Netravati Trek – A Hidden Trail Through the Heart of the Western Ghats

If you love trekking through untouched forests, misty meadows, and wild mountain ridges, the Netravati Trek in Karnataka will steal your heart. It’s one of those rare trails that still feels raw and untouched — far from the crowds and chaos of commercial treks. I remember my first time trekking here; it wasn’t just about reaching the peak, but about losing myself in the silence and rhythm of nature. Every turn of the trail feels like a new discovery.

Let’s dive deep into what makes the Netravati Trek one of the most rewarding and offbeat adventures in the Western Ghats — from how to get there, the best time to visit, what to expect, and a few local tips from my experience.

Where Is the Netravati Trek and Why It’s Special

The Netravati Peak Trek lies in the Charmadi Ghat range, close to the Kudremukh National Park region in Karnataka. The peak is named after the Netravati River, which originates from these hills and flows down to Mangalore before joining the Arabian Sea.

The trail offers a perfect blend of dense shola forests, gushing streams, steep climbs, and vast grasslands that open up to breathtaking valley views. Unlike more famous treks like Kudremukh or Kodachadri, Netravati is quieter and less commercial — which means you can still experience the untouched wilderness of the Western Ghats.

What really makes this trek special is its shifting landscape. One moment, you’re walking through thick, dark forests echoing with bird calls, and the next, you’re standing on open grass slopes surrounded by rolling clouds. It’s raw, wild, and absolutely beautiful.

How to Reach Netravati Trek Base

The starting point of the Netravati Trek is the small village of Samse, located near Kalasa in the Chikmagalur district.

• By Road: From Bangalore, it’s about 330 km, which takes roughly 7–8 hours by car. The drive via Hassan – Mudigere – Kalasa is scenic, with coffee estates and winding ghats along the way.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Mangalore, around 110 km away. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Kalasa or Samse.
• By Bus: KSRTC and private buses regularly run from Bangalore to Kalasa or Horanadu. From Kalasa, local jeeps can take you to the trek’s base point.

Before starting the trek, you’ll need permission from the Kudremukh Forest Department, as the trail passes through protected forest land. Most trekking groups handle this for you, but if you’re going independently, it’s best to check in advance.

Best Time to Visit Netravati Trek

The best time to visit Netravati Trek is between October and February, just after the monsoon and before the summer heat kicks in. During this period, the weather is pleasantly cool, the sky is clear, and the landscape is bursting with shades of green.

The post-monsoon season (October–November) is especially magical — streams are still flowing, and the forests are alive with mist and moisture.

While monsoon treks (June–September) might sound tempting, they’re only recommended for experienced trekkers because the trail gets slippery, and leeches can be a hassle. The summer months (March–May) are warmer and drier, but you lose some of that lush, green beauty that makes the Western Ghats so special.

The Trek Experience – What to Expect on the Trail

The Netravati Peak Trek is moderately difficult, covering about 12–14 km one way. The first stretch takes you through dense forest trails, where you’ll cross small streams and walk under thick canopies that block most sunlight. It’s cool, damp, and incredibly peaceful.

About halfway up, the forest opens into rolling meadows — this is where the real magic begins. The views are stunning, with clouds floating below you and distant peaks emerging from the mist. The air feels lighter, fresher, and quieter than anywhere else.

The final ascent to the peak is steeper, but every step is worth it once you reach the top. On a clear day, you can see layers of green ridges stretching endlessly, and if you’re lucky, even the faint glimmer of the Arabian Sea far away.

The trek usually takes 6–7 hours to ascend and about 4–5 hours to descend. Many groups choose to camp near the base or midway, and waking up to sunrise over the Ghats is an unforgettable sight.

Budget, Accommodation, and Safety Tips

• Budget: A weekend trek to Netravati (including transport, permits, food, and guide) usually costs between ₹3,000–₹5,000 per person if you go with a trekking group. Independent travellers can manage for slightly less.
• Stay Options: You can stay overnight at Kalasa or Samse, where several homestays offer simple accommodation and home-cooked Coorg-style meals.
• Food: Carry enough snacks and water. If camping, make sure your group brings packed meals or dry food since there are no food stalls along the way.
• Packing Tips: Good trekking shoes, rain protection (even in winter), insect repellent, salt for leeches, flashlight, and basic first-aid are essentials.
• Safety: Stick with your group and follow the guide. The forest area can be confusing, and network connectivity drops after Samse.

Suggested 2-Day Netravati Trek Itinerary

Day 1:

• Start early from Bangalore and reach Kalasa by afternoon.
• Check into a local homestay, freshen up, and enjoy local meals.
• Visit Kalasa Temple or Hanuman Gundi Falls nearby in the evening.

Day 2:

• Start the trek from Samse village early morning (around 6 a.m.).
• Trek through the forest, cross streams, and reach the peak by noon.
• Have packed lunch at the top while soaking in the panoramic views.
• Descend by late afternoon and return to Kalasa by evening.
• Drive back to Bangalore the next morning or stay another night to relax.

Nearby Attractions You Can Add

If you have a little more time, there are plenty of nearby attractions worth visiting:

• Kudremukh Peak Trek – Another beautiful trail in the same region.
• Hebbe Falls – A stunning waterfall near Chikmagalur.
• Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple – A peaceful temple just a short drive from Kalasa.
• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary – Ideal for nature walks and birdwatching.

These spots add variety to your trip and give you a deeper taste of the Western Ghats’ beauty.

Final Thoughts – Why Netravati Trek Is Worth It

What I loved most about the Netravati Trek is how untouched it still feels. There are no crowds, no littered trails, and no rush to reach the top. Just you, the sound of the wind through the trees, and the slow rhythm of your own footsteps.

It’s not the easiest trek — you’ll sweat, slip, and maybe curse the steep climbs a few times — but by the end, you’ll feel lighter, calmer, and more connected to nature than before. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why trekking isn’t just a physical journey but a mental reset.

So, if you’re craving an offbeat adventure that’s close enough for a weekend but far enough to feel like another world, Netravati Trek is exactly where you should be heading next. Lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and let the Western Ghats show you what real wilderness feels like.

window.NREUM||(NREUM={});NREUM.info={"beacon":"bam.nr-data.net","licenseKey":"NRJS-3109bb2e2783f515265","applicationID":"558315209","transactionName":"blUHbEVQCxECBUVQWVcfMEpeHhARBhRCFlRVXwIXVEMAAxcDU1VZXh4VUEc=","queueTime":0,"applicationTime":137,"atts":"QhIEGg1KGB8=","errorBeacon":"bam.nr-data.net","agent":""}