These below tracks were once a favorite trekking paths for people who wanted extreme trekking. Now a days these treks have become extremely difficult because of the forest animals and strict regulations of forest departments.
These tracks have lost its glory because of these reasons
There is no proper support from tourism department.
Lack of interest and communication between officers of Forest Department and Tourism Department.
No allocation of infrastructure for the development of tourism in Malnad regions.
No guidance and training given to younger generations.
Deforestation leading to weather changes and ecotourism is a dream.
These days tourists need smaller treks just for weekend getaway.
The above points are solely my thoughts and below trekking information is what it was done before.
Ombattu Gudda Trekking
This trekking spot lies in the border of Hassan and Chikmagalur. It is a hill range in the Shiradi Ghats. Ombattu means nine and Gudda means Hill in Kannada, is said to be one of the mysterious and challenging treks of Western Ghats. Situated 971 meters above sea level in Kabbinahalli Reserve Forest range, Ombattu Gudda is easily accessible from Hosakere in Mudigere Taluk and Gundya in Shiradi Ghats. The usual starting point for this trek is in Gundya check post (NH48 / Mangaluru / Mangalore highway). From there head towards a waterfalls and climb up Ombattu Gudda and get down at Hosakere completing your trek. During monsoons this trekking spot can get too risky as one has to cross many streams and rivers on the way.
Bisle Ghat Trekking
As a trekker one must be ready to face any challenge which comes on the way. Bisle Ghat, an adventurous trekking spot between Kukke Subrahmanya and Sakleshpur is a part of the Western Ghats which is located in the border of Hassan district and Dakshin Kannada district. This spot will throw you a mesmerizing view of the three mountain ranges – Jenukallu Betta (Hassan district), Doddabetta and Pushpagiri (Kodagu district) and Kumaraparvatha (Dakshina Kannada district) while on the other hand it will let you experience the most thrilling trek ever. This 24 km stretch passes through a reserve forest where you can see and enjoy many waterfalls especially during the rainy season. Apart from the wide variety of flora and fauna, this thick forest is home to many wild animals like king cobras, tigers, sambar deer, peacocks, numerous species of birds, spotted deer, brown fox and elephants too.
Murkannu Gudda and Hadlu Waterfalls Trek
If you are a trek freak then this place is surely going to make you excited. Located almost 3500 ft above sea level from the campground, Murkan Gudda is just next to a stream and a lake. This stream is a recurrent which keeps flowing throughout the year. During the trek you will find waterfalls, forest, plantations and beautiful lake amidst the valleys. Take the route onto Uddenamaradavaare and continue your trek through Saalu Gudda and Kallu Gudda. Here you will get a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and the mesmerizing Kaadumane tea estate. On the way the view of Amedhikallu, Jenukallu Gudda and Ettina Bhuja, which resembles the hump of an ox are a sheer view to the eyes. This famous 8 kms guided trek takes around 5 hours which also picturize the rich biodiversity of Sakleshpur.
Note: We don’t conduct these treks for the reason: forest permissions and risk of forest animals. But yes we do conduct short treks.
It’s the end of rainy season! The season of Guava, beaches and other outings. But most of all, this is the ideal period for undertaking any trekking expedition, primarily because the weather can be relied upon. If done right, there cannot be anything more exhilarating and rejuvenating than a trek, but just like most other physical activities, trekking follows the harsh ‘break a rule, break a bone’ principle. To ensure that the trek is fun and successful one, here are a few rules you need to follow while on trek.
Follow the Guide or Team Leader
The guide or the team leader is someone who should have a decent knowledge about the terrain and the natural cycle of the terrain in addition to having good leadership qualities. He dictates the overall trek route and schedule of activities, but it is his responsibility to make sure the other climbers are safe till the point where the trek ends. More importantly, it is the climbers who should follow his instructions carefully in order to have a safe trek.
Briefing of Climbers
Before and after every climb, the trekkers need to be briefed about the next schedule of activities, the routes to be followed, the possible dangers on the route etc. These need to be paid attention to; negligence can cause serious personal and team health hazards. Remember, you are part of a team, and everyone is responsible for themselves as well as other’s safety.
Luggage Packing and Handling
On every trek, there is a maximum limit to the amount of luggage that can be carried by each participant, so make sure you do not pack any useless stuff. By useless stuff, yes, we mean that extra 500 page novel you were thinking of packing for ‘light reading’.
