When water from the top of Bandaje Arbi will tip-toe to your feet and when your feet will find a way into the offbeat trails of Kudremukh mountain range to Ballalarayana Durga Fort, understand that you are doing something for your soul. From time immemorial, people have been going on treks in the Chikmagalur district. However, in truth, this is the one where the crowd has still not hit: Ballalarayana Durga Fort and Bandaje Arbi is the trek known for its untouched beauty and paradisiacal landscapes and for sure, its calling you.
Located in the Charmadi ghat section of the Western Ghats in the Belthangady taluk of Dakshina Kannada district, the trek has the most serene and pristine landmarks like Rani Jhari Falls, Ballarayanadurga Fort and Bandaje Arbi.
On a two-day adventure, you will push your limits, trek on a stunning trail, go to fun-filled Kodige falls and visit Chennakeshava temple in the Belur in Hassan district. With all love, we invite you on a journey where you will feel alive and admire each bit of the trip. Check out the itinerary and join us on our next adventure.
Trip Highlights
- Trek to the offbeat Ballalarayana Durga Fort and Bandaje Arbi.
- Take a dip and play in the pristine water of Kodige Falls.
- Visit the famous Chennakesava Temple in Belur in Hassan district.
Pricing
- With Travel: 3,999 per person
- Without Travel: 2,899 per person
Quick Info
- Duration: 2 Days & 1 Night
- Trek Distance: 22 km
- Location: Sunkasale, Karnataka
- Minimum Age: 10+ Years
- Max Altitude: 4950 feet
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Brief Itinerary
Day 0
- Leave from Bangalore
Day 1
- Start the day early, Have breakfast
- Drive down to the start point of Bandaje Falls trek
- Trek to Bandaje Falls
- Lunch en-route
- Trek to Ballarayanadurga Fort
- Trek back to the base
- Reach homestay by 6:00 PM
- Rest for a while (High tea and snacks)
- Bonfire and Dinner
- Retire for the night
Day 2
- Wake up at around 7:00 AM (approx), freshen up, breakfast
- Visit Secret Falls (Approx 2-3 km of walk)
- Visit Chennakeshava Temple built in the era of the Hoysala Empire (Offbeat exploration by PTU)
- Reach Bangalore by 10:30 PM (approx)
Inclusions
- Accommodation in Homestay/Tents on multiple sharing basis (separate for men & women)
- 2 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner, High Tea and Snacks
- To and fro Transport from Bangalore (Non A/c pushback seat tempo traveller/ mini bus)
- Jeep Ride to Trek Base (Pickup and Drop)
- Karnataka Forest Department Entry Fees
- Local Guide & Outdoor Leader from Plan The Unplanned
- Experience that you gain
Exclusions
- Any meals not included above
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Any kind of insurance (health, medical, life accidental,etc)
- Anything not included above
Pickup Points
Pickup Point 1:
- New Udupi Grand, Teacher's Colony, HSR Layout
Arrival time: 8:50 PM
Departure time: 9:00 PM
Pickup Point 3:
- Cubbon Park Metro
Arrival time: 9:55 PM
Departure time: 10:00 PM
Pickup Point 4:
- KTM Mekhri Circle
Arrival time: 10:15 PM
Departure time: 10:20 PM
Pickup Point 5:
- Yeshwanthpur Metro
Arrival time: 10:30 PM
Departure time: 10:35 PM
Without Travel
Arrival time: 6 AM
Things To Carry
- Soft Copy of your Aadhar/Voter ID (Mandatorily required for permits)
- Face Masks & Hand Sanitisers (Mandatory)
- Small backpack to carry your essentials during the trek
- Warm Layer
- Water bottles 2 (1 liter each)
- Lunch Box & Spoon to carry your packed lunch
- Raincoat/Bag covers in case of rains
- A comfortable pair of shoes with good grip for trekking
- Flip-flops for lazing around the campsite
- Torch/Headlamp to be used at night
- Power Bank
- Portable chargers for your electronics
- Extra pair of clothes to change into once wet
- Polybags to pack your wet clothes
- Extra cash for meals not included in the itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
DAY 0
- Meals Not Applicable | (No Dinner break)
- Private Vehicle | (Non-AC (Push Back Seats))
- Homestay | (Multiple sharing basis separate for men and women Dorms/Rooms/Tents)
Details:
We will start our journey to Sunkasale from Bangalore. Trek Leaders will give a brief of the whole trip. Sunkasale lies at the height of 900 m from sea level. Its almost a 6 hours journey. We will reach there by early morning. After refreshing and having breakfast, we will start for the base of the trek.
DAY 1
- All Meals Provided | (1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner, High Tea and Snacks)
- Private Vehicle
- Stay at Homestay | (Multiple sharing basis separate for men and women Dorms/Rooms/Tents)
Details:
Situated atop a hill of 1509 meters high, this fort stands glorious overlooking the town of Sunkasale which is conquered by trekking through the dense forests of the Western Ghats. This famous trek route starts at Mundaje leading to the ruins of the historic fort. This fort is not only known for its breathtaking view and greenery charms, but its also an ideal spot for amazing sunsets. During the evenings one can sit here and cherish the peaceful aura and relax under the hues of colours. After we reach the peak, you can rest and enjoy the breathtaking view, devoid of any noises and accompanied by the ever-blowing gentle breeze.
