Top 30 Trekking Destinations in Karnataka

(1 out of 30 places to visit in Shimoga)

Agumbe is a scenic small village located near Thirthahalli in Shimoga district of Karnataka, India. This hill station is part of the amazing Western Ghats mountain range and it is know for the heavy rainfall, sunset point and trekking. It is also know as "The Cherrapunji of the South" after Cherrapunji, in Northeast India as the Agumbe ghat is covered with mist almost all the time. Agumbe is near the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kudremukh National Park. Agumbe lies in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Agumbe ghat road gives a breathtaking experience and is know for it's number of hair pin curves. The reserve forests around Kundapur, Shankaranarayana, Hosanagara, Sringeri and Thirthahalli are collectively referred to as the Agumbe Rainforest. During rains, Agumbe and the surrounding region come alive with several waterfalls namely Kunchikal Falls, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls, Jogigundi Falls and Koodlu Theertha Falls are some of the popular ones. Agumbe is located at approx 32km from Thirthahalli, 93km from Shivamogga, 61km from Udupi, 98km from Mangalore, 112km from Chikmagalur, 208km from Coorg, 348km from Bengaluru, 324km from Goa.

(2 out of 30 places to visit in Shimoga)

Agumbe is a scenic small village located near Thirthahalli in Shimoga district of Karnataka, India. This hill station is part of the amazing Western Ghats mountain range and it is know for the heavy rainfall, sunset point and trekking. It is also know as "The Cherrapunji of the South" after Cherrapunji, in Northeast India as the Agumbe ghat is covered with mist almost all the time. Agumbe is near the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kudremukh National Park. Agumbe lies in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Agumbe ghat road gives a breathtaking experience and is know for it's number of hair pin curves. The reserve forests around Kundapur, Shankaranarayana, Hosanagara, Sringeri and Thirthahalli are collectively referred to as the Agumbe Rainforest. During rains, Agumbe and the surrounding region come alive with several waterfalls namely Kunchikal Falls, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls, Jogigundi Falls and Koodlu Theertha Falls are some of the popular ones. Agumbe is located at approx 32km from Thirthahalli, 93km from Shivamogga, 61km from Udupi, 98km from Mangalore, 112km from Chikmagalur, 208km from Coorg, 348km from Bengaluru, 324km from Goa.

(3 out of 30 places to visit in Uttara Kannada)

Anshi National Park also known as Kali Tiger Reserve is a protected area and tiger reserve located near Dandeli in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India. The park is a habitat of Bengal tigers, black panthers and Indian elephants, amongst other distinctive fauna. The Kali River flows through the tiger reserve and is the lifeline of the ecosystem and hence the name. The Tiger reserve is spread over an area of 1300 square kilometers. Park is best known for Birdwatching, Trekking, and Jungle Safari. Located at 52km from Dandeli, 54km from Karwar, 125km from Hubli, 492km from Pune. 503km from Bengaluru, 319km from Mangalore.

(4 out of 30 places to visit in Kolar)

Antara Gange is a mountain located in Kolar district of Karnataka,India. This place, situated on the Shathashrunga mountain range is know as Kashi of South. Sri Kashi Vishweshwara temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is the major attraction in this destination. There is a pond in this temple, which gets a continuous flow of underground water from the mouth of a Basava (stone bull). Antar Gange caves located nearby are also one of the major attraction for the tourists. Steep and narrow path behind the temple lead to top of the mountain where you can located the Antar Gange caves. The mountain consists of granite rocks and lot of caves around. The caves are 3-4 km from the temple. There are seven villages on this mountain. Antara Gange is one of the best place for trekking and adventure lovers. Antara Gange is located at approx 5km from Kolar, 67km from Bengaluru, 208km from Mysore, 275km from Chennai, 580km from Hyderabad.

