My Unforgettable Tadiandamol Trek Experience in Coorg

Every once in a while, you find a place that makes you pause — where mist hugs the hills, and every step feels like you’re walking through a dream. For me, that place was Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Coorg, Karnataka. At 5,735 ft, it’s the perfect trek for anyone who loves a mix of adventure, serenity, and nature’s untouched beauty.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer looking for a weekend getaway, the Tadiandamol Trek is one experience you’ll never forget. Here’s how my journey unfolded — and everything you need to know before you pack your bags.

Getting There – The Journey to Coorg’s Tallest Peak

My adventure began with an early morning drive from Bangalore to Coorg, about 270 km away. The route — Bangalore → Mysore → Virajpet → Kakkabe — is scenic, filled with winding roads, lush coffee estates, and the smell of fresh rain on red soil.The base point for the trek is a small village called Kakkabe, about 8 km from Nalaknad Palace. Most trekkers stay in Madikeri or Virajpet the night before and start early the next day.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can take a KSRTC bus from Bangalore to Virajpet and hire a jeep or cab to reach Kakkabe. The drive itself feels like part of the adventure — a peaceful prelude before the climb.

The Trek Experience – Walking into the Clouds

We started the Tadiandamol trek just after sunrise, and within minutes, the forest wrapped us in its cool embrace. The trail is moderate — not too tough, not too easy — stretching about 7–8 km one way, and takes 4–5 hours to reach the summit.

The first stretch is a muddy trail surrounded by coffee plantations and cardamom fields, followed by dense Shola forests. You’ll hear birds calling, leaves crunching under your feet, and the soft whisper of mountain breeze.

As we climbed higher, the trees thinned out, and mist rolled over the hills. The final stretch was steep, but the view from the top was worth every drop of sweat — a sea of rolling green hills disappearing into clouds. It felt like standing at the edge of heaven.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot wildflowers, butterflies, or a deer or two in the forests below.

Best Time to Visit Tadiandamol Trek

The best time for the Tadiandamol trek is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and the sky clear. During this time, the hills wear a deep green carpet, and the mornings are cool and misty.

If you enjoy rain and don’t mind a slippery trail, June to September brings a completely different charm — misty forests, gurgling streams, and vibrant greenery everywhere. However, the monsoon also makes the path muddy, so good trekking shoes are a must.

Avoid trekking in the peak summer months (April–May), as the sun can get quite harsh.

The Itinerary – How to Plan Your Trek

Here’s a simple 2-day itinerary that worked perfectly for me:

Day 1:

• Depart from Bangalore early morning (around 4–5 AM).
• Reach Kakkabe by afternoon (stop for breakfast at Mysore).
• Check in to a homestay near Nalaknad Palace, explore nearby waterfalls or coffee estates.
• Enjoy a cozy dinner and rest early.

Day 2:

• Start your trek around 6:30 AM.
• Reach the summit by 10:30–11:00 AM, soak in the panoramic views.
• Descend by afternoon and visit Nalaknad Palace, a small historical fort built by the Kodagu kings.
• Return to Madikeri or start your journey back to Bangalore.

It’s short, refreshing, and easy to fit into a weekend — which makes it ideal for city dwellers looking for a quick nature escape.

Budget and Trek Essentials

The Tadiandamol trek is quite budget-friendly. Here’s an approximate cost breakdown:

• Transport (Bangalore – Coorg – Bangalore): ₹1,000–₹1,500 (bus or shared cab)
• Homestay (1 night): ₹800–₹1,200 per person
• Food: ₹500–₹800
• Local transport to base point: ₹300–₹600
• Entry fee & guide (if needed): ₹100–₹500

Total average cost: ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per person, depending on your stay and travel options.

Things to carry:

• Comfortable trekking shoes
• Light rain jacket (even in winter)
• Water bottle and light snacks
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Personal medicines and a small first-aid kit

Nearby Attractions – More to Explore in Coorg

Once you’ve conquered Tadiandamol, don’t rush back! Coorg has so much more to explore:

• Chelavara Falls: A stunning waterfall just 15 km from Kakkabe.
• Nalaknad Palace: A historic site at the base of the trek, great for a quick visit.
• Madikeri Fort & Raja’s Seat: Perfect for sunset views and a bit of history.
• Coffee estate tours: Most homestays offer a peek into Coorg’s coffee culture — aromatic, earthy, and unforgettable.

If you have time, spend an extra day soaking in Coorg’s peaceful rhythm — sipping local coffee, chatting with friendly hosts, and breathing in the mountain air.

Final Thoughts – Why Tadiandamol Stays With You

The Tadiandamol Trek isn’t just about reaching a peak — it’s about slowing down, breathing deeply, and reconnecting with nature. It’s challenging enough to make you proud, yet calming enough to make you forget the rush of city life.When I stood at the summit, watching the clouds drift past the green valleys, I realized how some journeys don’t just change your view — they change your pace.

So if you’re craving a weekend full of fresh air, mountain trails, and peaceful silence, pack your bag and head to Tadiandamol, Coorg’s crown jewel. The hills are calling — and trust me, they’re worth answering.