We then trek down to visit the Bandaje falls and make our way back to the base. The Bandaje Falls is locally known as Bandaje Arbi. Arbi is the term used to describe a waterfall in the local Kannada language. It is located in the Charmadi ghat section of the Western Ghats, situated at a height of 700 meters above sea level. It plunges 200 feet from the hilltop and is a surreal sight to behold. The waterfall continues its journey downhill as a single stream to join the river Netravathi as a tributary. The best part about the waterfalls is that the spot is neat and clean and nature wears a gorgeous look in this authentic place.
After refreshing in the falls, we trek back to the base and reach the homestay. With sumptuous dinner, we shall dance, and sing our way amidst the forests of the Ghats, in our wanderlusty style!
DAY 2
- Only Breakfast Provided
- Trek
- Stay Not Applicable
Details:
The next day will begin with a healthy and tasty breakfast, after which we will start our journey to Kodige Falls in Durgadahalli. The fall is a small one, and you will be trekking through a well-marked trail for 1 km. The stairs that go down to the fall will open up to a gorgeous stream where you can sit and relax. If the current permits, we will take a dip in the cold water or stay here for a silent morning delight. Later, we will trek back to the vehicle and continue our journey.
Later, we will go to Chennakesava Temple, located in Belur, in Hassan District. The temple was constructed in the 12th century and took almost 103 years to complete. Over the years, it has undergone destruction, reconstruction, damage and correction. But then too tourists find elements of surprises in its architecture, sculptures, reliefs, friezes, and iconography. After a short while, we will start our journey back. On the way, you will still be reminiscing the moments. You can sit and watch the passing scenery or join in to play games.
Later in the evening, we will take a halt for dinner. After an hour or so, we will reach our destination. Its difficult to cut the conversations just at the time we have started to open up. But thats why we have other appealing treks lined up. With heavy hearts, we bid each other goodbyes, only to meet again. Until next time, care to check our itineraries and ring us soon.
FAQs
- After booking the trek, when will I get further updates?
Well, most of our treks are usually confirmed by Thursday and you would receive a EVENT HEADSUP mail that would contain details regarding Pickup Points ( Location and Timings ), Outdoor Leader (Point of Contact) s, and Do's & Donts.
- Will I be added to a WhatsApp group once the trek is confirmed?
Yes, the Event Headsup email would contain a link for WhatsApp Group through which one can join and interact with fellow travelers and outdoor leaders
- Do I have to carry my luggage while trekking?
Not at all. You could keep all the extra luggage back at the campsite/homestay and carry only the necessary stuff for the trek (Raincoats, Torchlight, Waterbottle, lunchbox, and your valuables)
- Are there any other boarding points apart from the ones mentioned?
Yes, we do have options for picking a traveler on board with a few locations provided they are on the route to our destination. The following are the additional boarding points: Croma Store, Sony World Signal - Trinity Circle Metro Station - Yeshwanthpur Metro Station - Goraguntepalya Metro Station
- What is the Without Travel booking option?
Well, if you select this option, all the travel arrangements for your entire itinerary must be managed by yourself, and Plan the Unplanned crew will not be managing anything related to your travel. We recommend you come via car for a smooth travel experience to, from and within the destination.
- Is the trek safe for Women & Girls?
Yes, its much safe and sound. We have been organizing these treks over the years now and we always have had an equal ratio or sometimes we have women in the majority. We also have female outdoor leaders who are on board and lead the other trekking enthusiast. We have made sure our homestay/tent accommodation is separate for men and women.
- Would I be able to postpone my trek booking on the day of departure?
Yes, you can postpone your trek to a future date by paying a rescheduling fee of 1,500/person. You can write to us at info@plantheunplanned.com as regards and our team will get in touch with you on the same.
- Is the trek recommended for Beginners?
Well, the trek level although being moderate is certainly recommended for beginners.
- Is it necessary for me to hire a guide to trek to Ballalarayana Durga?
No. It isnt as one can fairly see the path to Ballalarayana Durga from Rani Jhari Point.
- What about Ballalarayana Durga's network coverage and connectivity?
Only at the base will you find a mobile network for practically all major providers like Airtel, Vodafone, Jio, and others. Throughout the journey, you will be outside of the network's service region.
- Can we leave our luggage at the homestay?
Yes, it is possible to leave your luggage at the homestay and carry the necessary things on your trek.
- I've never hiked before, can I do this?
Yes. Ballalarayana Durga might be a good first hike for someone who has an active lifestyle. We encourage some preparation before tackling a hike for persons who live a very sedentary lifestyle.
- Is the trail filled with leeches?
If you go trekking during the monsoon season, you will almost certainly encounter leeches along the way.
- Is it possible to camp anywhere along the trek?
No. Only the area behind the Kalabhyraveshwara temple is suitable for camping. Before beginning the hike, pack your tents and leave them in your cars. Tents are not permitted to be carried on the path. If you arrived by bus, leave your tents at a local's house and ask for them to be looked after at Durgadahalli or Sunkasale before beginning your trip.
- Is parking available for private vehicles?
Vehicles can easily get to the start of the hike. By road, the base is well linked. Parking is available immediately at the base. As a result, you may park your car and begin your hike directly from the campground!
- Is it possible to trek to Bandaje Falls during the Monsoons?
Yes, it is possible. The trail during the monsoon season is lovely and it isnt as challenging as the Kumara Parvatha trek
Date & Time
Every Friday
6:00 PM onwards
Location
Plan The Unplanned, WJ8H+RW4, Teacher's Colony, Santhosapuram, 1st Block Koramangala, HSR Layout 5th Sector, Bengaluru, Karnataka - 560034
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