Kudremukh National Park rolling green grasslands with horse-face peak in Western Ghats Karnataka
Kudremukh National Park • Chikmagalur Travel Guide

Kudremukh National Park — Trek, Wildlife & Permits

Last updated: 2026-04-26

Kudremukh National Park is a UNESCO biodiversity hotspot spread across 600 sq km of Western Ghats shola forest and grasslands. The name 'Kudremukh' means 'horse face' in Kannada, referring to the iconic peak that dominates the skyline. The park hosts the Kudremukh trek — a 22 km round trip through some of India's most pristine green country — plus rich wildlife including Malabar civet, sloth bear, leopard and over 200 bird species. This guide covers trek permits, the entry process, and how to reach the park from Chikmagalur.

Distance

95 km (3 hours)

Best Time

October to February

Duration

Full day or overnight

Entry

₹600 per person + permit

Elevation

1,894 m peak

Difficulty

Moderate to Difficult

Why visit Kudremukh National Park

  • UNESCO biodiversity hotspot
  • 22 km round-trip Kudremukh trek
  • Sholas, grasslands and rare wildlife
  • Endemic to over 200 bird species
  • One of South India's most scenic treks

How to reach Kudremukh National Park

Kudremukh is 95 km from Chikmagalur via Kalasa, taking around 3 hours by car. Trek permits must be obtained at the Mullodi forest gate (start point). KSRTC buses run from Chikmagalur to Kalasa; from Kalasa take a local jeep to Mullodi (15 km).

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Things to do at Kudremukh National Park

  • Trek to Kudremukh peak (22 km round trip)
  • Wildlife safari in Bhagavathi nature camp
  • Stay at the forest guesthouse
  • Photograph endemic Malabar trogons
  • Visit the Hanumangundi Falls en route

Travel tips for Kudremukh National Park

  • Permits are limited to 50 trekkers/day — book ahead
  • Treks must start by 7 AM and end by 5 PM
  • Carry 3 L water per person — no refill points
  • Plastic is banned inside the park
  • Hire a local guide (mandatory) at Mullodi
  • Leeches are common in monsoon — carry salt

Kudremukh National Park — frequently asked questions

Permits are issued at the Mullodi forest check-post on a first-come basis. Capacity is capped at 50 trekkers per day. Arrive by 6:30 AM.

Plan a guided trip to Kudremukh National Park

Speak to our local Chikmagalur travel team for transport, permits and combined-day itineraries.

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Sources: Karnataka Tourism • Wikipedia