Top 8 Treks in the Western Ghats

One comes from the earth and ultimately goes back into it, but coming to these cities to reach the summit of one’s life, one forgets the importance of blending into the mother nature again.
So to find your solace in the shades of green, these treks in the western ghats can bring you your answers. Compared to the mighty Himalayas these are smaller mountains but let that fact not fool you because they are as beautiful as they can be. Especially during the monsoons, these lush green hills come to life and bring you the peace after a hell lot of an adventure! So, these are our top 8 recommended treks in the western ghats that are a must in the bucket list.

1. Ratnagad Fort

Follow in the footsteps of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, literally, when you make the 5 hour climb to reach this 400 year old fort. Located in the Ratanwadi district in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, this hill fort is indeed jewel in all the hill forts in Sahyadri. Visit during late monsoons to witness the beautiful Firefly Festival Season and feel like you live among the stars.

2. Mahuli

Need to escape the Mumbai chaos for a short while? Mahuli, situated only 75 km from Mumbai, is your answer. A slightly challenging trek due to rocky steep slopes in certain areas, makes all the effort worthwhile with the gorgeous view of the three famous pinnacle- Navara, Navri and Bhatoba.

3. Rajmachi

Located near Lonavla, this fort trek is a delight for both history and nature enthusiasts. Trekking during the monsoons, while tricky, allows you to witness many waterfalls and beautiful fireflies at night. The fort with its secret gateways and vast ramparts only makes this trek grander.

4. Bhimshankar

Located at the heart of the Bhimshankar Wildlife sanctuary, about 127kms from Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra, this trek is a delight for adventurers with its stream crossings, ladders and rock climbing. The highlight of this trek is the opportunity to come across various wild animals and beautiful birds. Many follow the trail to Gupt Bhimshankar, a temple in the middle of a stream beneath a rock.

5. Kalsubai

Credits: Treks and Traills India

The Kalsubai summit at 5400ft elevation is the highest peak in Maharashtra making this trek extremely popular. The summit allows for a panoramic view of several mountain ranges like Ratangad, Kulang, Harishchandragad and others. Also, popular is the Kalsubai temple and the attached folklore to the place, making this one of the most beautiful and interesting treks.

6. Bandajje Arbi

Credits: Thrillophilia

Dense rain forests, endless grasslands, clear streams and waterfalls, Bandajje Arabi trek has all for you. Located in the Charmadi Ghat section, Western Ghats, Dakshina Kannada district about 305kms from Bangalore, Bandaje Arbi Falls is among the picturesque ones in the Charmadi Ranges of Western Ghats. Cascading from a height of 200ft, the surroundings of this waterfall offers enthralling trekking routes.

7. Kudremukh

Credits: Trichy trekkers

Kudremukh National Park

The Kudremukh peak trek can easily be described as one of the most beautiful treks in the Western Ghats. Kudremukh peak lies in the Kudremukh National Park, which is about a 21 km trek in Chikmagalur district in Western Ghats of Karnataka. Besides being a home to several species of flora and fauna it is also one of the important areas for minings as Iron Ore can be found there.

8. Mullayanagiri Chikmagalur

Mullayanagiri, the highest peak Karnataka with its breath-taking scenery, waterfalls, and the misty winds make for a beautiful trekking experience and best monsoon treks. The trek path, Sarpadhari, which starts from Chikamagalur is slippery leading to the black cliffs of Mullayanagiri. Bababudangiri’s steep cliffs on your trail down is a challenge too, so a due caution or expert help is advised.

There you go! If you stay along the western ghats, head out with your friends enjoy the lovely monsoons with the hills. If you are in another part of the country and want to go on these treks next year then book your trip now on EMI with Mihuru Splitfare and save upto 40% of your travel costs!