TOP 6 TREKS IN WESTERN GHATS (Part 2)

We have a list of 6 best treks in the world’s renowned mountain range - Western Ghats. It is even older than the mighty Himalayas and recognised as one of the world’s eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity. Starting from Gujarat until the southern tip of Kerala, it covers an area of 1,40,000 sq kms.

9/6/20234 min read

As per health experts, Nature and Adventure are one of the major influencers in the positive transformation of one's life.

Thus, trek becomes the best way to experience the majestic mountain, thrilling escapade from the same routine and a viable source to push our boundaries. We truly hope that this crisis gets resolved soon so that we can again explore the scenic beauty and the magic of mountains.

Harihar Fort Trek - A new level of Thrill & Adventure

This fort was built by the Yadava dynasty to protect the ancient trade route and acted as a watchtower. It is situated in the Nashik district.

The most famous and trickiest part in this trek is climbing the 80-degree steep stairs which seems like a stone ladder on the slope of the 60 metre pinnacle.

Ways to reach:

By Air - Nearest is Mumbai Airport which is around 190 kms (5 hrs drive).

By Train - There are 2 options, either reaching Nashik railway station or driving down to the base village - Nirgudpada (60 kms away).

Another alternative is from Mumbai and similar to Kalsubai trek wherein from Kasara Railway Station, board rickshaw/van/tempo/bus to reach Igatpuri (20 kms away) and from there to Nirgudpada by bus/rickshaw/tempo etc which will be 50 kms away.

By Road - From Nashik city it takes around 1.5 hours to reach base village Nirgudpada and from Mumbai it takes 5 hrs drive. There is another base village

Harshewadi which is comparatively closer to the fort. When coming in groups it is advisable to start from Harshewadi instead of Nirgudpada. You will be surprised to see the ruins of this fort and imagine how the soldiers must be patrolling it during day and night. With history, you also get Nature & bounty, and adventure (especially while climbing the pinnacle).

During monsoon, the trek becomes risky as while climbing if you slip, you can endanger your life as well as the ones behind you because of the 80-degree ascent. So advisable to keep a safe distance and climb slowly.

The best time to visit will be during the winter (November to February) as otherwise summer is unbearable and monsoon is risky. Also during winter months, you can spot greenery and abundance of scenic sights.

Uttari Betta - Iconic Sunrise Trek near Bengaluru

It is also known as Huthri Durga (fortified hills) and closer to Bangalore. This hill fort was built by Kempagowda (Chieftain under Vijayanagara Empire) in the 16th century.

There are two small hills surrounding the village through which ruined defensive walls of the iconic fort are still visible.

Ways to reach:

By Air - Nearest is Bangalore Airport which is around 90 kms (2 hrs drive).

By Train - Bangalore Yesvantpur Junction is the most accessible and nearest railway station from the base village (60 kms away).

By Road - From Bangalore city a 70 kms drive. There are KSRTC buses, private vehicle options, cabs etc.

It is a one-day trek for the People who want to take a break and enjoy the glimpse of nature. This is a 5 km easy trek across a breath-taking lush green landscape that offers scenic views.

Crossing a small jungle-cave, with some wildlife which include different types of insects, birds, and mammals, including bear, leopard, and wild boar, this trekking trail will be one of the best ever experiences.

The hill fort has eight gateways from the foot to the summit in addition to seven outer gates. The trek starts from a small village, entering the fort wall and passes through eight doors of stone to reach the halfway point of the hike which has a temple of Shankareswar at the top.

The best time to visit this place is between August to February.

Mullayangiri Trek - Heaven for Adventure Junkies

Stay Tuned and read about our other travel blogs.

It is one of the most scenic and popular places with fantastic views in South India. This place is famous as the highest peak points with a height of 1,930 meters (6,330 ft) in Karnataka.

Similar to Kudremukh, this peak lies in the Chikmagalur taluk and hence is surrounded by forests and national park.

Ways to reach:

By Air - Mangalore Airport is nearest and which is 135 kms away (3.5 hrs drive) and from Bangalore Airport it is 290 kms away (6 hrs drive).

By Train - Nearest Railway station to this place is Kadur Junction (60 kms away) and even Chikmagalur railway station (25 kms away) but very few trains stop here.

By Road - People looking to plan their Mullayanagiri Trek from Bangalore which is 275 kms (5 hrs drive) can opt to take a bus to Chikmagalur. You can also opt to drive yourself wherein we suggest bike ride over car to enjoy the windy climate and serpentine route. The nearest and accessible place is Chikmagalur which is around 25kms (50 mins drive).

Generally, the trek starts from Sarpadari. The trail passes through the windy and zigzag forest with a cool breeze. People can see beautiful Western Ghats once you reach the top of the peak.

It takes 2 days to cover the places near Mullyanagiri. Once people complete the trek people can visit Baba Budangiri hills (around extra 12 kms of trekking) which are 33 kms from Mullayanagiri, Hirekolale Lake which is 15 kms away, and also you can visit Jhari or Dabdabe falls which is 22kms from Chikmagalur (a popular hill station in Karnataka).

The best time to visit this place is from September to April (winter months).