Kudremukh Peak
Range
Western Ghats
Altitude
1892m
Difficulty
Moderate
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About Kudremukh Peak
Kudremukh, which translates to "Horse Face" in Kannada due to the distinctive shape of the peak, is the third-highest peak in Karnataka. Sweeping, rolling green hills and dense Shola forests define this landscape. If you are road-tripping down the coast from Goa towards Bangalore and Mysore, this makes for a breathtaking, high-endurance detour into the heart of the ghats.
Best time to visit
October, November, December, January, February
History & Significance
The area was heavily mined for iron ore by the Kudremukh Iron Ore Company for decades. Environmentalists successfully campaigned to stop the mining in the early 2000s, allowing the area to reclaim its natural, pristine state as a protected National Park.
Places to See
The "Horse Face" side profile of the mountain from the trail, Somavati River, Hanuman Gundi Falls, and the sprawling shola grasslands.
Journey & Transport
How to Reach
* By Road: Drive to Kalasa town, then proceed about 10 km to Balagal. From Balagal, private vehicles cannot go further; you must hire a local 4x4 forest jeep to take you up a rough dirt path to Mullodi village, where the trek actually begins.
Important Notes
Leeches: Extremely common during and just after the monsoon; carrying salt, Dettol, or wearing leech socks is highly recommended. Plastic Ban: It is a strict plastic-free zone. Forest guards check bags at the starting point and count plastic wrappers/bottles, ensuring you bring them all back. Nearby police station: Kalasa Police Station Nearby hospital: Government Hospital, Kalasa
Facilities
- StayPitching tents on the peak or anywhere in the forest is strictly prohibited. Trekkers must stay at homestays in the base village of Mullodi the night before.
- FoodThere are no food stalls on the trail. You must carry a packed lunch (usually provided by your homestay) to eat at the summit or along the trail.
- WaterThere are several natural water streams (like near the Ontimara tree) along the route where you can refill bottles, but starting with at least 2 liters of water is essential.