The Himalayas have the scale, the grandeur, the snow. But the Western Ghats… they have a soul. A deep, green, breathing soul that comes alive in the monsoon mists. And nowhere have I felt this more intensely than on the trail to Gangadikal Peak.
For years, I’d heard whispers of this trek in the circles of Bangalore’s weekend adventurers. While everyone was flocking to the more famous trails in the Kudremukh National Park, Gangadikal Trek remained a local secret, a trail reserved for those willing to venture a little further off the beaten path. It was said to offer all the beauty of its famous neighbours—the rolling Shola grasslands, the panoramic views—but with none of the crowds.
Last September, I finally decided to see for myself. I packed my bags, my rain gear, and a healthy dose of curiosity. What I found was a trek that didn’t just meet my expectations but completely redefined what a weekend adventure could be. This isn’t just a guide; it’s the story of that journey, packed with every tip and trick I learned along the way.
About the Author:Hi, I’m V. As a travel blogger who has spent over a decade on trails across India, from the high passes of Ladakh to the coastal forests of Goa, I have a special love for the raw beauty of the Western Ghats. After hearing rave reviews from local guides, I explored the Gangadikal trek to create this definitive, first-hand guide for fellow adventurers.
Gangadikal Trek: Quick Facts At-a-Glance
| Attribute | Details |
| Trek Distance | Approx. 10-12 km (round trip) |
| Maximum Altitude | ~4,757 feet (1,450 meters) |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate (Requires good stamina) |
| Start/End Point | Mullodi Village, Chikmagalur, Karnataka |
| Ideal Duration | 1 Day Trek (Best done as a weekend trip from Bangalore/Mangalore) |
| Best Season | Post-Monsoon (September to February) |
| Permits Required | Yes, a forest permit is mandatory. |
Why Choose Gangadikal Over Other Chikmagalur Treks?
In a district blessed with trekking giants like Kudremukh and Mullayanagiri, why should you opt for the lesser-known Gangadikal? Three reasons: Solitude, Scenery, and Soul.
- The Bliss of Solitude: This is Gangadikal’s biggest USP. On the day I trekked, I crossed paths with just one other small group. You get the feeling that the mountain is yours alone. The trail isn’t a highway; it’s a private conversation between you and the wilderness.
- Unfiltered 360-Degree Views: The summit of Gangadikal is a grassy plateau that offers one of the most staggering panoramas in the region. You get a clear, uninterrupted view of the entire Kudremukh range, including the famous ‘horse-face’ peak itself, along with views of the Lakya Dam and the deep, rolling valleys.
- The Quintessential Western Ghats Experience: The trail is a perfect cross-section of this ecosystem. You’ll move through dense, dark Shola forests with streams gurgling through them, then suddenly emerge onto vast, windswept grasslands that climb towards the sky. It’s a journey of beautiful contrasts.
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The Journey, Day by Day: A Realistic Weekend Itinerary
Gangadikal is a perfect day trek, but the logistics of getting there mean you should plan it as a weekend trip. Here’s the blueprint I followed from Bangalore.
Day 0: The Overnight Journey to the Base
The adventure starts with an overnight journey. Board a bus from Bangalore to Kalasa, a small temple town in the heart of Chikmagalur. The journey is long (about 7-8 hours), so I recommend a comfortable sleeper bus. You’ll arrive in Kalasa in the early hours of the morning.
Day 1: The Epic Jeep Ride and the Trek to the Summit
- Trek Distance: Approx. 10-12 km
- Time Taken: 6-7 hours (including breaks)
From Kalasa, the real fun begins. You need to hire a 4×4 Jeep to get to Mullodi village, the trek’s starting point. This is not an optional luxury; the ‘road’ is a bone-rattling, muddy track that only these rugged vehicles can conquer. The 45-minute ride itself is an adventure, taking you deep into the coffee estates and forests.
After a quick breakfast at a local homestay in Mullodi (where your guide will also arrange the forest permit), the trek begins.
The trail starts gently, winding through the village before entering the forest. The first section is a steep, continuous climb inside the cool shade of the Shola forest. This part tests your stamina right away.
After about an hour, you emerge onto the grasslands, and the world opens up. From here, the trail is a series of ascents up rolling hills, each one revealing a more spectacular view than the last. The path is well-defined but can be slippery, especially after the rains.
