Kurinjal Trek – A Hidden Gem in the Western Ghats You’ll Fall in Love With

If you’ve ever dreamt of walking through misty forests, breathing in the scent of wild earth, and standing atop a peak where clouds brush against your face, the Kurinjal Trek is the adventure you’re looking for. Tucked inside the Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka, Kurinjal is one of those lesser-known trails that offers the perfect balance of solitude, natural beauty, and challenge. Unlike the busier trekking routes, it’s raw, green, and refreshingly untouched — ideal for trekkers who want to experience the authentic wilderness of the Western Ghats.

Let’s dive into this scenic trail together — exploring everything from how to reach, the best time to visit, and local tips, to what makes the Kurinjal Trek a must-do for every nature lover.

1. Discovering the Kurinjal Trek: The Soul of Kudremukh National Park

Located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, the Kurinjal Peak stands tall at around 5,750 feet, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats’ rolling green hills. The trail runs through the Kudremukh National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity, tropical rainforests, and abundant wildlife.

What makes the Kurinjal Trek so captivating is its sheer variety. One moment you’re walking under the dense canopy of evergreen forests, and the next, you’re out on open grasslands with sweeping mountain views. The trek’s moderate difficulty makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers — challenging enough to get your adrenaline going, but not so tough that you can’t stop to admire the scenery.

And the best part? It’s still off the typical tourist radar. You’ll often find yourself completely alone with nature — the chirping of birds, the rustle of leaves, and the sound of distant waterfalls being your only company.

2. The Trekking Route: A Walk Through Nature’s Canvas

The Kurinjal trek trailhead starts near the Kurinjal village, about 12 km from Kudremukh township. You’ll first need to get permission from the Forest Department (since the route passes through a protected area), and a guide is mandatory for safety reasons.

The trek usually takes 4–5 hours to ascend and 2–3 hours to descend, covering roughly 7–8 km one way. The initial part of the trail runs through thick forest patches where sunlight filters in soft golden rays, illuminating ferns and moss-covered trees. As you climb higher, the terrain gradually opens into meadows, and the cool mountain breeze greets you with a rush of freshness.

The final stretch is slightly steep, but when you reach the summit, every drop of sweat feels worth it. From the top, you can see endless green valleys, mist-cloaked ridges, and even glimpses of the Kudremukh Peak on a clear day.

If you’re lucky, you might spot Malabar giant squirrels, deer, or hornbills along the way — a reminder that this is not just a trek, but a walk through a living ecosystem.

3. Best Time to Visit: When the Mountains Come Alive

The best time to do the Kurinjal Trek is between October and February, during the post-monsoon and winter months. This is when the skies are clear, the grasslands are still lush, and the temperature is pleasantly cool (around 15–25°C).

If you visit during the monsoon season (June to September), the forest becomes even greener, waterfalls come alive, and the entire region feels ethereal — but the trail can be slippery and leech-infested, so it’s best left for seasoned trekkers.

Summer (March to May) is warm and dry, but still manageable if you start early in the morning. However, the misty beauty that defines the Kurinjal trail is at its best right after the rains.

4. How to Reach Kurinjal: The Gateway to Kudremukh

Reaching the Kurinjal Trek base is part of the adventure itself.

• By Road: The nearest major town is Karkala (35 km), well connected by road to Mangalore (110 km) and Chikmagalur (120 km). From these towns, you can hire a jeep or cab to reach Kudremukh township, and then to Kurinjal village.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Mangalore Junction, from where you can take a taxi or local bus.
• By Air: Mangalore International Airport (115 km) is the closest airport. From there, a scenic 3–4-hour drive through winding mountain roads brings you to the trek base.

If you’re traveling from Bangalore, it’s about 330 km and takes 7–8 hours by road. Many trekkers prefer to drive down or join organized weekend treks that include transport and forest permissions.

5. Local Tips, Trekking Essentials & Nearby Attractions

Before you set off on your Kurinjal adventure, here are a few practical insights that’ll make your experience smooth and memorable.

Local Tips:

• Start your trek early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise and avoid the midday sun.
• Carry enough water (at least 2 liters), as there are limited sources along the way.
• Wear trekking shoes with good grip — parts of the trail can be muddy or rocky.
• Always take a local guide; they know the route, flora, and fauna well.
• Avoid littering; the forest is protected, and the ecosystem is fragile.

Nearby Attractions:

After your trek, you can explore other scenic spots within Kudremukh National Park, like the Kudremukh Peak Trek, Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls, and Kadambi Falls. The Gangamoola Hill, known as the origin of three major rivers — Tunga, Bhadra, and Nethravathi — is also worth a visit.

If you have an extra day, head to Sringeri, a historic temple town about 50 km away, or unwind at Kalasa, known for its ancient temples and riverside views.

6. Budgeting, Stay Options & Travel Safety

The Kurinjal Trek is quite affordable compared to many other treks in the Western Ghats. The entry fee and forest permission typically cost around ₹500–₹700 per person, and the guide fee is an additional ₹500–₹800 for the group.

For accommodation, you can stay at Kudremukh township, Kalasa, or Balegal village, which offer comfortable homestays and eco-lodges starting from ₹1,000–₹2,500 per night. Some popular stays also arrange guided treks, transport, and meals, making planning easier.

When it comes to safety, the trail is well-marked but remote. Always inform someone about your plan, carry basic medical supplies, and respect wildlife boundaries. Mobile networks may be weak, so download offline maps in advance.

Budget-wise, a 2-day trip from Bangalore (including travel, stay, meals, and entry fees) would typically cost between ₹4,000–₹6,000, depending on your travel style.

7. Why Kurinjal Trek Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

In a region where treks like Kudremukh and Mullayanagiri often steal the spotlight, Kurinjal remains quietly magical. It’s one of those trails that hasn’t been commercialized, where every step feels like a conversation with nature. The sound of distant waterfalls, the mist curling through trees, and the sense of isolation from the world above make it an experience that’s as spiritual as it is adventurous.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a weekend wanderer, the Kurinjal Trek offers something rare — a chance to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with yourself. It’s not just about reaching the peak; it’s about the journey through nature’s untouched heart.

So, pack your rucksack, lace up your boots, and get ready to lose (and find) yourself in the wild embrace of Kurinjal — a trek that quietly wins your heart, one step at a time.