How to reach the trek
The Chikmagalur to Kudremukh trek distance is hardly 9 km and there are three sections on this expedition.
1. The trail ascends gradually from the Forest Office to Ontimara.
Trek distance: 5 km | Trek duration: 2 hours
2. Trek from Ontimara 2, which has a harder slope, to the final stretch.
Trek distance: 3 km | Trek duration: 1 hour
3. From the last section to the peak, take the Ridge Walk
Trek distance: 1 km | Trek duration: 30 minutes
Best time for the trek
The best time to visit Kudremukh is between June and February. The Kalasa region, however, experiences excellent weather all year long. Many little streams, a shady shola forest, bamboo plants that reach the sky, and lush, undulating hills may all be seen throughout the monsoon and winter months. The hike includes stretches where you walk outside, under the stars. Trekking is however not advised throughout the summer. During the monsoon season of the Kudremukh trek, Chikmagalur transforms into an emerald paradise. Lush green meadows peeking behind the mountain will surely take your breath away. Carry some hot tea in the rucksack, and you will leave behind memories forever on this expedition.
What to expect on a Kudremukh Trek?
The grasslands and shrublands that may be seen in the western ghats are known locally as "shola." To get to the Kudremukh trek summit, you must hike through the shola forest. Numerous animals, including deer, lion-tailed macaques, Malabar giant squirrels, leopards, common langurs, and many others, call this forest home. If you're fortunate, you might see them while hiking. Every step in this segment can be found with leeches during the monsoon season. The little streams and waterfalls in this area are among its most captivating features. On the route to the peak, you have to cross a lot of streams and you might occasionally get your shoes wet, do pack accordingly.
The view from the top
The Kudremukh peak features a distinctive feature that, when viewed from the side, resembles a horse's face. After an hour of hiking from the forest office, this building is visible. When you come out of the shola forest, you see a spectacular view of the rolling hills around you. Green hills and misty valleys are out of the world. During monsoons, this area might be covered with mist completely. But the hide and seek of the valley in between those clouds and mist is something you should not miss out on. And if you are planning on such an adventurous expedition, do check out our luxury stays at The Serai Chikmagalur here.