Narasimha Parvatha Trek from Bangalore (2026) – Price, Itinerary & Complete Guide
Narasimha Parvatha Trek from Bangalore – highest peak in Agumbe at 1,150 m inside Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary. 2-day guided trek with transport, meals, guide & homestay at ₹3,999. Book now.
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₹4,500
₹3,999/ person
Trek at a Glance
Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Max Altitude
1,150 m
Distance
24 km
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging
Pickup → Drop
Bangalore → Bangalore
Category
Western Ghats Trek
Narasimha Parvatha Trek Highlights
- Highest peak in Agumbe – Summit at 1,150 m (3,772 ft), the tallest peak in the Agumbe region with panoramic views of the Someshwara valley and Western Ghats
- Trek inside Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary – Protected rainforest within the Kudremukha National Park buffer zone, home to rare medicinal plants, endemic species, and exceptional biodiversity
- Barkana Waterfalls on the trail – Trek to the top of Barkana Falls (850 ft, one of India's highest waterfalls) as a natural landmark on the main ascent route
- Moderate to Challenging circuit trail – 24 km circuit from Mallandur to summit with descent via Kigga — a different trail on the way back for a complete wilderness experience
- Sightseeing on Day 2 – Sirimane Falls and Shringeri Sharadamba Temple (one of the four original Shankaracharya Mutts) for a cultural and natural wrap to the weekend
- All-inclusive package – transport from Bangalore, forest permit, certified local guide from Agumbe, meals, and homestay at ₹3,999
Narasimha Parvatha Trek from Bangalore – Distance, Difficulty, Itinerary & Booking Guide
Narasimha Parvatha Trek – Quick Overview
Narasimha Parvatha Trek from Bangalore is a 2-day trekking experience to the highest peak in Agumbe, standing at 1,150 m (3,772 ft) inside the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Shimoga, Karnataka. The trek covers a 24 km circuit — ascending from Mallandur base through dense rainforest to the summit, then descending via Kigga (5 km). Barkana Waterfalls, one of India's highest waterfalls at 850 ft, sits directly on the trail. Narasimha Parvatha lies in one of the wettest zones in India — Agumbe receives among the highest annual rainfall in the country — which makes the forest exceptionally lush, the biodiversity remarkable, and the landscape unlike any other trek in Karnataka.
Why Choose Narasimha Parvatha Trek?
Most trekkers from Bangalore head to Kudremukh or Kodachadri without realising that Narasimha Parvatha, less than 400 km away, offers comparable drama with far fewer crowds. The trail passes through the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary — a protected area within the Kudremukha National Park buffer — with medicinal plant species, endemic flora, and the spectacle of Barkana Waterfalls before the final ascent. The descent via Kigga gives you a completely different landscape on the way back, making it a genuine circuit experience rather than an out-and-back. Backpackers United has been running this route since 2017 with pre-arranged forest permits, certified local guides from Agumbe, and full logistical support.
Trek Difficulty and Fitness Requirement
Narasimha Parvatha is rated Moderate to Challenging. The trail has steep sections on the ascent from Mallandur, uneven rainforest terrain, and stream crossings. The 24 km total distance is longer than most 2-day Karnataka treks and requires solid cardiovascular fitness. Suitable for: regular trekkers, fit individuals with prior overnight hiking experience, and those who can sustain 7–8 hours of walking on varied terrain. Not recommended for: complete beginners with no prior trekking background, people with knee or cardiovascular conditions, or those unable to walk 12+ km on flat ground comfortably.
Trek Facts at a Glance
Location: Agumbe, Shimoga (Shivamogga), Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~380 km (approximately 8–9 hours by road)
Trek Distance: 24 km circuit (Mallandur ascent + Kigga descent)
Altitude: 1,150 m (3,772 ft)
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Time: October to January
Forest Permit: Mandatory — included in your package
Guide: Mandatory — certified local guide from Agumbe, arranged by us
Pickup: 9:00 PM Friday from Indiranagar, Bangalore
Group Size: 20–25 trekkers
Narasimha Parvatha Trek Distance and Duration
The total trekking distance is 24 km as a circuit. The ascent from Mallandur through Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary to the summit covers approximately 19 km. The descent via Kigga is 5 km, providing a different trail for the return. The trek takes 7–8 hours including breaks at Barkana Waterfalls and time at the summit. The trail starts near Agumbe at approximately 600 m elevation and climbs to 1,150 m — a modest absolute gain, but steep terrain and dense forest make this significantly more demanding than the numbers suggest.
