Aranya VihaaraStay

Trek guide

Every official trail in Karnataka, and where to stay.

Trek permits are issued through the Karnataka Forest Department's Aranya Vihaara portal. Book a stay with us and we'll arrange one badge for free.

Chikmagalur

Coffee country and the highest peaks of the Ghats

Stays in Chikmagalur →
Merthigudda trailModerate

Chikmagalur · #88

Merthigudda

A lesser-known peak near Kalasa with a hilltop temple and breathtaking 360-degree ridge views.

Distance
9 km
Duration
5 hrs
Elevation
1676 m
1 stays nearby →
Ettina Bhuja trailModerate

Chikmagalur · #98

Ettina Bhuja

Named for its shape like a bull’s shoulder, this peak offers dramatic views of the Shishila valley.

Distance
8 km
Duration
5 hrs
Elevation
1300 m
1 stays nearby →
Gangadikal Trek trailModerate

Chikmagalur · #114

Gangadikal Trek

A Kudremukh National Park trail through rolling green hills to one of the best viewpoints in the region.

Distance
10 km
Duration
5–6 hrs
Elevation
1458 m
1 stays nearby →

Kodagu

Misty ridges, shola forests and river sources

Stays in Kodagu →

Ramanagara

Ancient granite monoliths near Bengaluru

Stays in Ramanagara →

Bengaluru Rural

Quick sunrise hikes from the city

Stays in Bengaluru Rural →
Makalidurga trailModerate

Bengaluru Rural · #77

Makalidurga

A granite fort trek overlooking Gundamagere lake, with railway tracks winding around the base of the hill.

Distance
6 km
Duration
4–5 hrs
Elevation
1117 m
1 stays nearby →

Chikkaballapur

Night treks and sunrise above the clouds

Stays in Chikkaballapur →
Kaiwara Betta trailModerate

Chikkaballapur · #117

Kaiwara Betta

A mythology-rich hill with caves associated with the Mahabharata, best climbed early in the morning.

Distance
5 km
Duration
4 hrs
Elevation
1100 m
1 stays nearby →

Kalaburagi

Dry deciduous nature trails of the north

Stays in Kalaburagi →