A Winter trek to kumara parvatha – karnataka’s toughest trek
Introduction
Kumara Parvatha is not just a trek, it is one of the journeys of life you must undertake to truly become one with nature and yourself. Located in the Kodagu/Coorg district at an altitude of 5600 feet, it is the second highest mountain in the state after Tadiyandamol.
Kumara Parvatha, also known as Pushpagiri, is perhaps the most challenging trek in the country. At 1,712 meters, this mountain is not only the highest peak in the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, but is also considered the fourth highest in Karnataka.
The peak is on the border of Dakshinakannada and Kodagu districts and the peak is just behind the very famous and revered Kukke Subramanya Temple.
Peaks –
The path has two peaks. The smaller one is called Shesh Parvasa and the taller one is called Kumara Parvasa and stands at an altitude of 5,600 feet. Local communities also believe that Shesh Parvasa is the guardian of the Kukke Temple at its base.
Kumara Parvatha is the second highest mountain in Kodagu district after Tadiandamol and in Karnataka it is the fourth highest mountain.
At just over 1,700 meters (about 5,600 feet) above sea level, Kumara Parvatha is Karnataka’s most difficult trek.
The Kumara Parvatha Trek covers a distance of 22 kilometers and usually takes two days.
The Kumara-Parvatha trek is most loved by trekkers for its diversity, from dense forests to vast meadows to waterfalls.
The Pleasure To Understand Climbing –
Upon reaching Bhattramane, freshen up and have an early lunch before heading to the next checkpoint, Karmantapa. You can take a break while drinking the delicious mountain stream water flowing just below.
Continuing the trek, Shesha Parvatha is just 45 minutes to 1 hour away. According to local lore, Sheshaparavata is said to guard the Subramanya temple at the foot of the mountain.
Kumara Parvatha – Day Overview
Day 1 –
Reach Homestay freshen up
Breakfast
Start going to Bhatru Mane ( by 7:30 AM approx )
En-route Packed Lunch
Reach Bhatru Mane around late noon
Enjoy the Sunset
Dinner at Bhatru Mane
Day 2 –
Wake up Early morning around 4:00 AM
Start the trek
Enroute stop by Kallu Mantapa
Summit the top
Start your descend by approx 8:00 AM
En-route Lunch at Bhatru mane
Unwrap your tents
Reach Base by 4:00-5:00 PM (approx)
Freshen up
Self-Sponsored Dinner
Leave to Bangalore & reach on Monday
Pushpagiri Trek –
Kumara Parvatha Trek, also referred to as Pushpagiri Trek spans about a total of 25-28 kms from the base and is usually completed over two days in leisure. The sparkling views from the top, the boulders, and the cool breeze and fog make all the effort worth it.
WHAT TO BRING –
- Xerox copy of Aadhar/Voter ID card (mandatory for permits)
- Carry plates for dinner and lunch at Bhatrumane (mandatory)
- Small to carry necessities Backpacking while trekking to Kumara Parvata Peak
- Energy Bars (essential)
- Glucose Packs (essential – everyone carries their own)
- Power Bank
- Warm Layers
- Water Bottles – 2 (1 liter each)
- Lunch box and spoon to carry lunch
- Raincoat/bag cover in case of rain
How to plan Kumara Parvatha –
Commercially organized trekking expeditions from various adventure sports companies in Karnataka can apply for Commercially sold packages usually include transportation from Bangalore or the nearest city, camping equipment, the services of a guide and assistance in obtaining the necessary permits.
If you are staying in a homestay/hotel in Kukke Subramanya/Chikmagalur/Kodagu, your host may be able to help you hire a local guide for the trek.
For safety reasons, it is not recommended to trek the Kumara Parvas Trek alone without professional assistance.
Main attractions during the Kumara Parvatha trek –
- Battala Mane
- Nityananda Sri Kailasa Temple
- Pushpagiri Peak
Forestry Department –
On the hill is a famous ancient temple called Kukke Subramanya. This temple is rich in history and is of great importance among the locals.
People from all over the country, especially South India, come to the temple to make wishes through offerings. Devotees almost always fill the temple grounds.
Just behind Kukke Subramanya Temple, Shesha Parvatha is nestled in the lush forests of the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
Kumara Parvatha or Pushpagiri is the name of the peak that is mostly hidden and visible only after crossing Shesha Parvatha, but the whole trail is popularly known as Kumara Parvatha Trek.
Kumara Parvatha is the second highest mountain in Kodagu district after Tadiandamol and the fourth highest mountain in Karnataka.
When I first saw Shesha Parvata at dawn, my heart pounded at the thought of the adventure I was about to experience.
At just over 1,700 meters (about 5,600 feet) above sea level, Kumara Parvatha is Karnataka’s most difficult trek.
Conclusion
The Kumara Parvatha trek covers a distance of 22 kilometers and usually takes two days.
The Kumara-Parvatha trek is most popular among trekkers for its diversity, from dense forests to vast meadows and waterfalls.
This temple is steeped in history and holds great significance to the locals
People from all over the country, especially South India, come to the temple to make wishes through offerings. Devotees almost always fill the temple grounds.
Just behind Kukke Subramanya Temple, Shesha Parvatha is nestled in the lush forests of the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
Kumara Parvatha or Pushpagiri is the name of the peak that is mostly hidden and visible only after crossing Shesha Parvatha, but the whole trail is popularly known as Kumara Parvatha Trek.
Kumara Parvatha is the second highest mountain after Tadiandamol in Kodagu district and it is the fourth highest mountain in Karnataka.
At just over 1,700 meters (about 5,600 feet) above sea level, Kumara Parvatha is Karnataka’s most difficult trek.
The Kumara Parvatha trek covers a distance of 22 kilometers and usually takes two days.
The Kumara-Parvatha trek is most popular among trekkers for its diversity, from dense forests to vast meadows and waterfalls.
