Ettina Bhuja Trek from Bangalore (2026) – Sakleshpur, Sunrise Trek & Booking Guide
Trek Ettina Bhuja at 4,265 ft in Sakleshpur, Charmadi Ghat. Easy 5 km sunrise trek, Sambar deer, Betta Byraveshwara Temple & Abbi Falls. ₹3,999 from Bangalore.
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₹3,999
₹3,999/ person
Trek at a Glance
Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Max Altitude
4,265 ft (1,300 m)
Distance
5 km
Difficulty
Easy
Pickup → Drop
Bangalore → Bangalore
Category
Western Ghats Trek
Trip Highlights
- Sunrise trek to Ettina Bhuja peak at 4,265 ft – iconic Charmadi Ghat summit in Western Ghats
- Easy 5 km trail through bamboo and cane plantations, open grasslands and shola forest
- Spot Sambar deer, Malabar Whistling Thrush, and endemic birds along the trail
- Ancient Betta Byraveshwara Temple – significant spiritual site in the heart of Western Ghats
- Abbi Falls and Manjarabad Fort sightseeing on the return day
- Panoramic 360° sunrise views of Charmadi Ghat and Shishila valleys from the summit
- One of the best sunrise weekend treks from Bangalore
Ettina Bhuja trek from bangalore – Distance, Difficulty, Itinerary & Booking Guide
Ettina Bhuja Trek is a 2-day weekend trek from Bangalore to the Ettina Bhuja peak at 4,265 ft (1,300 m) in the Charmadi Ghat region of Sakleshpur, Karnataka. The trail starts from the Nanya Bhairaveshwara temple in Byrapura village and passes through bamboo and cane plantations, open grasslands, and shola forest — part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the 36 Biodiversity Hotspots in the world.
Ettina Bhuja offers something rare among easy treks near Bangalore: a pre-dawn summit with clouds lying below your feet at sunrise. Day 1 is a sightseeing day exploring Devaramane viewpoint and the ancient Betta Byraveshwara Temple. Day 2 is the early morning sunrise trek to the peak.
What Makes Ettina Bhuja Trek Different
Most easy treks near Bangalore are short day hikes — Ettina Bhuja combines a sunrise summit, a wildlife-rich bamboo forest trail, an ancient temple, and two waterfalls and a fort in one 2-day package. The Charmadi Ghat region is far less explored than Coorg or Chikmagalur, which means you encounter genuine wilderness with minimal tourist footprint.
The pre-dawn start on Day 2 at 5:30 AM is deliberate — at 4,265 ft, the summit gives unobstructed views of the Charmadi and Shishila valleys with clouds below the peak at sunrise. This is one of the most photogenic moments on the Karnataka weekend trek circuit.
Trek Facts at a Glance
Trek Distance: 5 km round trip
Max Altitude: 4,265 ft (1,300 m)
Duration: 2–3 hours trekking (Day 2)
Difficulty: Easy
Total Trip: 2 Days / 1 Night
Distance from Bangalore: 250 km (5–6 hours)
Pickup: 9:00 PM from Indiranagar
Price: ₹3,999 per person
Group Size: 20–25 trekkers
Difficulty and Who Can Trek
Ettina Bhuja is classified as an easy trek. The 5 km trail has no technical sections, no rope climbs, and no steep scrambles. The main physical requirement is stamina for a pre-dawn walk starting at 5:30 AM — the trail is dark and cool, and the forest can be slightly slippery with dew.
Suitable for: Beginners, first-time trekkers, families with older children (14+), office groups, and people returning to trekking after a break. If you can walk 3–4 km comfortably on flat ground, you can complete Ettina Bhuja with proper footwear and basic pacing.
Not recommended for: People with serious knee injuries or cardiovascular conditions.
How to Reach Ettina Bhuja from Bangalore
Ettina Bhuja is approximately 250 km from Bangalore via NH75, around 5–6 hours by road. The route passes through Kunigal, Hassan, and Sakleshpur before reaching Byrapura village near Charmadi Ghat.
