Monsoon and post-monsoon are synonymous with trekking in the Western Ghats. This is when the Western Ghats spring into life. The forest section comes alive. The lush green grasslands beam with tiny wildflowers. The view of rolling green hills takes your breath away.  

Western Ghats are older than the Himalayas! They span from Gujarat to Kerala and are almost 1600 km long. A large chunk of them lies in Maharashtra. This means, no matter what part of Maharashtra you are from, you have a place to trek to. The presence of more than 160 forts adds to this. As a result, there is a strong trekking culture too.

Pune, being one of the popular districts in Maharashtra, is home to the famous hill stations such as Lonavala and Malshej Ghat. This makes it one of the hotspots for treks in Sahyadris. There are numerous treks that are just a couple of hours away. 

There are treks that take you through dense forests. There are vast plateaus to explore. There are forts that are architectural marvels. There are waterfall trails to quench your thirst for adventure. There is a reverse waterfall phenomenon to marvel at!

Here, I’ve curated 10 such best treks near Pune that you must do. So without further delay, let’s dive into the details of these treks.

Starting point of the trek: Donje Gaon
Distance from Pune: 20 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/NSZ2P6MKVaX4ViqS8

Views of the rolling green hills and cloud bed seen from the Sinhgad Fort top. Picture from the Indiahikes archives.

Sinhagad is one of the most significant forts around Pune. The fort, strategically built to provide natural protection, is part of the triumvirate Sinhagad, Rajgad and Torna. It has also been the centre of a number of battles. Unlike many other forts, the fort structure of Sinhagad is still intact and well preserved. Because of this reason, the trek to Sinhagad is one of the most popular treks in this region. 

Sinhagad trek can be divided into two sections. The first part starts from tar road at Donje Gaon and climbs up to a parking lot for two wheelers. The second half of the trek is a steep climb to Sinhagad top. It’s steep but incredibly rewarding.

Starting point of the trek: Velhe village
Distance from Pune: 48 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/ccdty7LacAeAz3aH9

Zunjar Machi as seen from the Dhaalkathi on the Torna Fort trek. Observe the double fortified wall. Picture by Nitesh Kumar.

Torna Fort is the highest hill-fort in the Pune District. Situated at an altitude of 4,603 ft from sea level, it stands out among other forts in the western ghats of Maharashtra. Because of the massive size of the fort, it is also called Prachandagad. This name is derived from Marathi which means Prachanda – massive and gad – a fort.

Torna Fort has a rich history as it was captured by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1646 when he was 16 years old. This is where the core of the Maratha empire was built. It has a great history as it has gone under many rulers.

Trek to the Torna Fort unfolds many exciting things. You trek along the beautiful flower beds, on the top, there are temples, water cisterns, Balekilla, 2 magnificent Machis, Zunjar Machi, and Budhla Machi, and a ridge connecting to Rajgad Fort.

Starting point of the trek: Gunjavane village
Distance from Pune: 62 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/ZRH5KcYgGpeuXgLc9

The Sanjivani Machi of Rajgad Fort. Picture by Nitesh Kumar.

Rajgad trek is the most beautiful trek in Maharashtra. As the name suggests, it is the king of forts. Because of the rich history and mesmerizing architecture of the fort, it stands out among other forts in the Western Ghats.

Rajgad was the capital of the Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for 26 years after which he shifted to Raigad. This is one of the reasons why the fort was built so beautifully. Rajgad has witnessed many significant events, including the birth of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son Rajaram I to the death of his queen Saibai.

Trek to Rajgad offers the beauty of the Sahyadris as well as the fort. The fortification of the 3 Machis: Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, and Sanjivani Machi define the architectural creativity of that time. It also offers a splendid view of other surrounding forts like Torna, Lingana, Raigad, Sinhagad and many other forts.

For the mesmerising views and the rich history of the fort, this trek is a must-do.

Starting point of the trek: Bhaje village
Distance from Pune: 64 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/Z1njsVNgwNe6CFip7

Wall of the Visapur fort. Picture by Mugdha Bhusari.

Visapur Fort dates back to the 1700's and was built by Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. Visapur Fort is a part of the Lohagad-Visapur fortification. Visapur is at a higher elevation than its twin Lohagad. 

