Known for its bio-diversity and mineral wealth, Kudremukh is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. In Kannada, Kudremukh means ‘horse’s face’ and the place gets its name from a peak that resembles the face of a horse. The beautiful landscapes of Kurdremukh are a big crowd puller.
There are dense forests around the town and wildlife spotting is popular, even though the forest cover makes it difficult to spot animals easily. You need to go deep in the jungle to catch a glimpse of the wildlife. Three vital rivers — Bhadra, Nethravati and Tunga — originate from the region. ALSO SEE Here are the 10 best hill stations in Karnataka
Kudremukh, Photograph courtesy: Premnath Thirumalaisamy/Creative Commons
Trekking along the well-established trails lead to the point of origin of these rivers. The trekking trails through dense forests and tropical riverbeds with varying degrees of difficulty, attract those seeking an adrenaline rush. You can see rare orchids and enjoy the fresh mountain air as you explore the grassland. The Kudremukh range of mountains was declared a national park in 1987. You need to have prior permission and a licensed guide to trek the summit.
The Kudremukh National Park is the second largest protected region in the Western Ghats that is spread over an area spanning 600 sq km. The region is home to langurs, macaques, barking deer, malabar giant squirrels and chitals. Leopards, tigers, jackals and wild dogs have also been spotted here. The best time to visit Kudremukh is between October and February. The region in and around Kudremukh receives about 7,000 mm of rainfall per year.
With five sacred ponds located near the town — Amba Teertha, Naga Teertha, Vasishtha Teertha, Rudra Teertha and Varaha Teertha — Kudremukh is also a popular pilgrimage. Hanuman Gundi is a famous waterfall the checkout here.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KUDREMUKH
Tents and cottages run by the Government Tourism Department offer budget accommodations with decent facilities but they need to be booked in advance. Homestays with the locals is also a good option to stay in Kudremukh.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN KUDREMUKH
It is best to carry meals while visiting Kudremukh since there are no restaurants except a few street stalls that sell snacks and refreshments.
BEST TIME TO VISIT KUDREMUKH
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Kudremukh is as given below. The best time to visit Kudremukh is also specified.
