Tadiandamol Trek: A Weekend Escape to Coorg’s Highest Peak

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through misty hills, lush forests, and sprawling grasslands with nothing but nature around you, the Tadiandamol Trek should be on your bucket list. Located in the heart of Coorg (Kodagu district, Karnataka), Tadiandamol is the highest peak in Coorg and the third highest in Karnataka, standing proudly at 1,748 meters.

This trek is one of those rare adventures that’s equally loved by beginners and seasoned trekkers. It’s challenging enough to keep you excited, yet easy enough for first-timers to attempt. And the reward? Endless views of the Western Ghats, where rolling green valleys meet a sky often painted with drifting clouds.

Why Trekking Tadiandamol is Worth It

Tadiandamol has a charm that goes beyond just being the tallest peak in Coorg. The trail itself is a delightful mix—dense shola forests where the sunlight barely peeks through, wide open meadows where the wind whips across your face, and ridges that make you feel like you’re walking on the edge of the world.

The mist here has a personality of its own. Sometimes it hides everything, making you feel like you’re trekking into a dream. Other times, it parts for a moment to reveal sweeping views of valleys and faraway peaks. That unpredictability is what makes Tadiandamol magical.

Best Time to Visit Tadiandamol

The Western Ghats change dramatically with each season, and so does your trekking experience:

• Monsoon (June–September): The landscape is lush and alive with streams, but heavy rains make the trail slippery, and leeches are common. Ideal only for experienced trekkers.
• Post-Monsoon & Winter (October–February): This is the best time to trek Tadiandamol. Pleasant weather, clear skies, and greenery make it perfect for most trekkers.
• Summer (March–May): The heat picks up, but early morning treks are still enjoyable. Views are clearer with fewer clouds.

For first-time trekkers, October to January is the safest and most scenic choice.

How to Reach the Trek Base

The trek starts near Kakkabe village, about 35 km from Madikeri, the main town of Coorg.

• From Bangalore (270 km): The most common option is an overnight bus to Virajpet or Madikeri, followed by a taxi or jeep ride to Kakkabe.
• By Train: The nearest major station is Mysore (140 km), from where you can continue by road.
• By Air: Kannur International Airport (90 km) and Mangalore International Airport (150 km) are the closest airports.

At the base, you’ll also find the historic Nalknad Palace, a cultural gem that adds extra charm to the trek.

The Trekking Experience

The Tadiandamol Trek is around 7 km one way, making it a comfortable 5–6 hour trek (up and down). Rated as easy to moderate, it’s well-suited for beginners with basic fitness.

The trail begins gently, passing through forested sections where you’ll hear birdsong and the rustle of leaves. Soon, you’ll emerge into wide grasslands where the real views begin. The ascent is gradual but steady, with occasional steep patches.

The final stretch is slightly rocky, but when you step onto the summit, the effort is instantly forgotten. On clear days, you’ll see layers of green hills rolling into the distance, and if you’re lucky, even glimpses of Kerala’s Brahmagiri range.

Attractions Around Tadiandamol

Coorg is as much about culture as it is about nature, so pairing your trek with nearby experiences makes the trip even more rewarding:

• Nalknad Palace: At the trek base, this 18th-century palace is worth exploring for its murals and history.
• Chelavara Falls: A picturesque waterfall about 20 km away, perfect for a short detour.
• Dubare Elephant Camp: A family-friendly stop where you can spend time with elephants.
• Coffee Estates: Staying in a Coorg homestay inside a coffee plantation is an experience in itself.
• Madikeri Town: Visit Raja’s Seat for sunset views or Madikeri Fort for a dash of history.

Travel Tips & Budget

• Permission: Forest permission is required for the trek, usually arranged at the Kakkabe forest office or through trekking organizers.
• What to Pack: Comfortable trekking shoes, a water bottle, snacks, and a rain jacket if trekking in monsoon.
• Stay: Cozy homestays and guesthouses are available around Kakkabe and Virajpet, often set amidst coffee plantations.
• Budget: DIY trips typically cost between ₹2,500–₹4,000 per person (transport, food, and stay). Organized group treks are priced between ₹3,500–₹5,000.
• Safety: Always trek in groups, avoid littering, and carry enough water since natural sources are limited along the way.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

• Travel from Bangalore to Coorg (overnight or early morning start).
• Arrive in Kakkabe by afternoon, check into a homestay.
• Explore Nalknad Palace or take a plantation walk.

Day 2:

• Start trek early (6–7 AM) for cool weather.
• Reach summit by late morning and enjoy the views.
• Descend by early afternoon.
• Return to Kakkabe, freshen up, and head back to Bangalore.

Final Thoughts

The Tadiandamol Trek is proof that sometimes the most memorable adventures don’t require extreme difficulty. With its mix of forest trails, grassy ridges, and unforgettable views, it offers a refreshing escape into nature without overwhelming beginners.

Add in Coorg’s cultural richness and hospitality, and your trek becomes more than just a hike—it’s a wholesome weekend experience. So, if you’re planning your next escape from the city, let Tadiandamol be your doorway into the tranquil beauty of the Western Ghats.