Pickup and Departure from Bangalore
Backpackers United operates a non-AC pushback seater bus with pickup from four points in Bangalore: Indiranagar (Karachi Bakery), Domlur (Union Bank), Yeshwantpur (Metro Station Market Exit), and Goraguntepalya (People Tree Hospital). The bus departs Friday evening and reaches the Agumbe base homestay early Saturday morning. Return drop is back in Bangalore by approximately 11:00 PM on Sunday.
For those travelling independently: drive via NH75 towards Mangalore direction, pass Sakleshpur, and take the route towards Thirthahalli and Agumbe. The drive from Bangalore to Agumbe is approximately 370–380 km and takes 8–9 hours. Parking is available near the Mallandur trailhead.
What is Included in the Package?
The ₹3,999 package includes: round-trip non-AC transport from Bangalore, forest entry permit, certified local trek guide from Agumbe, meals (Day 1 breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner; Day 2 breakfast), homestay accommodation in Agumbe, sightseeing at Sirimane Falls and Shringeri Sharadamba Temple on Day 2, and Backpackers United trek lead support throughout.
How to Book Narasimha Parvatha Trek with Backpackers United?
Select your preferred departure date on the Backpackers United website, complete the online payment, and your slot is confirmed. You will receive a confirmation on your registered email and WhatsApp with pickup time, packing list, and all trek-day details. For group bookings of 10 or more, contact us directly for custom pricing.
Itinerary
The following detailed itinerary provides a day-by-day breakdown of your exciting Narasimha Parvatha trek. From your late-evening departure from Bangalore to the moment you arrive back home, we've outlined your activities and experiences to make the most of your trip. Let's dive into the specifics.
Departure From Bangalore
Get picked up from your nearest Backpackers United pickup point in Bangalore:
- Indiranagar – Karachi Bakery
- Domlur – Union Bank
- Yeshwantpur – Metro Station Market Exit
- Goraguntepalya – People Tree Hospital
Travel overnight in a non-AC pushback seater bus. The route takes you through Sakleshpur and Thirthahalli towards Agumbe — one of the wettest places in India and the gateway to the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary.
Arrive at the Agumbe base homestay in the early morning hours, freshen up, and get ready for a full day on trail.
Narasimha Parvatha Trek
Freshen up at the homestay and have a warm breakfast before the trek begins.
The trek starts at Mallandur village after forest permit verification at the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary checkpoint. Enter the dense rainforest canopy — towering trees, thick medicinal plant undergrowth, and multiple small stream crossings mark the first leg.
First major landmark: Barkana Waterfalls Top
Barkana Falls stands 850 ft high — one of India's tallest waterfalls. You reach the top of the falls mid-trail, with a dramatic view of the valley far below. Rest here and take it all in before continuing upward.
The ascent continues from the waterfall viewpoint through progressively opening forest, shrubland, and ridgeline grassland. This section has the steepest climbs of the day. Pace yourself — the summit is worth every step.
Reach Narasimha Parvatha Summit — 1,150 m (3,772 ft)
The summit is the highest point in Agumbe, marked by a small temple. Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the Someshwara valley, Agumbe hills, and the Western Ghats stretching to the horizon.
Have your packed lunch at the summit.
Descend via the Kigga trail (5 km) — a completely different path through forest offering new scenery on the way back. Reach the base by 7:00 PM.
Return to the homestay for dinner. A campfire may be arranged depending on weather conditions.
Sightseeing and Departure
Wake up to the cool, mist-filled Agumbe morning. After breakfast, check out from the homestay and head for Day 2 sightseeing.
Sirimane Falls
A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall set in deep forest near Thirthahalli. One of the most scenic spots in the Agumbe–Shringeri corridor, easily accessible and well worth the short walk.
Shringeri Sharadamba Temple
One of the four original Shankaracharya Mutts established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. The temple sits on the banks of the Tunga river and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Karnataka. It adds a rare cultural dimension to the trekking weekend.
Lunch on Day 2 is self-sponsored. There are good local restaurants near Shringeri.
After sightseeing, begin the long drive back to Bangalore. Expected arrival: approximately 11:00 PM on Sunday evening.
Best Time to Visit
Narasimha Parvatha Trek is accessible for only four months a year — October to January. Agumbe receives among the highest annual rainfall in India, making the trail unsafe from June to September. Plan your trek within this narrow window for the best trail conditions and summit views.
Oct – Feb
Recommended
Post-monsoon forest at its most lush (October–November) transitioning to cool, clear winter days (December–January). Barkana Waterfalls runs full, the forest is intensely green, and summit views are sharp. This is the only window the trek is safely accessible.
