Bengaluru is known for its try-anything attitude. We are willing to give anything a shot — be it food, movies, music and even traffic. And even though the roads are choked with much vehicles and people going here and there, doing this and that, come weekend and the adventurous Bangalorean is all set to explore whole new worlds of gastronomy, celluloid or the road less travelled.
Skandagiri and Antaragange are popular as they are close by. There are popular trails on the Western Ghats, including those on Kumar Parvata, Kodachari, Kudremukh and Tadiyandmole. The best time to go trekking is “September and October,” says Neeraj Malve, member of the Bangalore Mountaineering Club. “Those are the peak months as there is less rain, running waterfalls, good weather and lots of greenery.” During summer, when trekking in the day is not an option, night treks are organised by various organisations. A trained guide is available to lead the trekkers on the right trail and with the right equipment; it also makes for a more thrilling experience.
Drinking water, first aid kit, some snacks and a torch light are essential equipments to carry while trekking. Rain coats, tents and sleeping bags are some other essentials in case camping atop the hill is also part of the trip. While it is a fun experience there are also some dangers to watch out for. Wildlife movement and forest fires are some common external threats while injuries due to fall, dehydration, and losing the way are some other dangers. Travelling in groups of not more than 20-30 is advisable as it is easier to keep a good pace and safer in smaller groups. Following the marked trail and not embarking on other unknown routes, not consuming alcohol before a trek and following the guide’s instructions are some rules to be strictly followed to enjoy a safe trek.
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“Over the last few years, trekking has grown exponentially. Most of the trekkers are between the ages of 20 and 30”, says Virander Sirohi, founder of Bangalore Trekking Club. Majority of the trekkers are youngsters and almost over a thousand people from the city go trekking every weekend. Owing to the massive interest in the crowd, the government has also set up an organization to promote a
dventure sports in the state. The GETHNAA (General Thimayya National Academy for Adventure) is a government body created for the organization, instruction and promotion of those interested in adventure activities, with trekking being one of the most prominent one. “Due to a few accidents in the past, trekking has been banned in some places like Skandagiri. This does not stop most of them from trekking there but we make sure to follow the safety measures,” says Neeraj .
“It was a thrilling experience to go trekking. Although it was really exhausting, it was totally worth the effort. The view from on top of the hill was mind blowing.”
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Malavika Nandakumar, a college student, says, after having visited the Antaragange hills. Many trekking spots have easy trails marked for first-timers and guides are always available to lend a helping hand.