(5 out of 30 places to visit in Udupi)

This falls are deep inside the forests near Kodachadri hills. which can only be reached by trekking for more than 2 KM. The road can be reached by hiring Jeep from Kollur Temple. The trekking starts after 8 Kms drive through thick forest. There are signs showing way to the waterfalls on trek route. Entry permission can be obtained at the check post while entering into the forest. It is advisable to visit during the mid summer (From Dec to Feb) when water is calm

(6 out of 30 places to visit in Chikmagalur)

Baba Budangiri is a one of the beautiful mountain in the Baba Budan range of the Western Ghats, located in the Chikkamagaluru District of Karnataka, India, Baba Budangiri is a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Muslims. It is famous for the Dattatreya Peeta ‑ a Hindu temple and a Muslim dargah both in the same underground cave. The main peaks in this range are the Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri. Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in the Baba Budangiri range. With a height of 6317 ft, it is the fourth highest peak between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. These peaks naturally form in the shape of a crescent moon and makes an idyllic landscape for the photographers and nature lovers in Chikmagalur. There is a trekking trail between Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri. Trekkers can enjoy scenic beauty like plain, lush green, forests and rolling hills. Another prominent attraction of Baba Budangiri is the famous Manikyadhara Falls and the wild Kurinji flower blooms which happens every 12 years at this mountain. Baba Budangiri is located at approx 33km from Chikmagalur, 276km from Bengaluru, 115km from Shivamogga, 217km from Mysore, 184km from Mangalore, 438km from Goa.

(7 out of 30 places to visit in Ramanagara)

Is an hillock Located at a distance of 3 kms from Kanakapura near Bangalore. The hillock is around 2090 feet in height. surrounded by lush green fields with patches of flower. Best time to visit Bananthimari Betta is during October to March when the weather is pleasant.

(8 out of 30 places to visit in Uttara Kannada )

A Must Visit Sunset View Point In Sirsi. 30 kms from Sirsi, Uttara Kannada district. Vast expanses of unspoilt/untouched greenery, hill after hill as if they are waves. Less than 1km walk to summit, easy walk. There is no facility available. No tea, not even water. Even it's difficult to find one to ask the route

(9 out of 30 places to visit in Kodagu)

Coorg also know as Kodagu is an administrative district in Karnataka, India is called as the "Scotland of India". Madikeri is the heartland of Coorg region. Misty hills, lush forest, tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, and breathtaking views made coorg an one of the must visit tourist destination in Karantaka, India. Talacauvery, Raja Seat, Abbey Falls , Tadiandamol Hill Station and Dubare Forest are some of the best places to visit in Coorg. Coorg is the largest producer of Coffee in India. Coorg is also famous for trekking activities with peaks like Thandiyandamole, Brahmagiri and Pushpagiri. Elephant rides at Dubare Elephant camp and white water rafting in Upper Barapole River are other interesting things to do in Madikeri. Nagarhole National Park is also one of the places to visit in the region. Madikeri is located at approx 268km from Bengaluru, 118km from Mysore, 138km from Mangalore, 448km from Goa, 363km from Kochi, 586km from Chennai, 246km from Ooty.

(10 out of 30 places to visit in Uttara Kannada)

Dandeli is a town in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka, India. For adventure activities, Dandeli provides a perfect holiday destination or a weekend getaway. From white-water rafting in Kali river, mountain biking in the hilly terrains, trekking to spot tigers as well as rare species of birds, Small hidden waterfalls, Nature view points, Dandeli has it all to appease you in the lap of nature. Trekking is one of the top things to do in Dandeli. Jungle trekking is adventurous journey along the thick Dandeli forests where visitors can explore the nature, wildlife & birds. There are several trekking routes in Dandeli. Kavala Caves trek, Kulgi-Nagzari Valley trek and Potoli-Shiroli trek. These are organized by Kulgi Nature Camp, which is run by the forest department. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is adjacent to Anshi National Park and also part of the Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary housing nearly 200 species of birds, so known as is a birdwatchers paradise. Sightings of the black panther, the Indian pangolin, the giant Malabar squirrel, Indian sloth bear, Indian elephant and the Indian peafowl are pretty common. The king cobra and the mugger crocodile are the prime reptilians in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Dandeli is located at approx 106km from Karwar, 72km from Hubli, 456km from Bangalore, 96km from Goa, 437km from Pune.

(11 out of 30 places to visit in Dakshina Kannada)

Didupe waterfalls, untouched beauty, located didupe village in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. Crystal clear falls plunges from a height of 70ft rocky cliff, hides at the base of charmadi ghats of western ghats. Trail to waterfall is 2km and takes 20min to reach and is one of the best trekking trail to remember. There are multiple trekking routes to falls and in that most famous is through stream and areca nut field. One has to take permission from forest department to explore the place.

