Mullyanagiri Trek
Rs. 5500 per personBeyond Adventure
- The Mullayanagiri Trek is more than a climb; it is an ascent into the ethereal clouds of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage biodiversity hotspot. Standing majestically at an elevation of 6,317 feet (1,925 meters), Mullayanagiri is the undisputed crown of the Baba Budan Giri Range in Chikkamagaluru. This trek offers a profound transition from the aromatic coffee estates of the foothills to the windswept grasslands of the summit, providing a sensory journey through one of the most ancient and ecologically significant mountain chains on the planet.The journey commences at the base village of Sarpadi. This trailhead is a dramatic introduction to the rugged beauty of the Malnad region.
- The Scent of the Highlands: Before the forest begins, you are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of Arabica and Robusta coffee blossoms. Chikkamagaluru is the birthplace of coffee in India, and the lower reaches of the trek feel like a walk through a private garden of the gods.
- The Shola Symphony: As you leave the estates behind, you enter the Shola Forests—a unique ecosystem of stunted tropical montane forest found only in South India. These woods are ancient and dense, characterized by thick moss, lichens, and exotic ferns. The canopy is home to the Malabar Whistling Thrush, whose human-like song provides a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack to your ascent.
- The trail from Sarpadi is famous for its steep gradients and rocky switchbacks, known locally as the "Sarpadhari" (Snake Path).The Serpent’s Path: True to its name, the trail zig-zags precariously up the mountain face. This section is a test of physical grit and balance. The terrain is a mix of loose gravel and ancient basalt rock, weathered by centuries of monsoon rains.The Floral Tapestry: Along the crevices of the rocks, you will find rare wildflowers and the famous Kurinji shrubs. Every step upwards reveals a new botanical wonder, from delicate orchids to wild balsams that paint the gray rocks in vibrant hues of purple and gold.
- As you gain significant altitude, the dense Shola forests abruptly give way to the Montane Grasslands. This transition is one of the most visually stunning aspects of the Mullayanagiri trek.The Velvet Slopes: The mountain opens up into vast, rolling hills covered in a thick carpet of green grass. In the post-monsoon season, these hills appear like a velvet blanket stretched across the horizon. The wind here is relentless and cool, carrying the mist from the valleys below.
- The Misty Veil: Mullayanagiri is often shrouded in thick fog. One moment you are looking at a 360-degree view of the Chikkamagaluru district, and the next, you are enveloped in a white, silent world of mist. This "hide-and-seek" with the landscape adds an element of mystery and magic to the trek.
- The climax of the trek is reaching the summit, where a flight of approximately 500 stone steps leads you to the very top.
- The Temple of the Sage: At the summit sits a small, serene temple dedicated to Lord Mullappa Swamy, a sage who is said to have meditated in the caves just below the peak. The temple is a site of deep spiritual significance, and the ringing of the temple bell amidst the whistling winds creates a moment of profound peace.The 360-Degree Revelation: From the highest point in Karnataka, the world looks infinite. You can see the entire Baba Budan Giri range stretching away like the spine of a sleeping giant. To the west, the Bhadra Reservoir glimmers like a silver coin, and to the south, the deep valleys of the Hemavathi river system disappear into the blue haze of the distance.Mullayanagiri is a critical watershed for the region and a habitat for rare wildlife including the Barking Deer, Sambhar, and the elusive Great Indian Hornbill. The trek is an exercise in environmental reverence. Standing at the peak, one realizes that Mullayanagiri is not just a mountain to be conquered, but a sanctuary to be protected. The sense of standing at the zenith of the state, with the clouds drifting below your feet, provides a feeling of deep personal fulfillment and a lasting connection with the wild heart of South India.
- MAJOR ATTRACTIONS:Mullayanagiri Peak (highest peak in Karnataka), Western Ghats panoramic views, Dense shola forests, Rolling grasslands, Chikkamagaluru valley views, Exotic flora and fauna, Scenic viewpoints, Ancient shiva temple at summit, Rocky outcrops, Misty mountain trails
Duration: 2 Days, 1 Night
Month: October to May
Region: Chikkamagaluru
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Trek fee: 5500
Max Altitude: 6,368 ft
Trek distance: 12 km
Best Period:
October to March
Stay:
Homestay and Tents
Railway Head:
Chikkamagaluru
Food:
Veg + Eggs
WHO CAN JOIN
Age Requirement :
- Minimum Age: 12 to 65 years
- Experience: Having past experience of trekking surely helps. If the participants have any medical condition, it is highly recommended to be consulted by doctor and also please inform us beforehand so we can arrange the logistics accordingly. Beginners and First-time Trekkers: Suitable for beginners looking for an easy introduction to trekking in the Western Ghats
- Fitness: Any medical condition that affects the ability to walk or hike for long periods should be disclosed before joining the trek. Not suitable for those with serious heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or chronic respiratory issues.
Fitness Criteria
- The Trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance by jogging in 35 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance in 80 minutes without stress.
- If the trekker wants to carry a backpack then he/she should be able to carry a 10-12 kg backpack. If opting for Off-load option then the trekker should be able to carry a 3-5 kg backpack.
- BMI Requirement:If a trekker's BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-29), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.
How to Reach
Options to Reach
By Air:Nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (approximately 150 km). From Mangalore, hire a taxi to Chikkamagaluru (approximately 3 hours) and then to Sarpadi village.
From Chikkamagaluru:Hire a taxi or take a local bus to Sarpadi village, which is the starting point of the Mullayanagiri Trek.
By Train:
Take a train to Chikkamagaluru or Kadur railway station. From Chikkamagaluru, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Sarpadi village (approximately 25 km, 1 hour).
By Bus:
Direct buses are available from Bangalore to Chikkamagaluru (approximately 5-6 hours). From Chikkamagaluru, hire a local taxi to Sarpadi village.
Journey Itinerary
Chikkamagaluru to Sarpadi
Descent and Return to Chikkamagaluru
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Tented accommodation and homestay
- All meals (Veg + Eggs)
- Professional trek leader and support team
- Trek equipment and safety gear
- First aid kit
- Forest permits and entry fees
- Completion certificate
Excluded
- Insurance
- Food during transit
- Personal expenses
- Transport from home city to Chikkamagaluru
- Emergency evacuation charges
- Offloading charges
- Tips and porterage
- Any additional activities not mentioned in inclusions
Kids Guidelines
- • junior trekkers (below 12 years) are not allowed on this trek.
- • Trekkers between 12 to 18 years can join with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.
- • Children above 12 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
- • Trek is not suitable for kids with high blood pressure or heart conditions.
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