Experience The Beauty Of Rains With These Best Monsoon Treks In Karnataka!

The monsoons are here and if you are in a dilemma about not being able to travel, we have something new for you to try - monsoon treks. Yes! These are treks which are taken up especially after the first few showers because the forests have a completely different pulse after the rains. From easy and moderate to difficult and challenging, we have a trek recommendation for every kind. Read on.

Kodachadri

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The one on top of our list, Kodachadri blooms in the rain. The peak has thick forests, rich paddy fields, green meadows and misty mountain air that will do your health a world of good. The main attraction of the trek is the breathtaking Hidlumane Falls, a stream which forms of seven falls, the highest being the hardest to reach. One can also see the western coast from the peak during the non-monsoon seasons, making it the most popular monsoon trekking destination in Karnataka.
Distance from Bangalore - 415 km

Tadiandamol

The highest peak in the Coorg region, Tadiandamol offers sweeping green grasslands, coffee plantations as long as the eye can see, all teamed with the strong aroma of coffee in the air. The early winter, in particular, is the best time to visit because it brings colourful blooms along the trekking trail. Trekkers often start from the Nalaknad Palace, cover the Chelavara Falls and the Padi Iggutthapa Temple. We suggest you pluck a ripe coffee berry and give it a taste.
Distance from Bangalore - 273 km

Gokarna

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Hitting the beach in the rains? Well, it is an experience in itself. The trek here involves climbing up and down five different peaks with a beach between each. The trail is beautiful, humid and offers views of the crashing waves and stormy seas below. One can see parts of the shoreline which aren’t visible otherwise at the ground level. Some trekking groups also offer night treks where you can trek the night and stay up to catch the sunrise at the horizon.
Distance from Bangalore - 479 km 

Nishani Motte

One of the lesser-known treks in Coorg, Nishani Motte is a part of the Tala Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary known for its abundant wildlife and dense forests. Watch out for leopards and elephants in particular. The trek is guided by forest department authorized guides who are well informed about the movement of animals, so you may be able to spot the hoof prints if not the animals themselves.
Distance from Bangalore - 300 km

Kumara Parvatha

Considered the most difficult trek in Karnataka, the trekkers have to cover a distance of whopping 21 km which includes trekking through heavy forests, grasslands and volcanic rock formations. This one is not for the weak and trekking groups often don’t let you sign up for the trek unless you have some previous experience trekking the Western Ghats. 
Distance from Bangalore - 300 km

Ballalarayana Durga 

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Picture this: stretches of green grasslands, thick, jade forests, pouring rains and a view sure to take your breath away. And all this is just a part of the journey en route to Ballalarayana Durga and Bandaje Arbi Waterfalls. Formed by a tributary of the Netravathi River, this unexplored waterfall drops from a height of 200 ft and is located in a remote area of the Western Ghats. The dilapidated fort perched atop the hill adds to the charm of the trek. 
Distance from Bangalore - 293 km

Kudremukh

Known to be one of the tougher treks in Karnataka, Kudremukh offers everything from lush green meadows of tall grass, tropical forests, coffee and pepper plantations to bubbling brooks in every corner. The leeches and rain in the region can make the trek exceptionally challenging in the monsoons, adding to the thrill of the trek. The top of the peak is especially steep, so be ready to crawl on all fours up the hill.
Distance from Bangalore - 331 km

Galibeedu

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If this is your first time trekking but you still want to experience the forests of Coorg, the Galibeedu tail is perfect for you. The trial here is not as steep and you’ll cross little brooks which pass through private coffee estates, misty forests and meadows to reach the peak. You will be greeted by butterflies and plenty of damp areas. Look out for the leeches though.
Distance from Bangalore - 276 km

Kurinjal 

A peak close to Kudremukh, this moderate trek is known for its beautiful views and waterfalls. It was named Kurinjal because of the abundance of the flower Neela Kuranji which blooms once in 12 years. Don’t expect to see the mountain blue and purple with the flowers, but you’ll certainly be able to sight a bloom or two on the trail.
Distance from Bangalore - 340 km

Hutridurga

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Also known as Uttari Betta, this fortified hill was the erstwhile military bastion of Tipu Sultan against the British. Best taken up as a sunrise trek, the 5-km trail takes you along rustic fort doors and rocky paths. Puddles along some rocky ledges, an old temple to explore, cave formations…there’s so much more awaiting you on this journey. While it’s a lovely experience on a slightly rainy day, trekking during heavy rains is not advised. Once you make it up to the top, take your time admiring the lush surroundings spread out in front of you while the sun rises up, made all the more beautiful by the monsoon showers.
Distance from Bangalore: 65 km 

Tavoor Hills 

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Perfect for all you enthusiastic trekkers, Tavoor Hills trek in Coorg brings together natural beauty, dense foliage and exciting experiences. So, get set to have a truly wild trek while you pass by gurgling streams, making your way through forest areas and clambering up over rocky parts. But the most exciting part comes with the ridge walk – a ridge-like spot where you can walk by with the green landscape and stunning views on both sides and the cloudy sky right above you. Now, that’s a walk to remember! Of course, the views from the peak and the serene silence add to the exhilarating trek, giving it a grand finishing touch.
Distance from Bangalore: 290 km 

Mullayanagiri

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Ever wondered what the view from the highest peak in Karnataka would look like? Well, set out on a trek to scale Mullayanagiri and you’ll know. Donning a rich verdant shade during the monsoon, the peak is a beautiful sight to behold! With a few steep ascents, the trail here snakes through forests boasting of amazing flora and fauna. Starting from Sarpadhari, the 3-km trek lets you revel in the beauty of the Western Ghats as you climb uphill. Oh, and be prepared for the cool mist to envelope you on cloudy days.
Distance from Bangalore: 264 km 

Kote Betta

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Want to amp up the adventure? For hard-cord trekkers, Kote Betta offers quite a challenge. Navigating through forest, streams and even passing by falls, the trail takes you along the beautiful Western Ghat region. A delight for nature lovers, the trek to the summit is just as amazing as the view from the top. You’ll also find a quiet Shiva temple atop the hill. Best avoided during the harsh summers, the place just comes to life with greenery during the monsoon. Plus, you can plan to visit some of the gushing waterfalls in the area after your exciting trek.
Distance from Bangalore: 257 km 

Ettina Bhuja 

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Deriving its name from the strange ox’s shoulder or hump-like shape of the hill, Ettina Bhuja is a lesser-known mountain that’s part of the Charmadi range in Chikmagalur. Ideally visited just after the rains when the peak is at its greenest and most beautiful, the trek takes you right into the middle of the jungle. As you wade through the foliage, let the chirping of birds and the simple sounds of nature take over the silence. Stream crossings, old temples, steep climbs and monsoon staples like the occasional leeches are other elements to look out for as you go deeper. The peak offers sprawling views of the lush valley. So, take your time soaking it all up!
Distance from Bangalore: 220 km

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