Kurinjal Trek: A Hidden Gem of the Western Ghats in Karnataka

If you’re searching for a trek that’s scenic, offbeat, and far from the crowded trails, the Kurinjal Trek in Karnataka should be on your radar. Nestled in the Kudremukh National Park, Kurinjal is a lesser-known trek that combines lush forests, rolling grasslands, and sweeping views of the Western Ghats. It’s perfect for those who crave solitude in the lap of nature while still wanting a dose of adventure.

Unlike some of the more famous treks in South India, Kurinjal has retained its wild, untouched charm. Walking its trail feels like stepping into a nature documentary—mist clinging to hills, birds calling in the distance, and endless greenery stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Why the Kurinjal Trek is Special

At about 1,150 meters above sea level, Kurinjal Peak may not be the tallest in the region, but it offers a view that punches far above its height. From the summit, you can see layers of undulating hills, forests that seem untouched by time, and the rich biodiversity of Kudremukh National Park, which is home to everything from Malabar giant squirrels to sambars and hornbills.

What makes this trek particularly appealing is its balance: it’s short enough to complete in a day, yet challenging enough to feel rewarding. The trail passes through multiple landscapes—thick shola forests, open grasslands, and rocky climbs—keeping you engaged from start to finish.

How to Reach Kurinjal

The trek starts near Balegal, a small village inside Kudremukh National Park. To get here:

• By Air: The closest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 110 km away. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus towards Kudremukh.
• By Train: The nearest major railway station is Mangalore Junction (110 km), well connected to Bangalore, Goa, and Kerala.
• By Road: From Bangalore, Kurinjal is about 330 km away (7–8 hours by road). You can take an overnight bus to Kalasa or Kudremukh and hire a jeep to Balegal. Driving your own car is also a great option if you enjoy winding roads through coffee estates and forests.

Best Time to Visit Kurinjal

The Western Ghats transform dramatically with the seasons, and Kurinjal is no exception:

• Winter (October to February): The most popular season. Skies are clear, temperatures hover around 12–20°C, and visibility is excellent. Perfect for first-timers.
• Monsoon (June to September): The forest comes alive with waterfalls, streams, and a vibrant green glow. But the trail gets slippery, leeches are abundant, and rain can disrupt plans. Best for seasoned trekkers.
• Summer (March to May): Hot and humid, especially in the afternoons. Not the best choice unless you start very early in the day.

For most travelers, October to January is the sweet spot. You get the best views without battling harsh weather.

The Trek Experience

The Kurinjal trek distance is about 7–8 km (one way), and it typically takes 4–5 hours to reach the peak, depending on your pace.

The first stretch winds through dense shola forests, where the air is cool, damp, and alive with bird calls. Walking here feels refreshing, almost like a natural air-conditioner powered by the trees.

Gradually, the trail opens into grassy meadows, with panoramic views of surrounding hills. The climb gets steeper here, and the sun can feel strong, so a cap and sunscreen are your friends.

The final push involves rocky patches that demand a bit of effort, but once you reach the summit, it’s all worth it. Standing at the top, you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view of Kudremukh National Park—rolling hills, valleys disappearing into mist, and endless green horizons. If the skies are clear, the landscape looks like an oil painting; if it’s cloudy, you might find yourself standing above a sea of drifting clouds.

Nearby Attractions

Kurinjal is located in the biodiverse heart of the Western Ghats, so it’s easy to extend your trip with other gems nearby:

• Kudremukh Peak: The more famous sibling trek, about 20 km away, known for its horse-face-shaped peak.
• Hanuman Gundi Falls: A beautiful waterfall cascading into a natural pool, perfect for a refreshing dip after your trek.
• Kalasa: A temple town surrounded by coffee estates, about 20 km away.
• Sringeri Sharada Peetha: An ancient temple and learning center established by Adi Shankaracharya, just 50 km from Kurinjal.

Tips and Safety for Trekkers

Kurinjal may be a moderate trek, but being prepared makes all the difference:

• Entry permits are mandatory. Get them from the Kudremukh forest office.
• Hire a guide. Forest officials usually assign one, and it’s a good idea both for navigation and safety.
• Carry enough water and snacks. There are no shops once you start.
• Leech protection: In monsoon, carry salt or leech socks.
• Start early. The forest department generally requires trekkers to finish and return by evening.
• Stay eco-friendly. Kudremukh is a protected area—carry back your trash and respect wildlife.

Budgeting for the Kurinjal Trek

The trek is budget-friendly, especially compared to Himalayan trails. Here’s what to expect:

• Forest Entry & Guide Fees: Around ₹500–₹800 per person.
• Transport: Buses from Bangalore to Kudremukh/Kalasa cost ₹700–₹1,000 one way. Shared jeeps to Balegal may cost another ₹200–₹400.
• Accommodation: Homestays in Kalasa or Kudremukh range from ₹1,000–₹1,500 per person with meals.
• Food: Local meals at homestays or dhabas cost ₹200–₹300 per meal.

A 2–3 day Kurinjal trek trip typically costs around ₹4,000–₹6,000 per person, depending on your travel style.

Why Kurinjal Belongs on Your List

The Kurinjal Trek is one of those experiences that remind you why the Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s less crowded than Kudremukh, but every bit as beautiful, with its forests, grasslands, and sweeping valley views.

For a weekend getaway from Bangalore or Mangalore, it strikes the perfect balance: short, affordable, and immensely rewarding. Whether you’re a beginner looking to test your stamina or a seasoned trekker hunting for hidden gems, Kurinjal delivers.

At the summit, as the wind whips through the grasslands and the horizon stretches endlessly, you’ll realize that some of the best adventures are not always the most famous ones—they’re the ones that surprise you.