Tadiandmol Trek: A Journey into the Heart of Coorg’s Misty Mountains

There are treks that challenge your stamina, and then there are treks that soothe your soul. For me, the Tadiandmol Trek in Coorg fell into the second category. Standing tall as the highest peak in Kodagu (Coorg), Karnataka, at about 1,748 meters, Tadiandmol is a trekker’s delight wrapped in green valleys, rolling hills, and mist that seems to weave magic around every bend. It’s not just a trek—it’s an intimate encounter with the untouched beauty of the Western Ghats.

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through clouds, listening to birdsong, and watching endless carpets of greenery stretch into the horizon, then Tadiandmol should be next on your list. Let me take you through my journey and share everything you need to know for planning yours.

The Call of the Western Ghats: Why Tadiandmol is Special

The trek begins quietly, without much fanfare. Unlike Himalayan treks that test your endurance with high altitudes, Tadiandmol greets you with a softer terrain—lush forests, coffee plantations, and streams that gurgle alongside. The landscape feels like it’s designed to heal city-weary minds.

What makes this trek special is its accessibility. It’s challenging enough to make you feel like you’ve achieved something, yet beginner-friendly, so even first-time trekkers can enjoy it. On clear days, the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, rolling Coorg hills, and sometimes even glimpses of Kerala on the other side.

But for me, the real magic lay in the mist. Coorg has this uncanny ability to make you feel like you’re walking through a dream, with clouds drifting across the path and dew-kissed grass under your boots.

How to Reach Tadiandmol: The Journey Before the Trek

Getting to the base of Tadiandmol is part of the adventure. The trek starts near a quaint village called Kakkabe, around 35 km from Madikeri, the heart of Coorg. From Bangalore, it’s roughly a 280 km drive, which takes about 6–7 hours. I’d suggest an early morning start from the city to avoid traffic and soak in the sunrise over the highway.

For those who prefer public transport, you can take a bus from Bangalore to Virajpet or Madikeri. From there, local taxis or jeeps can take you to the trek’s starting point. The roads, especially closer to Coorg, are winding but scenic—think coffee estates, spice plantations, and the occasional monkey hopping across the road.

I personally recommend staying overnight in Kakkabe or nearby homestays so you can begin the trek fresh in the morning. Plus, the hospitality of Coorg locals and their filter coffee is an experience in itself.

Best Time to Visit: When the Hills Are at Their Best

Choosing the right season can truly define your Tadiandmol experience.

• Winter (October to February): This is the most popular season. The skies are clearer, the air is crisp, and the trails are more comfortable to walk. I trekked in November, and the mornings were chilly enough for a light jacket, but the afternoons were perfect for walking.
• Monsoon (June to September): If you love dramatic landscapes and don’t mind a bit of adventure, monsoon brings out the wild beauty of Coorg. The hills turn a brighter green, streams overflow, and the mist is at its most enchanting. However, the trails can be slippery, so good trekking shoes are a must.
• Summer (March to May): While slightly warmer, summer still offers pleasant weather compared to the cities. Early mornings and evenings are especially rewarding.

My tip? If you’re going for the views, stick to post-monsoon or winter. But if you’re chasing raw, untamed nature, monsoon will steal your heart.

Walking the Trail: My Trekking Experience

The trek itself is around 8 km one way and takes about 4–5 hours depending on your pace. It’s a steady climb rather than a steep push, which makes it manageable for most. The trail meanders through coffee plantations at the start, gradually leading into dense shola forests. The shade of these forests is refreshing, and the earthy smell after a drizzle is something I’ll never forget.

As you move higher, the trees give way to open grasslands. This is where the views start opening up—rolling hills dotted with patches of forest, and if you’re lucky, the golden sun breaking through the mist. The last stretch to the summit is a little steeper, but the excitement of reaching the top keeps you going.

Standing at the peak of Tadiandmol, I felt a sense of calm more than triumph. The sight of endless green ridges fading into the horizon made the climb feel worth every step. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause, breathe deeply, and realize how small we are in the grand scheme of nature.

Local Tips, Safety, and Budgeting

A few things I learned along the way that might help you:

• Permits & Rules: A permit from the forest department is required for the trek. It’s usually arranged at the base, but check in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Stay Options: Homestays in Kakkabe and Virajpet are the best bet. They’re affordable (₹1,000–2,000 per night with meals) and offer a warm, local experience. Camping at the peak is not allowed, so plan to descend before evening.
• Food: Carry some light snacks and water. You’ll find small eateries in Kakkabe, but nothing on the trail.
• Safety: Always trek in a group or with a local guide, especially if it’s your first time. The trail is fairly straightforward, but mist can sometimes reduce visibility.
• Budget: A weekend trip from Bangalore to Tadiandmol can be comfortably done within ₹3,000–5,000 depending on whether you’re driving or using public transport.

Suggested Itinerary and Nearby Attractions

If you’re planning a weekend, here’s what worked for me:

• Day 1: Leave Bangalore early, reach Coorg by afternoon, check into a homestay near Kakkabe, explore the local coffee plantations, and enjoy a relaxed evening.
• Day 2: Begin the trek early morning, reach the peak by late morning, descend, and return to your homestay for lunch. In the evening, visit Nalknad Palace, an ancient structure nestled at the base of the trek, which adds a cultural touch to your trip.
• Day 3: Before heading back, explore Madikeri—visit Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and perhaps a coffee estate tour.

This way, your trip is not just about the trek but also about soaking in the flavors of Coorg.

Final Thoughts: Why Tadiandmol Should Be on Your List

For someone like me who often seeks peace in the mountains, Tadiandmol was more than just another trek. It combined everything I love—natural beauty, a touch of adventure, local culture, and the simplicity of rural life. Whether you’re a beginner trekker or a seasoned hiker looking for a short getaway, Tadiandmol fits perfectly.

It’s not just about reaching the summit but about every step along the way—the quiet forests, the smell of coffee blossoms, the mist wrapping around you like a blanket. If you’re searching for a trek that leaves you refreshed rather than exhausted, Tadiandmol is the answer.

So, pack your bag, lace up your shoes, and let the hills of Coorg remind you what it feels like to truly breathe.