Trekking Through Time: Discover the Wild Heart of Netravati Peak

Hidden deep within the lush folds of Karnataka’s Western Ghats lies a trail that feels like a step back in time — untouched, untamed, and teeming with the raw beauty of nature. The Netravati Peak Trek isn’t just another mountain adventure; it’s a soulful escape for those who crave authenticity and wilderness over luxury and crowds. If you’ve ever dreamt of walking through mist-laden forests, listening to the whisper of ancient trees, and waking up to valleys veiled in clouds, this journey is your calling.

The Allure of Netravati: Where the Wild Still Whispers

Perched near the scenic town of Kudremukh in Chikmagalur, Netravati Peak stands tall at around 1,520 meters. The name comes from the Netravati River, which originates here and flows gracefully toward the Arabian Sea. But beyond its geographical significance, this trek holds a spiritual charm — a sense that you’re wandering through land that time forgot.

The path to Netravati is wrapped in dense shola forests, rolling meadows, and countless hidden streams. As you ascend, the air grows cooler, and the symphony of cicadas gives way to the rhythmic beat of your boots against soft earth. You’ll come across fleeting glimpses of wild orchids, butterflies, and maybe even the Malabar giant squirrel swinging through the canopy above.

There’s something humbling about standing atop the peak, surrounded by uninterrupted vistas of the Western Ghats. You can almost feel the pulse of the forest — ancient, alive, and unchanging.

How to Reach the Trailhead: Getting to the Heart of the Ghats

The journey to Netravati Peak begins at Samse, a small village that serves as the base point for the trek.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (110 km). From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Kalasa or Kudremukh.
• By Train: The closest major railhead is Mangalore Junction, well connected to major cities like Bengaluru, Kochi, and Mumbai.
• By Road: From Bengaluru (around 330 km), it’s a scenic 7–8 hour drive via Hassan and Chikmagalur. Buses to Kalasa are frequent, and jeeps can be hired locally to reach Samse.

The final stretch to the trekking point is an adventure in itself — winding forest roads, misty valleys, and small villages where time seems to move slower. It’s advisable to start early in the morning to catch the magical play of light through the trees.

The Trekking Experience: Step by Step Through Nature’s Masterpiece

The Netravati Peak Trek is typically a two-day expedition — moderate in difficulty but rich in rewards. Day one begins from Samse, where you’ll enter the Kudremukh National Park area after securing the necessary forest permissions.

The trail initially meanders through coffee plantations, their earthy aroma mingling with the mountain air. Soon, the terrain transitions into dense forests where sunlight filters through like golden dust. Streams crisscross your path, and the terrain becomes steeper, but every drop of sweat feels worth it when the valley opens up to panoramic views.

Halfway through, you’ll encounter grasslands dotted with wildflowers — a perfect spot to pause and refuel. As you near the summit, the trail narrows, and mist often cloaks the landscape, adding a sense of mystery. Reaching the top, the world below unfolds — green ridges stretching endlessly and clouds drifting lazily across the sky.

Pro Tip: Always trek with a local guide, as trails within the national park are protected zones and easy to get lost in.

When to Visit: Timing Your Adventure Right

The best time to visit Netravati Peak is between October and February, when the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the forests are lush from the monsoon’s afterglow.

During the monsoon months (June to September), the trek becomes more challenging — slippery trails, leeches, and unpredictable rains — but the scenery is at its most dramatic. If you’re an experienced trekker seeking raw adventure, the monsoon trek can be unforgettable.

Avoid the summer months (March to May) as the heat can sap your energy and reduce visibility due to haze.

Nearby Attractions: Extend Your Western Ghats Escape

If you’ve made it this far into the heart of Chikmagalur, there’s no reason to rush back. The region offers plenty of nearby gems that complement the Netravati experience.

• Kudremukh National Park: Known for its iconic horse-faced mountain, this is one of India’s most beautiful biodiversity zones.
• Hanuman Gundi Falls: A breathtaking waterfall cascading over rock formations — ideal for a cooling dip post-trek.
• Kalasa: A charming temple town on the banks of the Bhadra River, perfect for experiencing local culture.
• Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple: Known for its serene setting and free meals served to devotees — a soulful stop on your way back.

Each of these places adds another layer to your Netravati journey, blending nature, spirituality, and heritage seamlessly.

Local Tips, Safety, 

While Netravati Peak remains one of the lesser-commercialized treks in South India, a little preparation can go a long way.

• Stay Options: Basic homestays and guesthouses are available in Kalasa and Samse. For a more immersive experience, try a plantation stay surrounded by coffee estates.
• Safety: Always carry rain gear, sturdy trekking shoes, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit. Avoid night treks — the forest can be unpredictable, and visibility drops sharply after dusk.
• Local Etiquette: Respect the environment. Avoid littering, stay on designated trails, and minimize noise — this is leopard, deer, and bird territory.

And of course, don’t trek alone. The Western Ghats are mesmerizing but can be disorienting, especially during misty spells.

Suggested Itinerary: Two Days in the Wild Heart

Day 1:

• Arrive at Kalasa or Samse early morning.
• Register at the forest office and meet your guide.
• Begin your trek through plantations and forest trails.
• Reach the base campsite by evening. Set up tents and enjoy a campfire under a star-lit sky.

Day 2:

• Start the final climb to the peak at dawn.
• Soak in panoramic views and descend after breakfast.
• Return to Samse by afternoon and travel back to Kalasa or Chikmagalur.

Simple, raw, and deeply rewarding — just the way true adventures should be.

Why Netravati Peak Should Be on Your Bucket List

In an era when many trails have turned into tourist highways, Netravati Peak remains beautifully wild and unspoiled. It’s not about ticking off another destination; it’s about reconnecting with the essence of travel — curiosity, humility, and wonder.

Standing on that misty summit, as clouds swirl around you and the wind hums through the grass, you’ll realize that Netravati isn’t just a trek. It’s a journey inward — into silence, into simplicity, into yourself.