Thirumaleguppi

Summary

Mulayangiri is supposedly the tallest peak between the Western Ghats and the Himalayas, it is also the tallest peak in Karnataka. The trek up to the summit begins at a place called “Sarpadari” that is 15kms away from Chikmagalur (the famous coffee plantation town of Karnataka).

It is a part of the Baba Budan ranges that streak across this area. The rugged Mulayangiri-Kemmangundi trek starts as a steep stream laced path from the Muthodi reserve forest leading up to Seethalayanagiri, a hill temple - interesting laterite caves are found here. Further up is the Mulayanagiri peak standing tall at 6,300 ft.

Once you reach Mullayanagiri, you can stay at the Shiva temple at the top. You can get lunch/dinner from the temple pujari. Next day you can start for budangiri which may take 5-8 hrs depending on your group speed. Once at Bababudangiri you have various stalls serving awfully bad food.

The trek from Mullayanagiri temple to Bababudanagiri shrine can be pretty exhausting– it is around 16 km, and passes through no defined trail. You get some amazing views of the hills and valleys. You will almost never lose the way– keep moving towards the big telecommunication tower. But do remember to carry enough water with you– there is NO water source on the way.

Things To Carry

• A strong Back-Pack (preferably water proof).
• Water bottle (enough to carry at least 2 liters of water).
• An extra pair of socks, under garments, T-Shirt.
• A water-proof jacket/sweater (if it begins to rain).
• Bandanna ( keeps the sweat out of the eyes ) and/or Wide brimmed hat.
• Toothbrush & toothpaste, towel, liquid soap.
• Few old news papers ( may be 4 would be fine).
• A torch with two new batteries and extra bulb.
• Some strong adhesive tape and/or A small role of strong string.
• A small pocket knife ( if you have a Victorinox -SWISS ARMY knife then great..).
• One matchbox/ lighter.
• Some tissue/toilet paper.
• Insect repellant (ex. Odomos).
• Basic First Aid & Medicine -
• Anti-Dysentery Pills (Eldoper)
• Some generic pills (Crocin, Imol, etc)
• Anti Cold preparation (COLDACT).
• Band aids.
• Gauze roll & antiseptic lotion.
• Energy Food ( Chocolate bars, Flavored milk, Electrolyte drinks - Glucon-D, etc ).
• Garbage bag to collect any litter we may create (or other people have created).

Location info

• Distances:From Bangalore 260+ km,From Chikamagalur 15+ km

• Camping Sites: At the Temple at the peak the camp can be set.

• Trek Length: One day or Two day

Best time to visit

Winter, when it is chilling.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. Booking ahead during Dasara (Mysore) and peak winter season is recommended.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

Helpline & emergency contacts

Tourist Helpline: 1364 (toll-free, 24×7). Police: 112 (all-India emergency). Ambulance: 108. Women’s Helpline: 1091. Karnataka Police Tourist Helpline: 112.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

How to reach Thirumaleguppi

Thirumaleguppi is accessible from the nearest town via road. The trek starting point is typically 30-60 minutes from the nearest town by local transport. Karnataka is well-connected by air (Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore, Mangalore International Airport, Hubli Airport), rail (extensive network with major junctions at Bangalore, Mysore, Hubli, Mangalore), and road (NH 44, NH 48, NH 75, NH 66). State buses (KSRTC) and private operators connect all towns regularly.

Timings & opening hours

Start trek early morning, ideally by 6:00-7:00 AM. Treks typically take 3-6 hours depending on route and fitness level. Descend before dark (by 5:00-6:00 PM). Night trekking requires guide and permits.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee of INR 20-100 per person for forest areas. Some treks in wildlife sanctuaries or national parks require permit fees of INR 200-500. Guide fees (mandatory for certain forest treks): INR 500-1500 per group.

Duration needed

Half day (3-5 hours) for moderate treks. Full day (6-8 hours) for challenging treks. Overnight camping treks are available at select locations.

Safety tips

Never trek alone — always go with a group or guide. Carry sufficient water (3-4 litres per person). Inform someone about your trek plan and expected return time. Mobile network is unavailable in many forest areas. Watch for wildlife (elephants, gaur, leopards) in forest areas. Avoid trekking during heavy rain.

Nearby visiting places

Other trekking peaks, waterfalls, valleys, viewpoints, wildlife sanctuaries, coffee estates, and pilgrimage sites in the surrounding forest area.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station in the district headquarters town. Nearest airport: typically Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore or Mangalore International Airport. Local buses and taxis connect to the trek base point.

History of Thirumaleguppi

Thirumaleguppi is a popular trekking destination in Karnataka, located in the Western Ghats mountain range. The Western Ghats are one of the world’s eight hottest biodiversity hotspots and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with forests that are millions of years old. Karnataka’s trekking trails range from gentle hills to challenging peaks reaching 1,800+ metres, offering trekkers a chance to experience pristine tropical forests, waterfalls, and panoramic views.

Things to do at Thirumaleguppi

Trekking through forest trails, reaching summit viewpoints for panoramic vistas, birdwatching and wildlife spotting, photography, camping overnight at designated sites, and stream/river crossings during the trek.

Things to visit & highlights

Summit viewpoints, dense forests, mountain streams and waterfalls, rock formations, valley views, coffee and spice plantations at the foothills, and biodiversity hotspots along the trail.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How difficult is the trek at Thirumaleguppi? A: Difficulty varies from easy to moderate. Check locally for current trail conditions. Q: Do I need a guide? A: A guide is recommended for first-time visitors and mandatory for certain forest treks. Q: What fitness level is required? A: Moderate fitness is sufficient for most treks. Regular walking exercise helps prepare.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Trekking

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.