Climb to an ancient fort with dominating views

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TREK DURATION

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Channarayana Durga Trek is located near to Madhugiri in the Tumkur district of Karnataka. A trek that is very close to our hearts at Indiahikes since it reveals many surprises as you go climbing through each of its layers of the fort. 

The trek is very much accessible and close to the state highway 9 connecting Madhugiri and Dabbaspet. The beautiful majestic fort reminds you of medieval times that was used as a strategic fortress in this region of Madhugiri and Tumkur. It is one of the Navadurgas around Bangalore. 

The entire fort is divided into multiple layers and sections. One can clearly see the brilliant minds that went into the design and structure of this fort that was built during the 16th century. The fort is daunting to you right from the time you are starting the trek from the base and it gets grandiose as you come closer. 

Just the sheer climb through the granite rocks adds to the thrill. Be it with false doors leading you to the wrong side of the fort, a reservoir to store water throughout the year and ancient hallways mark this for an exploration one must truly venture into. 

The view from the top of the fort is also a sight to witness. You get to see the famous monolith of Madhugiri from the top and other surrounding hillocks in a grand setting. 

The trek is ideal for any age group and especially for families, friends, and colleagues to start trekking. A fit trekker can complete the trek within a couple of hours while those who want to take it leisurely can spend half a day easily exploring the trek.

Watch these videos to get a glimpse of the trek

Watch these videos to prepare well for your trek

Channarayana Durga - Complete Trek Information 

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on any trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Indiahikes Southern Campus trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Don’t miss the 'Frequently Asked Questions' section at the end. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

- You will be staying in tents overnight 

- Carry own cutlery : 1 tiffin box, tumbler (or just plate and cup if not planning to pack food for the trek)

1. This trek could either be very warm or cool and rainy, depending on the weather. Plan your gear according to the weather forecast. In case of sunny days, ensure you have a sun cap and wear full-sleeved tshirts. In case of rain, don't forget your rainwear. 

2. Start your drive well in advance so that you reach the campus on time. Factor in any traffic jams you may face in and around Bangalore. 

What are the highlights from Channarayana Durga Trek

Start your trek early in the morning. This way you would avoid the sun hitting on your head directly. The granite boulders also will be cooler and easier to climb.  

The trek can be divided into two sections

Base of the Hillock to First Level of Fort

From the First Level to the Top of the Fort

Section I: Base of the Hillock to First Level of Fort 

Trek Distance: 1 km
Trek Duration: 30-40 minutes

The trek starts from the main lane of the Channarayana Durga village area. This is the space where you will see locals catching up and chatting near the petty shop.


The trail starts just after the water tank where the villagers collect the water from. This would be the last space where you can fill your water bottles. The alternative option is to request the houses surrounding for some water. 



Take the lane just after the water tank at the right-hand side and head towards the hillock. There is no trail as such where the trek starts. It starts with a climb from here.


You will see arrow marks painted on the granite rocks which will guide you on the route. 

A gradual ascent takes you through a section of granite monolith rock. Stick a bit towards the right where you will get a better grip against the smaller boulders and bushes growing near these sections. 


The climb takes a bit towards the left and then you start climbing up again. Notice a small stone ruin towards the leftmost flank when you are climbing up. You will find a patch where there are grasses and cactus growing. Cross this section and the climb gets slightly steeper until you reach a flatter surface.

| Tip: Put your weight forward and towards the mountain when climbing up. If you are finding it difficult to climb the granite rock surface, remove your shoes and climb with your bare feet. This will be easier. 

You have the option of climbing up directly towards the first level or taking a slight deviation towards the left-hand side where the rock formation reminds you of a fissure or how this incredible geology takes place.

We would suggest taking this later route and having some fun trying to squeeze your way in lying on the rock surface. 


Notice the dark lines on the rocks. During the monsoon and post-monsoon season, you will see water trickling down these portions.

Few more minutes of this climb and you reach the huge entrance for the first level of the fort.


Look out on the carvings on a few of the rocks as you enter the fort. There are various shapes carved - snake, tortoise and many other animal figures. 


Walk through the majestic entrance and through the massive granite pillars supporting the entrance. You can take a sip of water and take a small break near the entrance where you get some good shade. 