The final push to the summit is a steep but short climb. And the reward is instantaneous. The feeling of standing on that windy plateau, with the entire green carpet of the Western Ghats unfurled beneath you, is pure magic. We spent a good hour at the top, eating our packed lunch and just soaking in the immense silence.
The descent follows the same path. It’s faster but can be tricky on the knees. Trekking poles are highly recommended here. Once back in Mullodi, the jeep ride back to Kalasa feels like a welcome massage after the day’s hard work. From Kalasa, you can board an overnight bus back to Bangalore.
Day 2: Buffer Day / Explore Kalasa
You’ll arrive back in Bangalore early in the morning. I always suggest keeping this day as a buffer or for relaxing before heading back to work.
An Honest Look at the Gangadikal Trek Difficulty
I would classify Gangadikal as a solidly moderate trek. Don’t let the lower altitude fool you; this trail demands respect and a good level of fitness.
- The Challenge: The difficulty comes from the steep and relentless incline, especially in the first forest section. There are very few flat patches. It’s a continuous workout for your legs and lungs.
- Who is it for? It’s perfect for anyone with a decent fitness level, including enthusiastic beginners who are up for a challenge. If you regularly jog, cycle, or play a sport, you’ll manage it well.
- Who should avoid it? If you lead a completely sedentary lifestyle, I would recommend starting with an easier trek before attempting Gangadikal.
My Essential Packing List: Western Ghats Edition
Packing for the Ghats is very different from packing for the Himalayas. Here’s what you absolutely need:
Clothing & Footwear:
- Quick-Dry T-shirt (1): You will sweat a lot. Cotton is a bad idea.
- Trekking Pants (1): A lightweight, comfortable pair. Avoid shorts due to insects and sharp grass.
- Rain Jacket / Poncho (1): Absolutely non-negotiable, even if it doesn’t look like it’s going to rain.
- Trekking Shoes: The most important item. They MUST have an excellent grip for slippery, muddy sections.
- Leech Socks: Yes, you read that right. During and just after the monsoon, leeches are common. These specialized socks are a lifesaver and a mental comfort. You can also carry a small pouch of salt or a sanitizer spray.
Gear & Essentials:
- Small Daypack (20-30 litres): Just big enough for your essentials.
- Water Bottles / Hydration Pack (2 litres): There are streams on the way, but it’s always safer to carry your own water.
- Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for saving your knees on the descent.
- Packed Lunch & Snacks: High-energy snacks like trail mix, dates, and energy bars are perfect.
- First-Aid Kit: With antiseptic, band-aids, pain relief spray, and any personal medication.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen and a cap.
- Waterproof Covers: For your phone, wallet, and backpack.
Blogger’s Tip: Don’t wear expensive shoes or clothes. They will get muddy. Embrace the dirt; it’s part of the Western Ghats experience!
Logistics, Permits, and Everything in Between
- Getting the Forest Permit: This is crucial. You cannot legally do this trek without a permit from the Forest Department. The best way to handle this is to hire a local guide from Mullodi village. They will arrange the permit as part of their service. Most homestays can connect you with a reliable guide.
- Hiring a Guide: I strongly recommend it. The trail has some confusing forks, and a local guide not only ensures you stay on track but also enriches the experience with local knowledge.
- Accommodation: The best option is to stay at one of the simple, rustic homestays in Mullodi village. This allows you to start the trek early and experience authentic local life.
Frequently Asked Questions (Answered from Experience)
- Are there really leeches? How do I deal with them?
Yes, from June to October, leeches are a part of the experience. They are harmless. Wear leech socks, apply Dettol/salt water to your shoes, and just keep walking. Don’t panic and try to pull them off forcefully. A sprinkle of salt makes them fall off instantly. - Can I do this trek solo?
I wouldn’t recommend it. For safety, it’s always better to trek in a group of at least 2-3 people, preferably with a local guide. - Is there mobile network connectivity?
You might get a weak signal for Airtel or Jio at the summit, but for most of the trail and in Mullodi village, your phone will have no network. Inform your family beforehand.
Final Thoughts: The Reward of the Unseen Trail
Gangadikal is a trek that rewards you in quiet ways. It’s not about ticking a box or posting a famous landmark on Instagram. It’s about the joy of discovery, the peace of a trail less travelled, and the breathtaking beauty of a landscape that feels wild and untouched. It reminds you that sometimes, the greatest adventures lie just beyond the edge of the map.
