Step into history and challenge your limits with the ultimate weekend adventure: the Gadaikallu Trek (famously known as Jamalabad Fort Trek). Located in the Belthangady Taluk of Dakshina Kannada at an elevation of 3,527 feet, this massive granite monolith was converted into an impenetrable military outpost by Tipu Sultan in 1794.
Organized seamlessly by Bharat Trotters, this 2-Day & 2-Night weekend trek from Bangalore combines rich history, dense rainforest trails, and thrilling stone-stair climbs with breathtaking views of the Kudremukh mountain range. Gear up for over 1,800 rock-cut steps leading to ancient ruins, an old arsenal, and panoramic summit vistas. To make your weekend complete, we also explore the pristine Didupe / Ermai Falls, Devaramane Viewpoint, and Belur Temple. Unplug from city life, connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, and create memories that last a lifetime with Bharat Trotters.
Quick overview
Trip essentials
Tour TypeTwo Day Hike
LocationBelthangady Dakshina Kannada Karnataka
DifficultyModerate to Difficult
Distance14 km
Highlights
What makes this trip special
Historical Monolith Climb: Conquer 1,800+ steps carved into a single giant rock face at Tipu Sultan’s 1794 Jamalabad Fort.
360° Western Ghats Views: Enjoy panoramic mountain vistas overlooking the Kudremukh Range at 3,527 feet altitude.
Waterfall Refreshment: Rejuvenate at the cascading Didupe / Ermai Falls hidden amidst dense greenery.
Heritage & Nature Sightseeing: Discover the scenic Devaramane Viewpoint and the historic Hoysala architecture at Belur Temple.
Hassle-Free Travel: Comfortable round-trip transport from Bangalore, rustic homestay accommodation, meals, entry fees, and expert trek leads.
Please note
Important notes
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult. Expect continuous steep uphill stair-climbing.
Age Limit: Suitable for ages 12 to 50 years with good physical stamina.
Food Provided: 100% authentic, hygienic local South Indian vegetarian meals.
Network Availability: Mobile connectivity (Bsnl/Airtel/Jio) is intermittent or unavailable on the trail.
ATM & Cash: Carry sufficient cash from Bangalore, as digital payment signals at base villages can be unreliable.
Plan
Itinerary
7 steps
01
07:00 PM – 08:30 PM
Day 0: Friday Night – Departure from Bangalore
Board our comfortable Non-AC vehicle from your designated pick-up location in Bangalore. Meet your fellow Bharat Trotters adventurers and trek coordinators as we begin the overnight journey towards Belthangady, heading into the heart of the Western Ghats.
02
06:30 AM – 09:30 AM
Day 1: Arrival, Trek Ascent & Gadaikallu Summit
Reach the base homestay near Gadaikallu. Freshen up and enjoy a warm, authentic breakfast to power up for the day. Receive your packed lunch and proceed to the forest check-post for briefing before starting the climb.
03
09:30 AM – 01:30 PM
Conquering the 1,800 Steps & Summit Views
Begin the exhilarating ascent of Gadaikallu. Challenge yourself against the 1,800+ rock-cut steps. Upon reaching the summit (3,527 ft), explore the historic ruins of Tipu Sultan’s fort, ancient reservoirs, and a scenic viewpoint. Enjoy your packed lunch while soaking in panoramic views of the Kudremukh range.
04
02:30 PM – 06:30 PM
Descent & Waterfall Refreshment
Commence the descent down the steps back to the base check-post. Once at the bottom, we will proceed to the pristine Didupe / Ermai Falls for a refreshing dip in the cool water to rejuvenate your tired muscles after the challenging climb
05
06:30 PM onwards
Homestay Dinner & Socializing
Head back to the homestay. Warm up with hot tea or coffee and snacks. The evening is for relaxation and bonding. Enjoy a delicious, home-cooked regional dinner with the group before settling in for a comfortable overnight stay.
06
07:30 AM – 01:30 PM
Day 2: Morning Exploration, Belur Temple & Return
Wake up to the sounds of nature. Enjoy breakfast before checking out of the homestay. We begin the return journey, stopping to visit the scenic Devaramane Viewpoint and the magnificent historical Hoysala architecture of the Belur Temple.
