Valikunja Peak Trek
Trek at a glance
Trek overview
Discover the charm of the Western Ghats with the Valikunja Peak Trek, one of Karnataka’s hidden gems waiting to be explored. Organized by Plan The Unplanned, this offbeat adventure takes you through lush forests, rolling grasslands, and peaceful ridges, offering a trail that feels raw, untouched, and far away from the usual tourist buzz.
The journey to Valikunja is a treat for nature lovers—shola forests draped in mist, open meadows that glow in the morning sun, and ridge walks that reveal sweeping panoramas of the surrounding hills. With very few trekkers venturing here, the trail feels like your own private path into the heart of nature.
But Valikunja is not just about scenic beauty—it carries the whispers of history too. Nestled in the Charmadi Ghat region of Chikmagalur, this landscape was once part of the mighty Hoysala dynasty’s stronghold. Nearby lies the 12th-century Ballalarayana Durga Fort, a crumbling yet captivating reminder of the region’s glorious past. Legends and stories still echo through these hills, making the trek a journey through both time and wilderness. If you’re looking for an offbeat weekend adventure that blends nature, solitude, and history, Valikunja Peak is the perfect trail to set your boots on.
Trek highlights
Trek through dense shola forests, misty meadows, and ridge walks
Panoramic views of the Charmadi Ghat ranges from the summit
Perfect blend of nature, solitude, and adventure
Rich biodiversity with chances to spot unique birds and wildlife
Experience the charm of the historic Malenadu region, once under the Hoysalas
Ideal weekend getaway for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike
Trek itinerary
- Drive to Base: Head out on a 2-hour drive to the trek start point.
- Trek Begins: After a forest department check, begin the trek through dense forests.
- Lunch: Break for a packed lunch on the trail.
- Summit: Reach Valikunja Peak and enjoy the panoramic views.
- Return: Descend and drive back to the homestay by 7–8 PM.
- Local Visits: Explore Samse Tea Estate and Kalasa Hanging Bridge.
- Departure: Head back to Bangalore, reaching by around 10:30 PM.
Trek detail itinerary
The adventure begins as we assemble in Bangalore and depart by 7:30 PM. An overnight journey takes us through scenic highways and winding roads leading into the Western Ghats. Rest well on the journey as an exciting trek awaits the next day.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Pickup points
PTU in a nutshell
Treks, backpacking trips & international tours with Plan The Unplanned
Weekend escapes you didn’t know you needed
Fellow travellers! Take a meaningful break from life to soak up raw, real & unforgettable moments in nature. With unfiltered experiences, a team of trained outdoor leaders, and a like-minded community.
Experience your firsts. Conquer your fears. Step out of your comfort zone. All of this and more with your new strangers-turned-tribe on every trip.
Never trek alone again
Soulful stays
No pressure, no rush
Unplanned magic
Leave no trace policy
Responsible travel
Things to carry
Here is all that you will carry on this trek:
Policy and terms
All refund or cancellation requests must be submitted exclusively via email to [email protected]. Requests made by call or WhatsApp will not be accepted.
If you cancel your booking
In the event that YOU cancel your trek, this is the cancellation policy:
Cancellation Fee
50% of the total invoice
Cancellation Fee
70% of the total invoice
Cancellation Fee
100% of the total invoice
7 days or more before scheduled date
Cancellation Fee
50% of the total invoice
3–6 days before scheduled date
Cancellation Fee
70% of the total invoice
0–2 days before scheduled date
Cancellation Fee
100% of the total invoice
Last-minute cancellations on the day of or the day before trek departure
Last-minute cancellations made on the day of trek departure or the day before are not eligible for a refund or rescheduling, regardless of the reason (such as work commitments, family emergencies, or health).
Reschedule your booking on the day of trek departure
Should you choose to postpone your booking to a future date, an additional fee of ₹1500 per person will be incurred. This postponement option is valid for a period of 3 months from your original trek departure date.
Aranya Vihara treks and permits
Permit fees for treks obtained under Aranya Vihara are non-refundable in the event of customer cancellation.
If plan the unplanned cancel your booking
In the event that WE postpone or cancel your trek, this is the cancellation policy:
During or after the trek
In the event of severe weather or other safety concerns, we may shorten a trek day or abandon the trek entirely. No refunds will be issued in such circumstances, as your safety is our top priority.
Prior to the trek
If we cancel a trek due to natural disasters (such as rainstorm, flood, landslide, earthquake) or unanticipated political disturbances (such as curfews, local riots, government orders, forest department directives), Plan The Unplanned will issue a voucher for the full value of your ticket. Please note that payment gateway charges will be deducted from this refund.
Insufficient reservations
If we cancel a trek due to insufficient reservations or lack of participants for a specific batch, a refund of 96% of the trek money will be issued. Please note that payment gateway charges will be deducted from this refund.
Trek guidelines
To ensure everyone has a great time and knows what to expect, please read these important points:
No alcohol or smoking
For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please don’t consume alcohol, intoxicants, or smoke at any point during the journey or trek.
Dinner before boarding
Kindly complete your dinner before you board the bus.
Travel arrangements
We’ll arrange transportation based on our group size. If there are 12 or fewer of us, we’ll use a tempo traveler. For groups of 13 or more, it’ll be a mini-bus. Both options are non-AC and have push-back seats for your comfort. We appreciate your understanding regarding our travel logistics.
"Without Travel" option
If you prefer to arrange your own transportation to the destination (the homestay), be sure to book the “Without Travel” option when you sign up. Please note: If you select this, you’ll need a private car for your entire trip. Public transport won’t work, as our Day 2 activities begin directly from the homestay and require continuous private car access to ensure you can fully participate in all planned activities.
Embrace the outdoors
Our trips are about getting out into nature, often in remote locations. Please don’t expect luxury accommodations; we focus on providing comfortable basic facilities.
Food provided
We’ll provide basic, vegetarian meals. We do not serve non-vegetarian food.
Leave no trace policy
Please help us keep our beautiful outdoors clean by disposing of all litter properly.
Personal belongings
You are responsible for your personal belongings, valuables, and jewelry. Plan The Unplanned is not liable for any lost items.
Potential delays
While we strive to be on schedule, please be aware that traffic delays or vehicle breakdowns can sometimes occur, leading to slight delays in reaching our destination.
FAQs
You’ll get an event heads-up email by Thursday of the trip week. It includes:
- Exact pickup points with timings
- Your Outdoor Leader’s name and phone number
- A quick list of do’s & don’ts
Batches available
Tickets
With Travel
₹ 4,299/-
Without Travel
₹ 2,999/-
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