Escape the noise of city life and immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of the Western Ghats with Bharat Trotters on the mesmerizing Gangadikal Trek. Nestled in the pristine Kudremukh National Park range within Chikmagalur district, Gangadikal stands tall at an altitude of 4,806 ft (1,458 meters). Known as a peaceful, less-crowded alternative to the classic Kudremukh trail, this moderately challenging trek takes you through lush Shola forests, bubbling mountain streams, rolling emerald grasslands, and stunning ridgelines.
From the summit, reward your senses with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of neighboring peaks like Kurinjal, Valikunja, and Kyatanmakki, along with the scenic Lakhya Dam backwaters. Paired with a cozy homestay experience, campfire evenings, and visits to Samse Tea Estate and historical Belur Temple, this 2-Day/2-Night expedition with Bharat Trotters promises the ultimate weekend adventure for nature lovers, beginners, and seasoned hikers alike.
Quick overview
Trip essentials
Tour TypeTwo Day Hike
LocationChikmagalur Karnataka
Difficultyeasy-to-moderat
Distance10 to 12km
Highlights
What makes this trip special
Offbeat Western Ghats Trail: Explore an untouched, serene alternative to crowded trails inside the Kudremukh region.
Summit Views (4,806 ft): Witness 360° views of Kurinjal Peak, Valikunja, Kyatanmakki Hills, and Lakhya Dam backwaters.
Dense Shola Forest Walk: Trek under thick forest canopies filled with rich biodiversity and pristine streams.
Culture & Sightseeing: Visit manicured rows at Samse Tea Estate and admire Hoysala architecture at the ancient Belur Temple.
Charming Local Homestay: Unwind with traditional Malnad meals, cozy group accommodation, and warm campfire bonding.
Please note
Important notes
Forest permits are subject to daily limits set by the Karnataka Forest Department; bookings are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Network coverage (Airtel, Jio, BSNL) is limited or non-existent past Chikmagalur base areas.
ATM access is minimal in forest zones; carry adequate cash for personal expenses.
Basic homestay facility with shared washrooms and clean sleeping amenities (separate dormitories for men and women).
Plan
Itinerary
13 steps
01
08:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Day 0: Late Night Pick-up 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 our overnight journey towards Chikmagalur.
02
06:00 AM – 07:30 AM
Day 1: Arrival & Base Reach
Reach our cozy homestay in the Kudremukh / Balagal region. Freshen up, rest for a bit, and soak in the crisp mountain air surrounded by lush greenery.
03
07:30 AM – 08:30 AM
Breakfast & Gear Up
Fuel up with a delicious, authentic Malnad breakfast. Pack your daypacks with essential gear, water bottles, and energy snacks for the trek ahead.
04
08:30 AM – 09:30 AM
Transfer to Forest Base Post
Take a short jeep/vehicle ride to the forest base post. Meet our certified local guide, complete permit verification, and undergo a quick safety briefing by the trek lead.
05
09:30 AM – 01:30 PM
Ascent Through Shola Forest & Streams
Begin the trek along scenic trails, walking under thick Shola forest canopies, crossing bubbling streams, and making your way through vibrant rolling grasslands.
06
01:30 PM – 02:30 PM
Reach Summit & Packed Lunch
Reach the Gangadikal Peak summit (4,806 ft). Enjoy a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view of the Western Ghats range and Lakhya Dam backwaters while enjoying your packed lunch.
07
02:30 PM – 05:30 PM
Descent & Return to Homestay
Begin the descent back along the scenic ridgeline. Take in the late afternoon vistas and arrive back at the base point for vehicle transfer to the homestay.
08
05:30 PM – 08:30 PM
High Tea & Evening Campfire
Unwind with hot tea and fresh evening snacks at the homestay. Relax your muscles, gather around a warm campfire, listen to music, and share stories under the stars.
09
08:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Dinner & Overnight Rest
Indulge in a warm, traditional Malnad dinner served at the homestay. Unwind in your comfortable shared accommodation for a good night's sleep.
10
07:00 AM – 08:30 AM
Day 2: Morning Refreshment & Check-out
Wake up to the soothing sounds of nature. Enjoy a warm breakfast and tea at the homestay, pack your luggage, and complete check-out.
