Lets face it - for most of us, the work "trek" conjures up images of the Himalays. The trek to Kheerganga, Triund, Bedni Bugyal are few excellent treks in the Himalayas. The WOW Club, the only women's travel club since 2005 has been actively conducting treks in the northern part of India for quite sometime.
But are you aware of the beautiful trekking trails in the Western Ghats in India? Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, this area offers beautiful views and stunning biodiversity.
Dudhsagar Trek on Karnataka Goa Border
This trek on the Karnataka-Goa border is one of the best treks for any adventure lover. Tucked away on the outskirts of Goa and Karnataka is Dudhsagar, one of the tallest waterfalls near Bangalore. Most of us have seen it in photos and movies, and have immediately desired to visit the place at least once. The waterfall rises from a great height and dives down to 310 m. This 14km or 8 hours trek takes one through dense and lush forests, craggy terrains and steep surfaces. On reaching the base of the waterfall, you will surely be rewarded with enchanting views of the cascading water that appears as white as milk and casts a spell on the visitors.
Best Season: July - December
Trek Length: 12 km - 14 km
Trek Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Goa
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Kottebeta Trek:
Located at an elevation of around 5400 ft, Kotebetta is the third highest peak in the Coorg region. Situated almost at 22 km from Madikeri, the trek starts from a small village Hattihole. The initial phase of the trek leads to stunning views with Hattihole River on one side and lush greenery on the other side of the trail.
Eventually the trek makes its way through coffee estates leading you to the forest. In the company of different species of endangered birds this trek offers the beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges. There is temple of Lord Shiva situated at the peak. After enjoying a beautiful sunset from these majestic ranges, you can also opt for camping under the starry sky as well.
Best Season: October - March
Trek Length: 10km (approx.)
Trek Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport:: Mangalore
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Kudremukh Chikmaglur
Want to set out for some weekend adventure? The trek to Kudremukh in Chikmagalur is the perfect option for you. Take a short break from the routine as you head out for this wonderful trek in Kudremukh. Trekking along this scenic route will lead you to the origins of the Bhadra, Nethravati and Tunga Rivers. The trail takes you through thick timberlands and tropical riverbeds with various degrees of adventure.
As you trek through this mesmerizing trail you can get views of rare orchids and just fall in love with the misty mountain air as you make your way through the field. The Kudremukh scope of mountains was proclaimed a national park in 1987. Also known as trekker’s paradise this region attracts a lot of tourists from around the world. The pristine beauty of this lovely place will definitely leave you awestruck.
Best Season: October to February
Trek length: Around 9 km.
Trek duration: 2 days
Nearest airport: Mangalore at a distance of 190 kms
Difficulty Level: Medium
Kodaikanal to Munnar:
This trek requires a long weekend considering you're probably travelling from Bangalore. The route that this trek follows, takes you through the villages which are part of the Nilgiri hills. The trek offers a view of the unique flora and fauna of the Nilgiris.
Along with this trek you can also explore the famous hill stations of Kodaikanal and Munnar. The route through the forest leaves you feeling wonderstruck. The beauty of the place matches the mystic beauty of the Upper Himalayas or the North Eastern region. The sound of the waterfall, the hidden lakes, the misty air are just enough to coax you to spend some more time in this slice of paradise.
Best Season: November to February
Trek length: Around 32km - 35km
Trek Duration: 5 days
Nearest Airport: Madurai at a distance of 120 kms
Difficulty Level: Easy
So keep your weekends and long weekends ready for these amazing treks down south!
