Karnataka is blessed with unspoiled mountain terrains that have become favourite tourist spots. One such destination is Kodachadri, a mountain peak with an altitude of 1343 m above sea level in the Western Ghats.
Kodachadri has a sacred allure to it. The mountain forms a picturesque backdrop to the famous temple of Mookambikaand the temple town of Kollur is just 12 km away. Adi-Mookambika (Devi) Temple at Kodachadri with its gold-plated crest and copper roofs attracts thousands of devotees from all over India. The great religious leader Adi Sankara is said to have installed the metal idol of the deity. It is also believed that Adi Sankara spontaneously composed the classic work Soundarya Lahiri here. You will find an ancient Sarvajna Peetha, (built out of rock) of Sri Sankaracharya at the top. During the Navaratri festival, a large number of devotees throng the temple. Mookambika Temple is believed to be a very auspicious place to initiate a child in to the world of letters.
The nearest base to the Kodachadri Hills is Kollur, an excellent locale for trekkers and backpackers. Trekkers generally join the Mookambika Nature Camp which is 4 km south of Kollur It is a five hour trek to the Kodachadri peak. There is another easier trekking route on a jeep road starting from Sampekatte village (Hosanagara Taluk). The trekking route provides a very beautiful experience. Various places along the trekker’s path offer vantage points with spectacular scenery. Kodachadri peak is renowned for its glorious sunrise and sunset views.
The western side of the hill drops straight down about 1220 metres to the vast and dense forests of Uduppi. The Kodachadri Hills form the largest forest in Karnataka, part of which is the Mookambika National Park which is home to several endemic and endangered species of flora and fauna. September to May is the best time to visit. Accommodation facilities are available only at Kollur.
The nearest airport is Mangalore (147 km) and nearest railway station, Kundapura on the Konkan Railway route.
