About the Trek

Kudremukh — meaning “horse face” in Kannada — is one of the most spectacular treks in the Western Ghats. The trail winds through dense shola forests, emerald grasslands, and across several stream crossings before reaching the summit at 1,894 metres.

This is a two-day trek with overnight camping. The route is moderately difficult and requires a reasonable level of fitness.

Itinerary

Day 1

  • 5:00 AM — Depart Bengaluru by bus
  • 11:30 AM — Arrive Kudremukh base village, permits and briefing
  • 1:00 PM — Lunch and pack bags
  • 2:00 PM — Trek begins (approx. 9 km to campsite)
  • 6:00 PM — Reach campsite. Set up tents.
  • 7:30 PM — Dinner around fire

Day 2

  • 4:30 AM — Early start for summit push (approx. 4 km, steep)
  • 7:00 AM — Summit. Views of the Bhadra reservoir and the Ghats.
  • 8:30 AM — Descend
  • 1:00 PM — Back at base. Lunch.
  • 2:30 PM — Depart for Bengaluru
  • 8:00 PM — Arrive Bengaluru (estimated)

Fitness Level Required

Moderate to high. You should be comfortable walking 10+ km a day on uneven terrain. No prior trekking experience required, but regular walking/jogging fitness is necessary.

Inclusions

  • Bus transport from Bengaluru
  • Forest entry permits
  • Experienced guide
  • Camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags)
  • All meals from lunch Day 1 to lunch Day 2

What to Pack

  • Trekking shoes (mandatory — no sports shoes or sandals)
  • Rain jacket (Kudremukh receives rain even in May)
  • Change of clothes, quick-dry preferred
  • Personal medication
  • 2-litre water bottle
  • Torch

Important Notes

  • Forest department permits are limited. Confirmed spots only.
  • The trek is inside a national park. No noise, no litter, no fires outside designated areas.
  • Photography permitted. Drones are not allowed inside the national park.