Trekking Through India’s Wildlife Heartlands: In Bandipur, Bannerghatta, and Kudremukh National Park

Overview 

If you are an adventure and wildlife enthusiast willing to feel the thrill while exploring the rich biodiversity and diverse landscapes then Bandipur, Bannerghatta, and Kudremukh National Parks in Karnataka are a must-visit. Enjoy trekking through the picturesque trails and soak in the beauty of western ghats. Trekkers will also get a chance to spot leopards, tigers, and uncountable species of birds. A trek through the hills, dense forests, and waterfalls will make you fall in love with nature all over again.
There is something for every type of trekker and the journey guarantees an unforgettable journey through the wild and nature. 

Trekking in Bandipur National Park 

Trekking through the diverse landscapes of Bandipur promises an unforgettable journey. This activity is most loved by the adventure junkies visiting Bandipur. Trekking here is not just about the physical expedition, but this is a journey through the heart of the wild offering natural beauty and wildlife encounters. Bandipur National Park is divided into distinct regions, letting you explore the trails that meander beside lakes, serene rivers, dense forests, and waterfalls. One of the most popular treks in the area is the Gopalaswamy Hills trek. This trek takes you to the park’s highest point and there you can see the Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple. 

If you want to feel more connected to nature then you can seek permits from the forest department and enjoy camping at the beautiful spots. Camping here also gives you a chance to explore the picturesque trails of Brahmagiri. 

Trekking in Bannerghatta National Park 

Bannerghatta National Park near Bangalore is a nature and wildlife lover haven that offers some unique and picture-perfect trails to all the adventure junkies willing to escape busy city life and reconnect with nature. While exploring the trails of this park, trekkers can soak in the lush green surroundings and rich biodiversity. The most well-known trekking trail in Bannerghatta is the Suvarnamuki Temple Loop. The total distance you will cover on this trek is around 2.5 km and the route passes through ancient temples and dense forests. 

Enjoy the views of the surrounding landscapes and be ready for unexpected wildlife encounters including animals like deer and monkeys. Some lucky trekkers might get a chance to spot rare animals like sloth bears and leopards. Whether you are a novice or an experienced trekker, Banneghatta National Park has trekking trails for everyone. 

Trekking in Kudremukh National Park 

Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka is known for its best trekking trails for an adventurous hike or beginner-friendly treks. There are Nemours trekking trails for hiking, walking, birdwatching, etc. Some of the most popular treks in this national park are Kudremukh Trek, Netravati Peak Trek, Bandaje Falls Trek, and Kurinjal Peak Trek. The Kudremukh Peak stands  1,234 metres tall and it promises a memorable trek journey through the rugged trails enjoying the views of forests and meadows. If you seek an easier and a beautiful trek just like the Kudremukh Trek then you can go for the Netravati Peak Trek which starts from Samse village and rewards trekkers with spectacular scenery throughout the trek. 

Want can be more enchanting than a trek to the waterfall? The Bandaje waterfall trek provides photographers and nature lovers a chance to live their dream and immerse in the true beauty of nature. Last but not least, Kurinjal Peak Trek is another famous trek that offers stunning views of hills and landscapes. 

Best Time for Trekking 

The most suitable time for trekking in all the national parks is during the winter season. During the months from October to February weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. This increases the chances of wildlife sightings and ensures a comfortable trek experience. Visibility is also clear during the winter months allowing visitors to have clear sights of landscapes, meadows, streams, waterfalls, and valleys that might come across on the way. 

Summer season is also good for early morning treks when the heat is not intense and you can enjoy the trek in cool weather. It can be uncomfortable for some to trek in summer due to intense heat, so it is better you avoid this season or if you are willing to visit then make sure you go for early morning treks. 

Monsoon season is not recommended for trekking in these regions as the National Parks Receive heavy rainfall and it is risky to trek on slippery trails. 

Things to Pack 

Check out this list of essentials to carry on your trekking journey and pack accordingly.

• Warm clothes for cold early mornings and evenings. 
• Trekking pants
• Sturdy and comfortable shoes 
• Trekking pole
• Safety kit
• A camera
• A backpack 
• Water bottle
• Lunch box
• Essential medicines 
• Permits (if required)
• A valid ID proof 
• Snacks like chocolate, nuts, and dry fruits 
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cap 

FAQ’s 

Q1. Are these treks in national parks difficult? 

There are several treks in these national parks that range from easy, moderate, and challenging levels. 

Q2. Can I do these treks solo?

You can do these treks solo but it is advised to hire a local guide for safety. This guide will share insights and take care of your safety throughout the journey. 

Q3. What kind of animals can be seen while trekking?

While trekking in this region trekkers might encounter wildlife including leopards, elephants, tigers, deer, monkeys, and a variety of bird species. 

Conclusion 

That’s all about these national parks and trekking opportunities available here. Situated in Karnataka Bandipur, Bannerghatta, and Kudremukh National Parks are some of the perfect places for trekking enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. These places combine both experiences in one. You can feel the thrill of trekking and get a chance to encounter wildlife at the same time. Some lucky trekkers might get a chance to spot elusive leopards as well. So, why waste time? Embark on this adventure and make memories to cherish forever.