Karnataka is home to some of the most stunning treks in South India, offering breathtaking views and a thrilling adventure for the whole family. Trekking through the Western Ghats allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and wilderness areas that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site. From short day hikes to challenging multi-day treks, there are options suitable for all ages and fitness levels. This trekking guide covers the top 10 treks of Karnataka that are ideal for families looking for an unforgettable experience. Salam Travellers provides an overview of each trek, along with details on length, difficulty, route, and highlights.
Experience Trekking with Family
Trekking as a family is a wonderful way to bond while immersed in nature. Children will love climbing rocks, crossing rivers, and spotting wildlife along the way. The treks listed offer a range of difficulty, from beginner-friendly hills to more advanced multi-day hikes.
With stunning mountain views and lush forests, these trails showcase the very best of the Western Ghats’ natural beauty and diversity. So, get your backpack ready and let’s explore the top family-friendly treks of Karnataka!
Also read: 8 Famous Treks in Maharashtra for Hiking This Summer
1) Kodachadri
Kodachadri is a mountain peak in the Western Ghats in Karnataka, located in the Shimoga district. At a height of 1,343 meters above sea level, it is one of the highest peaks in the state.
Location and Highlights
Kodachadri is situated in the dense tropical forests of the Western Ghats. The mountain is home to rare species of flora and fauna and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Some highlights of trekking Kodachadri include seeing rare orchids, crossing sparkling waterfalls, and witnessing a magical sunrise from the peak.
Difficulty Level
The Kodachadri trek is considered moderately difficult, taking about 2 days to complete the round trip. There are steep sections during the ascent that require some scrambling over rocks. However, the trail is fairly well-marked and can be attempted by beginner trekkers under guidance.
Ideal for Families
The Kodachadri trek has relatively easier gradients compared to some other peaks in the Western Ghats. With children over 10 years old and in good health, this trek can be attempted as a family activity. The rich natural beauty and fun camping overnight make it an enjoyable family experience. The cool weather is also suitable for children. With some guidance from experienced trek leaders, Kodachadri offers a great family trek.
Also read: Nag Tibba Trek
2) Kunti Betta
Kunti Betta is a popular trekking destination located in the Pandavapura taluk of Mandya district in Karnataka. Known for its stunning rocky hills and ancient temple atop the hill, Kunti Betta offers a great trekking experience for families.
Location and Highlights
Kunti Betta is situated at an elevation of 2882 feet above sea level. The trek takes you through lush green landscapes, paddy fields, and rocky terrain. One of the major highlights of the trek is Thonnur Lake, which offers spectacular views. There are two hills here – Thonnur Betta and Kunti Betta, connected by a small saddle. At the top, you’ll find the ancient Pandava temple dedicated to Kunti, the mother of Pandavas.
Difficulty Level
The Kunti Betta trek is fairly easy and can be completed within 2-3 hours. There are well-defined steps and railings at steep sections, making it suitable for beginners and families with kids. The gradients are not very steep. However, some stretches can be slightly tricky, requiring assistance. Proper shoes are recommended.
Ideal for Families
The relatively easy gradient, scenic landscapes, and ancient temple make Kunti Betta an ideal trek for families with kids and elderly members. The trek can be easily completed in half a day, after which families can relax by the lake. The best time to visit is post-monsoon, between October to January. The cool weather, coupled with lush greenery, creates a perfect setting for a family trek.
Also read: Chopta Trek
3) Devarayanadurga
Devarayanadurga is a slope station situated in the Tumkur locale of Karnataka. It sits at an elevation of 3940 feet above sea level. This scenic spot is surrounded by lush green forests and rocky hills. Some key highlights of Devarayanadurga include:
Location and Highlights
The main attraction is the Bhoganandeeshwara temple, situated atop the hills. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and draws devotees from all over.
The Namada Chilume spring is another popular sight. It is considered the origin point of the Jayamangali River.
Trekking up the hillside provides stunning views of the rocky peaks and verdant landscape below.
Difficulty Level
The Devarayanadurga Trek is relatively easy, making it ideal for families. There is a well-laid-out path that leads up to the temple. The ascent takes about 1-2 hours at a moderate pace. Though not very steep, some parts can be a little tricky for very young kids.
Ideal for Families
Its low difficulty level, coupled with its lush natural beauty, makes Devarayanadurga a great trek for families. Kids are sure to enjoy spotting little cascades and wildlife along the way. The temple atmosphere is lively yet peaceful. There are snack stalls along the route catering to all tastes. Overall, the short trek presents a perfect outdoor experience without being too challenging for parents and children – an ideal among the treks of Karnataka.
Also read: Top 8 Things to do in Tala Kaveri
4) Baba Budangiri
Baba Budangiri is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range in Chikmagalur, Karnataka. It offers scenic views of the mountain ranges and valleys, making it an ideal trekking destination for families.
The highlights of Baba Budangiri include the Manikyadhara Falls, Galikere Lake, and Dattatreya Peetha. The moderate trails through lush shola forests and grasslands offer beginner-friendly treks. The diverse flora and fauna provide plenty of sights for kids to enjoy.
The difficulty level of most trails is easy to moderate and doable for most ages. The trek duration is about 2-3 hours for a round trip, suitable for a half-day family adventure. Proper shoes, snacks, and water are recommended.
Baba Budangiri is a great option for families due to its proximity to Bangalore, beautiful nature views, and manageable difficulty level. The cool hill climate and memorable sights make it an enjoyable trek for all ages.
