Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka with a height of 6317 ft. Regarded as the highest peak between Himalayas and Nilgiris, Mullayanagiri peak is one of the best treks in Karnataka. The peak gets its name from a small temple at the summit, which is dedicated to a sage Mullappa Swamy, who is believed to have meditated at the cave near the summit. Mullayyanagiri is located in Chikkamagaluru district, 265 km from Bengaluru. Mullayanagiri is a nature lover’s paradise and a must-visit spot in South Karnataka.
Why visit Mullayanagiri:
Easy access: Mullayyanagiri peak can be reached by road without requiring extensive trekking. A small hike involving close to 500 steps is required from the parking lot to reach Mullayyanagiri peak. Mullayyanagiri Peak offers an excellent view of western ghats, captivating sunset and cool breeze. Mullayyanagiri peak can be visited all around the year. There is one spot from where trekking usually begins so you can either park your vehicles there and trek your way up the peak or you may drive further up to where you will have to climb those 500 steps.
Mullayanagiri Temple: Mullayyanagiri hill top houses a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is otherwise known as Mullappa Swami Temple(Shri Guru Gadrige Mullappa Swami Mutta) that is open from 7AM to 7PM. Puja is conducted once when the temple opens at 7AM and when it closes at 7PM.
Post your climb up to the peak and to the temple, do not forget to visit and sit inside the temple. The floor feels cold and soothing along with the feeling of peace, making you want to stay back longer there.
It is believed that there is a cave below the temple almost 900 years old that leads from this temple to Seethalayyanagiri Temple but the cave is now closed.
Places to visit near Mullayanagiri: A visit to Mullayanagiri can be clubbed with a visit to Seethalayyanagiri (smaller hill on the way to Mullayanagiri), Bababudangiri and Manikyadhara Falls (26 kms from Mullayanagiri).
How to reach Mullayangiri:
By Air:Mangaluru is the nearest airport (180 kms)
By Train: Kadur junction is the nearest railway station (60 km from Mullayanagiri)
By Road: ksrtc buses are available till Chikmagalur (22 km from Mullayanagiri). From Chikmagalur taxi or two-wheelers can be rented from the city near the bus stand to reach the peak. The last few km are narrow roads demanding careful driving. There are local jeeps that will take you around completely starting from the city or in-between en route to Mullayanagiri and clubbed with places like Honamanahalli Falls which is 1 KM away from Jhari Falls otherwise known as Buttermilk Falls and Bababudangiri Hill.
Places to stay near Mullayanagiri: Several luxury resorts, as well as affordable homestays, are available in Chikkamagaluru district. Budget hotels are available in Chikkamagaluru town.
Image credits: Rajith ML
