List of Best Trekking Places in Karnataka

Wish to relish a perfect blend of serenity and tranquillity? Look up one of these trekking places in Karnataka to take on alluring challenges and experience breathtaking views.

1. Uttari Betta

A 5 km trek across dense plantations, Uttari Betta is a fascinating blend of scenic beauty and adventure. This trekking spot offers incredible views of the Western Ghats and perches the Shankareswar Temple at its top.

2. Gokarna

Mesmerizing blue beaches across a broad stretch of white sand make Gokarna a must-visit spot for trekking in Karnataka. A famous Hindu pilgrimage destination, Gokarna attracts pilgrims and beach lovers all over India. Beginning from the famous Kudle beach, trekkers reach the other three popular beaches viz. Om beach, Half Moon Beach and Paradise beach via trekking.

3. Kurinjal Gudda

Located in the Kudremukh National Park of Chikmagalur district, Kurinjal Gudda is a famous trekking trail in Karnataka. Steep hills and valleys full of rare species of flora and fauna make this trekking spot more unique for adventurers.

4. Kunti Betta

Famous for sugarcanes, coconut trees and paddy fields, Kunti Betta derives its name from Kunti – the mother of Pandavas.

5. Didupe & Ermayi Waterfalls

A trekking spot for possessing peace through difficult scrambling to two astonishing waterfalls.

6. Kudremukh

Steep hills and valleys surrounded by lush green meadows make Kudremukh a challenging trek. It is the third highest peak in Karnataka.

7. Kumara Parvatha

One of the longest and the most challenging trekking spots in Karnataka, also known as Pushpagiri.

8. Tadiandamol

Tadiandamol is the highest peak of Coorg and attracts a large number of foreign trekkers in addition to Indians due to its stupendous beauty and highly-maintained trail.

9. Antharagange

Various caves along the trail make Antharagange an exciting and fun-filled trekking spot.

10. Channarayana Durga

Channarayana Durga allows you to witness the limitless natural beauty that adorns the hill through its challenging trek route.

11. Kodachadri

The 13th highest mountain peak in Karnataka with thick, lush green forests and several waterfalls.

12. Kalavarahalli Betta

Also known as Kalavara Durga or Skandagiri, this peak is famous for witnessing sunrise and sunset view after trekking across its strenuous trails. 

13. Narasimha Parvatha

Known as the tallest peak in Agumbe Ghats, the Narasimha Parvatha is a perfect hiking spot for experienced trekkers.

14. Kabbaladurga

A monolith hill popular for attracting night trekkers due to its easy route and enchanting magic.

15. Nijagal Betta

Nijagal Betta attracts trekkers all over India to witness the sunrise and meditate in the hills to find inner peace.

Top 15 Trekking Places in Karnataka

Ready to experience a whole new unexpected world of adventure and thrill? Add one of these trekking places in Karnataka to your bucket list.

1. Uttari Betta

Located 65 km away from Bangalore, Uttari Betta is one of the most popular treks in Karnataka. This trekking spot attracts travelers and trekkers for its day trek and sunrise view. The Uttari Betta trek offers a mesmerizing view of watching the sun come out of its floating bed of clouds.

This trek begins with the morning twilight to reach the top and watch the sunrise. This trek is divided into two levels, depending on your fitness to hike further. The first hike starts from the foothills and marks a milestone once you reach the fort wall. After passing through seven majestic doors, you reach the Shankareswar Temple at the hilltop and enjoy a picturesque view from the first summit.

The second summit continues from the temple across a small jungle cave. Surrounded by giant boulders across dense grassland, the second summit gives you an aura of amazement and excitement. After spending 2-3 hours exploring the mountains, taking hundreds of pictures and doing various activities, you can start descending to the trek base point.

·         Difficulty: Easy

·         Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year except monsoons

·         Duration: 12 hours

·         Distance from Bangalore: 65 km

·         Highlights: Day trek, sunrise view, Shankareswar temple

·         Elevation: 3,708 feet

2. Gokarna

Located about 483 km from Bangalore, Gokarna is a town located on the Arabian Sea. The Gokarna beaches are one of the most unique places for trekking in Karnataka. These beaches give an exceptional trekking experience to the visitors by letting them enjoy the natural beauty and shimmering sunrays.