Food and Other Resources
Mountain food is often makeshift yet highly nutritious, something that suits the situation perfectly. Often this comes at expensive of taste, but again, trekking is not for the fussy; you have to adapt.
Personal Insurance
The climbers have to fill out a form before every trek, mentioning his/her details like passport number, family members, important contact numbers, etc. In addition, the climber should also carry all these details on person during the trek. Sometimes, you are required to carry your insurance details on the trek.
Altitude Sickness
During the briefing, the climber is informed about the altitudes and possible altitude sickness, and what actions to take in case they suffer from the same. A general mountaineering rule states that you should not climb more than 300 meters in one day, and for every 1000 meter you climb, there should be a rest day.
Climbers are often advised to have a fluid intake of 4-5 litre a day, to walk at a low to medium pace and to take plenty of rest while on the trek.
Medications
If the climber has any health problem which needs timely medication but will not hamper the trek, he/she should carry the proper medicines.
For altitude sickness, Diamox is recommended.
For pain relief, mild analgesics like aspirin or paracetamol are acceptable. Strong pain killers are to be avoided as they affect breathing.
Environmental Awareness
Under no circumstances are the climbers to leave or take anything from the natural habitat other than an experience. The environment boards have strict rules regarding the camping traces, and the last thing you want is an enquiry from the government which generally means “Sayonara, future treks!”
Photography
Photography is allowed on treks, but the climber should take care of his/her own camera and other equipment.
Personal Equipment
Every climber is supposed to carry their own personal equipment, like toiletries, extra film and batteries for the camera, pocket knife, etc.
The Most Important Rule
HAVE FUN! Trekking is all about the excitement and thrill, and there’s no point in the trek if you can’t have your share of good, clean fun.
These are the fundamentals of trekking, rules that should be followed to ensure everyone has a good, safe trek.
Cycling, running, scuba diving, travel – New Age dads are bonding with their kids through adventure and a spirit of sportsmanship
Did your outdoor pursuits end after the kids arrived? By eliminating activity from your life after fatherhood, you are actually removing the factor most likely to spur you children to grow into healthy adults: you as an example or role model. A study by a non-profit organization found that 75 per cent of kids aged 6 to 12 years, who participate in adventure sports are simply copying their parents. This means your first act as a dad is to walk out of the front door!
No, not the way you think. We are talking adventure. Outdoors. Travel. Life lessons. “Our culture of convenience has come with a hefty price. Children are moving less, spending most of their sitting or lying down, giving raise to multiple mental, physical and social problems,” says clinical psychologist Dr Seema Hongorrany. That’s where some dads are coming handy.
Building Memories
When fathers spend a good amount of time doing a fun activity with their kids, they are able to draw common memories and experiences, pass a lifetime of learning they possess and set an example by being an active role model.
The trick is to get your child to balance academics with outdoor activities. Time spent outdoors help children reboot before getting back to the usual home-to-school routine. It encourages creativity and willingness to do well.
A recent study titled, Influence of parents’ Physical Activity Levels on Activity Levels of Young Children, found that children of active and energetic fathers are 3.5 times more active than children of inactive fathers.
Passing Essential Life Skills
Outdoor activities have much more to teach a child about what it means to live a wholesome life. According to family education study, the most influential factor in a child’s emotional health is how involved the father was in the child’s care when he was young. Children who have involved fathers are more likely to be emotionally secure, confident about exploring their physical surroundings, and have better social connections. “When a child is around a father who loves being outdoors, the child is likely to be a lot more empathetic. Moreover, it improves their resilience and helps them develop grit, tenacity, perseverance, fairness, integrity and responsibility. It rewires the brain for learning, helps build social intelligence and above all, introduces respect for limits and boundaries. Thus, activity is a matchless opportunity to connect with your children and teach them valuable life skills,” adds Hingorrany.
In a digital age, taking children outdoors and letting them learn from nature and their surroundings is not a choice but a necessity. That apart, nature outings and adventure let children become aware of nature and its beauty from an early age. Says Shah, “When the child is walking amid beautiful flora and fauna, they value the beauty of nature a lot more. Nature lets children deal with their fears in a healthy way.
Sakleshpur ( kannada: ಸಕಲೇಶಪುರ) is a hill station town and headquarters of Sakleshpur Taluk in Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is referred to as ‘poor man’s Ooty’.
