Mullayangiri Peak- Highest Peak to trek in Karnataka

About Mullayangiri in Chikkamagaluru-

Mullayangiri is the highest peak in the state of Karnataka, with a height of 6317 ft. It is considered to be the highest peak that lies between the Himalayas and Nilgiris. It is also the best place to trek in Karnataka. Its peak got its name from a small temple that is built at the summit, dedicated to the sage Mullappa Swamy, who is believed to meditate in a small case that lies near the top of the peak. The peak is located in Chikkamagaluru district, 265 km from the city of Bengaluru.

Mullayangiri Peak is believed to be seated in the lap of nature, is a nature lover’s paradise, and is a must-visit spot located in South Karnataka. It’s lofty hills, religious places, mountain ranges, and beautiful and pleasant weather invites tourists all across the year. This place is blessed with unmatched beauty. Hordes of travelers trek and visit this hilltop, enjoy the view from the summit, and fulfill their adventurous desires. The mind-boggling beauty of this place also attracts travelers offering them the facility of mountain riding and road biking.

This beautiful peak has a very calming ambiance making tourists relish their experience. The jaw-dropping and gorgeous mountain cliffs that stand in the Western Ghats of this peak draw the attention of the people across as well as travelers. The rugged rocks, misty weather, and lush green fields add a great charm to this place.

The trek route here covers a distance of 3 km starting from Sarpadhari. The trail is quite steep with an inclination of 60 degrees; you can cover this distance within a period of 1.5 to 2 hrs. Trek experts are also available here that will help you trek upwards toward the summit, and will charge you almost INR 2000 for the complete tour of Mullayangiri Hills. You can also book a full-day trek to this place and enjoy the campaigning facilities along with flavorful lunch and dinner.

While you are moving upwards on this route, you will come across a small stream, a Nandi statue, and a cave with a small water source. Visiting this place early morning is the most splendid occasion to view the most alluring and exquisite sunrise along with the stunning views of the Western Ghats and Mullayangiri.

This place has almost no connectivity due to its high peak, but you can genuinely enjoy being one with nature, giving you to pack a bag of memories along with breathtaking views all along.

Why visit Mullayangiri?

• Easy Access-

Without involving extensive trekking, you can easily reach Mullayangiri by road. A very small hike involving 500 steps only starting from the parking lot and reaching up to the Mullayangiri peak can be very innovative and refreshing. Not only this it also offers a captivating view of the Western Ghats, sunset, and frosty breeze. Trekking to the peak is very convenient. From the starting point of the trek there is a stop where you can park your vehicles. You can also drive up to to the spot from where you can start with the 500 steps.

• Mullayangiri Temple-

The top peak of Mullayangiri Hill houses a small temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that there is a cave placed right below this temple and is 900 years old. A passage through a cave leads from this Shiva Temple to another Temple known as the Seethalayyanagiri Temple but it is believed that the cave is now closed. Religious Puja is conducted in this Shiva Temple that opens at 7 AM and closes by 7 PM daily. The name of this temple is Mullappa Swami Temple. Once you finish with your climb up to this peak and have visited the temple as well, don’t forget to sit in this temple peacefully and experience the ultimate joy. Sitting on the cold floor will soothe your mind and make you feel calm and tranquil that you would not want to go back and leave this place.

Location of Mullayangiri–

Mullayangiri is located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka state. Also, it is a part of Chandra Dhrona hill located in the Western Ghats and is around 35 km or more to say approximately 1.5 hrs from Chikkamagaluru via Bababudan Giri road.

Best time to visit Mullayangiri-

September to May is the best time to visit this place with temperatures ranging from 15 to 32 degrees Celsius and indulge in some good trekking. Summers can be very aggravating and heavy monsoons can blur your view. That is why the winter season is the most appropriate to visit this place when you can have a good time.

Things to Carry while going to Mullayangiri-

• You must carry your water bottle and ample knick-knacks while you trek up to the peak. There are no stores or shops while you move up. However, if you are lucky you might see a few stops to shop near the Shiva Temple.
• Wear comfortable clothes while you trek up this place so make yourself feel light and also wear sports shoes.
• Carry a first-aid handy kit all through the way for any emergency.
• Due to the high altitude, you may feel a sudden change in the weather conditions, in that case carrying a raincoat, light sweater, and sunglasses can be of great help.

Trek Tip-

You must keep sipping some water throughout your trek up to the hilltop. Avoid getting your throat getting perched and keep your throat hydrated. Also, take the support of a stick while climbing up if you face any trouble climbing up.

Entry Fee and Timings to reach Mullayangiri-

Visiting this place does not involve any entry feel it is free.  Jeep drivers are available here to take you to the destination. Charges may differ so you need to fix a price for your one-way or both-sided journey. Also, the best time to climb up to this peak is during the day to avoid any sort of mishap.