The trek to Visapur fort has two routes. One from Bhaje village, and the other from Patan village. As the Patan village trail is slightly challenging, trekking from Bhaje village is preferred by many. 

The trek from the Bhaje Village starts from a mud road and gradually winds up in an ascending forest section. The forest section becomes a waterfall trail in the monsoon season. It later ends in an expansive plateau. Figuring out the correct trail from the Patan village is tricky. It also winds in a small forest section followed by dried up waterfalls to reach the plateau on the top. 

Do this trek for the waterfall trail in monsoon and the view from the plateau.

Starting point of the trek: Lonavala
Distance from Pune: 68 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/qBnFQJbScaURpjxAA

Lush greenery of Dhak plateau as seen on the Lonavala Bhimashankar trek. Picture from the Indiahikes archives.

The Lonavala Bhimashankar is arguably the best back-country trek in the Sahyadri range. The trek starts right at Lonavala, one of the most famous hill stations in South India. The trail then passes through deep wild rainforest, head-high bushes, lost-and-found trails, small rivulets, remote tribal villages, eerie temples, green meadows, hidden waterfalls, and a plateau of flowers. You explore the best features of the Sahyadri range on this trek.

You explore the best features of the Sahyadri range on the Lonavala Bhimashankar trek. Green gorges, distant villages, countless tunnels, and occasional waterfalls—the trek shows the Indian countryside at its best. The Bhima River originates from Bhimashankar Hill and passes through the deepest part of the forest. It attracts abundant wildlife, as there is no other water source around.

The Lonavala Bhimashankar trek is known as the Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra. Do this trek in the monsoon to witness the magic of flower-laden trails.

Starting point of the trek: Pimpri village
Distance from Pune: 72 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/tAnCCXQqs1TvrciWA

Stunning view you get to see on the Andharban trek. Picture from the Indiahikes archives.

Andharban is one of the most refreshing treks in the Sahyadri region. Andharban is a compound word of Andhar which means dark and ban, meaning forest. At par with its name, the trail passes through dense overgrowth. 

Andharban is a descending trail, scattered throughout with numerous small streams and waterfalls. The trek begins at an elevation of approximately 2,160 feet in the Sahyadri mountains and descends down into the valley, to reach the backwaters of the Bhira Dam. Andharban trek offers beautiful views of the Devkund waterfall, Plus Valley and the Tamhini Ghat along the way.

The Andharban trek starts from a location called Independence Point about 200 metres away from Pimpri village. Being a jungle trek, it’s a must-do for those who are birders and wildlife enthusiasts. The Andharban trek, along with the Rajmachi trek, are popular trails for fireflies.

Starting point of the trek: Karanjale village
Distance from Pune: 112 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/QtXE5eGC4vEhdJ9P9

The pinnacle structure of the Sindola fort seen from the second ridge. Picture by Kailesh Padevkar.

Sindola Fort Trek is one of the lesser-known treks in the very popular region of Maharashtra. It is situated in the Malshej ghat in the Junnar region at an altitude of 3,680 ft above sea level.

Sindola Fort dates back to similar times in Nimgiri and Hadsar. This fort was used as a watchtower as it offers a complete view of Malshej Ghat, Pargaon village, and other famous forts.

The fort is very small compared to other famous forts in the Jaunnr region. However, the ruins of bastions, a few water reservoirs and a Ganesha idol at the entrance on the top of the fort will set you wondering of the beauty. The rock-cut steps while climbing to the pinnacle will leave you astonished.

Do this trek for the serenity and the adventure it offers.

Starting point of the trek: Prabalmachi
Distance from Pune: 123 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/CKkRWFSFfoKQBnFg9

View from the summit of Kalavantin Durg trek. Picture by Mugdha Bhusari.

Kalavantin Durg Trek is one of the most popular treks in Maharashtra. Situated at an altitude of around 2,205 feet in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, the trek is a perfect one for beginners or adventure seekers. 

The Pinnacle of Kalavantin is a thrilling experience that one goes for. Though popular, it is a tricky trek. If you are going on your own, take a local guide with you. With enough precautions and knowing the trek well, the trek is one adventure that you should go on. 

Though Kalavantin Durg is much closer to Mumbai than Pune, it can easily be done from Pune as well. Trekking through the uneven trail, thick vegetation, and the thrill of reaching the top is an experience you must not miss out on.

