Nestled deep in the Western Ghats in the district of Shimoga and holding its place as the tenth-highest peak in the State, Kodachadri is home to lush green jungle trails through dense tropical forests, picturesque waterfalls, and mesmerizing landscapes. Located in the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, it also forms the perfect backdrop to the Moola Mookambika Temple, believed to be the place of origin of Goddess Mookambika. Catching a glimpse of the evening sunset into the Arabian Sea from its peak offers an enchanting experience; a combination of mountain and ocean that very few peaks in the country can boast of. A trek to Kodachadri will leave you spellbound and wanting more.
There are mainly three trails to the peak apart from several other less explored ones. The most popular, as well as the most challenging, is the one via Hidlumane Falls starting from either Sampekatte or Marakuttaka and is the one you’ll be taking on your trek to the peak. This trail is relatively steep and rugged and requires you to make your way through thick forests, gentle streams, and quite literally climb a waterfall which becomes a whole other ballgame during peak monsoons. Despite the efforts, the journey to the top is one you’ll remember and be proud of as you’re transported to another world, with magical sights, untouched forests, and challenging climbs at every corner.
The other relatively easier trail is the one from Karakatte via Santhosh Hotel, Valur (Trek Route 2 in the image above). Private vehicles can easily come up to the tiny settlement housing the hotel and one can begin their trek from here which takes around 4-5 hours to reach the peak.
The third trail is actually a jeep route and is the longest of the three and is one that you’ll be taking on your descent from Kodachadri. All three trails eventually culminate at the Moola Mukambika temple which also houses a PWD guest house that serves as an important landmark on your way to the peak. From here the peak is around 2 km.
Itinerary
Day 0
- Leave Bangalore By 9:00 PM ( Approx )
Day 1
- Reach Homestay – Freshen Up & Breakfast
- Bus Ride To Trek Start Point
- Start The Trek
- Get Drenched In Hidlumane Falls
- Have Lunch At Everest Meadow
- Reach Mookambika Temple
- Reach Kodachadri Summit
- Descend By Offroad Jeep Ride
- High Tea & Snacks
- Dinner
Day 2
- Freshen Up, Breakfast
- Explore The Beaches Of Udupi
- Self- Sponsored Lunch
- Watch Sunset By Sasihitlu Beach
- Return To Bangalore On Monday By 5:00 AM
