2. Trekking through Dense Rain Forests
The trail takes you through some of the most dense forests in the Western Ghats that are home to a variety of flora and fauna. The musty smell in the air from the trees and the damp ground is refreshing to say the least.
Challenges: Things to be Prepared For on This Trek
1. Slippery Sections in the Forest
The final climb through the forest section leading to the top is quite slippery with the presence of loose mud. This can be tricky to navigate. It is advisable to use a trekking pole and good trekking shoes to get maximum grip and avoid slipping.
2. Stream Crossings
Although not difficult in themselves, a wrong foot on a slippery rock can lead to ankle twists which no trekker wants on a trail. It is advisable to tread with caution and ensure you move slowly to avoid injuries.
Difficulty Level and the Bikat Rating Scale
Tadiandamol trek is a level 1 trek on the Bikat Rating Scale.
About the BRS: The Bikat Rating Scale rates the difficulty level of all treks and expeditions in our portfolio after taking into account their geographical and climatic conditions.
According to this scale, if you are a beginner who is unsure of your fitness level and don’t know what to expect on a trek, a trek rated one will be a good place to start.
If you liked your very first trekking experience and are looking to test your limits next, the treks rated 2 or 3 will do the job for you.
A beginner who is sure of their fitness level on the other hand is welcome to skip the first two levels and directly start with one of the treks rated 3.
From 4 onwards, the rules change a little. It is mandatory to have trekking experience of the previous level to participate in the next level.
Best Time to do this Trek
The best time to do this trek is between September to February when the forests and valleys are lush green in colour. The post monsoon months are the best to enjoy good climatic conditions and clear views of the landscape around you.
Trekking during the summer months is banned due to the risk of forest fires.
This region receives really high rainfall during the monsoon making it difficult to do the trek. You can still do it with the right gear but the difficulty level of the trail goes by a notch.
How to reach the Base
You can reach Kakkabe by your own vehicle or via public transport.
If you are reaching by public transport, you can take a KSRTC bus from Satellite Bus Stop in Bangalore to Virajpet. Take a late night bus and reach Virajpet by 5 AM. From here, you can take a bus heading towards Bhagamandala which will drop you at Kakkabe. Virajpet is 25 kms away from Kakkabe. You can also take a cab or auto if you wish to.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tadiandamol Trek
1. Is there network connectivity on the trek?
You will get an intermittent network from BSNL and JIo throughout the trail. Please note that the range is not consistent or reliable.
2. Are there food stalls on the trail?
There are a few small restaurants in Kakkabe that serve food. You can get food packed from here or carry your own food. You can also fill your bottles here. It is advisable to carry your own food and water from home.
3. Do I need a permit for this trek?
Yes, you can take the permit and pay the entrance fee at the forest check-post on the trail.
Camping is not allowed on this trail.
4. How long does the trek take?
The trek takes 7-8 hours to reach the top and return back to the base. It is advisable to start early in the morning so you can return by dusk.
There are homestays and AirBnBs in Kakkabe where you can stay the night.
5. Is this trek for beginners?
You can do this trek if you have an active lifestyle and a good fitness regimen. The trek is moderately difficult and can be challenging for beginners with a sedentary lifestyle and no prior trekking experience.
That’s all about the Tadiandamol trek! Should you wish to know more or need help planning your weekend adventure to the Western Ghats, please feel free to reach out to our team.
