Best beginner Western Ghats trek!!!
Ya that’s right, The perfect one day trek to uncover the paradise on Earth the western Ghats.
The Ballalarayana durga and Bandaje arbi trek is the answer to all your questions for a perfect trek…
Well why take my word, lets see what it has to offer,
- Jaw dropping views of mighty mountains — checked
- Never ending greenery as far as the eyes could see — right from the start
- A rejuvenating splash of pristine streams — yep its all yours
- A touch of history and heritage the Ballalarayana durga fort —unique only to this trek
- Finally the crown jewel the mighty bandaje falls — view of the life time
- All the above and the icing on the cake even first timers can take on without a second thought(If you are a avid trekker then you are in for a treat)
Well its a no brainier that this should be your next weekend getaway for the above reasons alone
I know by now you have packed your gear and ready for the adventure
Well what can make already a good trek the best trek its obvious a better plan what else…
If you are starting from Bengaluru start one day before and reach the base of the trek Durgadahalli kalabhairaveshwara temple it is nearly 6 hour journey especially the route becomes scenic after Mudigere
Protip: Try starting Friday Morning as there are lot’s of destinations enroute which are to be witnessed in the day light.
There are plenty of stay options in the vicinity of the base camp stay and food should not be an issue, but make sure you manage to get proper lunch on the trek day.
Protip: You can pitch tent near Durgadahalli kalabhairaveshwara temple but when we were there it was prohibited due to some issue so better stay at a local homestay its also a rejoicing experience.
Also the camping is officially prohibited so plan your trek accordingly
Well you can enjoy planning your own trek itinerary but if you want a rough plan here it is,
· Reach a homestay in Sunkasale or durgadahalli or Mudigere by Friday night or evening and have a proper sleep — end of day 1
· Have a decent breakfast and carry sufficient lunch for afternoon start your trek as early as 8:00 am
· You will reach Ballalarayana durga fort by 9:30 or 10:00am enjoy the views and start your journey towards Bandaje falls
· The trek towards bandaje falls is fairly easy with 360 degree views of meadows, except you will have no cover from the sun do carry sun protection gear
· You will reach mouth of bandaje falls by 12 noon enjoy your moment there and have packed lunch take a refreshing dip in crystal clear waters near the falls.
· Start your descent by around 2pm, the starting 45 min to 1 hour of the descent is arguably the hardest part of the trek so be prepared.
· After the hard part take a break enjoy the surrounding views and start a slow and relaxing downward journey.
· You will reach base camp by 4 or 5pm enjoy a relaxing sunset at Rani jhari view point — end of day 2
· Next morning try visiting few among tens of waterfalls in this region and spend some quality time here its worth every penny.
Protip: Try to check with locals they guide you to many hidden waterfalls the ones free from tourists and huge crowds to make your visit even more relishing
Also do take a local guide for any off beat adventure trust me they are life savers also respect their wisdom
That’s it folks your perfect weekend getaway is perfectly brewed enjoy every sip of the time you spent here on your way back to mundane Mondays
Protip: On the way to Bengaluru try visiting the local dhabas they serve you some lip-smacking local recipes like Akki rotti and unique curries trust me you will love it
I can already see you geared up and ready to hit the road,
Do share your views and comment your experience of the trek if you have been here and give a clap or two for spirit of trekking and more perfect getaway treks
One last thing do not litter and be a responsible trekker that’s the least you can do thank nature for all it’s awesomeness