Starting point of the trek: Ambivali
Distance from Pune: 125 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/1uytwjPZ3MNmMSE38

The waterfalls of Peth plateau are often sent back upwards, a phenomenon popularly known as Reverse waterfalls. Picture by Saurabh Sawant.

Kothaligad, a small marvel of architecture, nestled in the famous Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary near Karjat. It rises to a maximum altitude of 2,033 ft. Kothaligad stands detached from the main trail of Bhimashankar thus providing a rare 360 degree view from the peak. From the Peth plateau, you can even witness the reverse waterfall phenomenon. 

Kothaligad Fort was primarily used as a watchtower and ammunition depot by the ruling armies. The strategic location of the hill provides a commanding view of Padargad, Malanggad, Siddhagad, Chanderi Fort, Bhimashankar & Matheran Plateau in clear weather.

Located less than 100 km from both Mumbai and Pune and well connected by road and railways, Kothaligad is an ideal all-season trek for anyone looking for a quick getaway from bustling city life.

Starting point of the trek: Pali village
Distance from Pune: 136 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/x61TAyUu7zGR7xuK7

View of the surrounding valley as seen from the Sudhagad top. Picture by Apoorva Karlekar.

Sudhagad Trek is a short weekend getaway for trekkers from both Mumbai and Pune. The fort is almost equidistant from both cities. The trek offers spectacular views of the Sarasgad, Tail Baila and Ghangad from the top. There are also two huge lakes on the top where you can take a dip and camp beside for the night. There is also Bhorai Devi temple and “Pant Sachivancha Vada”.

The Sudhagad trek also known as Bhorapgad after the goddess Bhoraidevi. The origin of the fort dates back to the 2nd century BC. It was named Sudhagad after the Marathas conquered it from the Bahamani dynasty in 1657. 

Go for this trek if you are seeking a 2-day adventure near Pune or Mumbai.

This brings us to the end of this list, '10 best treks near Pune that you can do on your own.'

Click here to know about offbeat treks in Maharashtra to avoid crowds on weekends. 

But if you are looking for treks in your region, you can check our Trek Library as well - https://indiahikes.com/do-it-yourself-treks

If you have done any of these treks or have any recommendations that you think I should add to this list, write to me at manasa@indiahikes.com.

Finally, if you can help us document these treks further or new treks that trekkers can do on their own, write to Suhas Saya (Head of DIY and Documentation Team) at suhas@ndiahikes.com. It will greatly help us take DIY trekking forward in our country!

Pune is one of the hotspots for treks in Maharashtra. This is the only guide you ever need to know about and do the treks near Pune on your own. It includes a gpx file, trail information, difficult sections, how to reach the base and more.

10 Best Treks Near Pune That You Can Do On your Own

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Dehradun, despite being the bustling capital of Uttarakhand, provides numerous trekking opportunities that are just a couple of hours away. Be it trekking in the pristine forest trails of Chakrata, trekking to the oldest trails and hills in Mussoorie or trekking in the trail that connects Dehradun to Mussoorie with spectacular views of the Doon valley. You have a vast variety of trails to choose from.

Here, I’ve listed 8 such trails that you can do on your own the next time you are in Dehradun and have one or two days to spare. Not just that, if you are from nearby cities like Delhi, the weekend treks in this list could be a great option to escape from the scorching summer heat.

Some of these treks are famous and some are offbeat. But all of these are suitable for beginners. Let’s dive into the details of these treks.

Infographic shows the treks around Dehradun. Designed by Shivani Kulkarni

Trek Starting Point: Library Bus Stand/Hathipaon Chowk, Mussoorie
Distance from Dehradun: 34 km
Best time to do the trek: Spring, Autumn

Stunning views from the George Everest Peak trail. Picture by Loges R

George Everest Peak takes you to the house of Sir George Everest. It’s in his honor that Mt Everest is named. An easy trek which can be done by both fit beginners and experienced trekkers, George Everest Peak Trek is just 4 km away from Mussoorie. 

The House of Sir George Everest, perched on a peaceful hilltop in Mussoorie, is a legacy in ruins. The iconic house offers a mesmerizing view of the Doon valley on one side and the Aglar river and majestic Himalayan peaks on the other. The trek takes you through the forest sections filled with Deodar, Fir and Rhododendron trees. It’s also a paradise for birders. 