If you are looking for a blissful treat of meditation and spiritual calmness, Gokarna will give you a relaxed holiday. Dotted with palm and coconut trees, clear ocean water and gleaming sand, Gokarna attracts more international tourists than Indians. Apart from beach trekking, you can also camp and light a campfire at Paradise Beach. Various ferry rides are also available for coming back to the campsite.

The trek starts at the base of the beach where trekkers head towards Kudle Beach, followed by Om and Half Moon beach. After exploring one beach after another, visitors reach the Mahabaleshwar temple to meditate. On your way to the stunning beaches, you may spot typical Indian huts and various beach birds.

Approximately 47 kilometres from Gokarna lie the famous Yana rocks which trekkers define as the stairs to heaven. The trail is covered with picturesque beauty of flora and fauna, tranquil water streams and several caves. The Yana rocks are huge, black boulders where you can spot numerous hives of bees and wild bats along the trails. Pandava Caves are the most famous attraction in Yana.  

·         Difficulty: Easy to Medium

·         Best Time to Visit: From October to March

·         Duration: 2 days

·         Distance from Bangalore: 483 km (approx)

·         Highlights: Beaches, beach birds, rock climbing, Vibhooti Falls

·         Elevation: 328 feet

3. Kurinjal Gudda

Kurinjal Gudda is a blessing for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts as a plethora of flora and fauna can be spotted across the trail. The rugged terrains are lined with mosses and orchids, making the place more iconic and breathtaking.

To start trekking, visitors should first reach Kudremukh National Park and get done with the required formalities. The rolling trek trails of high peaks are a perfect treat for adventure seekers. Along your trekking journey, you may spot the Kadambi and the Hanumangundi Waterfalls. Trekkers also enjoy activities like camping, bonfire and bird watching at Kurinjal Gudda.

·         Difficulty: Easy to Medium

·         Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

·         Duration: 1 day

·         Distance from Bangalore: 294 km

·         Highlights: Kudremukh National Park, Kadambi Waterfalls, Hanumangundi Falls, Bird watching, camping

·         Elevation: 3,596 feet

4. Kunti Betta

Located in Pandavapura, Kuntibetta is just 25 km away from Mysore and widely famous as one of the best trekking places near Mysore. Kunti Betta has a special significance to Hindus and encompasses two rocky mountains. The hill gets its name from Kunti, the mother of five Pandavas who stayed here during her exile.

The Kunti Betta trail is paddy and lined with sugarcanes and coconut trees. Although the hills are majestic and have volcanic granite rock and boulders, the trail is easy for beginners. The Kunti Temple is located on the trek base allowing the trekkers to spend some minutes seeking blessings before starting their journey to the summit.

Night trekking at Kunti Betta gives people a whole new take to watch the enticing sunrise early in the morning. Beautiful pictures on a fresh morning with a hazy sunrise are great mementos for life. Dense forests, bushy fields, and the magnificent Thonnur Lake make Kunti Betta trek even more exciting. Kunti Betta is also a good destination to try rock climbing.

·         Difficulty: Easy to moderate

·         Best Time to Visit: September to April

·         Duration: 1-2 days

·         Distance from Bangalore: 122 km

·         Highlights: Kunti Kund, Kunti Temple, Night trekking

·         Elevation: 2880 feet

5. Didupe & Ermayi Waterfalls

Located in the base of Charmadi Ghat in Chikmagalur, Didupe and Ermayi Waterfalls trek is one of the most exciting treks in Karnataka. It is an unexplored gem with spectacular beauty and challenging slippery terrain.

The trail starts at the base of Charmadi Ghat where the multi-folded Didupe waterfall forms a serene pond structure. Quite challenging due to the steep climbs, the journey to the top is totally worth it. Beginners can rest at the Didupe falls and spend some time swimming and observing nature.

People who are more adventurous can reach the top of the trek at Ermayi Falls. Apart from swimming, travellers also enjoy camping here. Watching sun cast golden glow on the rocks and skittering frogs skimming across the streams is very satisfying after completing this challenging trek.

·         Difficulty: Medium

·         Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year except monsoons

·         Duration: 1 day

·         Distance from Bangalore: 320 km

·         Highlights: Didupe Falls, Ermayi Falls, Swimming, Camping

6. Kudremukh

Nestled in picturesque environs, Kudremukh is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Lush greenery, white floating clouds, dense forests, plenty of waterfalls, rugged trekking trails and bamboo bushes make Kudremukh one of the best trekking places in Karnataka.