Sakleshpur or Sakleshpura is a hill station town in Hassan District of the South Indian state of Karnataka. It is a beautiful town located in Western Ghats on Bangalore‑Mangalore Highway. Sakleshpur is located on the border of Malnad and Bayaluseemae in Hassan district. It receives heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon and because of the temperate climate; this place is blessed with huge amount of coffee, tea, cardamom, and pepper plantations. It is located at an average elevation of 949 metres (3,113 feet). Since it has temperate climate on the Western Ghats, it is suited for growing Cash crops. Coffee growers from the neighbouring villages throng to sell coffee at Sakleshpur. Sakleshpur is located in the Western Ghats, a mountain range that stretches from Kerala to Gujarat. The southern range, which includes Bisle reserve forest and the region around Sakleshpur is listed as one of the 18 most diverse spots in the world in terms of flora and fauna. If you are planning a holiday in Sakleshpur, you will be glad to know that there are many home stays, resorts, camping and trekking groups that provide good accommodation and trekking facility.
The town lies in the Malnad region on the magnificent hills of the biodiversity hotspot, the Western Ghats. It has a temperate climate surrounded with lofty green hills full of coffee, cardamom, pepper and areca plantations . These crops which contribute mainly to the economy of the Taluk are grown in the surrounding villages and entire taluk are brought to Sakleshpur city for sale. The town lies on National Highway 48 (NH-48) which connects port city of Mangaluru with capital city Bengaluru of Karnataka state. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport.
The town lies in the Malnad region on the magnificent hills of the biodiversity hotspot, the Western Ghats. It has a temperate climate surrounded with lofty green hills full of coffee, cardamom, pepper and areca plantations . These crops which contribute mainly to the economy of the Taluk are grown in the surrounding villages and entire taluk are brought to Sakleshpur city for sale. The town lies on National Highway 48 (NH-48) which connects port city of Mangaluru with capital city Bengaluru of Karnataka state. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport.
Distance from Bangalore: 222 kilometers
Sakleshpur has something for everyone. Trekking trails, coffee plantations, waterfalls, temples and wildlife all await you here. So, if you are in Bangalore and have a day or two to spare, hit the road to Sakleshpur.
Things to Do in Sakleshpur
1. Relaxing:There can be nothing more than relaxing amidst lush green environment. Visit the Sakleshpur green valleys and later relish a nice lunch at homestay. They have a great malnad cuisine on offer.
2. Coffee Camaraderie: A lot really can happen over a good brew. While in Sakleshpur, sample the region’s finest in flavour at tasting sessions acrosscoffee plantations in the region.
3. Trekking Trails: Sakleshpur has many breathtaking trails that you can take off on. Trek up to Jenkal / Diggal, which offers great views or make your way to North India, which is a little further away from Betta Bhairaveshwara Prasanna Temple.
4. Temple Tour: Visit Bhairaveshwara Prasanna Temples at Maragunda & Byrapura, a nearby hamlet known for its ancient temples. Here, the Bhairaveshwara Swamy temple is a must visit for its pristine divines and silence. Checkout other nearby temples near Sakleshpur.
5. Birding Best: With its expanse of green, Sakleshpur is home to many avian species. Remember to carry your binoculars to spot several varieties of birds chirping for your attention. A visit to the nearby deep jungle is a must for bird lovers.
6. Jeep Drive: If you get a chance to have a jeep drive, please opt for it. Many people do not get the opportunity to experience these off beat drives other than leaving in hilly regions. Sakleshpur hosts many off beat drive events for 4×4 vehicles. If you have one you could participate in these off beat jeep drives. Subscribe for events happening near Sakleshpur.
7. Nature: Try knowing local nature and culture of people in these Western Ghats regions. Be a good listener to local people talking, winds blowing, birds chirping and insects sounds. The Sakleshpur culture varies a bit compared to Coorg but the hospitality and food is same.
Places to Visit near Sakleshpur
Hassan
180
kms. From Bangalore in the district head quarters, Hassan. This quiet
and peaceful town is convenient base to visit Shravanabelagola, Belur
and Halebidu. Hassan offers a wide variety of accommodations. It is well
connected by road and rail to Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore.
1. Sharavanabelagola:
51 kms, South-East of Hassan, is one of the most important Jain Pilgrim
Center. Here is the 17 mtr. High monolith of Lord Bahubali, the world’s
tallest monolithic statue. Thousands of devotees congregate here to
perform the Mahamasthakabhisheka – a spectacular ceremony held once in
12 years when the 1000-year-old statue is anointed with milk, curds,
ghee, saffron and gold coins. The next Mahamasthakabhisheka will be held
in 2005 A.D.Shravanabelagola is 150 kms. From Bangalore.
