Kumara Parvatha Trek – Complete Guide (2024)
Welcome to the Kumara Parvatha Trek Guide! Embark on a thrilling adventure to one of South India’s most challenging peaks.
Discover how to reach the trek’s starting point from major cities, explore the highlights of this fascinating journey, understand the route and its difficulty level, and learn about the best season to undertake this trek.
Get ready to conquer Kumara Parvatha and create unforgettable memories!
- Max Altitude: 5,616 Ft. (1,712M)
- Distance: 22 kms
- Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
- Duration: 2 Days
- Ideal For: Experienced Trekkers
- Best Season: October – February
- Region: Karnataka
Kumara Parvatha, also known as Pushpagiri, is among the most challenging yet enticing treks in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. The 22-kilometre round-trip trek traverses dense forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain.
It starts from Subrahmanya village and peaks at 1,712 meters above sea level, making it the tallest peak in the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
The trek is bifurcated into two significant sections, the Subrahmanya to Bhattaramane stretch and Bhattaramane to Kumara Parvatha peak. While the former is a moderately difficult trek through verdant forests, the latter is more challenging, with steep ascents and rocky landscapes.
The panoramic view from the top, encompassing verdant valleys, misty clouds, and the sky’s azure expanse, is the ultimate reward for the trekkers.
The trek requires proper preparation, physical stamina, and respect for nature’s unpredictable elements.
Campsites like Bhattaramane and Kallu Mantapa offer accommodation and rest for trekkers.
The Kumara Parvatha trek is a perfect mix of thrill and tranquillity, offering an experience of raw adventure and a rejuvenating escape from the bustle of city life.
Best Season to Visit Kumara Parvatha
Trekking Kumara Parvatha during the post-monsoon and winter months from October to February is a mesmerizing experience.
During this period, the trekking trails come alive with lush greenery, with the monsoon rains rejuvenating the entire region.
The forests become more verdant, and the rejuvenated streams & waterfalls add a new dimension to the trek.
The air during these months is crisp and refreshing, offering clear, unobstructed views of the stunning landscapes. As you ascend, you can witness panoramic views of the vast expanse of the Western Ghats, blanketed in shades of green, and the sky painted in hues of dawn and dusk.
The winter chill adds a thrilling touch to the trek and also makes the trek less taxing as compared to the summer months.
Moreover, this season’s cooler temperature and lesser rainfall result in safer and more enjoyable trekking conditions.
The chance of witnessing the fascinating phenomenon of ‘cloud carpet’, where a sea of clouds engulfs the valley below, is also higher during winter.
If you’re a nature enthusiast or a photography lover, the post-monsoon and winter season is an ideal time for the Kumara Parvatha trek to capture the beauty of nature in its full glory.
How To Reach?
Kumara Parvatha’s base camp is in Subrahmanya village, in Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district. Here’s how you can reach Subrahmanya from Bengaluru through various modes of transport:
- Train: You can take a train from Bengaluru to the nearest railway station, Subrahmanya Road Railway Station (SBHR), approximately 12 kilometres from the village. It typically takes around 8-10 hours, depending on the train’s speed and route. You can hire a local taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the station to reach the village.
- Bus: Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular buses from Bengaluru to Subrahmanya, which take approximately 7-8 hours. The bus station in Subrahmanya is conveniently located near the trek’s starting point.
- Shared/Private Cabs: You can book a shared or private cab from Bengaluru to Subrahmanya, which can take 6-7 hours, depending on the traffic and route. The distance is roughly 280-300 kilometres.
- Private Vehicle: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Subrahmanya from Bengaluru via NH 75. The drive typically takes 6-7 hours, covering a distance of about 280 kilometres. Remember that hilly roads require careful driving, and it’s wise to check the weather forecast beforehand due to frequent foggy conditions.
Remember to verify these details, as the travel scenario may change based on current conditions and regulations.
Kumara Parvatha Trek Route & Difficulty
The Kumara Parvatha trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in South India. The round-trip trek covers a total distance of approximately 22 kilometres. It can take 8 to 12 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and pace. Here’s a breakdown of the route and the different sections you’ll encounter:
Subrahmanya to Bhattaramane: The trek starts from the Subrahmanya village. The initial section of the trail leading up to Bhattaramane is a moderately difficult trek through lush forests. This part is about 6-7 kilometres long and typically takes 3-4 hours to complete. The trail gradually ascends, and along the way, you can enjoy the serenity of the dense forest.
Bhattaramane to Kallu Mantapa: After reaching Bhattaramane, the path continues uphill and becomes steeper. This section is rocky, making the climb more challenging. The path is about 2 kilometres long and takes 1-2 hours to complete.
