Ombattu Gudda trek is a difficult trail to tread. Ombattu Gudda literally translates to Nine Hill. The question is why is it called so – that’s because of the nine domes of the hills that are visible from the top. Ombattu Gudda trek or Trekking on the Nine Hill should be an adventure. Located at the borderline of Hassan and Chikmagalur districts of Karnataka, this hill of the Shiradi Ghats is 970 odd meters above sea level. Its trekking terrain is open to those with a sense of adventure.
Ombattu Gudda Peak. Image courtesy: Ravi S. Ghosh
About the Ombattu Gudda Trek
Ombattu Gudda trek trail lies within the Kabinhole Reserve Forest. Thus, the trek is bound to showcase beautiful landscapes all along. You will encounter a lot of streams along the way. The best time to complete the stretch would be before sunset. To start trekking, reach Gundiya and tread all the way to the peak. Not too far from the start point, the route will lead you towards a forest reserve with wildlife. For this, you will have to follow the route along NH27. Halt by the streams and the crystal-clear Kabinhole River, and continue north. This will lead to the best vantage point offering a panoramic view of the hilly area. After walking into the grassland, before you descend, look out for Lakshmi Estate signage and end the trek with a downward tread from Hosakere side. As an alternative, you could begin the Ombattu Gudda trek from Hosakere.
Things to do at Ombattu Gudda
Wildlife: Located at Kabinhole Reserve Forest, the region is bound to be home to wildlife. Take some time to halt and watch the jungle cats, wild elephants, sloth bear, barking deer and more.
Plantations: Its close proximity to Chikmagalur makes it the perfect place to venture out into the coffee plantations.
How to Reach Ombattu Gudda
By Air
The closest airport to Ombattu Gaddu is Mangalore Airport, which is about 145 kilometres and the second closest is Kempegowda International Airport, which is roughly 280 kilometres.
By Train
You can board a train from the closest Railway Stations of Mangalore, Hassan and Bangalore.
By Road
Hop onto the buses plying between Dharmasthala, Mangalore, and Bangalore as these generally stop at the Gundiya check post.
