Thirumaleguppi

THIRUMALE GUPPI is spread partly over the thick hilly forests near the coastal plains on the western portion and the shola vegetation on the Western Ghats uplands, covering parts of 3 districts, viz., Chickmagalur, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada..

Special features of Thirumaleguppi

TG is made of steep hills and valleys. The hills, which bear the brunt of the severe monsoon wind, preclude any tree growth as a result the landscape is covered with grass. The valleys which are tucked in, have reasonable protection from wind and a deep soil profile, as a result of which stunted evergreen forests exist creating an unique microclimate, rich with mosses, orchids, etc. The whole scenery of grassland interspersed with narrow strips of forests provide a fantastic vista for a trekker. The totally fresh air and the climb up and down, invigorates the body and soothes the soul. During the trek, one can view and study several wildlife species of plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, insects, etc.

Nearest Towns:

Location info:India>Karnataka>Chikmagalur

Route Info:

Take NICE road to reach Neelamangala. Reach Chikmanagalur in 4hours if there is no heavy traffic.Head towards Kemmanagundi via Lingadahalli (45km) instead of taking the Mulayanagiri route. Locals will guide you to Mulayanagiri route, so ask for Lingadahalli on the way.

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Summary:

Mulayangiri is supposedly the tallest peak between the Western Ghats and the Himalayas, it is also the tallest peak in Karnataka. The trek up to the summit begins at a place called "Sarpadari" that is 15kms away from Chikmagalur (the famous coffee plantation town of Karnataka).

It is a part of the Baba Budan ranges that streak across this area. The rugged Mulayangiri-Kemmangundi trek starts as a steep stream laced path from the Muthodi reserve forest leading up to Seethalayanagiri, a hill temple - interesting laterite caves are found here. Further up is the Mulayanagiri peak standing tall at 6,300 ft.

Once you reach Mullayanagiri, you can stay at the Shiva temple at the top. You can get lunch/dinner from the temple pujari. Next day you can start for budangiri which may take 5-8 hrs depending on your group speed. Once at Bababudangiri you have various stalls serving awfully bad food.

The trek from Mullayanagiri temple to Bababudanagiri shrine can be pretty exhausting-- it is around 16 km, and passes through no defined trail. You get some amazing views of the hills and valleys. You will almost never lose the way-- keep moving towards the big telecommunication tower. But do remember to carry enough water with you-- there is NO water source on the way.

Things To Look for:

Things To Be Aware Of:

Things To Carry:

• A strong Back-Pack (preferably water proof).
• Water bottle (enough to carry at least 2 liters of water).
• An extra pair of socks, under garments, T-Shirt.
• A water-proof jacket/sweater (if it begins to rain).
• Bandanna ( keeps the sweat out of the eyes ) and/or Wide brimmed hat.
• Toothbrush & toothpaste, towel, liquid soap.
• Few old news papers ( may be 4 would be fine).
• A torch with two new batteries and extra bulb.
• Some strong adhesive tape and/or A small role of strong string.
• A small pocket knife ( if you have a Victorinox -SWISS ARMY knife then great..).
• One matchbox/ lighter.
• Some tissue/toilet paper.
• Insect repellant (ex. Odomos).
• Basic First Aid & Medicine -
• Anti-Dysentery Pills (Eldoper)
• Some generic pills (Crocin, Imol, etc)
• Anti Cold preparation (COLDACT).
• Band aids.
• Gauze roll & antiseptic lotion.
• Energy Food ( Chocolate bars, Flavored milk, Electrolyte drinks - Glucon-D, etc ).
• Garbage bag to collect any litter we may create (or other people have created).

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