Gangadikal Betta

Kudremukh National Park is usually a two-peak conversation - the main summit and Kurinjal beside it - so Gangadikal tends to get left off the list, which is exactly what makes it worth doing. The climb has the same shola-to-grassland character as its more famous neighbours, minus most of the footfall. It's a good pick if you've already done the well-known routes nearby and want the same landscape with more of it to yourself.

The trail climbs from the forest checkpost through shola forest before opening into rolling grassland for the final stretch to the ridge, gaining most of its height gradually rather than in one hard push. Forest access, route availability and permits are governed by the Karnataka Forest Department's Aranya Vihaara system, with a cut-off arrival time at the checkpost - always confirm current status and timings before planning a date.

• A quieter ridge inside Kudremukh National Park, away from the two better-known summit trails
• Shola forest opening into rolling grassland as the trail climbs
• Views toward Kurinjal and the Lakya Dam backwaters on a clear day

Fitness level required: moderate. Group size runs 6–14 people. Age range: 12–55 years.

• Trekking shoes with ankle support
• Rain cover / poncho
• 2L water capacity
• Headlamp (for an early start or delayed return)

• Trek leader carries a first-aid kit and satellite communication where network is unavailable
• Group pace is set by the slowest member, not the fastest
• Weather-based rescheduling takes priority over the itinerary
• Mobile network is patchy to unavailable beyond the checkpost

Gangadikal lies inside Kudremukh National Park and requires a Karnataka Forest Department permit, booked in advance through the official Aranya Vihaara portal. A certified nature guide is mandatory, a daily cap on trekker numbers applies, and trekkers must reach the forest checkpost before a set cut-off time each morning - always confirm current access rules and timings before booking.

A ₹1,000 Booking Advance secures your booking request. Final confirmation is issued only after operational and permit verification. The advance is non-refundable and non-transferable, as it blocks your spot in the group.

If we cancel a trek due to weather, safety, or forest department restrictions, you get a full refund or a free reschedule.

Also spelled 'Gangadikallu' or referred to as Gangadikal Peak - same location. A certified nature guide is mandatory on this route per current Forest Department requirements.