Mullayanagiri (also known as MULLAIAHNA GIRI) is the highest peak of Karnataka state located in Bababudangiri range of Chikmagalur district. Mullayanagiri is 12 km from Chikmagalaur, 265 km from Bangalore and 107 km from Mangalore. Mullayanagiri is part of the Bababudangiri hill range of western ghats. The height of Mullayanagiri is 6330 ft (1930 meters) and it is regarded as the highest peak between Himalayas and Nilgiris.
There is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on top of the hill. The small hillock in the temple premises is the highest point in Karnataka. A cave and a Nandi statue are at walk-able distance from the temple. Nearby attractions are Kemmangundi, Bababudangiri and Hebbe falls.
Photo Gallery of Mullayanagiri
Trekking in Mullayanagiri
Mullayanagiri is a trekkers paradise and often clubbed with Bababudangiri for trekking. Trekking at this place is a memorable experience. You can enjoy the speed of cold wind that is hitting you. It will be a good experience if you reach this place early morning by 7 AM. For a memorable trekking experience its advisable to trek after the monsoon and before summer. September to February is the best season. An overnight journey from Bangalore brings the trekker to Chikmagalur in the early hours of the morning. Buses ply after 8.00 am from Chikmagalur to Sarpadhari. The road runs amidst coffee estates and dense forests for about half an hour. Sarpadhari is a small hamlet from where a well-trodden path takes one to the peak. ‘Sarpadhari’ means serpentine path, and it is indicative of the arduous nature of the trek. The path from Sarpadhari is steep and at times has a 60 degree incline. This trek is definitely not for novices.
About halfway up the hill, there is a cave. The walls of this cave are multi colored due to mineral deposits. The cave runs a good distance into the mountain and is infested with bats. The trek continues further up the hill. An ancient Shiva temple perches atop the peak. The view from the peak is breathtaking
It is advisable for the trekker to carry adequate bottles of water, beverages, and ready-to-eat food. The temple authorities can help you in camping and cooking. Carry a raincoat as the weather here is volatile and can change drastically on short notice. Carry battery operated light or torch light. Warm clothing and caps are an absolute must on this trek. For accommodation Chickamagalur city is the best choice.
How to Reach Mullayanagiri
Nearest Airport is Mangalore International Airport. Chikmagalur town does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station are located at Birur, Kadur and Tarikere. Chikmagalur is well connected by road network. Mullayanagiri is about 265km from Bangalore and 107 km from Mangalore. There are plenty of buses operated by KSRTC running between Chickamagalur and Bangalore. It is only 15 km away from Chickamagalur city and there are private buses going through the base of the mountain. Buses going towards the Bababudangiri will take you to the foothill of the Mullayanagiri. If you are driving you can take your vehicle about 0.5 km close to the summit. The trekking starts from a bus stop called Sarpadhari and its a 4 km trek with no forks on the way. The major landmarks on the trek path are a small stream, a Nandi statue and a cave with a small water source inside.
Driving Direction to Reach Base of the Mullayanagiri
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