Name: Kemmanagundi
Rating: 3.5

Z Point

Z Point, Kemmanagundi Overview

Nestled in Kemmangundi and offering exquisite views of the Western Ghats, Z Point is a vantage point which can be reached after undertaking a thrilling trek, thereby making it a must-visit place for all the adventure lovers out there. On the trek which is quite challenging, one also comes to beautiful surroundings and lush green valleys. Comprising of some of the deepest ravines, the trek to reach the Z Point is likely to offer you some of the best views of Kemmangundi. Listed amongst the most picturesque places to visit in Chikmagalur, Z Point is a magnificent sunrise and sunset point.

The place leaves you mesmerized with a feeling that nature picked up a paintbrush and sent you an invitation. Situated at an elevation of 1500 meters above sea level, the serene ambience of the place combined with the exciting trek and the wonderful views around makes it worth visiting. This trekking trail of 3 km begins from Kemmanagundi Raj Bhavan and into the thick forest from which you will come across Shanti Waterfalls. Till Shanti Hills, the trek is easy, but after that, it gets a little tough. In the later part of the trek, you are likely to be on a narrow path surrounded by deep valleys and steep hills. This route, though a little difficult, offers exhilarating views of the mountains of Kemmanagundi along with some extensive grasslands which give a distinct setting to the slopes.

The Z Point trekking trail of 3 km begins from Kemmanagundi Raj Bhavan. Since the path is narrow to the extent that only one person can walk on it, you cannot take your bikes along. The first landmark you will come across after you begin with the hike is a small waterfall which you will need to cross to continue the trek. After you pass this, the trek will become narrower and will remain that way for the rest of the trail. This trail has a steep valley on one side along with a vast mountain leaning over you from the other side. You will be at a significant height with no railings and fences for support so looking down into the valley can make you feel dizzy. Although there are dangers on this trek, the views which you experience throughout are worth it.

After continuing on it for 40 minutes, you will reach some flat ground where you will be able to see the height you are at. From here, you can also see the off-road trail which the jeep takes to take you to the hiking point of Hebe if you have ever been to Hebe Falls. After you continue on this flat ground for the next 10 minutes, you will reach the Z Point. After you arrive here, you will realise that the name given to these hills is very apt. You begin from the very first hill named A and then cross them and reach the last one called Z. The views you come across after such a daring hike are rewarding. You can click lots of pictures here and then hike back to your bike which can be reached by taking the same way you took to reach the Z Point.

Take extreme caution while heading back from the Z Point. Since there will be hikers on their way, crossing them on the trail will be dangerous and should be done with a lot of care. The steep valley on the side will remind you to take care all along.