When you book with Backpackers United, round-trip non-AC transport is included. Vehicle departs 9:00 PM Friday from four Bangalore pickup points: Indiranagar 9:00 PM | Domlur 9:20 PM | Yeshwantpur 10:30 PM | Gorgunte Palya 10:45 PM.
If travelling independently: take NH75 towards Hassan and Sakleshpur, then follow local roads to Byrapura village. The nearest town is Sakleshpur (approx. 30 km from base).
Wildlife and Nature
The Charmadi Ghat is one of the most biodiverse corridors in the Western Ghats. The trail passes through bamboo and cane plantations, dense shola forest, and open rolling grasslands. Common sightings include:
– Sambar deer in the open grassland sections
– Indian Gaur (bison) near forest edges
– Malabar giant squirrel in the bamboo canopy
– Malabar Whistling Thrush and Indian Black Bird (endemic birds)
– Rare orchids, mosses, and ferns in the shola understorey
Ettina Bhuja also served as a backdrop in the Kannada film Love Mocktail 2.
Ettina Bhuja vs Other Treks Near Bangalore
Kumara Parvatha: Higher altitude (5,600 ft), longer (20 km), moderate-to-difficult. Requires more preparation.
Kudremukh: 22 km, permit-restricted national park. More challenging, better for experienced beginners.
Kodachadri: Similar altitude, longer trail, accessible from Shimoga.
Tadiandamol: Shorter (8 km), similar easy difficulty, no permits required.
Netravati Peak: Shorter, easier, no sightseeing component.
Ettina Bhuja is the best first trek if you want a sunrise experience, wildlife, an ancient temple, and waterfalls all in one trip.
Backpackers United — Why Book With Us
Backpackers United has been running treks from Bangalore since 2017 with over 50,000 trekkers and 4,000+ Google reviews at 4.7 stars. Our Ettina Bhuja batches run year-round with an experienced trek leader, certified local forest guide, and all logistics handled — permits, transport, homestay, and meals. You just show up at your pickup point.
Itinerary
The Ettina Bhuja trek itinerary covers 2 days and 1 night. Day 0 is an overnight departure from Bangalore. Day 1 includes homestay check-in and sightseeing at Devaramane and Betta Byraveshwara Temple. Day 2 is the early morning sunrise trek to the Ettina Bhuja peak at 4,265 ft, followed by Abbi Falls and Manjarabad Fort before returning to Bangalore.
Departure from Bengaluru to Ettina Bhuja Trek
Departure is at 9:00 PM from Indiranagar. Please reach your nearest pickup point 10 minutes before departure.
Indiranagar 9:00 PM - Karachi Bakery
Domlur 9:20 PM- Union Bank
Yeshwantpur 10:30 PM- Metro Station Market Exit
Gorguntepalya 10:45 PM - People Tree Hospital
We drive overnight to Sakleshpur via Mysore Road / Hassan Highway. Reach Ettina Bhuja homestay by early morning (approximately 5:00–6:00 AM).
Ettina Bhuja Homestay & Sightseeing – Devaramane & Betta Byraveshwara Temple
Upon checking into the homestay near Ettina Bhuja in the early morning, get yourself freshened up and have breakfast, which will be arranged at the homestay
Get ready for sightseeing that begins with experiencing the tranquillity of the Western Ghats region at Devaramane.
Return to the homestay for lunch.
Visit the ancient Betta Byraveshwara Temple located in the middle of the Western Ghats, which offers a panoramic view.
As the day winds down, have dinner and enjoy a peaceful evening around a campfire, if the weather permits.
Ettina Bhuja Sunrise Trek – 5 km | 4,265 ft | Abbi Falls & Manjarabad Fort
Wake up at 5:00 AM and begin the trek at 5:30 AM from the base. Reach the Ettina Bhuja peak by approximately 6:30 AM.
Watch the magical sunrise from the summit with clouds lying below your feet. Panoramic views of the Charmadi and Shishila valleys stretch across the Western Ghats horizon.
Descend and return to base by 9:30 AM. Have breakfast at the homestay before heading out for sightseeing.
Visit Abbi Falls for its clear, cool waters, then proceed to Manjarabad Fort, a star-shaped military structure built by Tipu Sultan with commanding views of the surrounding hills.
