Trekking in Shimoga

1. Kodachadri Trek: One of the best treks near Shimoga is the Kodachadri Trek, which also ranks as one of the most beautiful treks in the region. A trek to the summit of this mountain will offer you some of the most serene views of the entire region of Malnad, including its verdant rainforests. Amongst the most popular places for trekking in Shimoga, you can also witness numerous popular attractions of Malnad on this trekking trail. Some of these attractions include the Ganesha Guha, the famous Hidlumane Falls, Nagara Fort, the Arasinagundi Falls, Sarvajna Peetha and more.

One of the major highlights of the Kodachadri Trek in Shimoga is that you can even witness the fog-covered peaks as you explore the varied mountainous terrains here. Often quite unheard of, this trek in the Western Ghats also takes you through the dense forests, and gives you a chance to catch sights of a wide array of wildlife, which also makes it one of the popular treks near Shimoga amongst wildlife enthusiasts. Some of these include the Malabar Giant Squirrel, the Malabar Langur, the Emerald Pigeon, Bison, Tiger, Python, King Cobra and more.
The Kodachadri Trek will take you all the way to the summit of the mountain, which is located at an altitude of around 1343 metres above the sea level. It also takes around 8 to 10 hours to complete, and should be done around the months of October to February.

Distance from Shimoga: 78 kilometres 
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
Trek Length: 20 to 22 kilometres

2. Kemmanagundi Trek: Ranked amongst the most offbeat treks in Shimoga, the Kemmanagundi Trek, located in the Chikmagalur district in Karnataka, is the perfect trail for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and wildlife explorers. Located in close proximity to the Baba Budan Giri Ranges, one of the major highlights of the Kemmanagundi Trek is the scintillating scenic views that it offers. Often referred to as the “Ooty of Karnataka,” this trek also offers some of the most beautiful views of the green valleys and meadows, quaint rivulets and streams, coffee plantations, waterfalls as well as the surrounding mountains.

One of the most serene treks near Shimoga, undertaking the Kemmanagundi Trek is also a great way to experience the tranquillity and beauty of this beautiful area, while also getting a chance to connect with nature as they ascend to the top. With multiple starting points, located at different altitudes of the hill, the trek also boasts of sights of the rich flora and fauna of the region, as well as famous waterfalls like the Shanti Waterfalls and the Till Shanti Falls, among others.

The Kemmanagundi Trek begins around 55 kilometres to the north of Chikmagalur, and takes trekkers to the top of the single and secluded peak of Kemmanagundi, or the KR Hills. The summit is located at an altitude of 1434 metres above the sea level, and takes between 7 to 9 hours to complete. You should also try to do this famous trek between the months of September and April. 

Distance from Shimoga: 72 kilometres 
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Trek Length: 5 kilometres

The best time to go trekking in Shimoga is during the winter season in the region, between the months of October and March. This is when the temperatures here range between 22 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius, with cool, pleasant days and colder nights. It is also during these months that you can catch sights of the mountains and jungles covered in fogs and slight mists, in addition to experiencing the peace and serenity of the mountain terrains during your trek.

The Kodachadri Trek is one of the most offbeat yet popular treks in Shimoga, and is considered to be a moderate to difficult trek. While it is a little tough, it is not the most difficult trek in Shimoga, especially since people with a medium level of fitness can also accomplish it without any issues.

1. Jog Falls: One of the best places to see in Shimoga is the Jog Falls, which is also known as the second highest and the tallest non-tiered waterfall in the entire country. Tucked at the border of Uttar Kannada and Shimoga, the Jog Falls is also commonly known as the Jogada Gundi or Gerusoppa Waterfall, and is surrounded by lush forests. Flowing down the rocky cliffs from a height of over 250 metres above the sea level, the Jog Falls is formed by the serene Sharavathi River, and is then divided into four different parts, known as Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roarer.

2. Kundadri: Another one of the most popular places to visit in Shimoga is Kundadri, a famous view point, located at around 3200 feet from the sea level. The Kundadri view point offers some of the most spectacular views of the impressive valley down below, in addition to the verdant rainforests and mountains surrounding the region. It is also a great place to enjoy activities like trekking, and indulging in picnics with your near and dear ones, and is perfect for people of all ages and interests. You can also hike all the way to an ancient Jain temple located at the hilltop, a few kilometres above the Kundadri View Point.

3. Agumbe: When visiting Shimoga, one place that you must definitely pay a visit to, is the small and tranquil village of Agumbe. Tucked amidst dense green forests and rolling hills, this quaint hamlet is particularly known for offering some of the most beautiful sunset views in the region. It is also home to other popular sightseeing attractions, such as the Barkana Waterfalls and the Gopalakrishna Temple. A great place to visit if you are seeking respite away from the tourist crowds, Agumbe is also a hiking and trekking hotspot. It is also often referred to as the “Cherrapunji of the South,” and is said to receive the heaviest rainfall in the entire region.

4. Ikkeri: Ranked as one of the most famous temple towns, located in close proximity to Shimoga, is the town of Ikkeri. Known as the home of the popular Aghoreshwara Temple, this town also boasts of a peaceful and serene ambience, a divine and spiritual vibe and overall beauty. Surrounded by hills and verdant valleys, Ikkeri is also a photographer’s paradise, as you can indulge in various types of photography here, from nature and wildlife, to capturing views of the sunrise and sunset, as well as the intricate temple architecture.

5. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary: A haven for bird lovers, the Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is another one of the best places to visit in Shimoga. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region, located right along the serene Gudavi Lake. Home to more than 48 different species of birds, the Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is one place where you can catch sights of birds like the Black Headed Crane, the Little Grebe, Jungle Fowl, Bittern, Indian Shag, the Jungle Fowl and more. This place is also one of the most visited bird sanctuaries in all of Karnataka, and is famous for its unique birdwatching tours.