Section 2: First Level to the Top of the Fort

Trek Distance: 1.2 km
Trek Duration: 50 mins to 1 hour

The first level of the fort has very interesting and exciting components to explore.


To begin with, go to the North-eastern side to see the pond/reservoir which stores water throughout the year. You can take a walk alongside this pond and spot many bastions of the fort.

Walking along the sides of the pond will easily take you about 10-15 minutes.


If you want to explore, take the North-western side. There is a small door that leads you towards a false route or perhaps another section of the fort during the earlier times.

You can wonder if this was actually a trap for soldiers. From the top, spotting the troops and attacking would have been much easier if you landed up over here.


Retrace back to the main trail and you will enter a section that is slightly flatter.

The trail opens up and the expanse is slightly broader now. This particular section resembles a feeling of trekking through the grassland. If you are walking in the autumn season or during the evening, watch out when sunlight hits on these golden-colored grass. 

Go around the perimeters of the fort and explore the ruins.


You are on the second level of the fort and trek through other features. You will come across stables, gallery sections when the armies were using the fort.

From here, the top of the fort is around 15 minutes. 

Climb through the last stretch and enter through the last of the doorway into a rectangular flat top surrounded by the fort structure on all sides. The view is hidden from your sight when you enter.


You need to climb onto the walls of the fort to take in the surrounding views and get the vantage point from the top. 

Walk around the entire top section of the fort. You will see the monolith mountain of Madhugiri towards your North, Siddarabetta, and other hillocks surrounding the Madhugiri city of Tumkur district.


The fort has many openings where canons used to be placed for protection.

Notice stone steps that can be climbed up to the top. It is beautifully camouflaged amongst the trees growing on the cracks of these rocks. Do not break any part of the ancient tree which has been growing for centuries. 


Be careful when placing your foot here on the steps and on the top while having a glance down. 

The descent to the base takes you through the same route. Exercise caution when you are descending down. It is very easy to lose your grip or slip when climbing down the granite boulder. 

If there are signs of weather going bad or clouds forming, then it’s better to descend down when the rock surface is dry and not slipping.


It will take you about 45 minutes to an hour to reach back to the base village. Make sure you have a Turn Around Time (TAT) at 5 pmif you start the trek post afternoon. 

➤ How to Reach Channarayana Durga Trek

Channarayana Durga trek starts from a small village called Channarayana Durga in the Tumkur district. 

Reaching Channarayana Durga by your own vehicle

If you are traveling in your own vehicle, then you need to head on the Bangalore-Tumkur highway, NH48. 

As you are nearing Dobbaspet, do not take the flyover. Enter the service road and the road going towards Madhugiri. A junction comes at Dobbaspet where one road goes to Doddaballapur and the other to Madhugiri. 

As soon as you cross the junction, you hit the state highway of SH3 towards Madhugiri. 

On the state highway, cross the major town of Koratagere. From here, you need to take the left turn on the road going towards Siddarabetta. It is about 5 km from the Koratagere town where this left turn comes. Watch out for the arch where the left turn needs to be taken. 

| Tip: You will see a board mentioning Siddarabetta and the turn to be taken for this. Follow this since there is nothing mentioned about Channarayana Durga on the main road. 

The other approach that you can take is to enter the Madhugiri region from Doddaballapur. You can drive either via Madhugiri or come to Dobbaspet. 

Use the Google map or GPX file to reach the base of the trek. 

Reaching Channarayana Durga by Public Transport System

If you are planning to take public transport, then the best way is to take a bus from Majestic and then head to Tumkur. 

From Tumkur, there are two buses that would leave and reach the base of Channarayana Durga. The first bus leaves at around 9.30 am from Tumkur. It would take the route of Siddarabetta, Tovinakere. 

There is also another bus leaving at 11.30 am from Koratagere to Channarayana Durga. The same bus goes back to Koratagere around 12.45 pm from the base village.

The last public bus would leave from Channarayarana Durga at around 1.30 pm to Tumkur. After this, there are no public buses from the base of the village. 

However, you can call for autos from the petty shops that sell limited essentials. 

