, giving you glimpses of rolling hills fading into the horizon.

Reaching the top of Kodachadri Peak was surreal. As the sun began to set, the entire sky transformed into shades of orange, pink, and gold. The clouds floated below me, making me feel as though I was standing on the edge of the world. This was no ordinary sunset—it was nature’s theatre at its best, a spectacle that made every ounce of effort worthwhile.

No wonder Kodachadri is considered one of the best sunset points in Karnataka. Many trekkers even choose to camp overnight on the peak just to wake up to the golden sunrise the next morning.

Spiritual Significance and Nearby Attractions

Kodachadri isn’t just about trekking—it carries deep cultural and spiritual roots. Legend has it that this was the meditating ground of Adi Shankaracharya, and there’s a small temple dedicated to him at the summit. Nearby, you’ll also find the Mookambika Temple in Kollur, a famous pilgrimage site that attracts devotees from across the country.

If you have extra time, you can also explore attractions like Nagara Fort, with its ancient ruins, or the serene backwaters of Sharavathi River. These places add layers of history and tranquility to your trip, making Kodachadri not just a trek but a holistic travel experience.

Best Time to Visit Kodachadri

The charm of Kodachadri changes with the seasons. I visited during the post-monsoon months, and I’d say that’s the best time. September to February offers clear skies, pleasant weather, and lush greenery. Monsoon trekking (June to August) can be thrilling with the waterfalls in full force, but it also makes the trail slippery and challenging. Summer months (March to May) tend to get hot and dry, reducing the charm of the trek.

So, if you want the best mix of adventure and beauty, plan your trek between October and January.

How to Reach Kodachadri

Getting to Kodachadri is fairly easy. The nearest town is Kollur, which is well-connected by road.

• By Air: The closest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 150 km away. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kundapura, around 80 km from Kollur.
• By Road: If you’re traveling from Bangalore, it’s around 400 km, a scenic road trip that takes about 8–9 hours. Overnight buses are also available.

From Kollur, you can either start the trek directly or take a jeep ride to the Kodachadri base point if you want to skip part of the trail.

Travel Tips, Budget, and Safety

Like any trek, a bit of planning goes a long way. I kept my backpack light but made sure to carry water, energy snacks, and a raincoat (the weather changes quickly in the Ghats). Good trekking shoes are a must—the terrain is uneven and slippery near waterfalls.

Budget-wise, Kodachadri is affordable. If you’re traveling from Bangalore, a weekend trip including transport, food, and basic stay can cost anywhere between ₹3,000 to ₹5,000, depending on whether you trek independently or join a trekking group.

Safety-wise, it’s best to trek with company, especially if you’re new to the area. The forest trails can get confusing, so either hire a local guide or stick with a group. Also, respect the environment—avoid littering and carry back all your waste.

Suggested Itinerary for a Weekend Trek

Here’s a simple plan if you want to experience Kodachadri in a weekend:

Day 1:

• Depart from Bangalore (overnight bus or drive).
• Reach Kollur by morning, freshen up, and start the trek.
• Visit Hidlumane Falls on the way.
• Reach the peak by evening for the sunset.
• Camp overnight or return via jeep to Kollur.

Day 2:

• Visit Mookambika Temple in Kollur.
• Explore Nagara Fort or Sharavathi backwaters.
• Head back to Bangalore by evening.

Final Thoughts – Why Kodachadri Stays in My Heart

The Kodachadri Trek is not just about climbing a hill—it’s about reconnecting with nature, slowing down, and finding beauty in the simplest things. The chirping of birds in the forest, the cold splash of Hidlumane Falls, the golden hues of the sunset, and the mystical fog on the peak—all of it stitched together into an experience I’ll never forget.

If you’re looking for a trek that combines adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty, Kodachadri should be on your list. It’s the kind of journey that reminds you why we travel in the first place—not just to reach a destination, but to feel alive every step of the way.