07
01:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Self-Sponsored Lunch & Bengaluru Arrival
Stop for a self-sponsored lunch at a local restaurant on the highway. Continue the drive back to Bangalore, reaching the city by approximately 10:00 PM, concluding an unforgettable weekend with Bharat Trotters.
Tickets
Ticket options
Full Tour Package (With Transport)
4699
Per person
Includes round-trip Bangalore transport
Stay
Forest permits
Meals
Guides
Sightseeing
Trip details
Inclusions & exclusions
Included in your trip
What you get
Transportation: Non-AC Tempo Traveller / Mini Bus (Bangalore to Bangalore round trip).
Accommodation: 1 Night stay in clean, shared homestay / dormitory arrangements with basic amenities.
First Aid: Basic emergency first-aid kit during the trek.
Plan separately
Not included
Personal expenses (snacks, mineral water, personal soft drinks).
Lunch on Day 2 (Self-sponsored at a local restaurant on return journey).
Personal travel insurance or medical expenses in case of emergency.
GST & any entry fees not explicitly mentioned under Inclusions.
Before you go
Pickup & trip preparation
Meeting points
Pickup locations
107:00 PM: Majestic (Shanthala Silks & Sarees)
207:30 PM: Rajajinagar (Navrang Theatre Bus Stand)
308:00 PM: Yeshwanthpur (Metro Station towards Tumkur)
408:15 PM: Goraguntepalya (People Tree Hospital)
Packing checklist
Things to carry
Backpack: Small 20-30L daypack with waterproof rain cover.
Footwear: Quality trekking shoes with firm grip + 1 pair of lightweight floaters/sandals.
Clothing: 2 pairs of breathable dry-fit clothes, 1 jacket/warm layer for evening, and extra socks.
Rain Gear: Raincoat / Poncho / Bag Cover.
Hydration & Snacks: 2 Refillable 1L water bottles, energy bars, dry fruits, and glucon-D.
Toiletries: Personal medical kit, hand sanitizer, sunblock, wet wipes, and mosquito repellent.
Essentials: G
Policy
Booking and cancellation
Terms & Conditions↬ Minimum Group Size: A minimum of 10–12 participants is required to operate the tour batch. If the minimum count is not met, Bharat Trotters reserves the right to reschedule or offer an alternative trek.
↬ Safety & Code of Conduct: Consumption of alcohol, smoking, or possession of illegal substances during the trek is strictly prohibited. Misbehavior or deliberate delays will lead to immediate termination of participation without any refund.
↬ Itinerary Flexibility: The itinerary, activity timings, and pickup/drop routes are subject to change due to unforeseen weather, forest permissions, traffic, or government safety guidelines.
↬ Luggage & Personal Belongings: Participants are responsible for their own personal items, cash, and electronic gadgets. Bharat Trotters accepts no liability for loss, damage, or theft.
↬ Fitness Declaration: This is a moderate-to-difficult level trek. Trekkers must evaluate their physical fitness before booking. No refunds are issued if a participant is unable to complete the trail.
↬ Eco-Trekking Policy: Plastic littering is strictly banned. All participants must bring back their non-biodegradable waste.
Cancellation Policy↬ 10+ Days Before Departure: 90% refund of total booking amount or 100% full credit voucher for future Bharat Trotters trips.
↬ 5 to 9 Days Before Departure: 50% refund or 75% credit voucher for future trips.
↬ 0 to 4 Days Before Departure: No refund or credit voucher available (non-transferable slot)
↬ Trip Cancelled by Bharat Trotters: 100% full refund processed within 5–7 working days or seamless rescheduling to another batch.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
The trek is rated Moderate to Difficult. It involves climbing over 1,800 steep stone steps cut into a rock face. A reasonable level of physical fitness is required.
The total trek distance is around 14 km (round trip). It usually takes 4 to 5 hours to ascend and descend depending on group pace.
Yes, clean washrooms and changing rooms are available at our homestay base. However, there are no washrooms on the trek trail.
100% safe! Bharat Trotters ensures strict safety protocols, separate room/tent sharing for male and female travelers, and dedicated trek leads throughout the journey.
Yes, beginners with active lifestyles or decent stamina can complete this trek. Take steady breaks while climbing the steps to maintain energy.
Route
Location
Bharat Trotters · secure booking
Choose your departure
Select an available departure, package and pickup point.
