Kudremukh National Park

Kudremukh Overview

Kudremukh National Park, located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India, spans an area of approximately 234 square miles (600 square kilometers). Its name, “Kudremukh,” translates to “horse face” in the local Kannada language, a reference to the distinctive horse-shaped peak within the park. This park is part of the Chikkamagaluru district and is approximately 95 miles (153 kilometers) from the city of Mangalore, making it accessible for visitors seeking to explore its unique natural beauty.

The park’s terrain is a breathtaking mix of undulating hills, lush valleys, and dense forests. Kudremukh’s landscapes are dominated by rolling grasslands interspersed with tropical evergreen forests, creating a patchwork of verdant hues that shift with the seasons. The park is home to several prominent peaks, including the Kudremukh peak itself, which rises to an elevation of 6,214 feet (1,894 meters). The rivers Tunga, Bhadra, and Nethravathi originate here, fed by numerous streams and waterfalls that add to the park’s charm. Notable waterfalls such as the Kadambi Falls enhance the allure of this protected area, drawing visitors to marvel at their cascading beauty amidst the serene backdrop.

Kudremukh National Park is a haven for biodiversity, boasting a rich variety of wildlife. Mammals such as tigers, leopards, and wild dogs roam its forests, while herbivores like gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, and barking deer thrive in its grasslands. The park is also home to the endangered lion-tailed macaque, a primate species endemic to the Western Ghats. Bird enthusiasts will be captivated by sightings of species like the Malabar trogon, great pied hornbill, and imperial pigeon, which flourish in the park’s pristine environment. The park’s rivers and streams also support a diverse array of aquatic life, including endemic fish species.

Among the park’s most popular features is trekking, with trails like the Kudremukh Peak Trek offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the park’s natural splendor. The routes lead through dense forests, across bubbling streams, and up to panoramic vistas that showcase the rolling hills and verdant landscapes. Visitors also engage in wildlife safaris and birdwatching to experience the park’s diverse fauna. The picturesque Hanuman Gundi Falls, located within the park, is another favored destination for travelers, offering a tranquil spot to relax amidst nature.

Kudremukh National Park has faced challenges, including pressures from mining activities in the past. However, conservation efforts have significantly improved the health of its ecosystems. Declared a protected area under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, the park has seen successes in habitat restoration and species preservation. Its management focuses on balancing ecological protection with sustainable tourism, ensuring that its beauty and biodiversity remain intact for future generations.

Park Map

Kudremukh National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Kudremukh National Park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with a variety of avian species that make the park their home. Below are some of the more popular bird species found in the park:

Malabar Trogon
The Malabar Trogon, with its striking red belly and black head, is a highlight for bird watchers. It inhabits dense forests and is known for its melodious calls.

Great Hornbill
One of the largest and most iconic hornbills, the Great Hornbill is recognized by its impressive casque and vibrant plumage. It plays a key role in seed dispersal.

Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
An endemic species to the Western Ghats, this pigeon is characterized by its deep gray color and pinkish neck. It prefers forested habitats.

Malabar Whistling Thrush
Nicknamed the “whistling schoolboy” for its melodious song, this bird is a delight to hear in the mornings. It has a glossy black body with blue markings.

White-bellied Treepie
This distinctive bird, with its black-and-white plumage and long tail, is often found in mixed-species foraging flocks in the forests.

Grey Junglefowl
A native to India, the Grey Junglefowl is known for its colorful plumage and rooster-like appearance. It is often spotted foraging on the forest floor.

Rufous Babbler
An endemic bird of the Western Ghats, the Rufous Babbler is a social species often seen in noisy flocks. Its rufous-brown plumage blends well with the forest.

Black-and-orange Flycatcher
This small, vividly colored bird is another endemic species. It prefers the shola forests and is often spotted in pairs.

Asian Fairy Bluebird
With its iridescent blue and black plumage, the Asian Fairy Bluebird is a visually stunning species often found perched on fruiting trees.

White-cheeked Barbet
This medium-sized bird, with its green plumage and distinctive white cheeks, is known for its rhythmic calls echoing through the forest.

Kudremukh National Park, located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India, is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its lush greenery, rolling hills, and rich wildlife. The park is home to a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians that thrive in its unique ecosystem. Below are some of the more popular species found in this national park:

Lion-tailed Macaque
This endangered primate is native to the Western Ghats. Recognized by its silver-white mane surrounding a black face and a tufted tail, the Lion-tailed Macaque primarily inhabits evergreen forests and is known for its arboreal lifestyle.

Malabar Civet
One of the rarest mammals in the world, the Malabar Civet is a nocturnal species found in forested areas. It has a slender body, short limbs, and distinctive dark stripes across its body.

Gaur (Indian Bison)
The Gaur is the largest bovine species and can be seen grazing in the grasslands and forest edges of Kudremukh. It is recognized by its muscular build, dark coat, and curved horns.

Leopard
Leopards are elusive predators in the park, known for their agility and adaptability. Their spotted coat provides excellent camouflage in the dense forest.

Sloth Bear
These shaggy-coated bears are often found foraging for termites and fruits. They are known for their long claws and nocturnal habits.

Indian Giant Squirrel
This vibrant and large arboreal squirrel is a treat to spot, with its multicolored fur and long bushy tail. It is often seen leaping between tree canopies.

Sambar Deer
The Sambar is a large deer species commonly found in the forested areas of the park. Known for their impressive antlers, they are a favorite prey of predators like leopards.

King Cobra
As the world’s longest venomous snake, the King Cobra is a fascinating reptile found in Kudremukh. It plays a significant role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

Malabar Pit Viper
This striking viper, with its vibrant colors and heat-sensing pits, is found in the dense forests of Kudremukh. It is a nocturnal species and an excellent ambush predator.

Smooth-coated Otter
Often spotted near water bodies, these otters are known for their sleek fur and playful nature. They are crucial for maintaining aquatic ecosystems.