Kurinjal Trek: An Offbeat Gem in the Heart of Kudremukh National Park

If you’re someone who loves trekking but prefers trails that aren’t overcrowded, the Kurinjal Trek is a perfect choice. Nestled inside Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka, this offbeat trek offers everything a nature lover could ask for—lush forests, rolling meadows, panoramic views, and the calm that comes with being far away from noisy tourist crowds.

I did this trek last year, and it felt like walking through a hidden world that only a few adventurers know about. It may not be as famous as Kudremukh Peak or Kodachadri, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

Where is Kurinjal Trek?

Kurinjal is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, inside the pristine Kudremukh National Park. The trek begins near Balegal village, about 10–12 km from Kudremukh town. The trail is well-protected since it lies in a biodiversity hotspot—permits are mandatory, and entry is monitored by forest officials. This ensures the environment stays unspoiled and also keeps the trek safe for visitors.

The trek distance is roughly 7 km one way (around 14 km round trip), which makes it doable in a single day.

The Trekking Experience

The first part of the trail takes you through dense, evergreen forests. Walking under the canopy, you hear birds chirping and streams flowing—it’s almost like stepping into a natural orchestra. The air feels cooler and fresher, thanks to the thick greenery.

As you climb higher, the forest opens into vast rolling meadows. This transition is breathtaking—the sudden openness, with endless green hills stretching as far as you can see, makes you want to pause and just take it all in. The final stretch is a little steep, but the panoramic view from the top is worth every step. On a clear day, you can see endless layers of hills, valleys, and clouds dancing around the peaks.

Best Time to Do Kurinjal Trek

The ideal time is right after the monsoon, from September to February. The landscape is lush and green, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clearer. Monsoons themselves (June to August) have their own charm with misty trails and waterfalls, but the leeches can be a challenge. Summers (March–May) tend to get hotter and the grasslands turn brown, making it less scenic.

How to Reach Kurinjal

• By Road: Kurinjal is about 320 km from Bangalore. You can drive or take an overnight bus to Kudremukh or Kalasa, then hire a jeep to Balegal village (the base).
• By Train/Air: The nearest railway station is in Mangalore (approx. 100 km away). Mangalore Airport is also the closest for those flying in. From there, taxis or local buses can take you to Kudremukh.

Permits and Tips

Since the trek falls inside Kudremukh National Park, you’ll need to get permission from the forest department. Usually, trekking organizers arrange this, but if you’re going on your own, head to the forest office at Kudremukh or Balegal. Entry fees apply, and the number of trekkers allowed daily is limited.

A few tips from my experience:

• Wear proper trekking shoes, as the trail can be slippery.
• Carry at least 2 liters of water and some snacks.
• Stick to eco-friendly practices—avoid plastics and don’t disturb the wildlife.
• Start early in the day so you can finish the trek comfortably before evening.

Why You Should Do Kurinjal Trek

What I loved most about Kurinjal is the peace. Unlike crowded treks, here you often find yourself walking in silence, with just your group and nature around you. The mix of forest, grasslands, and ridge-top views gives you a little bit of everything in one trek. And because it’s inside a national park, the environment feels wild and untouched, making the whole experience even more memorable.

If you’re looking for an offbeat trek near Bangalore that’s moderately challenging yet deeply rewarding, the Kurinjal Trek is a must-do. It’s one of those trails where the journey itself is as beautiful as the destination.