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.
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)
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.