Have lunch on the way back (self-sponsored). Reach Bangalore by approximately 10:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit
October to February is the best time for Ettina Bhuja trek — the weather is cool and pleasant with clear skies and excellent summit visibility. The sunrise from the peak is spectacular during these months. The Western Ghats are lush green post-monsoon. Avoid March to May when temperatures rise and visibility reduces.
Oct – Feb
Best Season
Cool temperatures between 12–22°C, dry trails and crystal-clear summit views. This is peak season for Ettina Bhuja — weekends fill up fast. The sunrise views from the peak with clouds below are at their most spectacular. Book at least 5 days in advance for weekend slots.
Jun – Sep
Monsoon
The Charmadi Ghat turns intensely green during monsoon with waterfalls running at full flow. Trails are muddy and slippery, leeches are active, and bamboo forest becomes very dense. Suitable for experienced trekkers with proper rain gear, leech socks and trekking shoes.
Mar – May
Off Season
Temperatures rise to 30–35°C making the pre-dawn trek uncomfortable and the summit views hazy. Not the ideal time for Ettina Bhuja. October to February remains the strongly recommended window for the best sunrise and trail conditions.
October and November offer the ideal balance — post-monsoon greenery, dry trails, and clear summit views. The early morning sunrise from Ettina Bhuja peak is at its most spectacular during these months. December to February is a good alternative with cooler temperatures and equally clear skies.
Trek Route Breakdown
The Ettina Bhuja trek follows a single out-and-back trail starting from the Nanya Bhairaveshwara temple in Byrapura village, near Sakleshpur. The trail passes through three distinct zones — bamboo and cane forest, open grasslands, and a final climb to the summit. Total distance is approximately 5 km round trip.
Byrapura Base to Bamboo Forest
1.5 km 45 minsThe trek begins at the Nanya Bhairaveshwara temple in Byrapura village. The trail immediately enters dense bamboo and cane plantations — expect shade, moisture, and the sounds of forest birds. The path is well-defined and gradual through this section. Keep an eye out for Sambar deer and endemic birds in the early morning light.
Bamboo Forest to Open Grasslands
2 km 1 hourBeyond the bamboo zone, the trail opens into rolling open grasslands with sweeping views of the surrounding Western Ghats valleys. This is where you are most likely to spot Sambar deer grazing in the early morning. The landscape changes dramatically and the trail becomes more exposed to wind and sun.
Open Grasslands to Ettina Bhuja Summit
1.5 km 45 minsThe final section climbs steadily to the Ettina Bhuja summit at 4,265 ft (1,300 m). On a clear morning, clouds lie below the peak and the Charmadi and Shishila valleys stretch out in panoramic views. Allow 15–20 minutes at the summit to watch the sunrise before beginning your descent on the same trail.
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Non-AC transportation from Bangalore to Ettina Bhuja and back
- Meals as per itinerary – 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner (local Malnad cuisine)
- Forest permits and local guide – all arranged by Backpackers United team
- Experienced Backpackers United trek leader for the entire trip
- Homestay accommodation on dormitory or twin-sharing basis
- Sightseeing as per itinerary – Devaramane, Betta Byraveshwara Temple, Abbi Falls, Manjarabad Fort
- Off-road vehicle charges from base to trek start point
- Comfortable hygienic vehicle with experienced driver
What's Excluded
- Entry fees to additional sightseeing locations not mentioned in the itinerary
- Dinner on Day 2 (return journey meal is self-sponsored)
- Lunch on return day – self-sponsored on the way back to Bangalore
- Personal expenses and shopping
- Additional adventure or water activities not included in the package
- Trekking insurance – personal travel and trekking insurance
- Anything not listed in the inclusions above
What to Expect
The Ettina Bhuja trek from Bangalore is a beginner-friendly weekend experience through the pristine Charmadi Ghat — a UNESCO World Heritage zone. The trail passes through bamboo and cane plantations, open grasslands, and shola forest with opportunities to spot Sambar deer and endemic bird species including the Malabar Whistling Thrush along the way.
