Lying at the crossroads of Chikmagalur, Udupi, and Dakshina Kannada districts, Netravathi Trek is just another name for adventure, sanctity, and bliss. If you’re planning to hike through the Netravati peak, here’s a brief guide to help you navigate easily through your journey. Keep reading to learn more.

Mythical History Behind Netravati Trek 

As per the locals, the Netravati Trek was first discovered by Sages residing in Dharmasthala, who once came to collect the holy water. 

In another story, it’s believed that the almighty in his third of the tenth incarnation as Varaha protected Mother Earth sank into the deep bottoms of the ocean. Relieved from the state of despair, Mother Earth, out of pure bliss, shed tears which led to the formation and birth of the Netravati river. 

Base Camp for Netravati Stay

You can set your base camp in either Samse, Belthangady, or Dharmasthala. 

Samse: Samse is 14km from the base of the Netravati trek which is the shortest distance you’d need to cover to reach the destination. However, what’s important to note here is that no buses are available for the trek base. Hence, you’ll either need to hire a tempo, request a lift, or get your own vehicle to reach the location.  

Belthangady: Belthangady makes for yet another ideal basepoint for the trek. It is located at a distance of 30 km from the trek base.

Dharmasthala: Dharmasthala is a famous Hindu pilgrimage located around 25 km from the Netravati trek base. Here, you can find several homestays and resorts to make up for a comfortable stay. 

As you move towards the Netravati basepoint from Samse, you’ll come across multiple homestays, resorts, coffee, areca, and chili plantations. 

Permits and Local Guides 

In the earlier days, the Netravati peak trek was free for trekkers. But now, considering its growing popularity, the Forest Department has imposed a fee of INR 500 / person. The amount is collected right at the beginning of the trek. 

A local guide is a must for every group of 12 people. Hiring one guide would cost you anywhere around INR 1000. The amount is quite reasonable as the local guides work really hard and will help you a lot during your trek. 

Through the Netravati Trek Trail

All in all, you’ll need to cross three sections during the trek trail :

#1: From the base to the two-tiered waterfall and dense forests

You’ll start your journey from the Kudremukh National Park which serves as the base point of the trek. Initially, you’ll have to go through a steep elevation with bumpy rocks but the path soon flattens off after you cross a mile or so. Hereafter, you’ll find a beautiful 2-tiered waterfall and drive through the thick forest section that further opens up to widely spread grasslands on the left. You can take your time to rest and relax here for a while. 

#2: From Netravati River to Grasslands 

As you move further, you’ll be able to hear the sound of gushing water flowing through the stream, well this is the sound of the Netravati river. This is a very soothing experience altogether. 

Well, this is the best part of the trek. At each step, you’re greeted with surprises switching different terrains, huge waterfalls, and majestic mountain views to keep you all entertained and refreshed throughout the trail. 

Crossing this section, you’d have covered around 4 km of the distance to the peak. Hereon, you’ll have a steep climb through the grasslands. 

#3: From false peaks and steep sections to the top of the peak

At this point, you’ll see a peak, but that’s not the peak we’re aiming for, this is just a false peak. The mountains will turn all playful to trick your mind. As you cross one peak, two more will open up for you to foray. But know that these are just mountains to cross on your way, so keep climbing the ridge forward and you’ll soon witness the moment you were waiting for. Upon reaching the peak, you can experience a panoramic sight of clouds rising and falling with precipitation. This feels no less than a heaven on earth. 

Herein, you can stop for a short lunch break before retracing back to the base point. Descending back will take you much less time than before, say only around 1.5 hours or so. 

The Best Time to Go for Netravati Trek 

The best time to go for the Netravati trek is during the post-monsoon season i.e., from August to October. During this time, the place enjoys a beautiful blend of spring energy and greenery all around. The weather also remains quite favorable for joining on a trek. 

Things to Carry on Your Trek

Here’s a list of must-carry items for your trek:

• Water (2 liters)
• Lunch box
• Identity Proof
• Raincoat (in the monsoon season)
• Cash
• Sanitizers
• Face masks
• A comfortable pair of shoes 
• First aid kit
• Extra pair of clothes

Also Read : Yelbong Canyon Cave Trekking: An Unforgettable Adventure

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

Q. Is the Netravati trek difficult?

A. Not actually. However, make sure you’re physically fit and are not dealing with any medical condition before heading for a venture.

Q. How long is the Netravati trek?

A. The Netravati trek is approximately a 12km long trail. It takes around 4.5-5 hours to complete the trek. 

Q. What is the fee for the Netravati Peak trek?

A. A fee of INR 500 is charged for the Netravati Peak trek. 

Q. Does Netravati Trek have leeches?

A. Yes, especially if you visit during the monsoon season you’ll often find these slimy creatures sticking to you, sucking blood. In case you find one stuck to your shoes, cloth, or skin, jerk it off using your thumb and index finger until it falls off. 

Q. What is the altitude of the Netravati peak?

A.  The Netravati Peak is heightened at an elevation of 1,520 meters from the ground level.

Q. How to plan the Netravati peak trek from Bangalore?

A. From Bangalore, you can take an overnight bus to Kalasa which lies at a distance of 310 km from the city. Samse, one of the nearest base points to Netravati Peak is just 10 Km from Kalasa. 

Q. Are there any washrooms available on the trail?

A. No, you won’t find any washrooms available on the trail. 

About The Author