Trek Starting Point: Landour Clock Tower
Distance from Dehradun: 34 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons

Views of the snow - clad mountains from Lal Tibba summit. Picture by Deepali Bansal

The highest peak of Mussoorie, Lal Tibba is one of the most popular places in the region. Located at Depot Hill in Landour, Lal Tibba is well known among travelers and trekkers alike. Be it the sight of mesmerizing mountain peaks or the splendid sunrise and sunset views, Lal Tibba doesn’t fail to amaze you.

Lal Tibba is also one of the oldest places in Mussoorie. A testament to it is the structures from the pre-independence era that you see on the trail. Lal Tibba is a steep trail and is nestled in the dense canopy of Deodar trees. At the top, there is a government-approved mounted telescope at a cafe named Lal Tibba Binocular Cafe. On a clear day, from the telescope, you get an excellent view of the Himalayas, including Badrinath and Kedarnath!

The Landour -  Lal Tibba trek is suitable for both fit beginners and experienced trekkers.

Trek Starting Point: Shahanshahi Ashram, Kairwaan Gaon
Distance from Dehradun: 14 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons except monsoon

Spectacular views of the Doon valley from Kipling Trail. Picture by Abhishek Pant.

Once the main route from Dehradun to Mussoorie, the Kipling trail is now an exciting trek far removed from the traffic and overcrowding that marks the new Mussoorie road. This is a 9 km trail starting from the Shahanshahi Ashram and going all the way to Mussoorie through Jharipani and Barlowganj villages.

The Kipling Trail Trek follows a winding serpentine path with the Himalayan foothills on one side and spectacular views of the Dehradun valley on the other side. The trail first takes one through a steep jungle trail followed by small villages exhibiting remnants of the colonial era. Kipling Trail thus appeals to nature-lovers as well as those interested in history and heritage.

The trek is suitable for fit beginners and the steep incline would challenge experienced trekkers as well!

Trek Starting Point: Pantwari Village
Distance from Dehradun: 100 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons except monsoon

Golden Sunset on Nag Tibba Trek. Picture by Kumar Amrit.

Resting at 9806 ft, the summit of this trek is the highest in the Nag Tibba range of the Garhwal Himalayas. From here, you see a 100-degree view of snow-capped Himalayan ranges such as Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Srikantha, and Gangotri. You also see Kedarnath peak in the north, Doon valley, and the snow peaks of Changabang. With views like this and a climb to make you earn them, this weekend trek may be one of the best. 

As you go up one side of the mountain and come down from another side, you also experience a variety of landscapes. This trek takes you through dense forests, clearings, and ridge walk. All within two days!

For beginners, Nag Tibba is a great introductory trek. That being said, even for the experienced trekkers, it offers the thrill of a summit climb in just two days.

Trek Starting Point: Saindul Village
Distance from Dehradun: 100 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons except monsoon

Garhwal Himalayan Range as seen from the Nag Thatch Trail. Picture by Mahipal Bisht

A quaint village west of Pantwari called Saindul is the base of this short little day hike called Nag Thatch. Nag Thatch trek overlooks the famed Nag Tibba trek, but it takes half the effort to get the views which you would otherwise get from the top of Nag Tibba. 

From Nag Thatch, one can see almost all the mountain peaks of Garhwal Himalaya such as Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Shrikanth, Gangotri 1, Jaonli, Thalaysagar, Kedarnath Main, Kedarnath Dome, Chaukhamba and many others. For an easy and short trek of 2.5 kilometres, this is a dream come true! Apart from the big mountain views, the trek also has pretty meadows that are lush green in summer and golden brown in autumn. You’ll also find snow here in winter.

The Nag Thatch trek can be done by both fit beginners and experienced trekkers. It is an ideal trek for families with children and elders who find it difficult to do longer Himalayan treks.

Trek Starting Point: Lokhandi
Distance from Dehradun: 108 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons

Pristine Forest Trail on the Deoban Trek. Picture by Afreen Jaffar

Only on a few treks, you get to see great summit views and savour long forest walks. Deoban is one of those treks and the best thing is you get this rich experience in just a weekend! At Deoban’s summit, you see 55 high mountain peaks including Mt Nanda Devi, India’s highest mountain!

