The Kodachadri Hills are part of the Western Ghats and lie in the Shimoga district. This hill range forms a lovely backdrop to the famous Kollur Mookambika Temple, near which it is located. You can easily access this place from Kollur, thanks to its proximity to the region. In fact, it is believed that Kodachadri Hill was the Goddess’s original abode before Sri Adi Shankara had the idol installed at the Kollur Temple.
There is an ancient shrine on the hill dedicated to the Mother Goddess, where Sri Adi Shankara performed his meditation. This hill range is part of the Mookambika Temple Nature Reserve.
Trekking Options in Kodachadri
A Trek Up the Kodachadri Hill
Trekking in Kodachadri can be an adventurous and spiritual experience. The trek starts at the base of the Kodachadri Hill. On the way, you will pass the Bhakti Vedantha Eco Village, which belongs to ISKCON.
The trek up to the ancient temple from this point involves a 4 km climb through thick jungle trails. The Siddheshwara Huliraya Mookambika Temple as this shrine is called, actually consists of two temple complexes. The first temple is dedicated to the terrible, warrior form of the Goddess, with an ancient 7-meter-high iron pillar in front.
A bit higher up, there is the second temple, dedicated to the calm and beautiful Uma Maheshwari form of the goddess. This temple complex has a small pond and is surrounded by four sacred springs.
Trekkers who visit this temple can stay in rooms rented out by the temple priest for a very low fee, and food is also available at reasonable rates. Staying here overnight facilitates easy access to the peak during the early morning hours.
An early-morning trek to the top before daybreak will enable you to witness a breathtaking sunrise. On clear days, the view of the surrounding regions and the Arabian Sea from this summit can be an experience to treasure for a lifetime. There is another ancient temple here, known as Shankara Peetam.
For the more adventurous, there is the steep trek down the western side of the hill to reach the holy Chitramoola Cave. It is believed that Sri Adi Shankara sat in meditation here for several days.
A Trek Around the Hidlumane Waterfalls
About 10 km from Kodachadri is this beautiful waterfall, reached only by a bridle path. This can be a fine trekking option to those who can tackle a bit of challenging terrain.
A Visit to the Arasinagundi Falls
From the base of the Kodachadri Hills, you can also trek to the Arasinagundi waterfalls, a medium-level trek. This one-day trek starts from the temple town of Kollur.
How to Reach Kodachadri
- By Air: Mangalore is the nearest airport.
- By Train: Mangalore, around 130 km away, is the nearest big railhead.
- By Road: The best option is to take a bus to the pilgrimage town of Kollur, then continue to Kodachadri, which lies 12 km away.
It would be best to stay in the temple town of Kollur as it houses a wide variety of hotels and resorts. Kodachadri is a beautiful hill range covered in dense forests and a part of the Mookambika Reserve. For pilgrims and adventure seekers, these hills can offer a unique trekking experience.
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