(13 out of 30 places to visit in Belgaum)

Dudhsagar is an heavenly waterfall located on Goa-Karnataka border near Castlerock. Waterfall formed by Mandovi River, with a height of 1017 feet, It is one of the tallest waterfall in ndia. Waterfall creates an illusion of a literally sea of milk falling from the top. Falls is located on the Madgaon-Belgaum rail route about 46 km from Madgaon and 80 km from Belgaum. Dudhsagar attracts the attention of many tourists and nature lovers who come from all over the country to witness the waterfall’s glory. It is also a heaven for trekkers and adventure lovers. The best time to visit Dudhsagar Waterfalls is the between the months of October and June, and also during monsoons. There are two trains daily, and you would need to get off at the closest stop, Kulem. Alternately, you could also get off at Castle Rock Station. Best way to experience the waterfalls is by train or by trek, Trek from Castle Rock railway station – A 14 kilometer trek that takes about 5-6 hours. Trek from Dudhsagar rail station – Walk for 1 kilometer from the railway station passing through a 200 meter tunnel. Dudhsagar Falls is located at approx 60km from Goa, 95km from Belgaum, 142km from Hubli, 551km from Bengaluru, 436km from Pune, 681km from Hyderabad, 788km from Kochi.

(14 out of 30 places to visit in Uttara Kannada)

Gokarna is one of the major tourist attraction, located in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India. Gokarna is know for historic Mahabaleshwar Temple and Many beaches surrounding it. This temple attracts major tourists across the country because of legends and history associated with it. The temple also finds mentions in the Hindu epics of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. There is a beach facing the temple. Other than temples, Gokarna is know for it's scenic beaches, Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, Full Moon Beach and Kudle beach are the popular once. Om beach derives its name from its shape, Its shape is like Om in Hindi so called as Om beach. Very nice and clean beach with less crowd. One can do trekking from there and view amazing sunrise and sunset. It has steps leading down to the beach. Some water sports/ adventure are available like banana boat, kayaking and so on. Every year thousands of tourists visit Gokarna for pilgrim as well as to soak themselves on these beaches. Gokarn is located at approx 177km from Udupi, 231km from Mangalore, 488km from Bengaluru, 133km form Goa, 645km from Kochi, 208km from Belgaum.

(15 out of 30 places to visit in Bellary)

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Hosapete in Bellary district of Karnataka, India. It was the Capital city of Hindu Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century which was the last great Hindu kingdom in South India. It includes "forts, riverside features, royal and sacred complexes, temples, shrines, pillared halls, mandapas, memorial structures, water structures and others". The City was built on the bank of river Tungabhadra. The Vijayanagara Empire was defeated by a coalition of Muslim sultanates; its capital was conquered and destroyed by sultanate armies in 1565, after which Hampi remained in ruins. But the ruins are yet still stand tall, looks stunning and gives the glimpse of the richness and culture of the great Hindu Empire. Hampi is charismatic even in its ruined state. Hampi, also known as Pampa-kshetra, Kishkindha-kshetra or Bhaskara-kshetra, is derived from Pampa, which is the old name of the Tungabhadra River. Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Hampi Bazaar, Queen’s Bath, Stone chariot at Vitthala temple, Elephant stable, Lotus Mahal are some of the must visit attractions in hampi. One can enjoy the specacular views of the ruins of Hampi from top the of Hemakuta and Matanga hills near by along with sunset and sunrise. Hampi is located at approx 12km from Hosapete, 61km from Bellary, 164km from Hubli, 342km from Bengaluru, 327km from Goa, 371km from Hyderabad, 534km from Pune, 563km from Chennai.

(16 out of 30 places to visit in Chikmagalur)

Hanumana Gundi Falls also know as Suthanabbe Falls is a hidden waterfalls located in Kudremukh National Park in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, India. Falls is located between Karkala and Lakya dam hilly surroundings in the Kudremukh national park. The water falls from a height of 22 meters creating a scenic surroundings around it.

A nominal fee is charged to the visitor. The visitor ticket is to be safeguarded until we exit the Kudremukh range. There are about 300 steps which you need get down to reach the base of the falls. White water cascading from a height of about 35-40 feet welcomes you. The water down here is crystal clear and cold.

Hanumana Gundi Falls is located approximately 20 kms from Kudremukh Town.

