India has many great sites and beautiful places to visit but for hikers or trekkers it’s a blessing whether they visit the south or north part of India. Karnataka is one place to visit for trekking. In Ancient time also Karnataka was called as the home of many powerful and great Emperor Kingdoms. And now it is well known as the house of many great and wonderful trekking sites as it covers many parts of Western Ghats,India. It’s both a blessing and dream of Hiker to visit all the famous and wonderful peaks of Western Ghats.
Here are the Top 5 Treks of Karnataka :-
1. Kudremukha Trek
Kudremukha trek is located in Chikkamagaluru District of Karnataka. The total trek distance is 22 km and the trek is moderate climbing. Kudremukha has the 3rd highest peak in Karnataka. This trek covers the tropical evergreen forest part, Shola grasslands and also the plantation in the peripheries. In this 22 km long trek there are more than 10 streams which makes it more like paradise. Many visit this trek in monsoon season to have moderate climate and mist also. It takes a total of 5 to 6 hours to complete the Kudremukha trek. After completing the trek there are many beautiful and amazing places to visit like :- Meruti Hill, Aane Gudda Trek, Horanadu Temple and many more.
2. Kodachadri Trek
Kodachadri Trek is in Shimoga region of karnataka. It is 13 km long in distance and also a moderate terk type. This trek includes the jungle part of Western Ghats and also the beautiful “Hidlumane Falls” which is also a great part of the trek. This trek sometimes comes with challenges but the heavenly view of Sharavathi backwater makes it worth challenging taking. It has a great view of green meadows, dense forest fell and also the jeep trail. Trekkers also do their best to witness the Arabian Sea horizon. It usually takes 8 to 10 hours to complete the whole Kodachadri trek. In Shimoga District there are many more places to visit like :- Mookambika Temple, Nagara Fort and other historic places.
3. Hampi Heritage walk and Bouldering
Hampi Heritage walk and Bouldering is located in Hampi region of Karnataka. The total distance of the trek is 12-15km and is relatively easier than other treks. Hampi is more than just beautiful temples or ancient market streets. It is also the best place for Bouldering, this sport attracts many tourists as it is very exciting and it’s playing or climbing with rocks. For many backpackers this place is paradise. It takes a full 3 days to visit the entire Hampi and this includes all the places like :- Ancient market road, Historic palaces or temples etc.
4. Tadiandamol Trek
Tadiandamol Trek is located in Coorg district of Karnataka. It’s a 8km long trek and goes to easy to moderate trekking. Tadiandamol trek mountain is the highest peak in the whole Coorg district. Many visit this trek in monsoon season as it gives a more breathtaking view. During this trek many come to see jungle views of Shola forest and the water streams and also the zig-zag steep trail which is a bit challenging. It takes a total of 5 to 6 hours to complete the trek to the top. Nearby there are many places to visit like:- Kopatty trek, Madikeri, Bhagamandala.
5. Gokarna Beach Trek
The Gokarna Beach Trek is located in Gokarna region in Karnataka. This covers 5 beautiful beaches (Paradise,Half moon,Om,Kudle and Gokarna)which makes the journey more memorable. Around these beaches there is famous Lord Shiva Temple “Aatmalinga”. All these beaches can be visited in one day and it’s much cheaper than Goa and a less crowded area. If you cover only the trekking part it takes 5 to 6 hours to complete but if we include the beach part also it can take a lot more time. All the beaches have their own beauty and must be visited if you are Gokarna.
Conclusion
Karnataka is the best place if one loves greenery and hiking both. All the above listed treks have their own fun and adventure. As the Western Ghats are a great part of Indian geographical regions. And all the treks include some history and great sites. Factors like flora, fauna and different views attract many tourists from all over the world. Karnataka itself has many hidden gems and so does the treks also have some hidden places which should be explored.
