Kudremukh, part of Western Ghats is a hill range located in the Chikmagalur District of Karnataka. The place is renowned for its bio-diversity and mineral wealth. Kudremukh is the largest reserve for the tropical green wet forest in the state, known as Kudremukh National Park. Literally known as Horse’s face, Kudremukh gets its name from the peak that looks like the face of a Horse. Kudremukh is a picture-perfect destination for trek loves and is full of emerald dense forest, rolling grasslands interlarded with rare varieties of orchids and rivers.
Must-visit Places near Kudremukh
Some of the interesting places near Kudremukh are:
Kudremukh National Park
Located in the Western Ghats, Kudremukh National Park is spread across 600 square meters of area. Declared as a wildlife protected area in 1987, this national park is a natural habitat of many species like Sambhar, Spotted Deer, Giant Flying Squirrel, Mongoose, Common Langur. Endangered species like Tigers, Leopards, and Wild Dogs can also be spotted here. There are more than 175 species of birds available including Malabar Whistling Thrush, Imperial Pigeon, and Malabar Trogon.
Gangamoola
Gangamoola is the place of origin of three Rivers; Bhadra, Tunga, and Netravati. Also known as Varha Parvata, gangamoola is situated within the limits of Kudremukh National Park. Temple of Lord Varha and Goddess Bhagvati built in a cave, from where one of the rivers originate, is the most popular attraction here. One can reach Gangamoola by trekking for nearly 2 kilometers from the road lying between Kudremukh and Sringeri.
Jamalabad Fort
Located 87 kilometers from Kudremukh, Jamalabad Fort is an ancient hilltop fortification. Built in 1794 by Tipu Sultan, this fort was formerly called Narasimha Ghad, referring to the Granite hill on which it is built. Accessible via a narrow path with 1876 steps, this fort has now become a popular medium difficulty level trekking destination. Top of the fort offers panoramic views of Kudremukh range and is a popular sunset and sunrise viewpoint.
Hanuman Gundi Falls
The waterfall is 15 kilometers away from Kudremukh and is situated between the hilly region of Lakya Dam and Karkala. Also known as Sutanabbe Falls, it falls from a height of 100 feet on natural rocks, creating a majestic view. One needs to climb a flight of 300 steps to reach this waterfall. Entry fee is charged at the gate and post-monsoon is the best time to visit here. It is a must visit place near Kudremukh.
Lakya Dam
Located on the outskirts of the town, Lakya Dam is a check dam built on River Lakya, a tributary of River Bhadra. Constructed in the background oh hilly landscapes, evergreen shallow forests, gushing river, this dam is encircled with spellbinding scenic beauty. Ideal for family outings and evening walks, this dam provides a great place to enjoy the setting sun. Be sure to visit the dam while you are near Kudremukh.
Horanadu
Situated 29 kilometers from Kudremukh, Horanadu is a popular holy city located close to Kudremukh. Visited all year round, this holy city has a temple dedicated to Goddess Adi Shakhti or Devi Annapoorneshwari. The idol is made of pure gold and it is believed that worshippers visiting this deity will never face a shortage of food in their lives. It is a major attraction near Kudremukh.
Rock Cut Garden
It is a beautiful man-made garden located in Kemmanagundi Hill Station. Created to preserve Mother Nature, the variety of flowers here acts as a major attraction for tourists. Once here, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of empyrean mountain range and valleys surrounding near the Bhadra Reservoir.
Kalasa
Just a few kilometers away from Kudremukh, the town of Kalasa is famous for its ancient Kalasehwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the banks of River Bhadra, this temple town literally means pot or vessel, believed to have come into existence during the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati. This town is also famous for its sprawling coffee and Ayurvedica plants. Be sure to visit this place near Kudremukh.
Trekking at Kudremukh
With its varied landscapes, Kudremukh offers ample variety when it comes to trekking trails. You need prior permission from reserve forest office for trekking here. Trekking trails vary on the basis of difficulty levels. Kudremukh peak trek is one of the most exciting treks in Chikmagalur region. The trek is nearly 20 kilometers long. Coffee farms, tropical green forests, meadows, water streams are some of the top attractions of this trek, that one will pass through before reaching the highest peak. Once at the top you can witness picturesque landscapes and astonishing view or Arabian Sea. One can trek here between 6AM and 5PM as the region is a habitat of wildlife. Kudremukh trek is an ideal activity to indulge in if you are nature lover and just love to plod in the wild. It would not be wrong to say that Kudremukh is the Himalayas of South India.
How to Reach Kudremukh
By Air
The nearest airport is in Mangalore situated 130 kilometers from Kudremukh. Mangalore Airport is well connected with cities like Bangalore, Mysore and other parts of India.
By Train
If you plan to reach this place by train, then Mangalore Railway station is the nearest railhead. From the railway station, you can reach the hill station via road.
By Road
Kudremukh is well-connected with major cities via KSRTC travelers can take AC, Non-AC, Deluxe or ordinary buses from Mangalore, Sringeri, Chikmagalur, Bangalore and Mysore to reach this destination.
Also See
Activities and Places Near Kudremukh
- Trekking in Karnataka
- Gangamoola Trekking
- Water Falls
- Adventure sports
- Forts in Karnataka
- Dams in Karnataka