If you're craving a weekend escape from Bangalore or Mangalore that blends lush greenery, quiet trails, and a sense of untouched wilderness, then the Kurinjal Trek in Kudremukh National Park might just be your next favorite adventure. I stumbled upon this hidden trail while searching for offbeat treks in Karnataka, and it turned out to be a serene, soul-soothing experience I wasn’t expecting.

Let me walk you through everything you need to know about the Kurinjal Trek—from how to get there, when to go, what to expect, and some tips that’ll make your journey smoother.

Discovering Kurinjal: Why This Trek Deserves a Spot on Your List

Nestled deep within the biodiverse Kudremukh National Park in Chikmagalur district, Kurinjal Peak is one of those lesser-known trails that still feels raw and untouched. The trail meanders through mist-laden forests, rolling grasslands, and offers sweeping views of the Western Ghats. While not as popular as Kudremukh Peak or Mullayanagiri, Kurinjal is equally stunning and a lot less crowded.

It’s a relatively moderate trek—perfect for beginners looking for a slightly challenging experience without pushing too far. The trail is about 6 to 7 km one way, with a total duration of 4 to 5 hours depending on your pace.

The real reward is at the summit. As you stand atop Kurinjal Peak, you’re greeted with panoramic views of the rolling Shola grasslands and dense valleys, often wrapped in clouds. It feels like stepping into a dream.

Best Time to Visit Kurinjal Trek: When Nature is at Her Finest

The ideal time to do the Kurinjal Trek is from October to March, just after the monsoon. This is when the skies are clear, the hills are lush green, and the weather is cool and pleasant.

Avoid trekking during peak monsoon (June to September) as the forest trails can get slippery and leeches are a real nuisance. That said, if you're a monsoon lover and don't mind the wet and wild experience, Kurinjal in the rains is a different kind of magical—but do take extra care.

If you're planning a weekend getaway from Bangalore, try to start early Friday evening. You can reach the base by early morning and begin your trek fresh on Saturday.

How to Reach Kurinjal Trek: Your Route to the Wilderness

The base point for Kurinjal Trek is Balegal, a small village near Kudremukh in Chikmagalur district.

From Bangalore (approx. 330 km): Take an overnight bus to Kalasa or hire a cab. From Kalasa, Balegal is a short drive away. It’s best to have your own transport or join a trekking group, as public transport is limited.

From Mangalore (approx. 110 km): The drive is shorter and scenic. You can reach Kalasa via Karkala and then move toward Balegal.

Make sure to obtain prior permission from the Kudremukh Forest Department, as this is a protected area. You’ll also need to hire a forest guide, which is mandatory for the trek.

A Day on the Trail: What the Kurinjal Trek Experience Feels Like

We started early in the morning from our homestay near Kalasa. After a quick drive to the forest office and some brief formalities, we met our guide and headed to the starting point. The initial stretch takes you through dense evergreen forests. You can hear the chirping of birds, rustling leaves, and—if you're lucky—the call of a Malabar giant squirrel.

Soon, the forest gives way to open grasslands with wide-angle views of the surrounding hills. The incline is gradual, with a few steep sections that get your heart pumping, but nothing too intense. What stood out to me was the complete silence, broken only by the sounds of nature. No phone signal, no distractions—just you and the wild.

As we neared the peak, clouds began to roll in. The sun played hide-and-seek, casting dramatic shadows over the hills. At the summit, the 360-degree views were simply breathtaking. Kudremukh Peak was visible at a distance, and the layers of forested valleys stretched out like waves.

After spending about 45 minutes soaking it all in, we began our descent—tired but completely rejuvenated.

Travel Tips and Budget Advice: Making Your Trek Hassle-Free

• Permission & Guide: Forest department permission is a must. It costs around ₹500 per person, and a guide fee of ₹800–1000 (for the group) is standard. Carry valid ID proof.

• Accommodation: There are plenty of homestays in Kalasa and Samse. I stayed at one that served delicious local Malnad food and had a warm, welcoming host. Expect to spend ₹800–₹1500 per night.

• Trek Essentials: Carry enough water (2 liters), energy snacks, sunscreen, a cap, and a light raincoat (just in case). Good trekking shoes are a must—the trail can be slippery, especially after rains.

• Travel Budget (From Bangalore): Travel (bus or cab): ₹800–1500 Stay (1 night): ₹1000 Trek fees & guide: ₹700–₹1000 Meals & misc.: ₹500–₹800 Total: ₹3000–₹4500 for a 2-day trip

What Else to Explore Nearby: Extend Your Adventure

If you’ve got an extra day, there’s plenty around Kurinjal to explore.

• Kudremukh Peak Trek: More challenging and one of the most iconic treks in Karnataka.

• Hanuman Gundi Falls: A scenic waterfall tucked away in the Kudremukh range—ideal for a refreshing dip post-trek.

• Horanadu Temple: A serene temple dedicated to Annapoorneshwari Devi, surrounded by lush hills.

• Kalasa Town: A peaceful town with traditional Karnataka charm and some local eateries to enjoy regional delicacies.

Final Thoughts: Kurinjal is the Escape You Didn’t Know You Needed

There’s something raw and real about Kurinjal. It doesn’t have the commercial buzz of more popular treks, but that’s exactly its charm. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a nature lover, or someone simply looking to disconnect for a day—Kurinjal welcomes you with open arms.

This isn’t just a trek; it’s a reminder of how healing nature can be when you give it a chance.

So, if you’ve been scrolling through endless trek options, stop here. Pack your backpack, lace up your boots, and go discover Kurinjal before the crowds do. You’ll come back with more than just photos—you’ll return with peace.