11
09:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Samse Tea Estate Visit
Head to the serene Samse Tea Estate. Walk through manicured green tea hills, snap picturesque photographs, and learn about local tea cultivation.
12
12:30 PM – 02:30 PM
Belur Chennakeshava Temple Visit
Arrive at the historic Belur Temple complex. Admire the exquisite 12th-century Hoysala stone carvings and rich heritage with your fellow travelers.
13
02:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Lunch Stop & Return Journey
Stop for a self-sponsored lunch en route. Relax during the drive back to Bangalore, reliving the weekend's best moments, and arrive at your drop-off points by late evening.
Tickets
Ticket options
Full Tour Package (With Transport)
4499
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 pushback travel from Bangalore to Bangalore.
Accommodation: Homestay / Dormitory stay on a multi-sharing basis.
Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Packed Trek Lunch, and 1 Warm Local Dinner.
Permits & Fees: Forest department permission charges and entry fees included.
Lead Support: Experienced Bharat Trotters Trek Lead and certified local forest guide.
Activities: Gangadikal Trek, Samse Tea Estate Visit, Belur Temple Visit, and Campfire (subject to weather).
Safety: Basic
Plan separately
Not included
Lunch on Day 2 (self-sponsored en route back to Bangalore).
Any extra food, mineral water, soft drinks, or snacks purchased individually.
Jeep ride fees if required due to road conditions (unless specified).
Any personal expenses, emergency evacuation costs, or insurance.
Anything not explicitly listed under the inclusions.
Before you go
Pickup & trip preparation
Meeting points
Pickup locations
108:30 PM: Indiranagar – Karachi Bakery
208:45 PM: Domlur – Skywalk / Union Bank
309:30 PM: Yeshwanthpur – Metro Station (Market Exit)
410:00 PM: Goraguntepalya – People Tree Hospital / Metro
Packing checklist
Things to carry
ID Proof: Original & soft copy of valid Government Photo ID (Mandatory).
Luggage: Small daypack (20–30L) for trek essentials and main travel bag.
Footwear: Trekking shoes with good grip + extra pair of socks & slippers.
Clothing: Comfortable light sportswear for trekking, 1-2 changes of clothing, and warm jacket/fleece for evening.
Hydration & Food: Reusable 2L water bottle, high-energy snacks (dry fruits, energy bars, ORS).
Rain Protection: Poncho, rain jacket, or waterproof cover for
Policy
Booking and cancellation
Terms & Conditions↬ Identity Verification: Carrying a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar/Passport/Voter ID) is mandatory for forest permit verification.
↬ Environmental Ethics: Bharat Trotters strictly adheres to "Leave No Trace" policies. Littering, plastic disposal on trails, or disturbing flora and fauna is strictly prohibited.
↬ Substance Policy: Consumption of alcohol, narcotics, or smoking during the trek and transit is strictly banned for participant safety.
↬ Itinerary Flexibility: The itinerary and route may be altered or modified due to weather conditions, landslides, forest department restrictions, or unforeseen safety concerns.
↬ Physical Fitness: Participants must ensure they possess basic physical fitness for walking 10–12 km over hilly terrain.
↬ Personal Belongings: Bharat Trotters is not responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to personal valuables or electronics during the trip.
Cancellation Policy↬ Cancellation 15 days or more before
departure: 90% refund or 100% voucher value for future Bharat Trotters trips.
↬ Cancellation 7 to 14 days before departure: 50% refund or 60% voucher value for future trips.
↬ Cancellation less than 7 days before departure: Non-refundable and non-transferable.
↬ Trip Cancellation by Bharat Trotters: In case of natural disasters, extreme weather, or government bans, participants will receive a full credit voucher valid for 1 year.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Gangadikal is an easy-to-moderate trek covering ~10–12 km round trip. Beginners with basic physical fitness can comfortably complete the trek with our guides.
It is approximately 320 km from Bangalore, taking around 7 to 8 hours of drive time.
We provide clean, cozy homestay/dormitory accommodation on a multi-sharing basis with separate arrangements for male and female trekkers.
Yes, all Karnataka Forest Department permission fees and guide charges are fully included in the Bharat Trotters package.
The best time is from September to February (post-monsoon to winter) when skies are clear, grasslands are vibrant green, and the weather is pleasantly cool.
Route
Location
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