Deoban is also one of the few Uttarakhand trails dominated by Deodar trees. It is aptly named Deoban as Deo refers to “Deodar” trees and ban means “forests”. Usually, in Uttarakhand trails, you find clumps of these trees growing together in a mixed forest, but not an entire trail filled with them. An entire trail of Deodar trees is something that is mostly found in Kashmir or Himachal. The speciality of this forest trail is that the trees are incredibly tall and are over 600 years old. 

Deoban Trek also can be done by both fit beginners and experienced trekkers.

Trek Starting Point: Dhanaulti
Distance from Dehradun: 65 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons

Views of the surround valley you get on the way to Sukanda Devi Temple. Picture by Deepali Bansal 

Surkanda Devi Temple is located near Dhanaulti in the Unniyal Village of Tehri district of Uttarakhand. It is one of India's 51 Shaktipeeth temples and is of great religious importance. Situated at an altitude of about 9,041 feet above sea level, Surkanda Devi Temple is encompassed by dense and thick backwoods.

Sukanda Devi trek trail is well laid throughout. The entire trek route is very scenic and offers beautiful views of the surroundings. From the top, you can enjoy stunning views of the dense forests and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.

Surkanda Devi Trek is an easy trek and can be done by both beginners and experienced trekkers.

Trek Starting Point: Library end, Mussoorie
Distance from Dehradun: 34 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons except monsoon

A view of the Bhadraj Hill trail. Picture from Indiahikes Archives

Bhadraj Hill Trek is a modest and well-balanced trek. One of the best weekend treks in Mussoorie, the total 13 km trek can be completed in one or two days. If you want to do this trek in one day, then you’ll have to start early in the morning. But the trek is better experienced over two days with overnight camping.

The trail to Dudhli Village is called Milkman’s Trail, as it helps supply milk to Mussoorie town every day. It’s a lovely trail that takes you all along the ridge with Gangetic plains sloping down on either side, while Himalayan ranges sit snug in the distance.

Bhadraj Hill trek is an ideal trek for beginners. That said, it offers a beautiful experience for any trekker who would like to explore and is looking for a short escape from the hustle of a citylife.

Trek Starting Point: Jonk Rishikesh
Distance from Dehradun: 47 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons

Neergarh Waterfalls I seen during the trek. Picture by Prajwal Agarwal.

 If you're in Rishikesh and want to go for a short walk in the forest, Neergarh Waterfalls is a great choice.  It's just 3 kilometers away from the main mall road in Rishikesh, so it's not too far.

The trek to the waterfall is pretty easy, even for beginners. You can even bring kids along with you. Once you reach the waterfall, you'll see a natural stream of really cold water from the mountains. It's a perfect spot to take a refreshing bath and get all pumped up with energy.

If you go on this trek early in the morning, you might find that there aren't many people around. It's a great time to be in nature, meditate, and breathe in the fresh air.

This brings us to the end of this list of 9 treks around Dehradun that you can do on your own.

From Dehradun, there are mighty himalayan treks such as Har ki Dun, Kedarkantha, Rupin Pass and many more that you can do. But they are quite far and take your entire week. If you are looking for a trek that is just a couple of hours away and suited for the weekend, you can choose treks such as Nag Tibba, Deoban or any other treks mentioned in this article.

Mussoorie, aptly called “Queen of Hills” has many trekking places to offer. George Everest Peak trek, Landour-Lal Tibba and Bhadraj Hill trek are some of the best treks based out of Mussoorie.

Yes. Nag Tibba takes you to an altitude of 9,806 ft and the summit of this trek is the highest in the Nag Tibba range of the Garhwal Himalayas. From here, you see a 100-degree view of snow-capped Himalayan ranges such as Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Srikantha, and Gangotri. You also see Kedarnath peak in the north, Doon valley, and the snow peaks of Changabang. With views like this, it’s the best introductory trek to introduce the world of trekking.

The distance from Dehradun to Mussoorie is 34 km. It takes about 1 and a half hours by road. There are also frequent buses that run from Dehradun to Mussoorie.

Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie and has a telescope mounted at the top which offers panoramic views of the snow capped mountains. To know more about the place and how to do this trek on your own, refer our documentation - https://indiahikes.com/landour--lal-tibba-trek

If you are looking for more treks to do in Uttarakhand, check out this link. If you are looking for treks to do near your city, check out our Trek Library. 

If you want to trek with Indiahikes in the Himalayas, check out our upcoming treks section.

In order to help you do these treks on your own, we include gpx files in the documentation. Use this link to know more about how to use gpx files.

Finally, if you can help us document these treks further, or new treks that trekkers can do on their own, do apply to be a Remote Trek Documenter. It will greatly help us take DIY trekking forward in our country!

The ultimate guide to treks that you can do on your own around Dehradun. Find out all the details that you need to know about these treks including gpx files, how to reach the base, difficult sections, best time to do the trek, how far from Dehradun and FAQs

8 Treks Around Dehradun That You Can Do On Your Own

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9 Weekend Treks Around Dehradun That You Can Do On Your Own

As the spell of the monsoon season has swung in, it’s raining in Bangalore almost everyday. Sitting here at the Bangalore office, looking at raindrops splashing on the road and witnessing the plants on our balcony happily dancing to the song of winds, I wonder what it must be like to be on a hillside now. The lush green grasslands beaming with tiny flowers, dreamy forest settings, moss covered tree trunks, gushing water streams - what a beautiful time to trek!

Thinking of a hillside, what better place to trek than western ghats during monsoon? In this article, we have curated seven best western ghats treks that you can do on your own this monsoon. Some of these trails are famous among trekkers and some are relatively less traversed. Nevertheless, all of these treks offer you the essence of monsoon season in their own way. And the best part is, these treks can be done in just a weekend!

Without further delay, let’s dive into the details of these treks.

Map showing the relative location of the best monsoon treks in Karnataka.

Total Trek Distance: 18 km
Trek Starting Point: Mullodi, Kalasa
Distance from Bangalore: 317 km

Rolling green hills of Kudremukh Range. Picture by Meghana Jambhe

Nestled in the heart of the western ghats in Chikmagalur district, Kudremukh is a perfect monsoon trek. It comes under the Kudremukh National Park which is the second-largest wildlife protected area in the western ghats. Situated at an altitude of 6,207 ft, Kudremukh is the 2nd highest peak of Karnataka after Mullayyangiri.

Trekking in the dense forests and lush green grasslands, adventurous stream crossings, rich variety of flora and fauna, and stunning view of rolling green hills from the peak are some of the things to expect from the Kudremukh trek.

Total Trek Distance: 9.2 km
Trek Starting Point: Bhagavathi Nature Camp, Kalasa Main Road
Distance from Bangalore: 336 km

Imposing Kurinjal summit. Picture by Bhajish

Kurinjal Peak Trek is one of the lesser known treks in western ghats. Though Kurinjal is also situated in the Kudremukh National Park, with Kudremukh taking the spotlight, it continues to remain as one of the offbeat treks to do in western ghats. 

With half the total trek distance compared to Kudremukh, it is at par in terms with Kudremukh, in terms of adventure and experience of the whole trek. The trail passes through the tropical forest of Kudremukh National Park, multiple small streams and lush green meadows. Along with these, a steep climb to the summit is the best highlight of this trek.

Total Trek Distance: 13.6 km
Trek Starting Point: Kalabhyraveshwara temple, Durgadahalli
Distance from Bangalore: 280 km

Trekking under the dense tree cover filled with scents of flora is a treat in the monsoon. Picture by Harikrishnan

Unknown to many, Ballalarayana Durga - Bandaje Falls trek is a combination of two treks -- Ballalarayana Durga and Bandaje Arbi. People often miss out on going to the snout of the Bandaje Arbi. Ballalarayana Durga trek lies in Chikmagalur, nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantations and lush greenery. This trek adds a unique flavor to its landscape.

The Ballalarayana Durga trek holds an abandoned fort from the 17th century at its peak, and a gushing waterfall in the end. Watching the water falling from the snout to almost a 1,000 feet below is a sight that sets your hearts racing! And just for this view, the Ballarayana Durga - Bandaje Arbi trek is a must do.

