Gangadikal Peak Trek
karnataka
2D/1N
About this experience
There are days in our lives when we feel like we need a break. Think: a reset that allows us to centre ourselves and focus better on what matters.
For some people, a session at the gym or a movie night is enough, but if you are someone who likes to disconnect completely, then the Gangadikal trek from Bangalore would be a good choice for you.
Note:
Permits for Gangadikal Peak Trek are limited and issued by the forest department via Aranya Vihara.
We recommend booking 15 days in advance to secure your slot.
Our team handles the entire permit process for you.
Last-minute bookings are possible, subject to availability — reach out and we’ll do our best to get you in.
Trek with experienced trek leaders and others just like you (and some complete opposites) and get away from the loud sounds of the city. Allow yourself to be enveloped by cool breeze, lush green landscapes and the sounds of silence.
Spread over roughly 2 days, this trek will take you out of the crazy rush of the city to the calm and quiet of one of the highest peaks in Karnataka.
The one thing we at Plan The Unplanned can promise you – a trek of a lifetime and views that will inspire, excite and mesmerise!
Trek highlights
Sitting in an obscured, still untouched part of Kudremukh National Park, the trail that we call the Gangadikal peak trek is what trekkers dream of. Not only is this trek away from the crowd, but it also offers you everything you need from an escape:
• The moderately difficult trek takes you through valleys and mountains
• Witness the sparkling waters of the Lakya Dam
• Get a glimpse of the Kudremukh mountains, like never before
• Walk through canopies of trees and greenery, while enjoying the sounds of insects and birds
• Capture some memories at the Samse Tea Estate
• Stay at a quaint homestay and enjoy local meals, along with a campfire and some conversation
• If you are lucky enough, you could get a chance to dip your toes and more at secret waterfalls
When the days start to feel endless, book a trek with Plan The Unplanned – savour a moment of peace and reconnect with your heart and soul!
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Depart for Chikmagalur
Your journey to Chikmagalur begins at Bengaluru when you are lost in the star-studded sky, with the city lights fading in the background. With excitement in the air, we begin with a few ice-breaking sessions - the best way to get to know your fellow trekkers and unwind from the long weekday stress. As the night lingers on, it’s best to settle down and fall into a short slumber - allowing your bodies and minds to get that much needed rest. Enjoy the calm and relax as we arrive at our start point for an exhilarating adventure ahead.
Private VehicleMeals Not Included
2
Gangadikal Trek, Kudremukha Hanging Bridge
We start with a short walk into the forest - only 200 meters in, and you are under the canopy of trees where the sun plays with the leaves. It is silent, wet, and full of nature. There is always the danger of leeches following you during monsoons and thus a bit of precaution is important. The untouched beauty of this trail makes it worth it though.
As the wood thins out you are greeted by just a long stretch of grassland that just keeps going on and on, kind of like a Windows wallpaper in reality. Green waves of the landscape are illuminated by the sunlight and shaded by the clouds passing over. It is where one relaxes, takes a deep breath, and suddenly feels free.
This journey has its mood swings- and that is magical. Clouds taunt you with a glimpse of them and raindrops softly kiss your face and the rays of sun sneak out to shine just when you desire it. Monsoon simply takes the drama up to another level adding a little extra life to each step one takes.
The reward is there as you get to the top. The view up above is stunning with peeps of the Lakya dam backwaters and the faraway Kudremukh peak. We shall stop here a little - unfold, look all round, and eat our lunch by the panoramic view.
After we have descended we can afford a bit of adventure more. Depending upon the time available on the day, we will go to the Kudremukh hanging bridge where the view is perfect to click photographs and you can relax and enjoy the rest of the day.
When we arrive at the homestay, it’s time to relax. Shower, eat a hot meal and sit around a bonfire (as long as those skies are nice). It could be giggles based on board games or silent chats under the sky: the night is yours to spend before going up to bed. Thankful, exhausted and with a story to tell.
TrekTentsAll Meals
3
Visit Secret Falls and return to Bangalore
Begin your day with a refreshing morning in the hills—wake up, freshen up, and enjoy a simple yet energizing breakfast before setting out to explore the beauty around Gangadikal. The day starts with a visit to the scenic Samse Tea Estate, a quiet stretch of lush green plantations nestled in the Western Ghats. Known for its misty views and rolling landscapes, this estate reflects the region’s long-standing tea cultivation heritage introduced during the colonial era, making it a perfect spot to unwind, take a short walk, and capture some beautiful frames.
Next, head towards the hidden gem of Kodige Falls, an offbeat waterfall surrounded by dense forest cover. Far from the usual tourist crowd, this spot offers a raw and peaceful experience, especially during the monsoon and post-monsoon months when the waterfall is in full flow. The soothing sound of water and the greenery around make it an ideal place to slow down and soak in nature.
Take a break for a self-sponsored lunch at a local stop along the way. Food options here are basic and limited, but they add to the authentic charm of travelling through remote parts of Karnataka.
If time allows, conclude the day with a visit to the iconic Chennakesava Temple at Belur. Built in the 12th century by the Hoysala dynasty, this temple is celebrated for its intricate stone carvings, detailed sculptures, and unique star-shaped architecture, making it one of the finest examples of heritage sites near Chikmagalur.
As the trip winds down, begin your return journey to Bengaluru. Sit back and relax as you drive through winding ghat roads and scenic countryside, reaching the city by around 10 PM with memories of a day well spent amidst nature, history, and good company.
Private VehicleStay Not ApplicableBreakfast
What's included
Round-trip via non-AC tempo traveller or minibus (based on group size) with push-back seats
Cozy shared accommodation (homestay)
Separate zones for men and women
2× Breakfast • 1× Lunch • High Tea • 1× Dinner
Karnataka Forest Department entry fees
Waterfall permits
Round-trip jeep ride to base camp
Trained outdoor leader from Plan The Unplanned & a local guide
The overall experience that you gain during the trek
What's not included
Any meals beyond those listed
Any kind of personal expenses
Jeep ride to Kodige Falls
Any kind of insurance (health, medical, life and accidental)
Anything not expressly mentioned in the inclusions
Additional information
Duration:2D/1N
Meet your host
Plan The Unplanned
Experience Provider
What’s life without adventure? Isn’t the real purpose of life to travel, to experience new places, and witness the sunrise from new mountaintops?
This thought is what united Jatin and Tarun over a cup of chai, in spite of being from two unrelated backgrounds (CA and IT). They knew each other since the time Jatin was helping Tarun learn the ways of the wilderness through weekend treks and outings with another traveling group. Their love for traveling and trekking together motivated them to start something of their own. Thus was born “Plan The Unplanned”, where travel goals come true. Under the Companies Act, Plan The Unplanned is incorporated as Unplanned Journeys Private Limited
They started their journey on unsteady ground, much like any other company, but they shared an infatuation for travel and adventure with their customers, which amplified their determination, and thus, Plan the Unplanned family keeps getting bigger every day!
Just about any travel idea can come alive with Plan The Unplanned…treks, adventure activities like rock climbing, kayaking, rafting, backpacking trips across the country, cultural outings, photo walks; everything that fellow travelers need, to explore the great outdoors together.
Well now that the wanderlust has kicked in and you can already see a vacation in your nearest future, here’s what we have to offer!
₹4,299per person
Book with ₹500
Upcoming Dates
Free cancellation
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