- District
- Chikkamagaluru
- Base
- Mullodi
- Distance
- 18 km
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Altitude
- 1892 m
- Permit
- Required
Kudremukh Trek Overview
Kudremukh is the third highest peak in Karnataka, named after its distinctive horse-face shape. The trek takes you through the Kudremukh National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity, rolling shola grasslands, and pristine mountain streams. It is a strictly monitored eco-trekking zone.
The trail starts from Mullodi village and passes through several clear streams and dark shola patches. As you ascend, the forest opens up into vast alpine grasslands. The final stretch to the peak involves a steep climb along the ridge, offering panoramic views of mist-covered valleys.
Highlights
- Horse-faced mountain peak
- Somavathi Falls enroute
- Shola forest patches and misty ridges
Things to Carry
- Government-issued ID proof
- Water bottle (2L minimum)
- Rain poncho
- Leech socks
- Trekking shoes
Permit Information
Permit: Required
Authority: Karnataka Eco-Tourism Department
Booking: https://aranyavihaara.karnataka.gov.in
Notes: Mandatory to hire a local guide at the forest checkpost. Entry restricted to 500 trekkers per day.
Entry Fees and Timings
Adult fee: 575
Currency: INR
Reporting: 06:00 AM
Last entry: 09:00 AM
Guidelines
mandatory
Plastic Ban
Littering and carrying single-use plastics is strictly prohibited inside the National Park.
recommendation
Leech Protection
Wear leech socks and carry salt during post-monsoon months.
Safety Notes
low
Leech Infestation
High presence of leeches in the shola forests during wet seasons.
medium
Sudden Weather Change
Heavy mist can reduce visibility to near zero on the ridges.
FAQs
Is camping allowed on the peak?
No, camping is strictly prohibited inside Kudremukh National Park. Trekkers must return before sunset.
Sources
- Karnataka Eco-Tourism Official Portal
Verified: permit_required, entry_fee_details, timings · Retrieved 2026-07-19
Related Treks
Mullayanagiri Trek
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The highest peak in Karnataka, featuring a short temple stair-climb or a long ridge trek from Sarpadhari, famous for its misty atmosphere.
Kurinjal Peak Trek
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An enchanting, quieter alternative inside Kudremukh National Park, leading to a rocky summit wrapped in heavy mist and rolling green valleys.
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