Kallu Mantapa to Shesha Parvatha: This trek stretch leading to Shesha Parvatha is the most challenging part. The terrain is steep and rocky, and the path gets narrower. This stretch is approximately 1-2 kilometres and can take about 2 hours.
Shesha Parvatha to Kumara Parvatha: The final section from Shesha Parvatha to the peak of Kumara Parvatha is relatively easier, with a mix of flat terrain and mild slopes. The view from the summit makes the tough climb worth it.
Proper preparation, physical fitness, and good trekking gear are crucial for the Kumara Parvatha trek. It’s recommended to carry enough water and energy snacks, wear comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes, and dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather conditions. Also, starting the trek early in the morning is advisable to make the most of daylight hours.
Highlights of the Kumara Parvatha Trek
- Challenging Terrain: The Kumara Parvatha trek is renowned for its challenging terrain, offering a thrilling experience for avid trekkers. It tests your endurance and stamina, making it an unforgettable adventure.
- Breathtaking Views: As one of the highest peaks in the region, the trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including misty valleys, towering peaks, and the expansive sky.
- Distinctive Trekking Sections: The trail is divided into unique sections, each offering a different trekking experience. The varying terrain keeps the journey interesting, from the relatively easier forest trail to the steep rocky climbs.
- Shesha Parvatha: Before reaching the Kumara Parvatha peak, you’ll come across Shesha Parvatha. This distinctive rocky hill presents its own set of challenges and views.
- Camping Experience: Bhattaramane and Kallu Mantapa are popular camping spots along the trail, where you can rest, rejuvenate and experience the joy of camping in the wilderness.
- Local Culture: The trek also allows one to explore the local culture in Subrahmanya village, known for the famous Kukke Subramanya Temple.
- Cloud Carpet Phenomenon: During certain times of the year, you may witness a ‘cloud carpet’, where a sea of clouds blankets the valley beneath, creating a dreamlike spectacle.
- Sense of Achievement: Conquering Kumara Parvatha is significant due to its challenging nature. Reaching the peak gives a sense of accomplishment, making it a memorable highlight of the trek.
Essential Things to Carry for the Trek
Packaging wisely is essential to make the most of your Kumara Parvatha trekking experience. Here are some must-have items for your backpack:
- Sturdy trekking shoes for a comfortable and safe trek
- Ample water and energy drinks to stay hydrated
- Snacks and energy bars to keep you fueled
- Sunscreen, cap, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
- First aid kit with essential medications and bandages
- A camera to capture the stunning vistas along the way
- A light backpack to carry your essentials without weighing you down
Safety Precautions and Tips
While embarking on the Kumara Parvatha trek, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Here are some essential safety precautions and tips to keep in mind:
- Trek with a certified guide who is familiar with the route and terrain.
- Wear appropriate trekking gear and clothing to protect yourself from injuries and harsh weather conditions.
- Stay hydrated throughout the trek by drinking water at regular intervals.
- Pace yourself and take breaks whenever needed to avoid exhaustion.
- Do not litter; respect the natural environment by carrying back all your waste.
- Follow instructions from the guide and stay on the designated path.
- In case of any emergency or discomfort, inform the guide immediately.
FAQs
Yes, the Kumara Parvatha trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in South India due to its steep and varied terrain. The trek’s difficulty level, combined with the distance of approximately 22 kilometres round trip, requires good fitness and preparation.
As of 2023, the entry fee for the Kumara Parvatha trek is INR 350 per person for Indian nationals. Please check the latest guidelines and prices, as these may have changed.
Kumara Parvatha, also known as Pushpagiri, is famous for being one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats and offering one of the most challenging treks in South India. It is renowned for its mind-blowing panoramic views, the sense of adventure it offers to trekkers, and its proximity to the sacred Kukke Subramanya Temple.
The best months to visit Kumara Parvatha for trekking are October to February. During these months, the post-monsoon and winter weather make the trek safer and more enjoyable. The clear skies offer unobstructed panoramic views, and the trails are lush with greenery following the monsoon rains.
Thank you for journeying through our Kumara Parvatha Trek Guide. As one of the most challenging yet rewarding treks in South India, Kumara Parvatha promises an experience of a lifetime.
Armed with the knowledge of how to reach, the trek’s highlights, its route and difficulty, and the best season to visit, you are now prepared for this thrilling adventure.
Remember, the journey is as enriching as the destination. So, lace up your boots, carry the spirit of adventure in your heart, and let the beauty of Kumara Parvatha enchant you!
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