Here are a few contact numbers of Auto folks who might be able to help – Ravi: 9480500309, Laxminarayan: 9731059781

The cost of the Auto from the State highway of the arch to the base village of Channarayana Durga will be INR 150-200.


Nearest International and Domestic Airport

Kempegowda International Airport – 43 km

Trek explored, documented by Indiahikes Team

Photos contributed by Suhas Saya, Gautam Singh, and Venkat Ganesh of the Indiahikes team

Even during the coldest months of December, January, and February this region is fairly hot, hitting temperatures of around 26-28° C during the day. 

The nights are pleasant at around 18–22° C. 

You would only need one jacket and a poncho for early mornings or in case of rain. 

➤ Best Season to do the Channarayana Durga Trek

The best time to do Channarayana Durga Trek would be between the months of September to February. The months of post-monsoon are the best time to do the trek since you have a lot of greenery surrounding Channarayana Durga. The trek also comes out alive with small sections having water trickling down the rocky terrain.

The winter months are also very pleasant and a good time to experience the trek. 

The peak of the monsoon season is not recommended due to the rocks being extremely slippery. During this season, you need to keep an eye on the weather and then take the call. 

During the summer season, you can do this trek. However, it tends to get very tiring and hot without proper shade or cover on the trail. This can hamper your experience of the trek. Due to less tree cover on the trail, we recommend you wear a cap or a hat if you are trekking during the summer months. 

These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. ID cards of either Aadhar card or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.  

Disclaimer certificate: Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate

Please carry the above document with you. The document needs to be downloaded (PDF), filled in, signed, and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp. Please print these back-to-back on two sheets. Do not print separately and help in reducing paper usage.

Given that this is just a one-night weekend outdoor program, with very comfortable weather, we advise you to travel light.

Here’s a list of things you must bring along with you: 

A 20L backpack – A small comfortable backpack will suffice.

2 t-shirts – Expect to get sweaty, you will need a change of clothes after your trek

An extra pair of trekking pants – Avoid shorts at all costs, there are thorns along all the trails.

Shoes with good grip – Even sports shoes will work, as long as they have a good grip

2 light single sheets to lie on and cover yourself with in the tent.

As the trail is exposed, with very little tree cover, make sure you cover yourself well while trekking. Carry a full-sleeve t-shirt/shirt and full trekking pants for this trek.  

Keep a pair of sandals to walk around the campsite. 

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with a few commitments from your end. Here are our eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria For The Indiahikes Southern Campus Trek

Wonderful experience.

That is an unforgettable night under the stars.

Complete information on the weekend trek from Indiahikes Southern Campus. Trek details, experiences, maps, photos, videos, when to go, what to take, how difficult is the trek etc.

Channarayana Durga Trek 2024 - Weekend Trek - Indiahikes

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Trek along Narmada's serene Waterfall, Streams and Hills.

We have an expert team of Trek Advisors to help you choose the right trek. So if you have questions like, "Can I do this trek?" or "Who else is trekking?", please get in touch.

CLOSEST AIRPORT

Trek along Narmada's serene Waterfall, Streams and Hills

We'll admit it. Even before we set foot on the Narmada Backwaters trek, we were already impressed by trekking in Madhya Pradesh. If you're not aware, we opened up the Pench Mowgli trek in 2024, and trekkers have been loving it. 

We were wondering if another trek in Madhya Pradesh would match up to the beauty.

So when our chief explorer, Nitesh Kumar, returned from the Narmada Backwaters Trek, it was the first question we asked him. Here's what he had to say: "Even though I have been exploring treks in MP since 2017, this place is unlike any other. I saw waterfalls, hilltops, streams and the whole backwaters, all within two days. I never thought such a place existed!" 

To give you a glimpse of the trek, you start your trek by visiting a quaint tribal village at Kherwada. Meeting the tribal community here, and seeing how harmoniously they live with nature sets a wonderful context for what is to come over the next three days. 

From the village, you set out on a delightful trail alongside a stream. You're in a narrow gorge with thick undergrowth around you. There is a sense of adventure from the get-go. In 2-3 hours, a surprise awaits you: a magnificent waterfall that appears to be descending from the sky. This is the Gawani Waterfall. It's wonderful to spend some time in the pools formed by the waterfall, before heading back to Kherwada. 

