Kumara Parvatha Trek: A Mesmerizing Experience

Kumara Parvatha or as it is popularly known as Pushpagiri is a gem of an experience when it comes to spending time with nature. It brings together adventure, wildlife, nature and exhilarating thrill to conquer the peak Kumara Parvatha Trek. Soak yourself in the mesmerizing golden sunset from an altitude of 1712 meters. As this trek is situated in the heart of Pushpagiri wildlife sanctuary, you can see the flora and fauna of the region up close.

Best Time to visit

The best time to do Kumara Parvatha trek is in post monsoon months i.e., from September to February. The weather is pleasant with misty fog covering the mountains making it serene to look at. However, you can do the trekking in monsoon months too. You will get to witness the lush greenery and flourishing water streams flowing down the hills. As leeches and slippery slopes are a major concern during monsoon, trekkers avoid doing this trek in the rainy season.

In summers the Forest Department Officials restrict the entry due to the humid condition that might lead to forest fires. Also, the scorching temperature makes it unbearable to do the trek in summers.

Difficulty Level

Kumara Parvatha poses a challenge to the beginners with its difficulty level ranging from moderate to difficult. This means you would need to have a specific amount of fitness and strength. You can train yourself before the trek for a month if you don’t have any initial Kumara Parvatha Trek experience. Include running or cycling in your routine for 4 days a week with strength build-up exercises like squats, planks and push ups.

You will encounter slippery trails, steep forest sections, ascent on the grassland, vertical rocks and boulders. You need to be prepared for all of the endurance challenges. As the Kumara Parvatha is a continuous upward hike till you reach the peak, trekkers tend to get motion sickness too.

Things to carry

Clothing: your regular wears plus light thermal wear, windproof jacket, scarf, raincoat or poncho.

Trekking: Trekking poles, hiking shoes, sleeping bag, tent. 

Accessories: Sunglasses, Sunscreen, lip balm and toiletries like paper soap, sanitizer, toothpaste, brush, comb.

Document: carry your photocopy and identity card/Driver’s license.

Electronics: Camera with extra batteries, power bank.

Medicines: Your prescription if any, First-Aid, motion sickness tablet (Avomine), Crocin.

Eatables: Energy bar, Glucose/ORS, dry fruits, water bottles, chocolates and snacks.

What to see around

Kukke Subramanya Temple:

Visit this marvellous temple dedicated to the mythological Serpent God, Kartikeya. Many pilgrims gather at Kukke Subramanya Temple and you can see the hustle and bustle of the devotees.

Sringeri Mutt:

Sringeri Mutt is an example of splendid architecture design with carvings on the walls of the temple Kumara Parvatha Trek. The backdrop of the mountains makes this place all the more beautiful.

Biladwara Cave:

When you visit Kukke Subramanya, you will find Biladwara caves on your trail. This mysterious cave is believed to be the hiding place of the serpent king, Vasuki.

Mallalli Waterfalls:

Mallalli waterfalls located in the Somvarpet of Coorg district is at the foot of Pushpagiri hill ranges. This fall is 100 feet tall and very wide with beautiful surroundings.

Abbimatta Falls:

Abbimatta is a scenic cascading waterfall in the Tharthar shettali village. This seasonal fall is surrounded by forest, valleys and coffee estates.

Pushpagiri Forest Reserve:

Pushpagiri Forest Reserve nestled in the Kodagu district of Coorg is a home to many endangered species and an absolute delight for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Coorg:

Coorg has its own taste of beauty when it comes to nature and you can explore various attractions like Abbey falls, Raja’s Seat, Namdroling monastery and many more.

Accommodation and Food

At the base of the trek, you will find many affordable hotels and homestays for accommodation. If you plan to do camping, then you can rent a tent and sleeping bags from Battere Mane instead of carrying it all the way from the base of the trek.

Battere Mane also serves as the pit stop and you can use the restroom and fill your water bottle. The meal at Battere Mane is quite good for an affordable price of about 150 INR onwards. After Battere Mane you won’t find any restrooms or restaurants.

If you plan to visit other nearby places then you can opt to stay near Kukke Subramanya, as there are many accommodation options with devotees visiting the temple regularly. You can also try out Neo Mysore Café near Kukke Subramanya Learn More