
Quick Overview
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Weather: Pleasant cool months; post-monsoon brings lush greenery and streams
- Budget: ₹3,000–₹8,000/day
Plan Your Trip
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (~105 km)
- Nearest Railway Stations: Stations at Mangalore Central (108 km)/Udupi (90 km); then cab or bus to Kalasa/Samse
- By Road: Well-connected via NH66 and NH169; state buses and taxis available
Where to Stay?
- Kalasa & Samse: Homestays and eco-resorts close to park entry
- Kudremukh town: Basic lodges and dormitory-style forest check-post stays
- Chikmagalur/Belthangady: More variety with guesthouses and mid-range hotels
Packing List
- Lightweight trekking clothes & warm layer for mornings
- Hiking shoes, socks, and gaiters (leeches are common post-monsoon)
- Rain jacket (especially October–December rains), sunscreen, hat
- Drinking water, quick snacks, insect repellent
- Necessary permits (trekking and park entry)
Top Places to Visit & Things to Do
- Kudremukh Peak Trek
- 1-day ~10–12 km trek to 1,894 m, offering panoramic Western Ghats views
- Kudremukh National Park
- 600 km² UNESCO-protected area, evergreen forests, wildlife hotspot
- Bird-watching (200+ species) including Malabar whistling thrush & hornbill
- Hanumanagundi Falls
- Tiered 22 m waterfall; trek-accessible, best October–May
- Kadambi Falls
- ~30 ft falls off Kalasa–Kudremukh road; natural dip spot post-monsoon
- Lakya Dam
- Scenic silt-settling structure from old mining; surrounded by hills
- Kalasa Temple Town
- Visit Sri Kalaseshwara Temple and enjoy riverside ambiance in Kalasa
- Gangamoola / Varaha Parvatha
- Source of Tunga, Bhadra, Nethravathi rivers; sacred and lush
- Jamalabad Fort(optional)
- Medium-difficulty trek offering views of Kudremukh range
Must-Try Experiences
- Trek & Spot Wildlife: Deer, bears, squirrels, diverse birds
- Waterfall Picnics: Hit Hanumanagundi or Kadambi for relaxing dips
- Eco-Living: Stay at local homestays and engage with communities
- Bird-Watching & Photography: Early morning in the park
Local Cuisine
- Simple South Indian Breakfasts: Dosa, idli, upma
- Local Lunch Options: Ragi mudde, sambar, vegetable curries
- Snacks: Banana, local tea, coffee from nearby plantations
Culture & Local Life
- Languages: Kannada (official), English and Hindi widely understood
- Transportation: Shared jeeps, private taxis, buses—forest-trek start points are regulated
- Permits: Required for trekking and park entry; time-limited, no overnight camping allowed
Safety Tips
- Hire local guides for offbeat trails and waterfalls
- Start treks early—forest check-post closes by evening
- Protect against leeches and slippery paths during the wet season
- Stay hydrated and carry first-aid
Enjoy Your Yatra!
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