Nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats in Chikkamagaluru district, Kudremukh National Park is a verdant paradise that showcases the wild beauty of Karnataka’s highlands. Spread across 600 square kilometers, this UNESCO-listed biosphere region is home to dense evergreen forests, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity—making it one of southern India’s most spectacular wildlife destinations.
Highlights
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Second-largest protected wildlife area in the Western Ghats
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Habitat for tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, and lion-tailed macaques
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Famous for the Kudremukh Peak, shaped like a horse’s face
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Source of three major rivers – Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravati
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Ideal for trekking, birdwatching, and eco-tourism
Geography & Landscape
The name Kudremukh translates to “horse face” in Kannada, inspired by the shape of its main peak. The park lies between Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Chikkamagaluru districts, forming part of the Kudremukh Range of the Western Ghats.
Lush shola forests, rolling grasslands, and mist-covered valleys dominate the terrain. Numerous streams and waterfalls, including Hanuman Gundi and Kadambi Falls, add to its scenic charm.
Flora & Fauna
Kudremukh National Park harbors some of the most diverse ecosystems in peninsular India.
Flora
The park’s forests are primarily tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen, rich in species like teak, rosewood, eucalyptus, and bamboo. The grasslands here play a vital role in maintaining hydrological balance by feeding the region’s rivers.
Fauna
It supports a wide range of wildlife, including:
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Mammals: Tiger, leopard, wild dog, sambar, gaur, barking deer, lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel
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Birds: Malabar trogon, paradise flycatcher, great hornbill, and several species of woodpeckers
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Reptiles & Amphibians: King cobra, green vine snake, and endemic frogs of the Western Ghats
Kudremukh is part of the Global Tiger Conservation Landscape, offering a vital corridor for wildlife movement across the Ghats.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | November – February | Pleasant weather, best for trekking and wildlife sighting |
| Monsoon | June – September | Lush greenery and waterfalls at their peak (limited park access) |
| Summer | March – May | Warm but great for birdwatching |
Trekking & Adventure
The Kudremukh Peak Trek is among South India’s most scenic and rewarding hikes. It spans around 9 km (one-way), passing through misty valleys, shola forests, and open meadows. Other trails lead to Kurinjala, Gangamoola, and Kadambi Falls.
Trekking requires prior permission from the Forest Department, and it is advised to take a registered local guide.
Permits & Entry Fees
Visitors need an entry permit from the Kudremukh Forest Range Office (near Kalasa or Kudremukh town).
Approximate Fees:
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Indian Nationals: ₹200 per person per day
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Foreign Nationals: ₹1,000 per person
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Camera/Video: ₹200 – ₹500
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Trekking Guide Fee: ₹500 (mandatory for each group)
🎟️ Permits help regulate eco-tourism and ensure minimal disturbance to the park’s wildlife.
How to Reach
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By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (130 km).
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By Rail: Closest railway station – Mangalore Junction.
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By Road: Regular buses and taxis connect Kalasa, Sringeri, and Karkala to Kudremukh. From Kalasa, jeeps can be hired to reach the forest check post.
Accommodation
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Forest Guest Houses: Available at Kudremukh and Kalasa (book through Forest Department).
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Eco-Stays & Homestays: Numerous sustainable options in nearby villages like Samse and Mullodi.
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Resorts & Lodges: Located around Kalasa and Sringeri for comfort stays.
Staying in eco-lodges supports local communities and promotes conservation-based tourism.
Nearby Attractions
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Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls – A scenic 22-meter waterfall amidst thick forest.
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Gangamoola Hill – The origin point of three rivers: Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravati.
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Sringeri Sharada Peetha – A sacred Advaita monastery founded by Adi Shankaracharya.
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Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary – Another important tiger reserve nearby.
Conservation & Eco-Tourism
Kudremukh National Park is part of the UNESCO Western Ghats World Heritage Site and plays a vital role in maintaining regional biodiversity.
Efforts by the Karnataka Forest Department and local communities have transformed it into a hub for responsible tourism and wildlife research.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is Kudremukh National Park located?
It is located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, about 350 km from Bengaluru.
What is Kudremukh National Park famous for?
It is famous for its rich biodiversity, rolling grasslands, scenic trekking routes, and the horse-shaped Kudremukh Peak.
Are private vehicles allowed inside the park?
Private vehicles are not permitted beyond the check post. Visitors must use authorized jeeps or trek with guides.
Is camping allowed inside the park?
Camping is restricted to designated zones with prior approval from forest authorities.
What is the best time to visit Kudremukh?
November to February offers the best conditions for wildlife sightings and trekking.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Q: How far is Kudremukh from Mangalore?
A: Around 130 km; it takes about 3–4 hours by road.
Q: Can I spot tigers in Kudremukh?
A: Tiger sightings are rare, but the park is a vital part of the Western Ghats Tiger Landscape.
Q: What are the main rivers originating in Kudremukh?
A: Tunga, Bhadra, and Netravati Rivers originate here.
Q: Do I need permission for trekking?
A: Yes, trekking permits are mandatory and can be obtained at the Kudremukh Forest Office.
Conclusion
Kudremukh National Park is a living mosaic of mountain forests, rivers, and wildlife, representing the soul of Karnataka’s Western Ghats. Whether you’re a trekker, nature photographer, or wildlife enthusiast, this emerald paradise offers an unforgettable experience rooted in nature and serenity—much like the unspoiled beauty of Murlen National Park in Mizoram.
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