The southern peninsula of the Indian subcontinent has the western and the Eastern Ghats which are the thick tropical forest region that has numerous trek locations that are scintillating and captivating. I would like to share my experiences just to try trigger the passion of trekking among the youth.
My experiences are so varied due to 2 factors,
a) As one grows old, the perception/viewpoint about the wilderness changes too.b) More often one goes into the wild, the fabulous wild keeps unfolding and revealing more.
In the early stages of my trekking (maybe around 15 yrs of age is when I actively started trekking) I used to go through a thrill of adventure and pack my brain with info that I would boast with my friends. At the later part of my life (48 yrs of age) I find absolute bliss in the midst of the wilderness, immersing myself in the tranquility of philosophical side of life.
I often feel that I am so trivial in this complex and beautiful creation of God, especially when I see the vastness and perfection of his creation. I believe that there is more of life in the wilderness than at human settlements. I have tried to portray a few enchanting locations in Karnataka in my own vision. Hope it would help you in waking up the passion of trekking in you as well.
1. Brahmagiri Trek : Brahmagiri is a mountain range in the western Ghats of southern India. It is located along the Mysore-Kannur State-highway, and is located 110 kms from Mysore, and 70 kms from Madikeri. Iruppu Falls, a nice & serene water fall is 5 km from Srimangala or 13 km from Kutta.
Brahmagiri is an unique and unspoilt climax eco-system of exceptional scenic beauty, comparable to the alpine meadows of the Himalayas. This is an important Bio-diversity hotspot as well. A trek through Brahmagiri elevates the soul, and instills respect for nature while constituting an unforgettable lifetime experience. During the trek, one can also view several wildlife species, including the rare lion-tailed macaque.
The forest department have established 8 trekking trails in Brahmagiri sanctuary to satisfy a variety of preferences. Some of the trails are day-treks, while others involve camping in the jungle. There is the Narimalai Forest Rest House which forms the center-piece of most trekking routes. Sleeping is on the floor. There is no electricity in the FRH, but a perennial stream nearby meets the water requirement.
The tall wild grass is here is a haven for the elephants. We can see herds of elephants merrily grazing in the fields and slopes of Brahmagiri. I could spot several wild buffalo's skull and skeletal remains which indicated that the presence of Tigers. The variety of birds in this region is wide and the enjoyment I had seeing these beautiful small birds, the sweet and melodious chirps are inexplicable and etched hard in my memories. We camped atop the Brahmagiri with a campfire and guard in turns. The feeling of being in the mid of the forest and in the middle of the night is an experience that is possible if we are truly blessed indeed. The countless stars you can see in the smokeless wild environment and the scary howling of the wolves at the dark is priceless.
How to reach : By Road on the Mysore-Kannur State-highway. From Bangalore – 300 Kms, From Mysore - 110 kms, From Madikeri - 70 kms
IMPORTANT : Need to obtain a permit (over the desk, no reservation required) from the Range officer at Kutta or Nadagani villages which are the start points for trek to Brahmagiri.
A forest guard will accompany in case of overnight camping in the woods. The trek from Kutta village is about 3-4 hrs duration with breath-taking view of the blue mountain range.
Tips : Carry enough water for consumption as you don't find any stream during summer and dry seasons. The trek is easy to moderate in nature.
