This trip is quite famous among the Southern Indian trekking community. Tadiandamol Trek is one of the most popular treks in the Western Ghats among both first-time and seasoned hikers. Many people walk to see the famed hill town of Madikeri or Tadiandamol trek Coorg.
Tadiandamol Trek
The walk leads you to the highest mountain in the Kodagu district and the third-highest peak in Karnataka. Tadiandamol is a Western Ghats walk in the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary in the Bhagamandala Range Forest.
Trekking here will take you through dense shola woods with stream crossings and a blanket of lush meadows. In addition, the excitement of reaching the summit of Tadiandamol and walking between the clouds is something one must experience.
On your way back, you may stop by a historic palace used by Coorg monarchs at the base of the hill.
Even if you’re a seasoned trekker, the trek will test your endurance. This hike is suitable for fit beginners. However, review the advice and extensive information to prepare for your expedition correctly.
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Tadiandamol Trek Coorg Information:
Section I: Kakkabe Bridge to Nalknad Palace
Tadiandamol trek start point is at the Kakkabe Bridge. Begin your walk in the morning. If you take a local bus, it will leave you at Kakkabe bridge. If a bus is heading forward on the Virajpet-Talakaveri route, you can get off at the Aramane and Kakkabe intersection, saving you 15 minutes of walking. Otherwise, begin your journey from the bridge heading towards the Virajpet-Talakaveri route, which continues eastward.
If you have questions, ask the locals, and they will send you the proper route. It takes roughly 15 minutes to reach the junction of the Aramane and Kakkabe roads. Take the right turn to reach Nalknad Palace Road.
You can do so if you are unsure about your fitness and wish to skip the first portion. You will get all the benefits. Take an auto or rent a vehicle from the bridge to Nalknad Palace.
The route continues straight from the intersection until you reach the Nalknad Palace. A car may easily travel up to the Nalknad palace. If you have your vehicle, skip to the next part, learn how to get there, and then return.
Along this route, you will initially encounter a handful of cottages and resorts/homestays. If you want to spend the night here after the walk, you may make a reservation before you travel.
When hiking here, keep your eyes and ears alert to see the varied flora and creatures.
Throughout the hike, one can see pepper and coffee farms. Along with them are Arecanut (Betel nut) trees, Nutmeg trees, fishtail palms, and a variety of other trees that thrive in farmlands.
The Nalknad Palace is accessible by zigzag roads and a 40-minute stroll. Stop at this old palace on your way down from the walk. You want to save time investigating this on the way up.
Section 2: Nalknad Palace to Base of Tadiandamol
The trek now makes a gentler rise via mud and gravel from the Nalknad Palace to the base of Tadiandamol, where the main trekking track begins.
Don’t miss the waterfall while you’re preparing to begin your trip from Nalknad Palace. If you are trekking during the monsoon or post-monsoon season, keep an eye out for this undiscovered waterfall around 5 minutes into the hike. Spend a few minutes exploring this part before returning to the trek’s main trail.
Starting here, you’ll see a combination of damaged tar roads, muddy trails with tiny pebbles, and concrete roads. The trip takes you through verdant, lush flora for nearly an hour. Half an hour into the trip, you come upon this last home, which has a tiny brook running alongside it. You may replenish your water bottle here.
Tadiandamol’s base is about 10 minutes away. The perspective on the right will reveal the whole terrain in front of you.
Section 3: Base of Tadiandamol to the Boulder point
There are two pathways at the base of the Tadiandamol Trek. One moves to the left, while the other moves to the right. It would help if you took the trail up on the left here.
Notice the forest department’s green board, which indicates to the left where the ascent begins. The board is slightly worn and corroded. It points up, indicating that 3.75 km remain to reach the top.
From this point on, the track is entirely mud-covered. Leeches begin in this location and persist until the grassland phase of the walk. You’ve now entered the midst of the Shola jungle.
The forest check-post is located around 200 meters after the creek crossing. Each individual must pay Rs 50 to progress. The forest officer will search your bag for any plastic products you are carrying. Any alcohol or undesired items will not be permitted on the hike and will be seized. Keep them out of your luggage. After you have entered your name and contact information, you may continue on the adventure.
When trekking, keep your eyes on the right side. The view opens up unexpectedly. Often, clouds blanket the whole valley to the right. If the sun is shining and the sky is clear, you can see the valley in lush green and hills beginning to emerge.
You’ll be crossing a second brook soon. This stream crossing is smaller than the preceding one. You can decide whether to remove your shoes before crossing, depending on the water level.
Once you cross, look for a milestone with 2 km remaining for the summit on your right. It can also be covered by vegetation. It’s more like a game of Spot the Stone.
Take a little rest and hydrate yourself. The final leg of the climb to the top remains, which will be your maximum climb.
Section 4: Boulder point to Peak of Tadiandamol
From the boulder point, a hillock is seen. This is a fake peak, not the absolute peak for Tadiandamol. Tadiandamol’s summit is far from the left or southern side, facing the false peak. Begin your ascent by following a well-marked track ahead of you. This last stretch is usually covered with mist and clouds.
Trekking amid the mist and clouds is a breathtaking experience. The forest department has put orange ribbons on trees to function as path markers. If you see this ribbon, you are on the correct track.
After about 20 minutes of moderate climbing, you will arrive at a position resembling a fortress building. After that, continue down the route, keeping to your right.
One fork might evoke a notion in your mind. Either look for the orange ribbon or follow the route on the right.
There are a handful of viewing portions where you may stop to enjoy the views. As you rise, take a few minutes to see the lush rolling hills in the background. You will now enter the second woodland portion from here.
The trail here is significantly more slick and uneven. As you continue to rise through the forest for another 10 minutes, keep your footing and rely on the assistance of the trees.
After passing through this wooded area, you’ll have one more push to Tadiandamol’s top. It takes around 20 to 25 minutes to reach the peak.
Stick close together if you are trekking in a group and the weather is terrible. The vision can be reduced to less than 50 metres.
A pole has been built with a sign indicating that you have reached the summit of Tadiandamol trek Hill. Because you are at 5,375 feet elevation, you may expect moderate rain on top. Mists and whiteouts are prevalent, so keep an eye out and make sure your electrical equipment is adequately covered.
The descent will be precisely the same as the climb. It will take you around three hours to descend to Nalknad Palace. Add an hour if you’re heading to Kakkabe. The last bus from Kakkabe to Bhagamandala and Virajpet departs around 6 p.m.
Essentials you need for a trek to Tadiandamol:
- Backpack: 40L+ with padded straps for comfortable carrying.
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and grip.
- Clothing: Layers of moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials (base layer, insulation layer, waterproof outer layer).
- Navigation: Map, compass, headlamp/flashlight.
- Hydration: 2L+ water, water purification (tablets or filter).
- Food: High-energy snacks and meals (nuts, granola bars, dried fruits).
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat.
- First-aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain medication.
- Other essentials: Rain poncho, insect repellent, whistle, camera (optional: tent, sleeping bag, pad, stove for camping).
- Pack light and waterproof gear.
- Wear comfortable, broken-in clothes and shoes.
- Get permits and register at the forest check post.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when packing for your trek:
- Pack light: It’s important to avoid overloading yourself, as you’ll be carrying your backpack for the entire trek.
- Pack waterproof: The weather in Coorg can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack some waterproof gear, such as a rain cover for your backpack.
- Pack for comfort: Choose comfortable clothing and shoes that you’ve broken in before your trek.
- Don’t forget the essentials: Make sure you have all the necessary permits and permissions before you start your trek. You’ll also need to register at the forest check post.
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