As you walk up the summit, Kudremukh peaks reveal the charismatic beauty of Western Ghats. Various forests, meadows, and waterfalls will chase you along your trekking trail from the Kudremukh Trek Base. Upon reaching the hilltop, you can explore the cultural heritage and occasionally spot some Peacocks and Sambar Deer.

·         Difficulty: Medium

·         Best Time to Visit: October to May

·         Duration: 1 day

·         Distance from Bangalore: 340 km

·         Highlights: Camping, meadows, day trek

·         Elevation: 6207 feet

7. Kumara Parvatha

Densely vegetated hills and steep slopes of Kumara Parvatha make it a very difficult trekking destination in Karnataka. Also called “Pushpagiri”, it is situated in the Somwarpet Taluk of Kodagu district.

It is the highest peak in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and shares its borders with Dakshina Kannada. The scenery at Kumara Parvatha keeps changing on the trek and can never fail to mesmerize a soul. Not recommended for novice trekkers, Kumara Parvatha is a destination for people having prior experience of trekking in Karnataka Western Ghats.

·         Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

·         Best Time to Visit: October to March

·         Duration: 2 days

·         Distance from Bangalore: 272 km

·         Highlights: Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Night & Day Trekking

·         Elevation: 4930 feet

8. Tadiandamol

The Tadiandamol trek is a challenging journey as it is the highest mountain peak located in Coorg. Located in Kodagu, this hill shares its border with Kerala as well. If you have some experience in trekking, don't let go of this chance to walk through the splendid trails all the way up to the summit.

Many people also call it Thadiyandamol as “thadi” translates to “large” in Kodava. You’ll cross several cascading grasslands and thick forests across your trekking journey. The chirping of birds and chilled breeze will keep you entertained all throughout. Spotting of elephant herds on the bordering hills upon reaching the top make this trek even more complete.

·         Difficulty: Easy to moderate

·         Best Time to Visit: November to March

·         Duration: 2-3 days

·         Distance from Bangalore: 270 km

·         Highlights: Wildlife spotting, sunrise view

·         Elevation: 5735 feet

9. Anthargange

Situated in Kolar, Anthargange is a beautiful hill that yells beauty and tranquillity by offering an unparalleled experience of treks in Karnataka. This place is famous for volcanic rocks, small hills and several caves. It offers a quirky adventure by exploring old caves and understanding mysterious geology.

Some people choose to trek Anthargange in the night to catch the first ray of the sun the next morning. What makes Anthargange unique is the strange flow of water through the statue of a bull in the Anthargange Temple. This is why, most of the trekkers at this spot are either cave explorers or pilgrims.

Originating from the Kannada language, Anthargange means "The Ganges from the deep". People find camping and sleeping in the fascinating caves of Anthargange more interesting than staying at a 5-star hotel.

·         Difficulty: Easy to Medium

·         Best Time to Visit: September to March

·         Duration: 1 day

·         Distance from Bangalore: 70 km

·         Highlights: Anthargange Caves, Anthargange Temple, camping, night trekking

·         Elevation: 4050 feet

10. Channarayana Durga

Located in the Tumkur District of Karnataka, Channarayana Durga is a hill that has witnessed the victory as well as the collapse of various empires. If you want to get away from the city lights and dwell into nature, plan a trip to the picturesque Channarayana Durga.

An ideal place for trekking, Channarayana Durga isn’t a very highly explored trek yet. If history or treasures intrigue you, then Channarayana Durga must be your next adventure spot because the place is rumoured to have a hidden treasure.

Reaching the top by exploring the trails and finding your way without any sign boards will blow your mind. Moreover, viewing all the way down to where you started will make you numb for a minute. After all, this place has a captivating charm like none other.

·         Difficulty: Medium

·         Best Time to Visit: September to December

·         Duration: 1 day

·         Distance from Bangalore: 100 km

·         Highlights: Day trek, fortress, structures and temple inside the fort

·         Elevation: 3730 feet

11. Kodachadri

If you are passionate about challenging yourself through strenuous treks, pack your bags for Kodachadri the next time you plan an adventure trip. Located in the Shivamogga District, the hill derives its name "Kodachadri" from "Kodacha" meaning "Kutaja or jasmine flowers" and "adri" meaning "mountain" in Sanskrit.

