Embark on an unforgettable weekend getaway into the heart of Karnataka’s Western Ghats with the Merthi Gudda Trek organized by Bharat Trotters. Standing tall at an elevation of 5,499 feet in the Chikkamagaluru district, Merthi Gudda is a pristine, offbeat trail surrounded by lush green valleys, rolling tea estates, and historical remnants. Perfect for monsoon chasers, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers, this 10 km trek offers a pristine escape away from city life.
Discover ancient fort ruins at the summit, explore the famous Samse Tea Estate, and witness the architectural beauty of Belur Temple on your way back. With comfortable homestay accommodation, campfire evenings, authentic local meals, and seamless round-trip transport from Bangalore, Bharat Trotters ensures a safe, well-guided, and thrilling adventure into the wild.
Quick overview
Trip essentials
Tour TypeTwo Day Hike
LocationChikkamagaluru, Karnataka
Difficultymoderate
Distance10 km
Highlights
What makes this trip special
Conquer Merthi Gudda Peak: Trek to a height of 5,499 Ft through dense Western Ghats vegetation, hidden caves, and misty ridges.
Panoramas & Ancient Forts: Explore historical ruins atop the summit while enjoying panoramic views of Chikkamagaluru’s landscape.
Samse Tea Estate Visit: Walk through lush green tea plantations and experience the serene beauty of Samse.
Heritage at Belur Temple: Visit the iconic Chennakeshava Temple at Belur on the return trip to marvel at exquisite Hoysala architecture.
Cozy Homestay & Campfire: Unwind at night with a warming campfire, starlit conversations, and local homestay hospitality.
Please note
Important notes
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (10 km total distance). Basic physical fitness is recommended.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Bharat Trotters operates on a strict Leave No Trace policy. Littering, plastic disposal, or damaging flora and fauna will incur heavy fines.
Network Availability: Mobile connectivity (B touch points) will be limited or non-existent once you enter the trek trail.
Weather Preparedness: Monsoon season brings heavy rain and leeches. Carry proper rain gear and salt/antiseptic cream.
Plan
Itinerary
11 steps
01
07:00 PM – 08:30 PM
Day 0: Overnight Journey from Bangalore
Board our comfortable vehicle from your designated pick-up location in Bangalore. Meet your fellow Bharat Trotters adventurers and trek coordinators as we head towards Chikkamagaluru.
02
06:30 AM – 08:30 AM
Day 1: Homestay Arrival & Refreshment
Reach our scenic homestay in Chikkamagaluru. Freshen up, enjoy an authentic hot South Indian breakfast, receive your packed lunch, and prepare for the trek.
03
09:00 AM – 09:30 AM
Trek Briefing & Commencement
Arrive at the Merthi Gudda base point. Listen to a brief orientation by your Bharat Trotters Trek Captain, complete gear checks, and start ascending the trail.
04
09:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Ascent to Merthi Gudda Peak
Trek through dense Western Ghats greenery, misty mountain paths, and rolling hills while experiencing the raw biodiversity of the region.
05
12:30 PM – 01:30 PM
Reach Summit & Packed Lunch
Conquer the 5,499 ft summit! Relax, capture breathtaking photos of the valley, explore ancient fortress ruins, and enjoy a delicious packed lunch at the top.
06
01:30 PM – 05:30 PM
Descent & Evening Tea
Begin the downhill trek back to the base point. Transfer back to the homestay to unwind with hot tea, evening snacks, and rest.
07
08:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Campfire & Group Dinner
Gather around a warm campfire (weather permitting), share trek stories with fellow travelers, and enjoy a freshly cooked local dinner.
08
07:30 AM – 09:30 AM
Day 2: Morning Refreshment & Checkout
Wake up to crisp mountain air, enjoy breakfast, pack your luggage, and check out from the homestay.
09
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Visit Samse Tea Estate
Arrive at the verdant Samse Tea Estate. Take a peaceful walk through the tea gardens and capture stunning group photographs.
10
12:30 PM – 02:00 PM
Belur Temple Heritage Tour
Visit the historic Chennakeshava Temple in Belur. Marvel at the world-renowned Hoysala architecture and intricate stone carvings.
