Trekking in Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka

Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Chikamagalur district of Karnataka State, India. It is part of the hill ranges of the Western Ghats.

It gets it name from the Yogi Mallappa Swamy who used to meditate in the caves at the summit of Mullayanagiri. There is a small temple as well which has the statue of Mullappa Swamy.

About the Trail-

The base of the trek starts from a point called as Sarpadhari (which means the Serpentine way). Initially, the trail is at very steep inclination at 60° and it is a gradual increase in altitude as one climbs the steps paved up the trail.

There are only grasslands at later part of the trail. Strong winds blow and are a constant companion which literally shakes one off the path! It can be really difficult if it is raining heavily. It is with much effort that one needs to climb when it is drizzling as the path may not be visible. At the very end of the trail, one needs to climb carefully as it may be very slippery owing to the slush and rains.

The summit houses a small Lord Shiva temple and one can drink water from the stream which is sweet and cold. This was indeed quite an elixir for my parched throat and tired limbs.

The view from up here is quite a treat after the long trek.

There is a police radio relay station at the top of the peak as well.

Trek Stats:

• Elevation: 6316 ft (1925 m)
• Best seasons to Trek: Sept to Feb, is scenic during the Monsoon seasons but a little challenging
• Duration: 3-4 hours, a day hike
• Trek Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Trek Distance: 3 kms
• Accommodation: Homestays at Mullayanagiri or Chikamagalur
• Location: 21 kms from Chikamagalur District, Karnataka, India
• Nearest Train station: Chikamagalur (2.4 kms away)
• Nearest Airport: Mangalore Interantional Airport (180 kms away)
• By Road:
  • Bangalore->Mullayanagiri (265 kms)
  • Mangalore-> Mullayanagiri (172 kms)

Things to pack /carry:

• Sturdy Backpack preferable with wider shoulder straps as it should sit comfortably on your shoulder
• Hiking Shoes and socks
• Water bottle / Water pack
• Cap
• Sunglasses
• Trekking pole if needed
• Comfortable trekking pants and tees
• Light rain jacket /poncho depending on the season
• Light sweater depending on the weather
• Small first aid box
• Regular medication if any
• Head torch
• Sleeping bag if you are staying in a home-stay or dormitory
• A small notepad and pen
• Essentials: Wallet, ID card
• Mobile phone, chargers, powerbank
• Cameras and Batteries

PC: Unsplash.com

Are you ready to trek up the highest peak in Karnataka?

Check out other Treks in Western Ghats: Tadiandamol, Kodachadri, KumaraParvatha, Kudremukh, Matheran, Karnala