Also read: Things to do in Gokarna at Night
5) Trekking at Savandurga Hills
Savandurga is located about 60 km from Bangalore, making it an ideal weekend getaway for families in the city looking for a quick trek. The trek takes you to the top of Asia’s largest monolith hill, at an elevation of 1226 meters. The trek itself is only about 2-3 hours long, depending on your pace.
The difficulty level of the Savandurga trek is beginner to moderate, making it suitable for families with younger children. The trail is very well-marked and leads you through scenic forests and small streams. The highlight is climbing the steep stairs called the Manchanabele steps carved into the rock that takes you to the top. There are amazing views from the top.
Also read: The Top 5 Places to Visit in Mysore for a Memorable Trip
6) Anthargange Trek and Caves
Located around 80 km from Bengaluru near Kolar, Anthargange is a popular trekking spot in Karnataka, ideal for families. The highlight of this trek is the ancient Anthargange Caves and temple situated at the peak. The rocky boulders and cave formations make it an exciting trekking experience for kids and adults alike.
The Anthargange Trek has a moderate difficulty level, making it suitable for beginners and families. The 4 km uphill trek takes around 2-3 hours to complete through reasonably steep slopes. The trek passes through thick forests and large boulders, with the final steep climb leading straight to the cave temple. There are railings, steps, and safety measures in many sections, ensuring a safe trek.
What makes Anthargange ideal for families is that kids are thrilled to climb and explore the caves and boulders along the way. The natural cave formations with religious idols and a temple at the end are an interesting experience for all ages. The scenic views from the peak are also mesmerizing. Furthermore, its proximity to Bengaluru makes it convenient for families to visit Anthargange for a quick getaway. Overall, Anthargange offers a fun, short trek of moderate difficulty for families to bond over an outdoor adventure.
Also read: The Top 10 Must Visit Caves in India
7) Trekking in Bheemeshwari
Bheemeshwari is a small town located around 100 km from Bangalore in the Mandya district of Karnataka. Known for its lush green forests and the beautiful Cauvery River, Bheemeshwari offers some moderate and easy treks, perfect for families.
Some of the highlights of trekking in Bheemeshwari include the scenic, lush green surroundings, the Cauvery River backwaters, and the sights of various birds and wild animals. The trails here are not very strenuous, making it an ideal place for beginner-level trekkers.
The difficulty level of most treks here is easy to moderate. Short treks like Kumbarakatte, Kallathigiri, Kannamangala Durga, and Kabbinale treks can be completed in under 2 hours and do not involve steep ascents. This makes them ideal for families with younger children. The trails are well-marked and mostly flat or gently sloping.
Also read: Top 10 Adrenaline Pumping Things to Do in Lonavala Hill Station
8) Trekking in Shivagange
Shivagange is located near Tumkur in Karnataka and is a sacred pilgrimage site with a Shiva temple at the summit. The trek takes you through scenic hills dotted with boulders to reach the peak at 1368 meters.
The trekking trail is around 4 km long and relatively easy, making it ideal for families with kids. The trek takes about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace. The trail is well-marked and gradual for the most part, without steep inclines. Some rocky patches require a bit of scrambling, but nothing too difficult for kids under supervision.
The highlights of the Shivagange trek are the breathtaking views from the peak, especially at sunrise and sunset. You get panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. There are also a couple of ponds and caves to explore along the way. One of the caves is said to be the place where Sage Goutama meditated.
Also read: Top 10 Adventurous Things to Do in Meghalaya
9) Agni Gudda Hill
Agni Gudda Hill is located in Karnataka’s Western Ghats region, near Sirsi. At an elevation of 1,890 meters, it offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountain range and dense evergreen forests.
The Agni Gudda trek is considered moderately difficult, with steep inclines at some points. However, the well-marked trail and scenic landscape make it an ideal family trek. Young children may need assistance during the climb.
Agni Gudda stands out for its unique rock formations and boulders that provide a fun element for kids to explore. There are opportunities to spot exotic birds and endemic wildlife along the way, adding an educational aspect.
The hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva provides a cultural touchpoint. Families can offer prayers and take in the spiritually rejuvenating vibe. A cave on the hillside also presents chances for adventure.
10) Channarayana Durga Trek
Located near Tumkur in Karnataka, Channarayana Durga is one of the best treks for families in the state. At an elevation of 1,188 meters, this hill fort offers breathtaking views and a moderate trek that people of all ages can enjoy.
The highlights of Channarayana Durga include the ancient fort ruins at the peak, the stunning vistas of the valley and hills around, and the cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The trek takes you through lush green forests filled with native birds and small wildlife.
The difficulty level is easy to moderate, making it ideal for beginners and families. The Channarayana Durga Trek is just 3 km each way and takes around 2-3 hours to complete comfortably. The trail is well-defined without many steep inclines, and the steps carved into the rocks make it manageable for children as well.
The best time to trek here is post-monsoon, from October to January, when the surroundings are green and rejuvenated. The cool weather, along with plenty of shady stretches along the way, ensures the trek is pleasant for all. Families will love the ancient fort ruins to explore, the cave temple visit, and the satisfaction of completing the trek together.
Get you Hiking Gear Ready!
Hurdle up, get the family together, and set out to explore the treks of Karnataka. Experience the thrill of trekking through lush forests and discovering hidden gems along the way. Don’t forget to pack some snacks and water for the trek, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the journey. Make memories that will last a lifetime as you bond with your loved ones in the great outdoors.
Stay tuned for more adventure guides from Salam Travellers.
