Kodachadri Trek

Clothed in splendid evergreen forests, Kodachadri(1343m) in Shimoga, one of the more popular trekking destinations in Karnataka, is a beautiful hill abode that overlooks the panoramic Western Ghats. Around 380 KMS from Bangalore and 20KM from Kollur, the peak of the hill is an 8-10 KM hike from the base and on an average takes 4-5 hrs to climb. The trek begins on a well laid Jeep trail and then deviates into thick jungle (be prepared for leeches), and opens out onto a field patched with cultivated land. From here, we will re-enter the jungle once again to proceed to the Idlumane waterfall.

After a dip in the waterfall, the trail to the peak snakes along the side of the mountain, and involves some pretty steep sections all the way up until the Shola forest clears out for hilly grassland. A further climb (approx.30 minutes long) leads to the Kodachadri peak. Being easier on the knees and easy to navigate when we begin losing light in the evening, the Jeep trail is ideal for reaching back to the base.

Interesting facts:

The famous temple town of Kollur is 12km away. These hills (4411ft.) constitute one of the largest forest areas in Karnataka, and part of this region forms the Mookambika Nature Reserve. Kollur is an ideal base to explore the hills.

Nearest Towns:

Location info:India>Karnataka>Simoga

Route Info:

From Bangalore, catch a bus to Kollur From Kollur, catch a bus which goes towards Nagara,and get down at Karakatte Gate after 45 minutes (11 km). To your right, you'll find a mud road where you can find a sign indicating the way towards Kodachaadri. Some 4 km (1 hour walk on the plains) on the way, you will find a small tea shop ("Hotel Santosh", also known as "kaka angadi"). From here, it is roughly 4 hours of trek to the peak. Just half-an-hour before the peak you will find two temples and a PWD Guest House.

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Summary:

Kodachadri is the highest peak in Shimoga District and by far the most picturesque. It is believed that Shri Shankaracharya meditated here and to commemorate the same the Sarvajna Peetha is located here. From it's vantage point, the peak offers breath taking view of the surrounding valleys at sunset and sunrise. If the weather is clear enough, you might be even lucky enough to catch glimpses of the Arabian sea, glistening at a distance, from here. Our journey starts from shimoga. We make our way to 'Kodachadri Gate' by bus. This gate marks the starting point of the trail leading to the peak. This path is a mud trail that snakes it's way through the forest. Do not expect to find any settlements here except for a tea shop at the base. The trek to the summit takes anywhere between 5 to 8 hours, depending on your pace. From the peak you have the breath taking vista of the Lingamanakki reservoir and lush dense forest as far as your eyes can see. The other star attraction of this region is the Arishina Gundi Falls. The path leading to it is pretty treacherous and involves some rigorous trekking. The jungles are infested with leeches and hence protective footwear is advisable. But the beauty of the falls absolutely renders all perils faced en route worth it's while. If you have enough time on your hands, do pay a visit to the eco village which is run by ISKCON. However this man made resort is no adventure compared to the wilderness of Kodachadri.

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Things To Carry:

• Personal medication (if any)
• Strong backpack (Preferably water proof)
• Fresh pair of clothes for two days.
• Toiletries.
• Water bottles (at least 2 liters of water)
• A torch with new batteries (must in case of emergency)
• You can carry Energy Food (Chocolate bars, flavored milk, Electrolyte drinks - Glucose etc.)
• Sunglasses, Sunscreen.
• Rain coat (Just in case)
• Camera (Optional)

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