The early morning summit attempt on Day 2 is the highlight — trekkers begin at 5:30 AM and reach the peak at 4,265 ft just in time for sunrise, with clouds lying below and panoramic valley views in every direction. The 5 km trail is manageable for most fitness levels with proper trekking footwear and basic stamina.
Day 1 is a sightseeing day — Devaramane viewpoint and Betta Byraveshwara Temple offer a taste of the region's natural beauty and cultural significance. Abbi Falls and Manjarabad Fort on the return day complete a well-rounded Sakleshpur experience.
Accommodations
Stay will be arranged at a comfortable homestay near Ettina Bhuja on a dormitory or twin-sharing basis. Basic facilities including hot water and local Malnad cuisine will be provided to ensure a pleasant stay.
Backpackers United Team
Our experienced trek leaders from Backpackers United will accompany you throughout the trip. A local guide familiar with the Ettina Bhuja trail will also join the group to ensure safety, navigation, and a smooth overall experience.
Forest Entry Permit
Protected forest reserves here operate on a strict slot-based entry system. Every trekker must carry a valid permit issued through the Aranya Vihara portal before the checkpost.
Permit
Included in Package
Certified Guide
Mandatory & Arranged
How Forest Entry Permits Work
Your forest entry permit is pre-arranged and fully included — no separate booking needed on your end.
Permits are issued by the Karnataka Forest Department through the official Aranya Vihara portal.
Carry a valid government-issued photo ID on trek day — Aadhaar, passport, or driving licence.
Your assigned guide will hold the group permit and present it at the forest checkpost on arrival.
Daily entry slots are strictly limited; confirming your booking locks in your permit slot automatically.
Your permit is sorted. Just keep a valid photo ID handy on trek day. Prefer to arrange your own? Follow our step-by-step guide.
Things to Carry
Documents & ID Carry a hard copy of a government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, or Passport). Required at the forest check post entrance for Ettina Bhuja.
Backpack A 20–30 litre daypack is ideal for Ettina Bhuja trek. Keep it light — you'll be trekking through tea estates, shola forests, and open ridges.
Clothing Wear full-sleeve moisture-wicking base layers. Carry a light fleece or jacket for the early morning summit push — temperatures at 4,265 ft drop sharply before sunrise.
Trekking Shoes Waterproof grip shoes are essential. The trail passes through muddy forest paths and wet grass, especially in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
Rain Gear Carry a rain poncho or waterproof jacket from June to January. The Sakleshpur region receives heavy rainfall and fog can appear any time of year.
Warm Layers Ettina Bhuja summit is cold before sunrise. Pack a woollen cap, gloves, and a light down jacket or heavy fleece for the early morning trek.
Water & Hydration Carry minimum 2 litres of water. There are no water sources on the open ridge. A water bottle with electrolyte sachets is recommended for the 5 km round-trip summit trek.
Food & Snacks Pack energy bars, dry fruits, or biscuits for the pre-dawn trek. Breakfast and dinner are provided at the homestay; carry snacks for the summit push.
First Aid Carry band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relief spray, and personal medicines. The trek base is 3–4 hours from the nearest hospital.
Torch / Headlamp The Ettina Bhuja sunrise trek starts at 3:30–4:00 AM in complete darkness. A headlamp with fresh batteries is mandatory — a phone torch is not a substitute.
Trekking Poles (Optional) Useful on steep sections near the summit. Not mandatory but recommended for trekkers with knee issues or those unfamiliar with mountain terrain.
Sunscreen & Insect Repellent The open ridge gets direct sunlight post-sunrise. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen and carry insect repellent for forest sections near the homestay.
Camera & Power Bank Ettina Bhuja offers one of the best 360° panoramic sunrise views in Karnataka. Carry a fully charged camera and a power bank — the homestay may not have charging points in all rooms.
Starting from
₹3,999
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Frequently Asked Questions
15 questionsHow can I reserve my slot ?
Book directly on the Backpackers United website. Select your preferred date, complete the payment, and your slot is confirmed. Slots are limited — book at least 5 days in advance for weekend departures.
How can you confirm your booking?
A booking confirmation email will be sent to your registered email address from info@backpackersunited.in. You will also be added to a WhatsApp group one day before departure with all trip details and updates.
