All Karnataka hikes

Chikmagalur

Mullayanagiri

The highest peak in Karnataka — a stepped climb anyone can do

Easy~5 km round trip1–2 hrs on stone steps

From ₹3,500 per person

No permit

Compare operators
From Bangalore
250 km · ~5.5 h
Difficulty
Easy
Best months
Sep–Feb
Altitude
1,930 m
Distance
~5 km round trip
Time on trail
1–2 hrs on stone steps

A road goes most of the way up; the final stretch is roughly 500 stone steps to a small Mullappa Swamy temple. Perfect as a sunrise stop on a Chikmagalur weekend, not a "real" trek.

  • Highest point in Karnataka
  • Sunrise/fog views
  • Combines with Baba Budan Giri and Seethalayanagiri

Permit & rules

Permit needed?
No formal trek permit
Issued by
Local forest / temple parking fee
How to book
Walk-up. Check with local police/forest at the base for any vehicle restrictions on the day.
Fee
Parking/entry fee only.
Guide
Not mandatory
Night trek
Not allowed
Note
Large vehicles and traffic restrictions apply on peak weekends.

Best time to visit

Go

Sep–Feb

Avoid

Peak monsoon (zero visibility, slippery steps)

Wildlife

  • Mostly birds and the odd mongoose; no major wildlife concerns

What to wear

  • Wind-proof jacket (it is cold and gusty)
  • Sneakers are fine
  • Rain jacket in monsoon

What to carry

  • Water
  • Warm layer
  • Camera

Typical itinerary

  1. Reach by sunrise, climb the steps, breakfast in Chikmagalur town, add Baba Budan Giri or coffee estate visit.

Operators compared

Listed starting prices per person from Bangalore. They change by batch – confirm inclusions with the operator.

Do it yourself

Fuel/tolls split by 2 plus meals – this is a drive-and-climb, no vendor needed.

~₹1,400

Trodly

Weekend trek · Marketplace – operator varies, check inclusions and cancellation terms

₹3,699

Included
Pickup from select Bangalore points
Trip experience
Marketplace listing; operator may differ.
Price source: listing seen Nov 2026View on Trodly

Adventure NationLowest listed

1 night / 2 days · Fixed departures, transport included on listed trips

₹3,500

Included
Summit trek and ridge walk toward Baba Budangiri
Trip experience
Price per person as listed.
Price source: listing seen Nov 2026View on Adventure Nation

Local tips

  • Go on a weekday or at 6 am; by 9 am weekend crowds arrive.
  • Fog can erase the view – check the forecast the night before.

Mullayanagiri FAQ

Do I need a permit for Mullayanagiri?+

No formal trek permit is needed. Walk-up. Check with local police/forest at the base for any vehicle restrictions on the day.

What is the best time to trek Mullayanagiri?+

Sep–Feb. Avoid: Peak monsoon (zero visibility, slippery steps).

How far is Mullayanagiri from Bangalore?+

About 250 km by road, roughly 5.5 hours' drive. Round-trip fuel is about ₹2,861 at current prices for a car-level mileage estimate.

How difficult is Mullayanagiri?+

Easy, about 5 km round trip. 1–2 hrs on stone steps.

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Information compiled from public operator listings and forest department guidance, last reviewed 2026-11-01. Fees, quotas and closures change – verify on the official portal and with the operator before you travel. Operator links are provided for comparison; we do not sell treks.