11
02:30 PM – 09:30 PM
En-Route Lunch & Return to Bangalore
Stop for a self-sponsored lunch at a highway restaurant and relax on the drive back, arriving in Bangalore 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: AC / Non-AC Tempo Traveller or Bus for round-trip travel from Bangalore.
Accommodation: 1 Night stay in a local homestay (Dormitory style, separate for men and women).
Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Packed Lunch (Day 1), 1 Dinner (Day 1), and evening tea with snacks.
Permissions: Forest department entry fees and permit charges.
Guided Support: Experienced Bharat Trotters Trek Captain and local guide.
Lunch on Day 2 (Self-sponsored during return journey).
Personal expenses such as mineral water, soft drinks, snacks, or tips.
Any emergency evacuation, medical costs, or personal insurance.
Anything not explicitly mentioned under the inclusions list.
Before you go
Pickup & trip preparation
Meeting points
Pickup locations
1Majestic: In front of Shanthala Silks & Sarees – 07:00 PM
2Rajajinagar: Opposite Sagar Hotel Bus Stand, Navrang Theatre – 07:30 PM
3Yeshwanthpur: Metro Station (towards Tumkur road) – 08:00 PM
4Gorguntepalya: People Tree Hospital Junction – 08:15 PM
Packing checklist
Things to carry
Backpack: 20-30L lightweight daypack with waterproof rain cover.
Footwear: Trekking shoes with strong grip + 1 pair of comfortable slip-ons/sandals.
Clothing: Quick-dry synthetic clothes (2 pairs), warm layer/jacket for the night, and rain poncho or raincoat.
Hydration & Snacks: Reusable 2-liter water bottle, energy bars, dry fruits, and electoral/ORS powders.
Personal Hygiene: Towel, mini toilet kit, wet wipes, and mosquito/leech repellent cream.
Protective Gear: Sun cap, sunglasses,
Policy
Booking and cancellation
Terms & Conditions↬ Valid Identification: All participants must carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License) at the time of boarding.
↬ Health Declaration: Participants must be physically fit to complete a 10 km moderate-grade hike. Any pre-existing medical conditions must be declared prior to the journey.
↬ Behavior & Safety: Possession or consumption of alcohol, drugs, or illegal substances is strictly prohibited during the trek and transit.
↬ Itinerary Changes: Bharat Trotters reserves the right to alter the schedule, route, or itinerary due to adverse weather conditions, landslides, or government/forest department regulations.
↬ Loss of Belongings: Bharat Trotters is not responsible for the loss or damage of personal belongings, cash, electronics, or valuables during the tour.
↬ Room Sharing: Accommodation is provided in a authentic local homestay on a shared dormitory basis with separate facilities for men and women.
Cancellation Policy↬ More than 48 Hours Before Departure: 100% refund after deducting a 10% administrative/processing fee.
↬ 48 Hours or Less Before Departure / Departure Day: No refund or credit voucher will be provided.
↬ No-Show / Event Day Cancellation: 100% cancellation charges apply regardless of the reason or late arrival at pickup points.
↬ Unforeseen Closures: If the trek is canceled by local authorities or forest officials due to natural calamities or weather alerts, a credit voucher valid for future trips with Bharat Trotters will be issued.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Ans: The trek is rated Moderate. It involves an ascending 10 km round trip with elevation gain, making it suitable for beginners with basic fitness levels as well as experienced trekkers.
Ans: Merthi Gudda is located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, approximately 340 km from Bangalore.
Ans: The best time to visit is from June to February. The monsoon months (June-September) bring vibrant greenery and fog, while post-monsoon offers clear mountain skies and pleasant trekking weather.
Ans: Yes, forest department permits are mandatory. All permission charges and trek entry fees are included in your Bharat Trotters booking package.
Ans: Absolutely. Bharat Trotters ensures maximum safety with experienced trip captains, local guides, verified homestays, and separate dormitory arrangements for men and women. Solo female travelers join our batches regularly.
Ans: Yes, the package covers 2 Breakfasts, 1 Packed Lunch for the trek, 1 Dinner at the homestay, and evening tea with snacks. Only 1 lunch on Day 2 is self-sponsored.
Route
Location
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