Tucked away in the dense forests of Kudremukh National Park, the Kurinjal Trek is one of those rare trails that still feels untouched, almost secret. It’s not as famous as the Kudremukh Peak or as challenging as Kumara Parvatha, but that’s exactly why it stands out—it offers solitude, pristine nature, and a refreshing escape from the chaos of everyday life.

If you’ve been dreaming of a peaceful weekend trek in the Western Ghats, with misty trails, forest silence, and panoramic hilltop views, Kurinjal might just be your perfect match. Let me take you through my experience and all the details you need to plan your own.

Why Choose the Kurinjal Trek?

The first thing I felt when I stepped into the trail was how raw and alive everything was. Kurinjal is not one of those treks with laid-out paths and fancy signs. It’s wild, in the best way. The trail leads you through shola forests, gentle meadows, and ridge lines that open up to sweeping views of the Western Ghats.

Located within Kudremukh National Park in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, this area is a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot. The trek is about 7–8 km one way, with moderate difficulty. It’s perfect for beginners with decent fitness or experienced trekkers looking for something serene.

One of the most rewarding things is the view from the summit—on a clear day, you can see the Kudremukh ranges stretching endlessly into the horizon, wrapped in cloud and mystery.

How to Reach Kurinjal: Your Gateway to the Ghats

To get to the Kurinjal Trek starting point, your journey will likely begin in Bangalore, which is roughly 330 km away.

We took an overnight bus to Kalasa, the nearest town. From Kalasa, it’s a 15-20 km jeep ride to the Balagal Forest Check Post, where the trek officially begins. Jeeps are easily available and can be pre-arranged through local homestays or guides.

Alternatively, you can self-drive via Chikmagalur or Karkala, which gives you the chance to explore more spots like Hanuman Gundi Falls or Sringeri Temple along the way.

Local tip: You need a forest permit and a registered guide to enter the trail. This is strictly monitored by the Forest Department, so don’t try going in without permissions.

Trek Experience: Walking Through the Wild

We began our trek early in the morning, after a quick breakfast at our homestay. The trail starts with a thick canopy of trees, the kind that makes everything feel cool and green. The shola forests here are magical—sunlight streaming in through the branches, the scent of wet earth, and bird calls echoing in the distance.

After about an hour, the forest thins out and you step into rolling grasslands. This part is the most scenic—the sky feels huge, and the wind carries the scent of wildflowers and distant rains.

There are some steep stretches toward the end, but nothing too intense. With a slow and steady pace, we reached the summit in around 3.5 hours. The peak is marked with a simple rock, but the view is the real reward—you’ll feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world, looking out into green infinity.

Best Time to Visit Kurinjal Trek

The ideal time to do the Kurinjal trek is October to February. The post-monsoon greenery is still fresh, the skies are clear, and the weather is just right for trekking—not too hot, not too cold.

If you’re tempted by the monsoon magic (June to September), be prepared for slippery trails, leeches, and heavy fog. It’s stunningly green during this time, but it’s also challenging and best for experienced trekkers.

Avoid the summer months (March to May), as the region can get quite dry and hot, taking away some of the trail’s natural charm.

Accommodation, Budget & Safety: What to Know Before You Go

Stay options: You’ll find several friendly homestays in Kalasa or near Balagal, offering basic but comfortable rooms, hot meals, and even trek coordination. We stayed at a small family-run homestay, and their hospitality made the trip extra special.

Budget estimate (per person):

• Bangalore to Kalasa bus (round trip): ₹1,200

• Homestay (1 night, including meals): ₹900

• Forest permit and guide: ₹300–₹500

• Jeep to forest gate (shared): ₹250

Things to carry:

• Good trekking shoes with grip

• Water bottle (minimum 2 liters)

• Rain jacket (if trekking during monsoon)

• Cap, sunscreen, and sunglasses

• Some snacks or energy bars

• Basic first-aid kit

• Don’t forget to pack light—this isn’t an Everest expedition!

Safety tip: Always stick with your guide and group, especially during foggy weather. Mobile networks vanish after the base, so inform someone of your plans in advance.

Here’s how we planned our 2-day trip:

Day 1:

• Depart from Bangalore by 10 PM (overnight bus)

Day 2:

• Arrive at Kalasa by 6 AM

• Jeep ride to Balagal after breakfast

• Start trek by 9 AM, reach summit by 1 PM

• Relax, have packed lunch, descend by 4 PM

• Return to Kalasa for dinner and overnight stay

Day 3:

• Optional visit to nearby attractions (Kudremukh Peak, Hanuman Gundi Falls, Sringeri Temple)

• Return to Bangalore by night

Final Thoughts: Why Kurinjal Trek is a Must-Do

The Kurinjal Trek isn’t about pushing your limits—it’s about reconnecting with nature in its purest form. It offers everything a nature enthusiast could ask for: quiet trails, vibrant landscapes, and a soul-refreshing atmosphere.

It’s the kind of trek that doesn’t shout, but whispers its beauty to those who make the effort to seek it. If you’re someone who enjoys serene, non-commercial treks where the journey matters just as much as the destination, Kurinjal will not disappoint.