It is a scenic hilly region full of dense forests and Jasmine plants, refreshing the air with lovely floral scent all the time. The trekking trail is quite challenging and gives you occasional views of typical Indian huts, agricultural grasslands, small streams and a few waterfalls.

The trek starts at the foothill and gets more difficult with altitude as the rocks get sharp and slippery. The Mookambika temple rests at the top of the hill, attracting a large number of pilgrims every year.

·         Difficulty: Moderate to Intense

·         Best Time to Visit:

·         Duration: 2 nights

·         Distance from Bangalore: 380 km

·         Highlights: Hidlumane Waterfall, Mookambika temple, day & night trekking, sunrise view

·         Elevation: 4406 feet

12. Kalavarahalli Betta

A popular spot for night trekking, Kalavarahalli Betta is located approximately 61 kilometres from Bangalore. The trek starts at the base of Papagani Temple and has two routes to reach the summit. The ruins of Tipu Sultan's fort rest at the mountain top along with several caves across the trail. Many people prefer bird watching and pitching a camp after reaching the hilltop. 

Kalavarahalli Betta is famous for catching sunrise from the hilltop but we only recommend night trekking with an experienced guide. The day and night treks were banned for some reasons a few years ago due to which you need to take permission for this trek before making your plans. Currently, trekking at Skandagiri is not allowed due to the pandemic.

·         Difficulty: Moderate 

·         Best Time to Visit: Through the year (except monsoons)

·         Duration: Full day

·         Distance from Bangalore: 61 km

·         Highlights: Tipu Sultan Fort, Grover Zampa Vineyards

·         Elevation: 4750 feet

13. Narasimha Parvatha

Deemed as the tallest peak in Agumbe Ghats, Narasimha Parvatha is an arduous trekking location in Karnataka. High mountain peaks, deep valleys, dense grasslands spread across miles in different shades of green and an inimitable assemblage of fauna  – is there anything else that doesn’t make this trekking spot not worth a visit?

The trekking route for Narasimha Parvatha starts at Agumbe but it is compulsory for trekkers to register their names at the Agumbe police station before getting out for their trek. On the route to the summit, you may spot the Barkana Falls and the Sirimane Falls.

Many people choose to do camping upon reaching the hilltop. Night trekking is also very popular at Narasimha Parvatha. No signboards and thick forests across the trail make this trek challenging and difficult.

·         Difficulty: Moderate

·         Best Time to Visit: October to June

·         Duration: 1-2 days

·         Distance from Bangalore:

·         Highlights: Barkana Falls, Sirimane Falls, Night trekking, Camping

·         Elevation: 3780 feet

14. Kabbaladurga

One night of trekking in Kabbaladurga, located in Kanakapura- Ramanagar is worth hundreds of days in the crowded city life. After reaching the hilltop in around four hours, trekkers are welcomed by Kabbaladurga through its ethnic natural beauty.

What could be more exciting than to reach the summit, lightt campfire, and set a tent to wait for the dawn? The trails across the hill are quite smooth and safe, making it easy and fun for beginners. The Temple of Goddess Kabbalamma rests at the hilltop, giving Kabbaladurga its name.

·         Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

·         Best Time to Visit: February to May

·         Duration: 1 day

·         Distance from Bangalore: 70 km

·         Highlights: Kabbalamma temple, fort ruins, night trek, dawn view

·         Elevation: 3600 feet

15. Nijagal Betta

Set off for a trek to Nijagal Betta if you want your weekend getaway to be thrilling but not crowded. Nijagal Betta is a gigantic mountain with steep, slippery terrains, situated near Dobbaspet town of Tumkur. The locals also know this mountain peak as Siddara Betta.

The trail passes through muddy pathways, thick bushes, small ponds, and ruins of ancient temples. The trek continues towards massive boulders and ends up with a mosque on the hilltop. This place attracts devotees and heritage explorers every year-round. Pitching a camp at the top is a great idea to make this trek more exhilarating.

·         Difficulty: Easy

·         Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

·         Duration: Half day

·         Distance from Bangalore: 57 km

·         Highlights: Hanuman Temple, Dargah, day trekking, rock climbing, camping

·         Elevation: 4592 feet