Name: Chikmagalur
Rating: 4.2

Mullayanagiri, Chikmagalur Overview

Perched at an altitude of 1930 m above the sea level, Mullayanagiri peak is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range of Western Ghats and is just 45 minutes from Chikmagalur. It serves as the highest peak between the Nilgiris and the Himalayas offering its visitors a peaceful getaway with temperature ranging between 20 - 25 degrees Celsius. Known for its serene ambience and nature's raw beauty, this peak is adorned with verdant grassland, rugged rocks, and a good trek path is also quite popular among adventure lovers. Mullayanagiri is also known for coffee plantations that are situated nearby.

Mullayanagiri is best known as a hub for adventure enthusiasts, especially trekkers as this destination is adorned with perfect trek trails. The starting point of this 4 km trek is Sarpadhari which is a steep trail. One can also engage in other thrilling activities such as mountain biking and road biking. The place is perfect for those looking for solitude as well as visitors with an adventurous streak. Chikmagalur serves as the nearest town to Mullayanagiri peak. You can explore the small caves, which are located just below the peak. There is a temple of Lord Shiva on the hilltop. Standing atop the peak on a clear day, you can see the Western Ghats in their full-fledged glory.

Mullayanagiri Trek

Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Trek Duration: 8 hours one-way

Getting to Mullayangiri
In order to pursue this trek, you need to take prior permission from the Chikmagalur forest department which lies right next to the bus depot.

Starting the Trek
The starting point of the trek is known as Sarpadhari owing to its serpentine paths. The trail to Mullayanagiri begins at Sarpadhari bus stop, 15 kms from Chikamagalur. Interestingly, this trek has two peak point, the lower one is Mullayanagiri while the higher one is Bababudangiri which is the highest one in Karnataka. The trek up to Mullayanagiri is about 3 kilometres while the distance to Bababudangiri is about 10 kilometres.

Things You See on the Trek
A white arch just off the main road signifies the start of the trek. The ascent is steep, often at 60-degree inclines. About 20 minutes into the trail, Mullayanagiri comes into view, easily identifiable by the temple on the peak. The path continues to weave through hillsides and grasslands. The Sarpadhari stretch landmarks include a small stream, some caves and a Nandi statue.

About 3 kms into the trail, the vegetation grows denser and a Nandi statue in a rocky shelter among shrubs comes into view. The trail becomes less steep from here as one draws closer to the peak. In this stretch, there are a couple of caves that can be explored. Mullayanagiri lies at a short distance from here.

Mullayanagiri Homestays

You can book accommodation at Thotadhahalli Homestay, Thippanahalli Homestay, Thanmaya homestay, Red Berry HomeStay and The Last Resort, each of which has comfortable lodging facilities and delicious food to offer their patrons. Since Mullayanagiri is located near coffee plantations, you can also get your hands on some freshly brewed coffee.

Food Availability

Food is available at the Shiva Temple.
There are other small eateries on the way

Best Time To Visit Mullayanagiri

The best time to visit the peak is by the end of September until early March. The weather around the peak is mostly windy and misty making the whole trip including trek a wonderful experience. Just make sure to carry a light sweater and raincoat along with you.

Tips For Visiting Mullayanagiri

You can also trek from Bababudangiri to Mullayanagiri. You can reach the base of Bababudangiri from Kaiwara, and from the base, hire a jeep to reach the top of Bababudangiri. The trek from Bababudangiri to Mulayanagiri is a difficult one and you have to ensure that you reach the summit before 5 PM.

1. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for the prevailing weather.
2. Make sure you wear or take a pair of comfortable shoes with you in case you decide to trek.
3. Also, carry a light sweater and raincoat while trekking.
4. The path from Sarpadhari has a 60-degree incline and is quite steep. Be very careful when you trek here.
5. Mist is common here and reduces visibility to less than 10 metres.
6. Although a few small eateries are present at the peak, they are not very good. Carry your own water and light snacks.

How To Reach Mullayanagiri

The best way to reach the peak is via local taxi. You can also drive to the peak but make sure you have a trained hand as the roads have hairpin bends and both sides have traffic. The best time to drive to the destination is between 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM.