The Complete Guide to Kodachadri Trek

Kodachadri is situated in the centre of Western Ghats and forms one of the pleasant trekking sites of Karnataka, India, famous for its heavily forested greenery, misty top, and divinity. The picturesque trek in Shivamogga district gives an exciting experience to tourists and nature enthusiasts. Standing tall at a height of 1,343 meters (4,406 feet) above mean sea level, Kodachadri is the tenth tallest mountain in Karnataka and falls within the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, and hence it is a biodiversity hotspot with diverse flora and fauna. Reaching the top is an adventure combined with spirituality and nature that attracts adventurers, nature photographers, and pilgrims as well to the destination throughout the year. Kodachadri is perhaps most famous for the serene sunrise and sunset, at which time the golden colours of the hills and forests harmonize with each other to create a great view. It's a pilgrimage centre too because it's where the great Hindu saint Adi Shankaracharya is said to have meditated, and atop is the Sarvajna Peetha, a shrine to him, which is a tiny one. The hike also leads one to the Mookambika Temple, at the foot of the mountain in Kollur, a sacred pilgrimage site for Goddess Mookambika's pilgrims.

There are a few trails along which one can hike, all differing in degrees of difficulty and vistas, but overall accessible to inexperienced and experienced trekkers. Of the two, the Jeep trail trail and Hidlumane Falls trail are the most popular. The Hidlumane Falls walk is the longer, harder of the two, with walkers traversing wood, meadow, and rocky wet paths to the beautiful Hidlumane Falls, a stepped cascade providing an added splash of relaxation along the way. Trekkers have to negotiate rough slopes and challenging ground, so a boost of adrenaline. The Jeep trail route, although a shorter route taken by off-road vehicles and ascended by mountain climbers seeking an easier ascent, is not the route taken by some trekking fanatics. They prefer to utilize both routes in tandem—ascending via Hidlumane Falls and descending via the Jeep trail—to enjoy the best of both worlds.

The entire trek to the top is approximately 12 to 15 kilometres (one way) and would cost anything between 5 to 7 hours, depending on the route and trekking speed. There is varied scenery along the way, from dense shola forests and rolling grassy meadows as also boulder-strewn outcrops and chattering brooks. Nature enthusiasts also get a chance to see a variety of species in the form of Malabar giant squirrels, langurs, peacocks, and various bird species found in the Western Ghats. The rugged terrain, high in biodiversity, gives the trek to Kodachadri an experience of its own.". For those less brave, jeep excursions from the base village can also be had with a similarly thrilling off-road drive along bumpy mountain trails. The ride by jeep, rocky and steep as it is, is another means of enjoying the fascinating Kodachadri beauty without the exhaustion caused by hiking. Nevertheless, thrill-seekers would rather tread along the trekking path because it lets them connect with nature, discover hidden gems en route, and unwind.

The ideal trekking tour season for Kodachadri would be the post-monsoon winter during September to February with pleasant weather, the view a pleasant vision of a greenish-blue mat of hills, trees and paddy. March to May is too hot and humid, tiresome trekking additionally. June to August monsoons make hill country a heavenland by changing the landscape to a wild fury of water where thumping waterfall streams vehemently with green, mist-covered treks at higher levels getting clumsier as tracks get slippy and leech-covered. Moderate physical fitness is needed for trekking to Kodachadri as the trek path goes through steep hills, boulder trails, and water streams. Good trekking shoes, plenty of water, energy bars, and light dry-fitting clothes are recommended. Carrying necessary rainwear (during monsoon months), sun cream, hat, and a first-aid kit are also recommended to trek securely.

The Rise of Kodachadri as a Trekking Destination

During the latter part of the 20th century and the early 21st century, Kodachadri began to attract attention as an ideal trekking spot. Adventure travellers, nature photographers, and pilgrims started flocking to the region for its unparalleled beauty and serenity. The trek to Kodachadri is a game of adventure and fun, with forests, grasslands, and scenic waterfalls like Hidlumane Falls. The trek is bordered with diverse fauna and vegetation, and hence it is a haven for wildlife observers and ornithologists. Kodachadri also saw more visitors with the enhanced accessibility. Even though it remains an extremely inaccessible place, the fact that off-road jeep safaris and trekking treks are available has seen its tour extended to tourists. One can follow the trek along numerous routes and have diverse experiences, ranging from those treks that are tough in thick cover to relatively easier jeep trails that see one climb up to almost the top.

Best Time to Visit

The optimum season to hike Kodachadri is between October and February with a nice climate, and the rains during monsoons have made the scenery fresh and green. Avoid trekking during peak monsoon months of June to September since the path would be slippery and the leeches are a nuisance.

Trekking Trails

There are various trails for trekking to Kodachadri:

• Nittur Route (via Hidlumane Falls): The most arduous and adventurous of them all. It begins from the village of Nittur and leads you through forests, boulder tracks, and the stunningly picturesque Hidlumane Falls. It's a 12-14 km (single) moderately tough trail.

• Kattinahole Route: It is not challenging in comparison to the Nittur route. It passes through the Kattigenahalli village and is approximately 9-10 km one way. It goes through open meads and forest roads.

• Jeep Trail (from Santosh Hotel): You may not walk the entire distance, as there are 4x4 jeeps available in Kollur and they will drop you more or less at the top. The last 2 km have to be trekked.

Trek Highlights

• Hidlumane Falls: A picturesque falls on the route which is a good spot to rest and unwind.

• Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary: Dens here contain thick forests and wildlife like Malabar giant squirrels and birds of many various species.

• Kodachadri Peak: A scenic 360-degree view of the Arabian Sea awaits on a clear day.

• Sarvajna Peetha: There is a temple on top, a small one in memory of Adi Shankaracharya, where he meditated.

• Sunset View: The best sunset is one of the most lovely to behold, with golden colour spreading right across the entire horizon.

Locality attractions

• Kollur Mookambika Temple: (20 km) One of the major pilgrimage sites to Goddess Mookambika, thousands of pilgrims are greeted to the temple.

• Arasinagundi Falls: (25 km) In the forest, this unique waterfall is not a short hike but is worth the try.

• Maravanthe Beach: (80 km) Virgin beach on the NH-66, popular for its natural beauty since the highway follows the sea on one side and a river on the other.

• Murudeshwar: (90 km) Site of the second tallest Shiva statue in the world and a tranquil beach, Murudeshwar is a pilgrimage site for pilgrim tourists as well as beach enthusiasts.

• Sharavati Backwaters: (60 km) Scenic place for a boat trip amidst green.

Things to Carry

• Trekking shoes with good grip

• Backpack (20-30L capacity)

• Water bottles (minimum 2 litres)

• Dry snacks and energy bars

• Raincoat or poncho (for visit during monsoon)

• Torch with spare batteries

• First-aid kit basic

• Binoculars and camera (for nature lovers)

Trekkers' Tips

• Start early in the morning so that the destination is covered before sunset.

• Avail local guide for beginners.

• Be the king of nature—no littering and take nothing with you.

• Prepare for the monsoon trek against leeches; carry salt or leech spray.

• Carry enough cash since there is no ATM where the trek starts.

How to Reach Kodachadri Trek

One of the picturesque hills of the Karnataka Western Ghats, Kodachadri is a trekkers' paradise and nature lovers' heaven. Kodachadri lies in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka and is well known for its dense foliage cover, long scenery, and top views. Travel planning to the place includes planning while visiting Kodachadri from the rest of India. This travel guide will assist you in organizing a trip to this beautiful trekking spot.

By Airport

The nearest airport from Kodachadri is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is approximately 175 km away. Mangalore Airport is well-connected to major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Delhi. After reaching there, there are various ways to get to Kodachadri:

• Taxi Services: The taxi can be booked from the airport itself for Kodachadri or from the nearest town, Kollur. The Mangalore to Kodachadri taxi is 4 to 5 hours and costs between INR 3,500 to INR 5,500 depending on the vehicle type.

• Public Transport: Either a bus or a taxi is available from the airport to Mangalore Central Bus Stand, and a bus to Kollur or Nittur can be taken, which are the nearest base points for the trek.

• Car Rentals: If you want to drive, then it is possible to rent a car from Mangalore and drive to Kodachadri. The roads are good but consist of highways and forest roads.

By Train

The closest railway station to Kodachadri is Kundapura Railway Station (KUDA) at a distance of 80 km. Another major railway station is Shimoga Railway Station (130 km from Kodachadri). Both the stations have Bangalore, Mangalore, and other major city trains.

• From Kundapura: Travel or go by bus from Kundapura to Kollur, 35 km. You could hire a jeep or start your trek for Kodachadri from Kollur.

• From Shimoga: You may take the bus to Kollur or Nittur, which will be 3 to 4 hours, if you come by train to Shimoga.

By Road

• By Road: It is the easiest and most coveted journey by road to Kodachadri. Kodachadri is linked to big cities such as Bangalore, Mangalore, and Shimoga by very good roads. And here is the way you should go by road to Kodachadri:

From Bangalore (400 km)

• By Bus: There are some government and private KSRTC buses from Bangalore to Kollur. Travel overnight in a sleeper bus to Kollur and then go by jeep or trek to Kodachadri.

• By Car: If you are driving, take the route Bangalore–Tumkur–Arsikere–Tarikere–Shimoga–Hosanagara–Nittur–Kodachadri. It takes about 8 to 9 hours.

From Mangalore (175 km)

• By Bus: Mangalore to Kollur buses are running regularly. Jeep is running from Kollur to Kodachadri.

• By Car: Take road route Mangalore–Udupi–Kundapura–Kollur–Kodachadri. It will take 4 to 5 hours.

From Shimoga (130 km)

• By Bus: Well connected with Kollur by private and government buses. The road journey would be for 3 to 4 hours.

• By Car: Go by Shimoga–Hosanagara–Nittur–Kodachadri. The road is good but the final part up to Kodachadri is bad and a jeep or trekking will be needed.

