The Karnataka Forest Department has launched an online portal for trekking in Karnataka. The website is primarily for booking trekking expeditions in the state’s forests.
Aaranya Vihaara, an online portal for trekking in Karnataka
There was a surge in trekkers, with thousands trekking the Kumara Parvatha peak in January 2024. This led to the ban on trekking in Karnataka’s forests. The department has now lifted the ban with the launch of Aranya Vihaara. It has made it mandatory to allow trekking only based on prior bookings with Aranya Vihaara. The forest department has collaborated with the Karnataka E-governance Department and has developed the website. The online portal for trekking in Karnataka has been developed at Rs.40 lakhs.
Aranya Vihaara will also include all the trekking routes available on the Ecotourism Board. Furthermore, the forest department has checking squads to check trekkers randomly to curtail illegal entry without booking online.
Initially, five trekking trails are included with the launch. About 18 more trails will be included by the end of October 2024. The trekking trails that are currently available are Talakaveri-Nishani Motte, Beedahalli-Kumaraparvata-Beedahalli, and Beedahalli-Kumaraparvata-Subramanya in Kodagu district, Skandagiri in Chikkaballapur district, and Nagamalai in Chamarajanagar district.
How the online portal for trekking in Karnataka work
Ecological experts have determined the carrying capacity of the trekking trails. Per the forest department’s instructions, only about 300 trekkers are allowed per day. A guide will escort every ten trekkers. Also, one person can book only ten trekkers at a time. Furthermore, trekkers must compulsorily register on the online portal for trekking in Karnataka.
Trekkers will have to register through their email ID on the website. The process also requires valid government ID proof, such as a driver’s licence, PAN, passport, etc. Once a trekker registers, starts booking and enters the details of his ID card, he will receive an OTP. After the authentication of the OTP, he will be able to proceed further with his booking. Payments on the website ensure security. The prices for trekking will depend upon the length and duration of the trekking.
Furthermore, the department will refund 100 percent of the amount when the ticket is cancelled seven days before the trekking date. It will also refund 50 percent of the money between seven and two days. However, no refund is possible for tickets cancelled in the last two days.
Where to register?
To register on the online portal for trekking in Karnataka forests, please click https://aranyavihaara.karnataka.gov.in/