View Ballalarayana Durga - Bandaje Falls Trek 

Total Trek Distance: 12 km
Trek Starting Point: Kopatty, Coorg
Distance from Bangalore: 289 km

View from the Kopatty Top - one of the finest treks in Coorg. Picture by Indiahikes Team.

The Kopatty Trek is an ideal day trek in Coorg. The trail climbs past landscaped coffee plantations, snakes through deep forests and bursts out to the grassland, to top the summit in a span of 3 hours.

If there is any western ghats trek that has the best surprises combined with an exciting variety of flora and fauna, it has to be the Kopatty trek. It’s a must do trek in the Coorg region.

Total Trek Distance: 19.4 km
Trek Starting Point:  Nittur
Distance from Bangalore: 403 km

Beautiful Hidlumane Falls on the way to Koadchadri peak. Picture by Sumukha Gargesh

Kodachadri is one of the most spoken-about trekking trails in Karnataka. Located in the Shimoga District, Kodachadri lies in the heart of the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Kodachadri Trek takes you through a quaint village setting with paddy fields, thick forests, marvelous grasslands, and a waterfall that will make you go weak on your knees. The rolling lush grasslands and hills surrounding the peak is a sight to behold.

Not just this, Kodachadri has a rich history that dates back to 7th AD. It’s a rare western ghats trek that is not just about the views and adventure but also filled with many interesting tales of history and mythology. 

Trek Distance: 4.2 km
Trek Starting Point: Sri Nanya Bhairaveshwara temple, Byrapura
Distance from Bangalore: 275 km

Ettina Bhuja summit seen as soon as you exit the forest section. Picture by Manasa N L

Ettina Bhuja is part of the Charmadi range at an altitude of 4,265 ft. It is situated in the Mudigere range of Chikmagalur district. Panoramic views of the Charmadi range and Shishila valley can be seen from the peak.

Ettina Bhuja is a right mixture of forest and grassland. Half of the trek is in the dense forest and the other half is in the open grassland that offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. The summit climb here is the most thrilling part of the whole trek.

Total Trek Distance: 10.4 km
Trek Starting Point: Bhagamandala
Distance from Bangalore: 284 km

Breathtaking views as seen from one of the clearings on Nishani Motte trek. Picture by Indiahikes Team

Nishani Motte is one of the lesser known trails in Coorg. Starting out in rich shola forests and meadows, the trail follows an impressive ridge walk to the summit. The peak offers a spectacular view of the layers of the Brahmagiri range. 

This is a must do if you are looking for a less crowded, not frequented, pristine trail to trek in.

View from the Netravati Summit. Picture by Amoga Vigram P

Netravati Trek is located in Chikmagalur district and is sandwiched between Samse and Belthangady. This is one of the few treks in Karnataka with excellent views throughout the trek. With rolling shola grasslands on all sides of the trek. From the summit, you get a birds-eye view of the smaller towns in Belthangady town.  

On this trek, you can see the clouds playing hide and seek with the views of the beautiful rolling hills. These rolling hills are nothing but some of the most prominent peaks of the western ghats. If the clouds are clear, you will get to see Kudremukh Peak on your right and Rani Jhari on your left.

Clouds striking the Tadiandamol Summit. Picture by Amoga Vigram P

A very popular trek amongst the trekking community of southern India. The Tadiandamol Trek is one of the most talked-about treks among trekkers starting on their trekking journey in the Western Ghats.

Standing at a height of 5,735 feet, it is the highest peak in Coorg. 

During the monsoons, you can see the green hills spread out as far as the eyes can see. This extends in all directions from the peak.

Another interesting thing about the peak is, that since it's located very close to Kerala, you get the Kerala internet network at the top.

One can spot coffee estates and pepper plantations throughout this entire stretch of the trek. Along with these, you have the areca nut (Betel nut) trees, nutmeg trees, fishtail palms, and various other trees growing here.

View from the Gangadikal Summit. Picture by Amoga Vigram P

Gangadikal Peak sits high up at 4806 feet, and the view from the top is amazing. 

Picture this: you look out and see these beautiful valleys covered in endless green shola forests on both sides. From the peak, you can see the expanse of Kudremuka forests on both sides. The never-ending shola grasslands, as far as the eyes can see, are a sight to behold.