2. Belur:
The quaint hamlet-38 kms. From Hassan is located on the banks of river
Yagachi. It was once the capital of the Hoysala Empire, total made
unforgettable for its exquisite temples. The Chennakeshava temple is one
of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. It took 103 years to
complete and the reason is evident. The facade of the temple is filled
with intricate sculptures and freezes with no portion left blank.
Elephants, episodes from the epics, sensuous dancers… they are all
there-awe inspiring in their intricate workmanship. Inside are hand
lathe turned filigreed pillars.
The Kappe Channigaraya temple and the smaller shrines are well worth a visit.
3. Halebidu:
is 27 kms. North-West of Hassan and 17 kms. East of Belur. The Temples
of Halebid – like those of Belur, bear mute testimony to the rich
cultural heritage of Karnataka. The Hoysaleshwara temple, dating back to
the 12th century is astounding for its wealth of sculptural details.
The walls of the temple are covers with an endless variety of Gods and
Godesses, animals, birds and dancing girls. Yet no two facets of the
temple are the same. The magnificent temple guarded by the Nandi bull
was never completed despite 86 years of labour.
4. The Jain
basadis near by are equally rich sculptural detail. Belur and Halebidu
are 222 and 216 kms. From Bangalore respectively.
Insider Tips
Sakleshpur has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. While on your weekend getaway, do not forget to pick up the finest coffee beans at local Coffee Works in Sakleshpur
Where to stay? Sakleshpur has good homestays for guests and is a comfortable accommodation option. You can visit our homestay in Sakleshpur
Budget: Rs. 2,000 per person for a weekend (inclusive of accommodation and food)
The wellness revolution seems to be getting bigger by the day among globetrotters. With resorts, holiday homes, boutique hotels and even airlines dedicating a major chunk of the itinerary to distressing, detoxing and other health-related activities, the wellness quotient is definitely a norm this year. What’s more? Some properties are also incorporating walking and hiking tours, with food and beverage menus being given a complete overhaul.
Travelling with Total Stanger’s
Sounds scary? But isn’t travelling all about meeting new people? Going on solo trips, on with one gets to explore untouched lands with a group of complete strangers, is becoming popular; particularly among backpackers and couch surfers. These travel junkies are often seen making trips to lesser-known places such as small towns and remote villages. In fact, going small is translating into big trend, as it is low-budget and a convenient way to beat the rush.
Bisle is the rain forest of Western Ghats of Karnataka. The reserve forest spreads over 3,135 hectares of lowland evergreen forest, to the east is the Bisle Village. Kempuhole forest reserve adjoins in the North. The sub-tropical climate and heavy rains during the wet season create an environment where several unique plant and animal species flourish. Also within driving distance, the Bisle Ghat is an extremely picturesque destination. The Bisle Gudda or Sunny Mountain here is a popular picnic spot, while the Bisle Betta or Bisle View Point offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The ghat borders the Bisle Reserve Forest, one of the country’s most magnificent rain forests. Its diverse habitat is home to an amazing selection of flora and fauna, making it a must-see for nature lovers. The Bisle Reserve Forest is also a great place for trekking, as well as for bird watching. The forest authorities have constructed several observation points which provide vantage positions to see the reserve’s varied bird life, or to simply sit back and enjoy the panoramic view.
Activities and things to do: KUMARA PARVATHA:
Places around Kukke Subrahmanya is a trekkers delight. Kumara Parvatha hills stand 4000 feet above sea level, is one of the difficult trekking route in Karnataka. A 30 km upstrech trek into the deep forest from Kukke Subramanya town takes you to the top of the hill. It will take at least two days for a beginner to complete this trekking route.
Sakleshpur is famous for the trekking opportunities it offers. One of the most traversed routes here is the Railway Track Trek, which, as the name suggests, is an unused railway track stretching from Sakleshpur to Kukke Subrahmanya, running along the Western Ghats. Featuring 109 bridges and 25 gushing waterfalls, it is an experience worth exploring.
