The name 'Kudremukha' translates literally from Kannada to 'Horse Face' due to the silhouette of the main mountain peak.
The peak is the second highest in Karnataka, surpassed only by Mullayanagiri.
The entire region was declared a National Park in 1987 to protect the ecological integrity of the Western Ghats.
Kudremukha was formerly the site of one of the largest iron ore mining projects in India before the environmental closure.
The ecosystem here is classified as a 'Shola-Grassland' complex, unique to the high altitudes of the Southern Western Ghats.
It is a biodiversity hotspot recognized by UNESCO as part of the Western Ghats World Heritage site.
The park provides habitat for over 200 species of birds, making it a significant site for ornithological studies.
The rivers originating here are fundamental to the water security of the coastal and interior plains of Karnataka.
Kudremukha is a mountain range and peak located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, defined by its distinctive shape resembling a horse's face. The region is designated as a National Park, protecting one of India's most significant tropical evergreen forest corridors. Its elevation reaches approximately 1,894 meters above sea level at the primary peak. The terrain serves as a vital watershed area, being the origin point for the Tunga, Bhadra, and Nethravathi rivers. The area is characterized by rolling grasslands interspersed with dense shola forests. It serves as a critical habitat for endangered wildlife including the Malabar giant squirrel and the lion-tailed macaque. Iron ore mining operations in the region were permanently ceased in 2005 by order of the Supreme Court of India to preserve the ecosystem. Hiking and trekking are the primary activities, strictly regulated by the Forest Department to minimize ecological impact.
The summit of the Kudremukha peak providing 360-degree views of the Western Ghats.
Obtain all required trekking permits from the Forest Department office before arriving at the trailheads.
Wear high-quality, grip-oriented hiking boots to navigate steep, slippery grasslands during the monsoon.
Carry all waste back with you, as the park enforces a strict zero-litter policy to protect wildlife habitats.
Do not attempt trekking during the height of the monsoon (June–August) due to extreme trail slippage and leech density.
Trekking is strictly prohibited during the peak monsoon months for safety and ecological conservation; permits are not issued on certain days depending on fire risk levels.
Strictly follow forest ranger instructions; do not deviate from marked trails; avoid loud noises; carry no plastics.