Is it safe for Women travellers ?
Yes, the Ettina Bhuja trek is completely safe for women travellers. Backpackers United prioritises safety at all times — our experienced trek leaders and a local guide accompany the group throughout. Many of our group batches include solo women trekkers.
What is the difficulty level of Ettina Bhuja Trek?
Ettina Bhuja is classified as an easy trek. The 5 km trail has no technical sections and is suitable for beginners and first-time trekkers. You need basic stamina for the pre-dawn climb starting at 5:30 AM — if you can walk 3–4 km comfortably, you can complete this trek.
What is the total distance of Ettina Bhuja Trek?
The Ettina Bhuja trek distance is approximately 5 km round trip. The trek takes about 2–3 hours to complete, including rest stops. The trail starts from Byrapura village near Sakleshpur and reaches the peak at 4,265 ft (1,300 m).
Do I need to carry all my luggage during the Ettina Bhuja trek?
Carry a small daypack (15–20 litres) with only your trek essentials — water, snacks, torch, warm layer, and rain gear. Leave large bags at the homestay. A detailed packing list is available on the Backpackers United website.
How do I get my updates about the trek after my booking?
Once you confirm your booking, you will be added to a WhatsApp group one day before departure. All important updates — pickup timings, weather conditions, and on-trip communication — are shared through this group.
Are we going to find any refreshing spots during the trek?
There are no drinking water sources on the Ettina Bhuja trail. Carry a minimum of 1.5 litres of water before starting the trek. You will find Abbi Falls on Day 2 for a refreshing stop after completing the trek.
Do we need to obtain trekking permits/forest permits? If so, from whom?
Yes, a permit from the Karnataka Eco-tourism Department is required to trek Ettina Bhuja. When you book with Backpackers United, we handle all permit arrangements on your behalf — just carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, or Driving Licence).
How long is Ettina Bhuja distance from Bengaluru?
Ettina Bhuja is approximately 250 km from Bangalore via NH75, around 5–6 hours by road. The journey passes through Hassan and Sakleshpur through the scenic Charmadi Ghat region of the Western Ghats.
Which month is best for Ettina Bhuja?
October to February is the best time for Ettina Bhuja trek. The weather is cool (12–22°C), trails are dry, and the sunrise views from the summit are spectacular. The post-monsoon period (October–November) offers dense greenery with clear skies. Avoid March to May when temperatures are high.
How much does it cost to go to Ettina Bhuja?
The Ettina Bhuja trek from Bangalore is priced at ₹3,999 per person with Backpackers United. This includes round-trip non-AC transport, 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner, forest permits, local guide, homestay accommodation, and an experienced trek leader.
Are there leeches in Ettina Bhuja?
Yes, leeches are common in the Charmadi Ghat forest during and after monsoon season (June–September). Carry leech socks and apply salt or anti-leech spray before entering the forest. During October to February, leech activity is minimal.
What should I wear for the Ettina Bhuja Trek?
Wear full-sleeved t-shirts and full-length track pants to protect against thorns, insects, and cold at the summit. Carry a warm fleece or jacket for the 5:30 AM start — summit temperatures can drop to 12–15°C. During monsoon, waterproof clothing and leech socks are essential.
How do I reach Sakleshpur from Bangalore?
When you book with Backpackers United, round-trip non-AC transportation from Bangalore is included. The vehicle departs at 9:00 PM from Indiranagar with stops at Domlur, Yeshwantpur, and Gorgunte Palya. Sakleshpur is 250 km from Bangalore via NH75, approximately 5–6 hours by road.
Transparent cancellation policy
Good to know
- Once a flight or train is booked, it is non-refundable.
- Minimum 8 trekkers required for group departures. If the group falls below 8, you'll be offered an alternative.
- In case of weather, strikes or government restrictions, trips may be modified. Cash refunds aren't issued in such cases.
- 5% GST + 3% booking fee is non-refundable on all bookings.
| Days before | Charge | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| 15–30 days | 25% | 75% refunded |
| 7–15 days | 50% | 50% refunded |
| 3–7 days | 75% | 25% refunded |
| 0–3 days | 100% | No refund |