The next day is when you truly acquaint yourself with the stunning backwaters of the Narmada. Camping beside the backwaters, with the mild tinkle of the water, under a starry sky is an experience to remember. 

The final day seals the deal for us because it takes you up to a vantage point at Jalsindhi Top. You climb a steep incline over a series of switchbacks to reach the top, from where the vast expanse of the Narmada Backwaters opens up. The grandiosity strikes you when you realize that you're seeing a tri-junction point, where the borders of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh meet.

To sum it up, the Narmada Backwaters Trek is a wonderful mix of the natural beauty of Madhya Pradesh, its rich culture and adventure. From the hidden waterfalls to the backwaters to the summit views, it's a power-packed three-day trek. 

If you are looking for a trek for yourself / your family and friends, this would be an ideal trek over an extended weekend.

This fee includes everything from base camp to base camp.

Please note: The insurance has to be claimed within 7 days from the specific incident for it to be deemed valid.

Use this section to learn about the Narmada Backwaters trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

Vadodara is a well-known city in Gujarat, connected by airways and railways. To reach the basecamp of the trek (Kherwada)

Your pickup will be near Vadodara Railway station at 8:00 AM. Your Experience Coordinator will let you know the cost of the vehicle one week before the trek.

Incase you are coming directly to Alirajpur from Indore, we will help you in picking up from Alirajpur Bus stop. Let your Experience Coordinator know this in advance.

Onward Journey:

Day 0: Reach Vadodara by Evening. There are several stay options near Vadodara Junction Railway Station. 

Day 1: The Indiahikes team will pick you up from either of the pickup points. Inform your experience coordinator of this, in advance. Reach the basecamp. 

Return journey:

Day 3: The Indiahikes team will drop you to either of the drop points after the trek. Keep your Experience Coordinator informed of your choice for this.

Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.   

Crocin (Paracetamol) – 6 tablets (fever)

Norflox TZ – 3 tablets (diarrhoea/ severe GI issue)

Knee Cap (Optional), if you are prone to a knee injury

Our trek leaders carry a medical kit with them. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.

Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit. 

Original and 2 (two) photocopies of government identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.  

1 (one) passport-size photographs. This is required to obtain the trekking permits

Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record.  The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate

Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate

Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.

Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.

Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.

Shoes with good grip (non-waterproof trail running shoes or non-waterproof shoes with good grip)

Warm layers: 1 layer (1 light sweater will suffice)

3 full-sleeved T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)

2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)

Sun cap (Available for purchase), preferably with flaps 

4 pairs of socks (normal cotton/ sport high ankle socks. Waterproof socks are a bonus.) (Waterproof socks are available for purchase)

Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)

Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes/sanitary waste)

Once you run through this list, don't miss this ultimate guide on what gear to take on a trek. It contains tips on what gear to choose, where to get it from and how much to spend on it.

Our only tip: Keep your backpack light. Indiahikes practices low impact sustainable trekking in every aspect of the trek. Carrying your own personal backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We expect all our trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to.

Small and slightly larger fresh water streams come alive during this season. The whole trail is lush green, be it the farmlands, grasslands, the ridge or even near the waterfall. During Monsoon, the clouds are lower than they generally are. It will give you a feeling of walking on the clouds. There are also times when you will see lower moving clouds, slightly away from you. These are sights to behold!

Highlights: Water elements, moving clouds and lush green trail.

Temperature
Day Time: 30 °C to 32 °C | Night Time: 21 °C to 23 °C

Narmada backwater trek in Monsoon (from July to mid-September)

As we enter the Autumn season, you will see a few water elements. Yet the lush green trail and the blue skies continue to amaze you. Imagine you are at the ridge on Day 3; a vibrant green below you, a bright blue above you, vast backwaters of the Narmada river infront of you and a soft wind blowing in your face. What an unforgettable moment!

Highlights: Lush green trail with blue skies

Temperature
Day Time: 28 °C to 31 °C | Night Time: 20 °C to 22 °C

Narmada backwater trek in Autumn (Mid-September to mid-November)

The winter season in this region is a mix of a pleasant weather and clear skies. The skies are so clear that you can even star gaze. The pleasant weather adds to it, making the trek in winter a very beautiful experience.

