Kumara Parvatha
Range
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Altitude
1712m
Difficulty
Moderate
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About Kumara Parvatha
Kumara Parvatha is the second-highest peak in the Kodagu district and a crown jewel of Karnataka's trekking scene. The trail offers a dramatic transition from dense tropical forest into endless, rolling shola grasslands, culminating in a steep climb over volcanic rock to the summit.
Best time to visit
October, November, December, January, February
History & Significance
The mountain holds immense mythological significance and is deeply tied to the famous Kukke Subramanya Temple at its base, which is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya (Subramanya).
Places to See
Kukke Subramanya Temple, Bhattara Mane, the dense Pushpagiri forest, Kallu Mantapa (an ancient stone resting structure on the trail), and "Shesha Parvatha" (a massive, sheer cliff and false peak you must cross before reaching the main summit).
Journey & Transport
How to Reach
By Road: Drive to Kukke Subramanya. * By Bus/Train: Regular KSRTC buses run to Kukke Subramanya from major cities. Alternatively, take a train to "Subramanya Road" railway station, which is a short jeep ride from the temple town base. The trek starts directly behind the temple complex.
Important Notes
A trekking fee must be paid at the Forest Department check-post just after Bhattara Mane. Plastic Ban: Forest guards will count all your plastic items (bottles, wrappers) at the check-post and verify you bring them all back down; a deposit is usually collected. Sun Exposure: Start the summit push from the campsite before dawn to avoid the brutal midday sun on the open grasslands. Nearby police station: Subramanya Police Station Nearby hospital: Government Primary Health Centre, Kukke Subramanya
Facilities
- StayCamping is not allowed on the peak. Trekkers typically camp in their own tents at the designated Forest Department ground near "Bhattara Mane" (Bhatta's House), which is roughly halfway up the trail.
- FoodBhattara Mane provides very basic, traditional vegetarian meals (like rice, sambar, and buttermilk) to trekkers, but you must arrive early or inform them in advance. Beyond this point, you must carry your own energy snacks and dry food.
- WaterYou can refill water at Bhattara Mane and at a natural stream near the "Kallu Mantapa" structure further up. However, the climb is grueling, so starting with at least 2 to 3 liters of water per person is mandatory.