Jeep Safari from Kollur/Nittur to Kodachadri Base

The last stage of the drive from Nittur or Kollur to Kodachadri base is not covered by regular vehicles. You'd need to drive or walk in a local jeep. The jeep safari is a 12-15 km rocky road bumping off-road ride. The trip will cost between INR 500-700 per person (on a sharing basis) or INR 3,500-4,500 for a private jeep. It's a 1-hour trip and an exciting one at that.

Trekking Trail to Kodachadri

The best trekking route for adventure-seekers is trekking to the hill. Trekking starts from the following places:

• Nittur Trek: The shortest and most popular trek path is from Nittur and passes through dense forests, waterfalls, and forests. It is around 10-12 kilometres in length and a 4-6 hour hike to reach the top.

•  Kollur Route: Another is from Kollur, which spans 15 km of grassland and forest roads.

• Hidlumane Falls Route: A scenic and thrilling route, this is a route from Hidlumane Falls that gives one a very demanding but rewarding trekking experience.

Best Time to Visit Kodachadri

October to February is the ideal time to visit Kodachadri when the climate is cool and pleasant for trekking. Do not visit during the monsoon season (June to September) as the rain makes the trails slippery and heavy rainfall.

Final Traveler Tips

• Use comfortable trekking footwear and take necessary items along like a water bottle, energy bars, and rain equipment.

• If taking a jeep, make reservations in advance as there may not be much availability during peak seasons.

• Respect nature, don't litter, and obey the trekking rules in the region.

Attractions Along the Trek

Sarvajna Peetha – Adi Shankaracharya's Meditation Spot

Located at the top of the lovely Kodachadri hills of the Western Ghats, Sarvajna Peetha is an ancient sacred temple of historic, religious, and cultural significance. It is a peaceful and lovely place where Adi Shankaracharya, the illustrious 8th-century Indian philosopher-saint and theologian, meditated and gained illumination. The place offers sheer panoramic views of the emerald green valleys, foggy crests, and the endless endless horizon and is thus heaven for spiritualists and nature lovers alike.

The Significance of Sarvajna Peetha

'Sarvajna Peetha' is the 'Seat of Omniscience', which means the gigantic wisdom and immense knowledge of Adi Shankaracharya. It is said that on his travels to reform and balance Sanatana Dharma, he went everywhere in India and eventually arrived at the Kodachadri hills, where he immersed himself in profound meditation. It is the gentle and spiritual vibrations of this planet that are said to have revealed to him Advaita Vedanta – the non-dual philosophy, which instructs that cosmic consciousness (Brahman) and individual self (Atman) are one. Sarvajna Peetha is therefore of paramount religious importance, with pilgrims, seers, and searchers of wisdom from across the globe coming here. It is one of the four Peethas established for propagating Adi Shankaracharya's works, the other three are located at Sringeri, Dwaraka, Puri, and Badrinath.

The Pilgrimage to Sarvajna Peetha

Sarvajna Peetha itself is a centre of pilgrimage – rugged on the body but filled with the soul. The ascent to the summit from Nittur, a tiny village and trekking base camp of Kodachadri, starts. Trekkers are treated to a joyride through a mix of dense forests, waterfalls cascading in tiers, misty meadows, and rocks, and nature in its pristine form seen along the way. Hidlumane Falls, a stunning multi-tiered waterfall, is one of the big attractions on the way to the summit. Trekkers use to rest and regain strength here before ascending further. On moving further up, dense Shola forests are replaced by open grasslands, where mountain air full of vigour provides oxygen to the lungs and infuses life into lungs fresh. The last leg to Sarvajna Peetha is a test of willpower and endurance. But then comes the sweat with its prize as the panoramic view from the top is simply heavenly.

The Ancient Stone Mandapam

Sarvajna Peetha, the hilltop, comprises a tiny stone temple, a mandapam, where Adi Shankaracharya supposedly meditated. This small but sacred building has a peaceful and spiritual aura surrounding it, and one feels it is apt for meditation and contemplation. A couple of devotees stay quiet here, getting charged with the strong energy that fills the air. It is a place where one can tune out the world's insanity and tune into one's inner self. Accessible by proximity to Sarvajna Peetha is Kollur Mookambika Temple, a Mookambika temple. It is the place where Adi Shankaracharya installed the image of the goddess after celestial vision after meditation. Besides being a Mookambika temple, it is a 108 divine Shakti shrine Shakti Peetha and thus one of the first-rate centers of pilgrimage of the pious.

The Enthralling Panoramic Scenic View at the Top

The most romantic aspect of Sarvajna Peetha is the sunrise and sunset panoramic views. At an altitude of 1,343 meters (4,406 feet) above sea level, the top offers a panorama where the sun paints the sky orange, red, and gold. Crystal clear days also give one a glimpse of the Arabian Sea glinting like a ribbon of silver on the horizon. Night till dusk is enchanting, when the misty hills slowly wake up with light, creating an alien terrain. Kodachadri hills are also endowed with a richness of variety of flora and fauna, which contribute so much more beauty to the trek. Such rare medicinal herbs, painted flowers, butterflies, and birdlife one encounters en route add so much more beauty of nature to the picture.