(17 out of 30 places to visit in Chikmagalur)

Hebbe Falls is one of the exotic waterfall situated near famous hill station Kemmangundi in Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, India. Hebbe Falls drops down from a height of 551 ft. It falls in two stages are named Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls.). This waterfalls are inside a coffee estate and can be reached either by walk or four-wheeler. There is a jeep services available from near by check post. Entry Fee. 400 per person to ride in the jeep; 3200 for 8 person to ride in the jeep. The check post is the entry point for the falls. It takes an hour to cover the trail in a jeep while walking takes longer time. Hebbe Falls is one of the most sought after destinations in Chikmagalur that attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers. There are many trekking routes available for trek lovers. Falls is just 10km away from famous hill station Kemmannugundi. Kemmannugundi is a hill station and one of the highest peak of Karnataka, India. It is 1434m above sea level. The station is ringed by the Baba Budan Giri Range. With cascades, mountain streams, lush vegetation, waterfalls, trekking routes, garden at the top and valleys view points, it is of the major tourist attraction in Karnataka, India. There is a spectacular sunset view from the Raj Bhavan. Hebbe Falls, Kallathigiri Falls, Z-Point are the must visit attractions on the route. Kemmangundi is located at approx 63km from Chikmagalur, 73km from Shivamogga, 274km from Bengaluru.

(18 out of 30 places to visit in Shimoga)

Kavaledurga Fort is one of the ruined fort located near Thirthahalli in Shimoga district of Karnataka, India. This scenic fort is one of the must visit places during monsoons and one of the best places for trekking and photography. Not to be missed is a view from the top of the Fort and the ruins of the main Palace building. There are several monuments and temple inside the Fort Complete which are built during the Keladi dynasty. Fort has three lines of walls and at the center overlooking the western sea is a small temple known as Shikhareshvara or Srikanthesvara temple. Surrounded with a lush green forest and hills, it is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts looking for high altitude kicks. Kavaledurga Fort is located at approx 20km from Thirthahalli, 80km from Shivamogga, 34km from Agumbe, 364km from Bengaluru, 329km from Goa, 133km from Mangalore.

(19 out of 30 places to visit in Shimoga)

Kodachadri is a mountain peak in the Western Ghats, located near Nittur in Shivamogga district of Karnataka, India. it is 10th highest peak of Karnataka. Kodachadri is know as one of the best trekking place in Karnataka. There are different routes to reach the Peak of Kodachadri and the difficulty varies highly with respect to the route chosen. One can also chose a jeep ride service to reach the top of the hill. However it is challenging to reach the peak in monsoon due to heavy rains that make the routes slippery, but to enjoy the natural beauty monsoon season is the best time to visit. The sunset watched from Kodachadri peak on a clear day is an enchanting experience. Super scenic place. Even if you need to climb a bit it's worth the climb. In one of the route you will get to see a beautiful Hidlumane Falls, which you wont' be able to see by jeep ride. Kodachadri is located at approx 16km from Nittur, 37km from Kollur, 112km from Shivamogga, 213km from Karwar, 166km from Mangalore, 296km from Goa, 413km from Bengaluru, 210km from Hubli, 639km from Pune.

(20 out of 30 places to visit in Udupi)

One of the many waterfalls of the western ghats. Koodlu Theertha in Agumbe. 25kms From Agumbe , Koodlu Theertha Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall located near Hebri on Udupi-Agumbe Road in Karnataka. Hidden Treasures in Malnad, Nestled amidst the dense forest of the Western Ghats and adjacent to the Agumbe ranges the waterfall is the first fall of the River Sita. It is also known as Sita Falls. Fun Filled trek to koodlu waterfalls with friends snakes and leaches will make the trek unforgettable.

(21 out of 30 places to visit in Chikmagalur)

Kuduremukha a beautiful small village on a mountain range, located in Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, India. Kuduremukha is Karnataka's 2nd highest peak after Mullayangiri with 1,894 metres above sea level. The name Kuduremukha means 'horse-face' in Kannada and its said that a particular view of a side of the mountain that resembles a horse's face. It is home to some of the best coffee plantations and picturesque mountain views, rivers, grassy slopes makes it one of the best place for camping and trekking in Karnataka, India. Best time to visit is during the monsoon and the winter. There are many trekking trails around different peaks, Most treks around Kudremukh start at Lobo's Place. Kudremukh is located at approx 106km from Chikmagalur, 93km from Udupi, 100km from Mangalore, 331km from Bengaluru, 195km from Madikeri, 145km from Shivamogga, 78km from Agumbe.

