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Region: | Karnataka |
Duration: | 1 Day |
Trek grade: | Easy |
Maximum altitude: | 4101 ft |
Best Time to Visit: | November to February |
Balekallu Peak is among the most awe-inspiring Balekallu Peak is one of the highest peaks within Charmadi and is located about 15km from Charmadi. Kodekallu is located close to Balekallu. “Kode” means umbrella in Kannada and the hill earned its name due to an umbrella-shaped rock at its top. Over 30 people are able to get shelter beneath this rock.
There are numerous trails through these hills. The two most popular ones are those from the Charmadi bus stop, and also starting from Bidruthala village.
Charmadi is located about 350 kilometers away from Bangalore. To get to Charmadi you need to take the bus to Dharmasthala. From there, catch the local bus to Charmadi. It is also possible to catch an express shuttle bus from Ujire and then take a bus to Charmadi. You will arrive at the Charmadi Hotel bus stop. From there, you can take an express bus to the summit that is about 20km away. At the top is an ancient temple. In front of the temple is an Jeep track. It is the beginning point of the hike.
Get on a bus heading towards Dharmasthala. From there, you can catch an express coach that will take you to Kottigehara village. After that, take an auto/Jeep and go up to Bidruthala village. There are buses that are local as well however they are not frequent.
A further 30 minutes later, you’ll see another 30 minutes later, you can spot the Charmadi Ghat road that runs from to the Kodekallu peak. There aren’t any vehicles on this road. It is therefore recommended to reserve a cab or Jeep and request them to bring you back from here.
As you enter Bidruthala village, you’ll be able to be able to see Bidruthala hill. Bidruthala hill. There are a few of thatched homes. You can take a detour in the village toward Bidruthala hill. The path traverses through the forest. In about 30 minutes you will reach the summit. When you reach the top you will see open grasslands. There are many summits such as Jenukallu, Balekallu, Minchukallu which you can hike.
The hike is straightforward and has a broad path. It is a mix of vast forest areas and grasslands. While hiking it, you’ll first arrive at Jenukallu Gudda and then Balekallu hill that is higher than other mountains. From there, the path to Kodekallu is the same as the that described in the previous route.
Tents are available on either Balekallu Kodekallu or gudda. However, camping should be avoided because these paths are frequented bisons, elephants and other animals.
It is recommended to hike the area between November to February. The hills in summer are not green. Ballalarayana Durga Fort is another trek nearby that you can take from the area. Another location you could visit can be the Alekkan waterfalls. It is located on the way to Charmadi towards Kottigehara.