Place: Mullayanagiri Peak
Distance: 75 Kms from Mekanagadde
District: Chikmagalur
Type: Sightseeing & Trekking
Mullayanagiri located in Chikmagalur district is the highest peak in Karnataka with an altitude of 1950 meters. Regarded as the highest peak between Himalayas and Nilgiris, Mullayanagiri is one of the best treks in Karnataka and among the top trekking places to visit in Chikmagalur. It is also one of the top attractions you must include in Chikmagalur Packages.
The peak gets its name from a small temple at the summit, which is dedicated to a Tapasvi Mullappa swamy, who is believed to have meditated at the cave near the summit. For adventure enthusiasts, the location offers an opportunity to engage in activities like mountain biking, trekking and road biking. Being the highest peak in Karnataka, it offers some very interesting trails. The trek route to the peak begins from Sarpadaari, which is connected with Chikmagalur by road. This is 3 km long moderate level trek which is fairly steep and takes about 1.5 hrs to reach the peak. Direct road access is also available closer to the peak which needs less than 1 km trek and take about 20-30 mins.
The valley views from the top of Mullyanagiri are breathtaking. The landmarks on the trek path are a small stream, a Nandi statue and a cave with a small water source inside. The Sunset presents a spectacular view from the peak.
Other trekking trails from Mullayangiri are Baba Budangiri (12 km), Manikyadhara Falls (9 km) and Deviramma Temple (13 km). The path to Bababudanagiri is quite popular are relatively easy. The path behind the temple on Mullayanagiri peak towards the BSNL Tower on Eastern side leads to Baba Budangiri and Manikyadhara Falls. However, the charm of this trail lies in the Ridge Walk and Blade Walk along the linear hills of the Baba Budangiri ranges. The first stretch involves a steep descent downhill to meet the main road. The second part of the trail involves a gentle ascent uphill and a unique ridge walk. Usually, there is heavy fog and visibility challenges as one treks on the ridges.
The next stretch of this trail takes one to the BSNL tower which is a few kilometers before the peak. This trail entails the blade walk if one is able to get permission from the checkpost situated enroute as trekkers cross the main road. Blade walk is a truly adrenalin pumping rocky stretch with scaring drops on either side. After more than half an hour trek on a narrow path, one reaches the BSNL tower. A small lake near the tower offers refreshment. The final stretch of the trail takes you to Baba Budan Giri that lies about 2 km away from the tower. The route from BSNL tower to Bababudanagiri is clear and camping is allowed at Baba Budhangiri.
Manikya Dhara Falls is straight from the BSNL tower. Deviramma Temple is further 4 km trek from Manikya Dhara Falls. The best time to trek Mullayangiri is from September to February. There are no shops at the summit. Packed food and water is necessary for trekking. Temple authorities can help in camping and cooking.