Kurinjal Trek

    Calling all adventure enthusiasts! Are you ready for that one trail that blends nature’s raw beauty with a dash of adrenaline? Then say ‘hello’ to the Kurinjal Trek! Situated in the middle of the dense greenery of the Western Ghats in the Karnataka region, Kurinjal is secluded and offers a chunk of calmness with the drizzle of adventure. This trail is rich in dense woods, grassy fields, and rocky terrain and therefore, offers pretty much everything to people who love nature and adventure. The Kurinjal Peak lies within the Kudremukh National Park, which is a storehouse of a variety of exotic plants and animals. Walking over mist-covered hills, with birds chirping and leaves rustling as your background score music feels like sheer magic.

The Kurinjal Trek is a medium-level trek that is sure to present adequate challenges for trekkers who wish to push themselves a bit out of their comfort zones. It showcases expansive views of the surrounding valleys and forests from an altitude of about 3,600 feet above mean sea level. Starting at approximately 7 km one way, Kurinjal Peak Trek takes one through varied landscapes from dense shola forests to open grasslands. The trail is a mix of gradual ascent and steep climb. A few rocky patches along the way add a bit of adventure to the journey. The sense of accomplishment as you take that final step to the summit is indescribable. You get beautiful views from atop 360 degrees unfolding with mountains covered in a misty veil out to the farthest sight of the Western Ghats. On a clear day, you may even see a glimpse of the Arabian Sea from a distance. The cool breeze, sweeping vistas, and the place itself render a moment to be treasured.

Want to know when to plan your adventure to Kurinjal? This trek is best done during October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. In this season, the Western Ghats are at their greenest with flowers in full bloom and streams gushing, which makes the trek all the more beautiful. Monsoon treks might just be a bit tricky here, as the trails get slippery and are infested with leeches. November to February—the winter season—is the best time for fun trekking in crisp, clear skies with just a bit of a chilly breeze. So, pack your bags and get ready to witness Kurinjal Peak at its best! Before you embark on the Kurinjal Trek, let's talk about fitness! Start with adding cardio exercises like running, cycling, or brisk walking at least a month in advance of the trek. Some strength training with a special focus on the legs and core enhances your comfort while handling the steep parts of the trail. Don't forget to go for some endurance exercises. Long walks or light treks at the weekends will do good for your body in getting adjusted to the journey. Taking fluids and a proper diet will help maintain your body's energy during trekking. After all, the more prepared you are, the more fun you can have at Kurinjal!

There’s a piece of good news for those joining us from Backpackers United! If it drolls down to permits, we've got your back. Permits are required as Kurinjal originates from within the Kudremukh National Park, which is a protected area. At Backpackers United, we take care of all the paperwork so that you can enjoy the adventure without any hassle. You must ensure that you obtain the requisite permits a day in advance from the forest office, in case you are either going alone or with another group, to prevent unexpected surprises. The trek base camp at Kurinjal is easily accessible from all the key cities. From Bangalore, take an overnight bus to Kalasa, which is 10 km away from the base camp. From Mangalore, it's a matter of a 4-hour drive, so it makes for a great weekend getaway. Flyers from Mumbai or Chennai can take a connecting flight to Mangalore and then drive down to the base camp. The local transport connectivity to the base camp is good, with the sceneries on the way enough to enthral one's senses!

What makes the Kurinjal Trek truly special? In the first place, the trail itself is something very beautiful. While traversing dense forests en route to the Kudremukh National Park, you have to keep an eye out for rare wildlife. If you get lucky, you might get a glimpse of a sambar deer or maybe even a lion-tailed macaque. Small waterfalls and streams cut the trail, which offers perfect spots for a splash or a drink from the refreshing water. A panoramic view of the rolling hills and deep valleys that are synonymous with the Western Ghats can be seen unfolding before you from near the Kurinjal Peak. One of the most striking features of this trek is the mist that often envelops the peak, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that’s perfect for photography enthusiasts. The calmness at this peak is just perfect for sitting, meditating, and unwinding amidst nature. Not to forget, there are viewpoints here and there around it that offer awesome views of the Kudremukh range—every bend gives you a different perspective of this beautiful landscape!

So, who should take on the Kurinjal Trek? Any person who loves adventure and enjoys moderate trekking with a decent level of fitness can do this trek. If you're that person who has a bond with nature, likes a good climb challenge, and gets your fun from little surprises that the trail has to offer, then Kurinjal Peak is the trek for you! It is ideal for lone travelers who are in search of solitude, groups of friends looking for adventure, or families who want to have fun and are hungry for activity. An outdoor enthusiast and adventurous soul with a touch of determination is all that you need to see the best of this trek. Seasoned trekker or newbie looking to explore the Western Ghats, Kurinjal welcomes all! Ready to conquer the Kurinjal Peak? Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and let's hit the trail!