Jenkal Betta is a mountain lying in Sakleshpur of Karnataka. Jenkal Betta is the tallest among the other hills in the same range. The mountain is clearly visible from the Shiradi Ghat road which connects Bangalore and Mangalore. The villagers living nearby Jenkal Betta considers the peak as a holy place and conducts rituals during the post monsoon time. The hill range is a trekkers paradise. It is dangerous to climb the mountain during monsoon. There is a nearby hill called Diggallu or Dipadakallu which is clubbed with Jenkal Betta for trekking. Many famous peaks like Ettina Bhuja, Kumaraparvata, Sheshaparvata etc. are visible from the hill top during clear days. During the lush post monsoon months the hill top will be misty with very low visibility.
Route
If you are looking for a destination where you will get to indulge in extreme activities such as trekking, this should be your destination. Jenukal Gudda, can be reached through Hodachalli village offers you a vantage point of view to the coast of the Arabian Sea in Mangalore. The area is covered with one side coffee estates and other side with thick jungles which makes it perfect for trekking. One more long trekking can be done from Mekanagadde via Pandavar Gudda.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit Jenkal Betta is after the rainy season, typically between September and January. Usually better to start early in the morning to avoid late return.
Food and Accomodation
Mekanagadde Homestay can arrange for trekking to Jenkal Gudda with packed foods for lunch along with a guide. This can be clubbed with normal package of Mekanagadde Homestay. Only guide charges will be extra.
Things to take care
Start Early Morning
Keep sufficient food and water
Get equipped with fully charged mobile, torch and good trekking shoes.
Always have a local guide with your group
Minimum group size ideally be 8 members
Since its forest area there will be wild animals
NOTE: The trek is banned and not allowed to trek by Forest Department. If found illigal entry then hefty fine will be charged.
Take on a challenge by trekking in the wilds of the Western Ghats.
Preserve the pristine beauty: A waterfall in full spate in the Western Ghats
Sakleshpur
For the adventurous who are eager to discover the beauty of the Western Ghats, the southern Malnad region of Hassan district is the best place to explore. The wilds of the ghat really pose a challenge to the trekking buffs. The southern Malnad is a forest clad hilly region with heavy rainfall. On the western periphery are the picturesque ghats extending from the pass at Bisle Ghat to the Jenkal Betta, with lofty peaks. According to Major Montgomery, who was enchanted with the beauty of the Western Ghats, “the character of the country is generally undulating till on approaching the ghats, when it becomes precipitous. Perhaps there is no scenery in India more beautiful than the southern part of this tract, adjoining the northwest Coorg. It resembles for the most part the richest park scenery in England: hills covered with the finest grass or equally verdant crops of dry grain adorned and crowned with clumps of noble forest trees in some instances apparently planted most carefully and certainly with perfect taste.” This description of the Western Ghats by him, by and large, holds good even today.
On the tracks
The trek on the railway track stretching 58.6 k.m. from Sakleshpur to Subramanya road, which was shut down for gauge conversion some years ago, is a lifetime experience for the trekkers. Considered to be one of the most beautiful trekking routes, this track has 58 tunnels, some of which are as long as 300 meters and 109 bridges.
One can witness about 25 waterfalls before reaching Subramanya. Trekkers should keep in mind that it is difficult to walk on the bridges as in some places the planks have been broken and the surface is slippery. They should also be careful as the area is infested with leeches. A deserted Yedakumeri railway station suggests the trekkers have reached their destination.
The Railways are working hard to complete the gauge conversion between Sakleshpur and Subramanya. On completion it will be very difficult to trek in this stretch. However people can enjoy the beauty of the Western Ghats by travelling in the Hassan-Mangalore train.
Save it
The tropical forests of this region are home to rare species and are classified one of the 18 biodiversity hotspots in the world. The ecosystem of the Western Ghats has been facing danger in the last few decades because of large-scale encroachment, logging and permission and incentives given to forest based industries and development activities like hydel dams.
During a recent trek in the area, locals alleged that the promoters of Kempu Hole hydel project had cut more than 500 trees and not 50 trees as promised.
They are also opposing Gundia High Head Scheme (GHHS), a 300 MW power project proposed by the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited. The people regret that the quantity of rainfall has reduced due to denudation of forests over the years. Incessant rainfall which they were experiencing in the past, is a thing of past.
The villagers of Hongadahalla in Sakleshpur decided to reduce the pressure on the forest cover in Western Ghat area and protest against any hydel project including the GHHS project of KPC.
They also appeal to the trekkers and tourists not to spoil the surroundings by strewing plastic materials and requested them to extinguish the fire after cooking in the forest area.
