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Netravati Trek: A Hidden Gem in the Western Ghats You’ll Wish You Discovered Sooner

Netravati Trek is one of those offbeat trails that still feels untouched, raw, and deeply rewarding.

Netravati Trek: A Hidden Gem in the Western Ghats You’ll Wish You Discovered Sooner

Tucked away in the heart of the Western Ghats, the Netravati Trek is one of those offbeat trails that still feels untouched, raw, and deeply rewarding. If you’ve been craving a trek that’s not overrun by crowds, yet offers dramatic landscapes, forest immersion, and that satisfying sense of adventure, Netravati Peak might just be your next favorite escape.

I had heard whispers of this trail from a fellow trekker during my time in Kudremukh, and what started as a spontaneous plan turned into one of the most memorable treks of my life. Let me take you through everything you need to know about the Netravati Trek—from the trail’s rhythm to insider tips that’ll help you make the most of it.

1. Where Exactly Is Netravati Peak and Why It’s Worth Your Weekend

The Netravati Peak Trek lies within theKudremukh National Park region in Chikmagalur district, Karnataka. While the nearby Kudremukh trek often steals the spotlight, Netravati remains a quieter and more pristine alternative. The peak is named after the Netravati River, which originates from this very terrain.

What makes this trek unique isn’t just the views (though trust me, they’re spectacular)—it’s the journey through dense shola forests, rolling grasslands, and mist-covered hills that make you feel like you've stepped into a nature documentary.

Unlike tourist-heavy trails, you won’t find shops or rest huts on the way. Instead, you’ll walk in silence broken only by chirping birds, rustling leaves, and the occasional monkey swing. It’s this pure connection with nature that sets the Netravati experience apart.

2. Best Time to Visit Netravati Trek: When the Forest Comes Alive

The ideal time to do the Netravati Peak Trek is from October to February, right after the monsoon showers have washed the hills clean and before the heat kicks in. During these months, the trail is lush, the skies are clear, and the temperature is pleasant for long walks.

While the monsoon (June to September) does turn the region into a green wonderland, trekking here during heavy rains isn’t advisable. The trail can get slippery and visibility reduces drastically, making it risky unless you’re an experienced monsoon trekker.

Pro tip: Plan your trek around sunrise or start early in the morning. Watching the first light spill over the valley from the summit is an experience you’ll never forget.

3. Getting There: How to Reach the Starting Point

The base village for Netravati Trek isSamse, a small village near Kalasa in Chikmagalur. Here’s a simple breakdown of how to reach:

  • By Road: Drive or take a bus to Kalasa from Bangalore (around 300 km / 7-8 hours). From Kalasa, local jeeps can take you to Samse or directly to the forest checkpoint at Mullodi, the real starting point of the trek.

  • By Train: The nearest railway station is Mangalore, from where you can take a bus or hire a cab to Kalasa.

  • By Air: Mangalore International Airport is your best bet, around 130 km from the trek base.

Remember, permissions from the forest department are mandatory since the trek falls within a protected zone. Most local guides or homestays help arrange this, but it's good to call ahead and check availability.

4. The Trek Itself: A Day Through Rainforests and Ridges

The Netravati Trek is typically a one-day trek, though some like to extend it to a two-day camping experience near the base. The total distance is around 10–12 km (to and fro) and can be completed in 5–7 hours depending on your pace.

As you begin the trail, the landscape quickly changes. You’ll cross mud trails, small streams, bamboo clusters, and sun-dappled clearings. One minute, you’re in a dense forest tunnel, and the next, you’re out on an open slope with 360° views of the Western Ghats.

The final climb to the peak is a bit steep but completely worth the effort. From the top, you get sweeping views of Kudremukh ranges, deep valleys, and cloud-draped peaks that stretch endlessly into the horizon. On a clear day, the scenery feels straight out of a Himalayan trek, minus the crowds.

5. Where to Stay and What to Carry: Plan Smart, Pack Light

There are no hotels at the base, but the region offers plenty of cozy homestays in Kalasa or Samse, run by warm, hospitable locals. Staying in a homestay also gives you a taste of local Malnad cuisine, especially their piping hot rice rotti, sambar, and homegrown coffee.

If you’re planning a guided trek, most packages include transportation from Kalasa, forest permits, guide charges, and sometimes meals.

Here’s a quick list of what to carry:

  • Comfortable trekking shoes with good grip

  • A lightweight poncho (weather can change quickly)

  • Water bottles (minimum 2 liters)

  • Energy bars/snacks

  • Sunscreen and cap

  • Basic first aid kit

  • Torch (if you plan to camp)

Local guides are a must—not just for safety, but also because they often share stories about the forest and wildlife that enrich the experience.

6. Budget, Safety, and Nearby Attractions

The Netravati Trek is a budget-friendly adventure, especially if you’re traveling in a group. You can expect the total cost (travel, stay, guide, permits) to be around ₹2,000–₹3,000 per person if planned well.

Safety-wise, the trail is relatively safe and manageable for beginners with basic fitness. However, stick with your group and avoid wandering off-path—there are wild animals in the region, though they mostly avoid humans.

If you have an extra day, explore nearby spots like:

  • Kudremukh Peak Trek – More challenging but incredibly rewarding.

  • Hanuman Gundi Falls – A scenic waterfall just 20 km from Kalasa.

  • Kalasa Temple – A spiritual detour in a serene town.

Final Thoughts: Why Netravati Trek Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

In a world where even Himalayan treks are becoming overcrowded, the Netravati Peak Trek feels like a rare discovery. It’s raw, real, and refreshingly simple—exactly what nature lovers seek when they want to disconnect from the noise.

Whether you're a weekend warrior or a curious beginner, Netravati offers the kind of immersive experience that lingers in your memory long after you've returned. Pack your bags, gather your crew, and let the trails of Chikmagalur surprise you—you won’t regret it.

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