Overview
Situated in thick forest of Banjarumale region these are considered the highest hillocks in Charmadi range. Unique Topography and accessibility makes it one of the sought destination for a avid trekkers. Journey along the hair bends in the ghats makes travel memorable.The valleys are dotted with Perinneal waterfalls and swift flowing rivers.Thick forests are also home for the Malekudiya tribal families.
Twin peaks after descending from Ghats beckon and challenge adventurer. At the top of the hill lies a huge bauxite stone, which attracts lightning during monsoon. With this, the hill gets its name ‘Minchukallu’ which means the stone which attracts lightning. For trekkers, who love adventure and challenges, this is their ultimate paradise because there is no short cut and easy route to reach this peak. Apart from tedious trekking route, what adds to the challenge is the herd of elephants making frequent appearances here.
Kumbakallu is another hill which is worth seeing in the vicinity. Trekkers will come across two dense forests namely ‘Banjaru Male’ and ‘Ambati Male,’ which are like safe abode for pachyderms. The elephants are seen even on Minchukallu hill and if locals are to be believed, elephants follow a corridor from the foothill to the peak accelerating themselves in zig-zag movement. At the top of the hill, these pachyderms get their staple food, which is called ‘Aane Hullu’ in Kannada. With the fight between man and elephant increasing over the years, the number of elephants coming to this area has increased.
Itinerary
Day 01 : Overnight Journey from Bangalore.6 hrs.
Day 02 : Reach Base camp. Head to Kumabakallu. Return to Base Camp.
Day 03 : Start Early Reach the Hillock. Return to Base Camp.Refresh and Overnignt Journey.
Day 04 : Reach Bangalore.
Cost
Cost : ₹ 3,250*/- (per person) from Bangalore to Bangalore for group size 9-10 members.
Cost Includes
- Guides (two) :
- Basic Mountaineering Course qualified Guide from Summiters.
- Local Guide who has extensive knowledge of the route .
- Vegetarian meals on the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
- Cooks/Helper and other requisite staff.
- Porters/mules for carrying common equipments (like rations/tents/utensils/)
- Equipments - Tents on sharing basis / Sleeping bags / Sleeping Mats
- Basic First aid Kit.
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Forest Permits and camping charges .
Cost Excludes
- Personal trekking equipments – like trekking poles or sleeping ban liners
- Personal Porters for carrying backpacks of trekkers
- Personal insurance or cost of emergency evacuation
- Purchases of personal natures (like mineral water bottles/bottled or canned beverages/chocolates/dry fruits etc)
FAQ
Q: Who can do this trek?
A: If you can walk on an average of 5 to 6km without a problem, then you can! If you have specific health issues like asthma, heart issues or the likes, consult your doctor before participating in the trek.
Q: How cold does it get?
A: It depends on where you come from, but from an Indian context – it can get quite cold. The temperature in the higher regions can touch -2 degrees at night. So be prepared and carry warm clothing. Although multiple layers will serve the purpose, it can get quite heavy and uncomfortable. Your best bet would be to buy a professional high altitude jacket.
Q: What should we carry?
A: The following items are a must-carry:
Shoes: A good pair of shoes is a must - a good pair does not mean your Adidas/ Nike/ Reebok/ Puma sport shoe. You need a pair that can withstand the wear and tear of walking for many days. A bad shoe can ruin your trek by causing blisters. Ask us, we can help you in choosing the right one for your budget.
The other things you need to carry are : gloves, a skull cap, a sun hat/cap, your personal clothes and toiletry kit, a good pair of sun glasses, a water bottle and your personal medicines (if necessary). Your sleeping bag, mat and tents will be provided to you by Summiters.
Q: What food do you provide?
A: We provide simple vegetarian food that is light and suitable for trekking. Don’t expect pizza hut or an Anand Bhavan - nor will you have to go hunting. You will have enough and when you are tired – anything served will taste superb!
Q: Is the mountain water safe to drink?
A: Yes. It’s as pure as it can be. But if you are finicky – you can buy mineral water
Q: Can I charge my phone on the trek?
A: The last point where you can charge it is at Lohajhung but this is subject to availability of electricity during your stay.
Q: How can I prepare myself?
A: Take daily long walks or jogs.
T&C
Terms and Conditions
*All about the elusive star*
Here are our conditions:
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Booking must be confirmed 30 days prior to date of departure by paying the full amount – It takes lot of effort, time and money in planning the trek in remote locations. So please give us enough time to make your journey a lifetime’s journey.
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All expenses accruing from change in schedule due to weather conditions or health issues are to be borne by the participants. Summiters will not be responsible for the weather or your personal health issues.
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Cancellation policy – We plan everything for you well in advance, so that your trip is hassle-free and as smooth as possible. This means that porter fees, permits, accommodation expenses are all paid in advance. Any cancellation will mean inconvenience and loss to all the people involved in making your journey successful. Therefore, it is only fair to pass on the accrued costs to you. Our policy is:-
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- Cancellation prior to 30 days from date of departure : Full Refund
- Cancellation between 30 days to 20 days prior to date of departure: 50% Refund
- Cancellation between 20 days prior to date of departure and departure date:No Refund
- No Show : No Refund
- Cancellation has to be confirmed by sending a mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.