Right below you, you get to see the crystal-clear backwaters of the Lakhya Dam, also known as the Kudremukh Dam. The backwaters resting on the Shola grassland feel unworldly and magical.

On clear days, you can also see the abandoned mining town of Kudremukh next to the Lakhya dam

 The trek is a thriving habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Lucky trekkers may have the chance to glimpse a herd of gaurs or deer, while various bird species such as the Grey Hornbill, Malabar Trogon, and Orange Headed Thrush, and various snake species such as shieldtails and Malabar Pit vipers can be found here.

This brings us to the end of must-do monsoon treks in Karnataka. Having said that, trekking in the monsoon comes with its own challenges. So preparing yourself mentally and physically for a trek is vital, to be able to enjoy the whole experience. 

With the pretty views, you will also have to deal with heavy rains and slippery sections. In order to better equip yourself for the trek, go through the packing checklist mentioned in the documentations of these treks. 

Leeches are an inevitable part of monsoon treks in western ghats. Go through this video on how to deal with leeches - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhvfHraIdKM

With these tips, I hope you will be better prepared and get to experience some of these treks, this monsoon. Do let us know about your experience in the comments below.

If you are looking for treks near your city, you can check our Trek Library - https://indiahikes.com/do-it-yourself-treks

Finally, if you can help us document these treks further, or new treks that trekkers can do on their own, do apply to be a Remote Trek Documenter. 

It will greatly help us take DIY trekking forward in our country!

10 Best Monsoon Treks in Karnataka That You Must Do - Find out all the details about monsoon treks that you can do on your own

10 Best Monsoon Treks in Karnataka That You Must Do

Monsoon treks, Western ghats treks, Treks in Karnataka

Outside of the Himalayas, India is blessed with Western and Eastern ghats that offer countless trekking opportunities. Of course, trekking in these regions is different to that of the Himalayas but it has its own charm.

The Western Ghats are the chain of mountain ranges that run parallel to the western coast of India. It extends from Gujarat, all the way to Kerala covering almost 1600 km of distance. Unknown to many, the western ghats are older than the Himalayas.

Be it trekking in the dense jungles, in the lush green grasslands, trekking to the snout or the base of the waterfalls, the variety that western ghats treks offer are huge. A large chunk of the Western Ghats treks lie in Maharashtra. These are also called Sahyadris. 

In addition to the experience of a typical western ghats trek, Maharashtra has more than 160 fort treks to explore. These forts were mostly built by Marathas to guard their empire. Including these, though there are a large number of treks to explore, only some of these treks have gained traction and are flocked by trekkers.

In this article, we have curated 10 such famous treks in Maharashtra and why are these famous treks. 

Base Village: Bari
Total Trek Distance: 8.6 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 153 km from Mumbai and 169 km from Pune

The mighty Sahyadris soaking in the golden hour. Picture by Vijay Ogalapurkar.

Situated in the Kasara Range of Western Ghats, Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra. And this makes it one of the most famous treks of Maharashtra. 

At 5400 feet, Kalsubai might seem like a daunting task. To be honest, it is! But that doesn’t mean that you can not do it in one day. 

The Kalsubai trek offers views of many famous forts like Alang, Madan, and Kulang. The treks to these peaks are pretty challenging. On a clear day, you also get imposing views of other surrounding forts such as Harihargad, Harishchandragad and Ratangad. Many experienced trekkers combine these treks for added adventure.

Base Village: Khireshwar
Total Trek Distance: 14 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 138 km from Mumbai and 119 km from Pune

Harishchandra temple surrounded by yellow and purple wildflowers. Picture by Amit Mohite

Harishchandragad trek is one of the most challenging treks in the western ghats of Maharashtra. Variety of adventures it offers to all kinds of trekkers makes Harishchandragad trek a popular one too.

Harishchandragad is an ancient fort. Its origin is said to have been in the 6th century during the rule of the Kalchuri dynasty. But the caves which you see on the top are probably carved out in the 11th century.

The various constructions on the fort and those in the surrounding region indicate the existence of diverse cultures. Saptatheertha Pushkarni, Kedareshwar cave, Harishchandra temple and other caves are the examples for that.

Maharashtra is home to countless trekking trails. Find out some of the famous treks in Sahyadris and all the details that you need to do these treks on your own.

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