Jun – Sep
Monsoon
Agumbe is one of India's highest-rainfall zones — the trail is flooded, severely slippery, and officially closed for trekking. Do not attempt during monsoon months.
Mar – May
Summer
The forest dries out significantly and temperatures rise. The trail loses its lush character, and stream crossings may dry up. Not recommended — wait for October for the best experience.
Trek Route Breakdown
The Narasimha Parvatha Trek follows a circuit route — ascent via Mallandur through the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, and descent via Kigga (5 km). Total: 24 km circuit | 7–8 hours | Elevation gain: ~550 m.
Mallandur Trailhead to Barkana Waterfalls Top
~8 km approx. 3 hrsThe trek begins at Mallandur village, entering the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary after permit verification. The trail climbs steadily through dense rainforest — towering trees, thick undergrowth rich with medicinal plants, and multiple small stream crossings. The terrain is wet and rooted underfoot. The section ends at the dramatic top of Barkana Waterfalls (850 ft, one of India's highest), where the valley drops away below you.
Barkana Waterfalls Top to Narasimha Parvatha Summit
~11 km approx. 4 hrsContinuing from the waterfall viewpoint, the trail ascends through progressively opening forest into shrubland and ridgeline grassland. This section includes the steepest climbs of the day. As you near the summit, the canopy thins and views open up on both sides. The Narasimha Parvatha summit at 1,150 m (3,772 ft) is marked by a small temple and offers 360-degree panoramic views of the Agumbe hills, Someshwara valley, and the Western Ghats.
Summit to Kigga (Descent)
~5 km approx. 1.5–2 hrsThe descent takes the Kigga trail — a different path from the ascent, bringing you out near Kigga village. This side of the mountain passes through a slightly drier forest with views back towards the summit. The shorter descent via Kigga makes the circuit feel well-paced and provides a different landscape for the return leg. Transport is arranged from Kigga back to the Agumbe homestay.
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Comfortable and hygienic transportation
- Breakfast, Packed lunch and Dinner on Day 1 and Breakfast on Day 2
- Forest permit and Local guide
- Experienced driver and Trek Lead
- Sightseeing as per itinerary
- Accomodation
What's Excluded
- Entry charges to sightseeing locations
- Lunch & Dinner on Day 2
- Personal expenses
- Anything not mentioned in the "What's Included" section
What to Expect
Embark on one of Karnataka's most rewarding rainforest treks — Narasimha Parvatha offers something rare: genuine wilderness, exceptional biodiversity, and a summit that very few trekkers have stood on. The trail takes you through the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, past the dramatic top of Barkana Waterfalls (850 ft, one of India's highest), and up to the highest point in Agumbe at 1,150 m.
Expect steep sections, slippery forest paths, and stream crossings — the physical challenge is real, but the rewards are proportional. The 24 km circuit gives you two entirely different trail experiences: a long, immersive forest ascent via Mallandur and a shorter descent via Kigga.
Backpackers United's certified local guides from Agumbe know this trail intimately and ensure safety and pacing throughout. Day 2 sightseeing at Sirimane Falls and Shringeri Sharadamba Temple rounds off the weekend with a perfect cultural and scenic finish.
Accommodation
Homestay accommodation in Agumbe — dorm or twin-sharing rooms. The homestay is clean and comfortable with home-cooked meals. Agumbe is a small, quiet hill town; the homestay experience is simple and authentic.
Backpackers United Team
A Backpackers United trek lead accompanies the group throughout the trip. A certified local guide from Agumbe — who knows the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary trail intimately — leads the forest section. Our team handles all permits, logistics, and safety. We have been running this route since 2017 with 50,000+ trekkers across all our treks.
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 — Aadhaar card or government-issued photo ID mandatory for forest permit registration at the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary checkpoint
- Trekking Shoes — ankle-support shoes with deep grip sole; rainforest terrain is wet, rooted, and slippery — no sports shoes or sandals
- Trekking Pole — strongly recommended; steep ascent from Mallandur and the 5 km Kigga descent are hard on knees without support
- Backpack — 25–30 litre daypack; leave large bags at the homestay
- Rain Poncho / Waterproof Jacket — Agumbe is one of India's wettest zones; sudden showers occur even in October–January; a poncho is non-negotiable
- Warm Layer — fleece jacket or pullover for the pre-dawn start and summit; Agumbe is noticeably cooler than Bangalore year-round
- Water Bottles — minimum 2–3 litres; very limited refill options after the forest checkpoint
- Torch / Headlamp — needed for early morning trail start from the homestay
- Extra Pair of Socks — rainforest terrain means wet feet are likely; carry a dry pair for the second half of the trek
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses — open ridgeline sections near the summit have direct sunlight exposure
- Personal Medication — carry any prescription medicines; basic first-aid kit provided by Backpackers United
- Energy Snacks — dry fruits, energy bars, nuts, biscuits for the 7–8 hour trail between meals
- Cash — no ATMs in Agumbe or near Mallandur; carry enough for Day 2 self-sponsored lunch and personal expenses
Starting from
₹4,500
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Frequently Asked Questions
17 questionsIs it safe for Women travellers ?