(22 out of 30 places to visit in Uttara Kannada)

However, among all the attractions near Magod Falls, the Kulimagod Falls (in Kannada, kuli means pond) stands out for its sheer beauty and accessibility. It is formed by a tiny tributary of Bedti and its relatively easy accessibility has made it a not-to-be missed spot for nature tourists who travel to Magod Falls. Normally, it takes a great amount of trekking down the valley for one to reach the foot of any waterfall. This is not the case with Kulimagod. With very little effort, one can get under its misty showers falling down from a height of about 50 feet. To get there, one has to take Magod road from Yellapur and take a left turn just before Magod Falls. There is a sign board at this turning, which directs us to the Kulimagod Falls.

(23 out of 30 places to visit in Coorg)

Pushpagiri also know as Kumara Parvatha is one of the highest peak in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Located near Somwarpet on the borders between Dakshina Kannada , Kodagu and hassan districts. With 5,617 ft, It is 4th highest peak in Karnataka. Hill is part of the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. Pushpagiri is the second highest peak of Kodagu District or Coorg. This beautiful peak is surrounded by forests on all four sides, which makes it heaven for adventure and trekking lovers. Trekking is the major attractions here, one needs to register their names at the checkpoint before starting the trek, however, there is no entry fee, it is highly suggested to hire a guide at Bidahalli or Heggadamane villages for a smooth trekking experience. Kumara Parvatha is located at approx 27km from Somwarpet, 60km from Madikeri, 260km from Bengaluru, 140km from Mysore, 152km from Mangalore, 417km from Kochi, 491km from Goa, 609km from Chennai, 864km from Pune, 818km from Hyderabad.

(25 out of 30 places to visit in Coorg)

Mallalli Falls is a mesmerising and breathtaking waterfall, situated in the foot of the Pushpagiri peak in the northern region of Kodagu District, Karnataka. The Kumaradhara River is the main watercourse for this waterfall. The Kumaradhara later flows through Kukke Subrahmanya and merges with the Netravati River at Uppinangadi, which then empties into the Arabian Sea at Mangalore. The fact that the falls are in the foot of the Pushpagiri peak makes the place a much adventurous trekking point. This waterfalls is in Somwarpet talluk of Coorg district. It's around 20 km from Somwarpet town.

(26 out of 30 places to visit in Bellary)

Matanga hill is truly amazing hill in Hampi. You need to walk about 30 to 40 minutes. Early morning is the best time to visit this place. There are no safely measure in the hills. So need to very careful while climbing. One of the best place for trekking. Beware of monkeys

(27 out of 30 places to visit in Chikmagalur)

Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka located on Chandra Dhrona Hill Ranges of the Western Ghats in Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, India. With a height of 6,330 ft It is the fourth highest peak between Nilgiri hills and Himalayas next to Vavulmala, Chembra Peak and Banasura Hill. Mullayanagiri is one of the best trekking places in Karnataka and one can also reach the top of the hill by any vehicle. You have to walk the last part of the peak, which has approx 380 steps and this will really tire you out. The view from the top is amazing and it's very Misty and windy. There is small port on to with a temple at the center. That gives a 360* view from the top, perfect place to witness stunning sunrise and sunset. Mullayanagiri is lcoated at approx 25km from Chikmagalur, 120km from Shivamogga, 268km from Bengaluru, 209km from Mysore, 216km from Mangalore, 197km from Udupi. 435km from Goa.

(28 out of 30 places to visit in Shimoga)

The Onake Abbi Falls is a wonderful waterfall situated near Agumbe in Shivamogga district of Karnataka, India. It's an beautiful waterfall and amazing trekking destination. Falls is a thin water source dropping from rocky hills, cascades from a height of 500 feet. You are required to take permission for trekking from the Forest Department. Located at a distance of 5 Kms from Someshwar, Onake Abbi Falls needs to be trekked from Someshwar through thick forest and rocky slopes. Onake Abbi Falls is located at approx 5km from Someshwar, 8km from Agumbe, 45 Kms from Udupi, 101km from Mangalore, 31km from Thirthahalli, 92km from Shivamogga, 346km from Bengaluru, 318km from Goa.