As you hike up the mountain trail to the third highest peak in Karnataka, lost in the surrounding rolling hills, nothing is more reviving than some locally grown coffee. Kudremukh is less explored, but that only has enhanced its divine beauty.
Kudremukh is located in the Chikamangaluru district of Karnataka. The word “Kudremukh” means “horse face”, and has been named after the profile created by the mountain. History also mentions the peak as ‘Samseparvata” as it is close to Samse.
The Kudremukh forests with its dense jungles and shola vegetation is home to some of the rarest species of Western Ghats, like the lion-tailed macaque, leapards, giant squirrels, barking deer and so on. It is also the home of many rare and beautiful orchids.
The hill station is also popular pilgrim center, with many sacred ponds located in the nearby areas. Naga theertha, Amba theertha, Varahatheertha, Vashishtatheertha and Rudra theertha are some of the attractions for pilgrims.
In the vicinity of the region lies the Horanduvillage, which boasts of a Adi-Shaktyamaka Shri Annapoorneshwari Temple. The temple is dedicated to Annapoorneshwari, represented by a pure gold statue within the temple.
The Hanuman Gundi waterfall is a serene destination with gushing water. The quiet and peace in the vicinity are a solace to many wayfarers. The trek up the Gangamoola is also a chance to witness the origin of three rivers, Tunga, Bhadra and Netravati. This site has been recognised as a world heritage by UNESCO.
The rolling coffee plantations abound in the place, and the coffee here is well received by many connoisseurs.
Kudremukh can be enjoyed at any time of the year, though the monsoon treks are a great experience. It is accessible by road and rail from Bangalore and Mangalore. And the closest airport is the one at Mangalore.
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