It all began on a dull Thursday afternoon. I was buried in deadlines, meetings, and emails that never seemed to end. I needed a break — not just from work, but from the chaos of the city. That’s when I stumbled upon a photo of someone standing above the clouds at Tadiandamol Peak.

“Let’s go,” I messaged my two closest friends. No elaborate planning, no second thoughts. That weekend, we were headed to Coorg, ready to take on one of the most stunning trekking trails in Karnataka.

A Scenic Start: Journey to the Base

We left Bangalore late Friday night, and by early morning, the air had changed. The roads wound through coffee estates, lush greenery, and mist-kissed trees. After a quick stop for Coorg-style breakfast (idlis, coconut chutney, and filter coffee that could wake the dead), we made our way to Kakkabe, the base village for the Tadiandamol trek.

This was no commercial tourist spot. It was raw, untouched, and real — exactly what we needed.

We met a few other trekkers near the base, some from Mysore and others from Chennai. Everyone seemed equally excited — not just for the summit, but for the serenity that came with it.

The Climb Begins: Into the Western Ghats

The trek began gently, like a walk through a painting. We passed through dense shola forests, wooden bridges, bamboo groves, and open grasslands. Birds chirped from hidden branches, and the cool breeze carried the earthy scent of rain-soaked soil.

As we gained altitude, the Western Ghats revealed their magic — rolling green hills layered into the distance, clouds hugging mountaintops, and valleys dipped in mist. We couldn’t stop clicking pictures, though no camera could do justice to what we were seeing.

The trail wasn’t very difficult, making it perfect for beginners. But it wasn’t boring either — the steady incline, occasional steep patches, and the changing landscape kept us fully engaged.

The Final Stretch: Into the Clouds

As we approached the Tadiandamol peak, the trail narrowed and became more rugged. The wind picked up, clouds thickened, and visibility dropped. It felt like walking into a dream. The world below disappeared, and all that remained was a sea of mist.

Our clothes were damp, our breaths short, but our spirits? Sky high.

Finally, we reached the summit — the highest point in Coorg, standing proud at 1,748 meters. We were literally above the clouds. I threw my arms out, closed my eyes, and let the wind whip through me. It was freedom in its purest form.

There were no vendors, no crowds, no chaos — just us, the mountain, and the sky.

Lunch With a View: A Moment to Remember

We sat on a grassy patch near the summit and opened our packed lunch — nothing fancy, just sandwiches and bananas. But when you’re surrounded by mist and mountains, even the simplest meal tastes like a feast.

We spoke little. Each of us was lost in our own world — reflecting, smiling, or just breathing. There’s something about the mountains that quiets the mind and amplifies the soul.

The Descent: Walking Down with Full Hearts

The return was gentler, and we took our time. The clouds parted occasionally to reveal breathtaking views we had missed on the way up. A few leeches tried to hitch a ride, but we were prepared with salt and quick reflexes.

Back at the base, we stopped at a small tea stall and sipped on hot chai, still dazed from what we’d just experienced. We were muddy, tired, sun-kissed — and absolutely content.

Why Tadiandamol Should Be on Your Trek List

If you’re looking for a weekend trek near Bangalore that blends beauty, peace, and manageable difficulty, the Tadiandamol Trek is perfect. It's ideal for beginners, couples, nature lovers, and even seasoned trekkers who want a calming reset.

Being the highest peak in Kodagu, it offers some of the most dramatic views in the Western Ghats. And unlike more commercial treks, it still retains a quiet charm. You don’t need fancy gear — just good shoes, rain protection, and the willingness to get a little dirty.

Quick Tips for Tadiandamol Trek

• Best time to visit: October to February (monsoons are beautiful but slippery).

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate (great for first-timers).

• Distance: About 8 km round trip.

• Permission: Required — take it from the forest department at the base.

• Stay options: Homestays in Kakkabe or nearby towns.

• What to carry: Water, snacks, raincoat, salt (for leeches), sunscreen, and a good camera.

Final Thoughts

Some treks leave you breathless from exhaustion. Others, like Tadiandamol, leave you breathless from beauty.

It reminded me that the best things in life aren’t found in city lights or fancy resorts. Sometimes, they’re hidden in misty hills, forest paths, and quiet summits — waiting for you to lace up your boots and go find them.