Narasimha Parvatha Trek

Details

Leave from Bangalore 8-30PM ( Final time will be updated in Whatsapp Group
Introduction of the participants in the bus

Details

Narasimha Parvatha Trek can be divided into 3 parts:

Section 1: Mallandur Base Camp to Barkana Falls Top

Trek Distance: 8 km
Duration: 3 hrs approx

Section 2: Barkana Falls to Narasimha Parvatha Peak

Trek Distance: 5 km
Duration: 2:30 hrs

Section 3: Narasimha Parvatha Peak to Kigga
Trek Distance: 6 km
Duration: 2:30 hrs
 

The tallest peak in the Agumbe Ghats is the Narasimha Parvatha Peak, which is situated in Agumbe in the Shimoga district of Karnataka and rises to a height of 3772 feet. Both Mallanduru and Kigga offer access to the peak that is a part of the Kudremukh National Park, with the former offering a longer and more challenging trek. We'll follow this route as well on our trek to Narasimha Parvatha. While the 6 km descent via Kigga can be finished in a few hours, the 12 km ascent will likely take between 6-7 hours.

The majority of the trail is covered in dense forest, with open grasslands that make it easier to appreciate the steep climb and the expansive views given the peaks' imposing height. Along with the impressive Barkana waterfalls, the trail is also identified during the monsoon season by a number of smaller streams. Throughout the trek, a variety of wildlife, including dangerous snakes and brightly coloured birds, can be seen.

From our basecamp in Mallanduru, we begin the trek along a jeep trail that is comparatively flat and simple to navigate. As the trail gradually enters denser forests marked by tall, ancient trees that allow little to no sunlight to reach the forest floor, keep an eye out for the diverse array of flora and fauna. As the forest gets denser and the inclines steeper, make your way through a labyrinth of downed trees, twisting roots, and lush greenery.

The Sita River also meanders alongside the trail's beginnings, giving rise to a number of smaller streams during monsoon season. Later on in the trail's length, the Sita River narrows and plunges down a gorge, giving rise to the impressive Barkana Waterfalls. Once there, make your way up the waterfall's slick rocks to the top for a bird's-eye view of the valley below and the chance to experience waterfalls from their point of origin.

It is breathtaking to see the roaring waterfall crashing to the ground from a height of 2200 feet, cutting through the eerie silence of the surrounding green valleys in sharp contrast. The trail becomes more difficult from this point onward with steep inclines all the way up until the end of the forest cover, so take some time to relax here and take in the scenery or a quick dip in the clear waters. As there are no more water sources until after the peak, be sure to refill your water bottles.

As the trail continues, it becomes more difficult to follow because there are no obvious trails along this section. The slippery ascent over dry leaves and leech-infested forests make the climb all the more challenging. An almost immediate transition from dense forest to open, airy meadows and rolling hills provides a welcome respite from the heat and humidity of the forests. The vast openness gives the impression that you are almost there, even though the peak is not visible until the very end.

Have your picnic lunch along the way as you ascend hill after hill through expansive grasslands to the final section of forest before returning to the plains.
On the last stretch leading to the peak, one encounters loosely stacked stone pillars spaced out from one another until they finally come together to form a broad platform of rocks at the peak. Alongside this platform, there is a small, improvised Narasimha Swamy temple. Take in the expansive views of the Kudremukh Ranges in the area, or look down and take in the effort it took to get here. There are also a number of flat rock surfaces that are perfect for a quick power nap.

We now descend in the direction of Kigga. Stop by a small hut with a water source close by to fill your bottles as you descend, just below the peak. The trail continues to descend through shola forests as it descends further. Although quick, this is a challenging route because you must navigate slick rocks and dry leaves the entire way until you arrive at the Rishya Shringa temple in Kigga.

The trail is slippery with leaves, tree roots, and rocks all along the way, making the descent difficult.
We will then be driven back to our base camp, where we can rest up after a strenuous day of hiking before enjoying a well-earned dinner around a roaring campfire.

Have a restful night's sleep as you recall the numerous sights, sounds, and sensations from a busy day in the impressive Western Ghats.

Details

Get ready for an unforgettable day full of adventure and excitement! On Day 2, we'll start our day with a breathtaking sunrise at Kundadri Hills. Then, we'll head to Koodluteertha Falls for a refreshing swim and picnic. In the afternoon, we'll enjoy a delicious self-sponsored lunch and then make our way back to Bangalore, stopping for dinner along the way.

As we travel, we'll create everlasting memories and new friends. We'll share stories, laugh together, and support each other through every step of the way. By the end of the day, we'll be tired but happy, with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of nature and the power of friendship.

So what are you waiting for? Let's start our adventure!