Highlights: Pleasant temperatures and clear night skies

Temperature
Day Time: 26 °C to 28 °C | Night Time: 14 °C to 16 °C

Narmada backwater trek in Winter (Mid-November to December)

Number of Warm Layers: 1 thin jacket or fleece

As industry leaders, we have innovated and set safety standards in the trekking industry. Our people, our processes, and our equipment, are what make Indiahikes the safest trekking organisation in India.

Complete the steps below to register for your Narmada Backwaters Trek

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with certain commitments from your end.

Eligibilty criteria for Narmada Backwaters Trek

Trek through the Jungles of Pench Tiger Reserve! Check it out here

Looking for dates in November, December? Check out the Pench Mowgli Trek!

Other treks like the Narmada Backwaters Trek

When one mentions Madhya Pradesh, images of ancient temples, vibrant cities, and wildlife sanctuaries come to mind. Yet, nestled in the heart of this state lies a treasure trove of some beautiful landscapes. 

narmada, sardar sarovar, alirajpur, mathwad, gujarat, madhya pradesh, maharashtra, narmada backwaters trek

A 3-day camping program for 10-16 year olds near Bangalore

Sending your child to a winter camp is a big decision. We have an expert team of Trek Advisors to help you clear any doubt or resolve any queries. Please get in touch.

DURATION

AGE LIMIT

For over eight years, we have taken thousands of children trekking in and around Bangalore. We notice extraordinary changes in the children within just 4-5 hours of trekking. They discover a new connection to nature, find an unknown confidence in themselves, and unlock a different level of camaraderie with their peers. Add a camping experience to this, and their learning multiplies manifold. 

This is why we have opened up Winter Camp with trekking near Bangalore for children. These are 3-day programmes where children go on trekking adventures and camp outdoors. At the same time, unknown to them, they gain rare life skills and values that are otherwise difficult to imbibe in daily life or school life. We bring these learnings to life through methods of experiential learning.

Our expertise in camping programmes for children has grown over the years, especially after running summer camps in the Himalayas for 10-16 years olds. You'll see multiple parents vouching for our summer camp programme here. 

With our experienced facilitators, you will see recognisable changes in them when they are back after this program. So if your child is between the ages of 10 and 16, this is a priceless adventure.

➤ This trek could either be very warm or cool and rainy, depending on the weather. Children need to have their sun caps and wear full-sleeved T-shirts. They should also carry their rainwear for any occasional showers during the program

➤ The pickup will take place at two points: The Indiahikes office at Sahakarnagar at 7 am or Gorguntepalya, People Tree Hospital  at 7.30 am. So parents can drop their kids off in either of the two places.

➤ Children should carry a small notebook and pen/pencil to jot down their experiences and observations from the program 

➤ They should also carry their own cutlery: 1 tiffin box, spoon, and a small coffee mug. It is also mandatory for each one to carry 2 bottles of water, 1 lt each. The entire list of things to carry is given below under 'What to Pack'

➤ Packing snacks for the trek: Children will be given healthy food with a good variety, including plenty of trail snacks. Yet, if you're sending snacks along, ensure no plastic waste is generated. This is a plastic-free trek. Encourage zero-waste snacks.

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a surficial experience.

First time I have seen her so observant and focused

The program was curated in a way to make it informational and fun for kids.

Thanks for making this so fun, educational and inspirational.

Bhuvi enjoyed the time thoroughly

Thank you so much Team Indiahikes for such a wonderful programme

Thanku team for making this trek educational n memorable.

Thanks Indiahikes team for making this a wonderful experience for all the kids and encouraging them to trek more.

Looking forward to more such treks with the team

Thank u so much for making it such fun and educational experience .

What Children Learn in Winter Camp Programs

The winter months are very pleasant and a good time to experience the trek. 

Even during the coldest months of December, January, and February this region is fairly hot, hitting temperatures of around 24-28° C during the day.

The nights can get a bit chilly with temperatures at around 15–22° C. 

Children would need one jacket and a poncho for early mornings or in case of rain. 

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