Safety and Security Guidelines are followed at all times, and it is our topmost priority. We have certified trek leads (Male/Female) accompanying the participants at all times and our stay follows well-rounded safety measures.
How can I reserve my slot ?
You can directly reserve your slots by booking on the website, please ensure proper dates are selected before confirming your booking.
How can you confirm your booking?
You can reach out to Backpackers United to get details about your booking and other important information related to your tour packages.
What payment options do I have ?
We have multiple payment options on the website that you can refer to.
Are there any restroom facilities available along the Trekking route?
Restroom facilities are not available along the trekking route, so it's recommended to utilize these facilities before commencing the trek.
Is there mobile connectivity on the Narasimha Parvatha Trek?
Mobile connectivity is limited and can vary along the trek route. It’s advisable to inform someone about your trekking plans and expected return time beforehand.
What is the best time to do Narasimha Parvatha Trek?
Narasimha Parvatha Trek is accessible for only four months a year, from October to January. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the trails are relatively dry, making it an ideal time for trekking.
What is the total distance of the Narasimha Parvatha Trek?
The total distance of the Narasimha Parvatha Trek, covering both ways from Mallandur to Kigga, is 17 kilometers.
What is the altitude of Narasimha Parvatha?
Narasimha Parvatha stands at 1,150 m (3,772 ft) above sea level. It is the highest peak in the Agumbe region and lies within the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, which is part of the Kudremukha National Park buffer zone.
What is the total distance of the Narasimha Parvatha Trek?
The total trekking distance is 24 km as a circuit — ascending from Mallandur through the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary to the summit, and descending 5 km via the Kigga side trail. The trek typically takes 7–8 hours including rest stops at Barkana Waterfalls and time at the summit.
What is the difficulty level of Narasimha Parvatha Trek?
Narasimha Parvatha is rated Moderate to Challenging. The trail has steep ascent sections, uneven rainforest terrain, and stream crossings. The 24 km circuit distance makes it longer and more demanding than most 2-day Karnataka treks. Prior trekking experience of at least one overnight trek is recommended.
What is the best time to do the Narasimha Parvatha Trek?
October to January is the only suitable window. Agumbe receives one of the highest annual rainfalls in India, making the trail dangerous from June to September. October brings a lush post-monsoon forest. November to January offers cool, clear days with excellent summit visibility. The trek is not accessible from February to September.
Is a forest permit required for Narasimha Parvatha Trek?
Yes, a forest entry permit is mandatory as the trail passes through the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary. Backpackers United arranges the permit on your behalf — it is included in the trek package price. You must carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar card preferred) for permit registration at the checkpoint.
What is included in the ₹3,999 Narasimha Parvatha Trek package?
The package includes round-trip non-AC transport from Bangalore, forest entry permit, certified local trek guide from Agumbe, meals (Day 1 breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner; Day 2 breakfast), homestay accommodation in Agumbe, sightseeing at Sirimane Falls and Shringeri Sharadamba Temple on Day 2, and Backpackers United trek lead support throughout the trip.
What is the pickup time and location from Bangalore?
The bus departs at 9:00 PM Friday from Indiranagar (Karachi Bakery). Other pickup points are Domlur (Union Bank), Yeshwantpur (Metro Station Market Exit), and Goraguntepalya (People Tree Hospital). Exact pickup times for each point are shared in your booking confirmation.
Do I need prior trekking experience for Narasimha Parvatha?
Prior trekking experience is strongly recommended. Narasimha Parvatha is Moderate to Challenging — the steep ascent, slippery rainforest terrain, and 24 km distance make it unsuitable for complete beginners. If you have completed at least one overnight trek of 12+ km before, you are well-prepared for this trail.
What makes Narasimha Parvatha Trek unique compared to other Karnataka treks?
Three things set Narasimha Parvatha apart: it passes through the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary — one of India's most biodiverse rainforest zones; Barkana Waterfalls (850 ft, one of India's highest) sits directly on the trail as an en-route landmark; and the circuit route (different ascent and descent paths) gives you two distinct forest experiences in one day. With very few crowds and genuine wilderness, it remains one of Karnataka's most underrated treks.
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 |