A hill called Kodachadri in the district of Shimoga is a lesser-known trekking destination. This peak in the Western Ghats winds through thick forests and is home to a variety of wildlife.
Kodachadri is a mountain peak in Shimoga District with an altitude of 1343 m above mean sea level. It is situated near the Mookambika National Park, and it is the natural habitat of the Malabar Giant Squirrel, the Malabar Langur, the Emerald Pigeon, the Bison, the Tiger, the King Cobra, and the Python.
Trekking Trails in Kodachadri
Kollur, near Kodachadri, is an ideal spot to reach the hill. You can reach Kollur from Bangalore or from Shimoga. From Kollur, trekkers can travel to Nagodi village, which is at the base of the peak. An alternate route is to travel overnight to Nittur. The trek is a 12-km route from Nittur to Kodachadri gate.
The trek takes 8-10 hours to complete and should be undertaken only by experienced trekkers in peak fitness. The best time to undertake this trek is during October-February.
It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya meditated on Kodachadri peak. To commemorate this, the Sarvagna Peeth is located at the site. The Kodachadri trek is possibly the toughest of popular treks in Karnataka, but the view from the peak makes the effort worthwhile. A cover of verdant jungle stretches in all directions, and on a clear day, one can catch a glimpse of the azure Arabian Sea from the top. The view of the sunset and sunrise from the peak is breathtaking.
The traveller on a budget can pitch tents some distance away from the peak and spend the night at Kodachadri.
The route also passes by Lingamanakki reservoir and the Arishinagundi falls. Hildumane Waterfalls are a further 10 km away and can be reached on foot. It is advisable to take a local guide to reach the falls.
Points to Note
- The route through the jungles is infested with leeches. Protective footwear and long trousers are a must on the trek
- The dense jungles house several species of poisonous snakes, including the King Cobra. Thick, ankle-length footwear is preferable to sneakers.
- The amenities along this route are basic. The trekker is advised to carry adequate water, beverages, and food.
- The route passes through a wildlife reserve. The trekker is advised to avoid littering the route and to keep noise levels to a minimum.
- Carrying torches and insect repellents is essential on this trek.
Places Around Kodachadri
- As discussed above, Kollur, the famous temple town, is located 12 km from Kodachadri. The temple of Mookambika Devi is believed to have been established by sage Parashurama. In fact, there is a Mookambika temple in Kodachadri village, believed to be the origin of the Goddess.
- Agastya Teertha is a waterfall in the jungles adjoining Kodachadri. This waterfall can only be reached with the help of local guides.
- The backwaters of the Linganamakki Dam on the Sharavathi River form a backdrop to the Nagara Fort at a distance of 25 km from Kodachadri.
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