Kodachadri Trek

A Road Trip into the Heart of Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

Kodachadri Trek 2026

There are treks that test your stamina, and then there are treks that nourish your soul. Kodachadri, the 10th highest peak in Karnataka, is a legendary trail that combines lush rainforests, rolling shola grasslands, and a sunset that looks like a painting from another world.

At Wanderers Nest, we believe the Kodachadri Trek is the perfect “reset button” for anyone living the fast-paced city life in Bangalore. As we gear up for the 2026 season, we invite you to join our tribe for a weekend of muddy trails, misty peaks, and the legendary Jeep ride that defines this adventure.

1. The Journey: Driving Through the Malnad Magic

The adventure begins the moment you board the Wanderers Nest vehicle in Bangalore. The road to Hoskote and then toward the Shivamogga region is a transition from grey concrete to every shade of green imaginable.

• The Route: Passing through the heart of the Malnad region, the drive is flanked by areca nut plantations and dense canopy forests.
• The Vibe: Late-night music, stops for authentic Malnad-style breakfast (think Kadubu and spicy coconut chutney), and the shared excitement of the “Nest” community.

2. The Trail: A Symphony of Nature

Kodachadri (standing at 1,343 meters) is located within the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary. The trek is a 10km (one way) journey that keeps changing its face every hour.

The Hidlumane Falls

The highlight of the ascent is the Hidlumane Falls. This isn’t just a waterfall you look at; it’s a series of seven cascading falls that you have to literally climb beside. Standing under the cool, crystal-clear water mid-trek is a sensory experience that re-energizes you for the final push to the top.

The Shola Grasslands

Once you exit the dense forest, you emerge into the high-altitude grasslands. The trail here winds along the edge of the mountains, offering bird’s-eye views of the Linganamakki Backwaters. The contrast between the dark green forest you just left and the golden-green grass of the ridges is why Kodachadri is a photographer’s paradise.

The Sarvajna Peetha

At the summit sits the Sarvajna Peetha, a small stone structure where the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya is said to have meditated. Standing here, with the wind howling and the clouds passing through you, is a spiritual experience regardless of your beliefs.

3. The “Wanderers Nest” Highlight: The Off-Road Jeep Descent

While most treks involve a long, knee-breaking walk back down, we do things differently. After witnessing the legendary Kodachadri sunset (where you can sometimes see the sun dipping into the Arabian Sea on a clear day), we take the Jeep route down.

• The Thrill: This is often called one of the most adventurous off-roading tracks in South India.
• The Ride: Bouncing through deep slush, rocky boulders, and hairpin bends in a 4×4 Jeep is the ultimate adrenaline spike to end your day.

4. Why Travelers Choose the Nest for Kodachadri

We don’t just organize a “tour”; we curate an experience.

• Authentic Homestays: We stay at traditional Malnad homestays at the base, where you get to taste Halli Oota (village food) and sleep amidst the sounds of the forest.
• Expert Lead Captains: Our captains are more than guides—they are storytellers and safety experts who ensure even first-time trekkers feel confident.
• The “Solo-Friendly” Vibe: 60% of our travelers join us solo. By the time we reach the Nagakanni Temple or the Nagara Fort, we are a family.

Kodachadri 2026 Quick Facts