Tadiandamol literally means ‘large mountain’ and this place stays true to its name and is an underrated trek that takes you to the highest mountain range of the Coorg district. This trek takes you through the Shola forests, streams, waterfalls and woodlands. The highest peak is at an altitude of 5,740 feet with majestic views of the Western Ghats. The base village for this trek is Kakkabe. While returning, you could visit the famous Golden Temple which is a small Tibetan shrine which was made for Gautama Buddha. This underrated trek won’t disappoint your thrill-seeking soul.
Difficulty Level
This beautiful trek has difficulty level rated as easy to moderate. As it consists of some steep ascents and the forest trail is slippery and uneven whcih could be a little difficult for beginners.
Best time to visit
You can go trekking here from the month of December to May. Early winters are also suitable for trekking in Tandiandamol.
Trek time
The trek takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach the peak of Tandiandamol from the starting point.
Trail information
The trail starts from the Kakkabe bridge and you move towards the Virajpet-Talakaveri road that goes towards the East. It will take about 15 minutes to reach the junction of Aramane and Kakkabe road head. Take the right which will lead you to the Nalknad Palace Road. The trek now takes a gentle ascent from Nalknad palace through a mud and gravel section from to the base of Tadiandamol, from here the actual trekking trail starts. For about an hour you continue as your trail takes you through lush green vegetation. You will reach the base of Tandiandamol shortly. You see two trails, at the base of the trek. There is one on the left and the one on the right. Take the one on the left. You will see a green board from the forest department. The trail from here is a mud trail. You will have to cross a stream after walking for 15 minutes. You will soon enter the Shola Forest. There is a forest check-post, where you will have to pay Rs 50 to proceed further. Soon after, you will cross another stream. Another 20 minutes of trekking to cross the forest section. You soon enter the grasslands. You will soon reach the Boulder point. After 20 minutes trekking with a moderate ascent, you get to a point which resembles a fort structure. Cross that, follow the trail, and stay to the right. You will enter the second forest section of the trek. The trail here is slippery and uneven. After you cross the forest section, you will very shortly reach the peak of Tadiandamol. It takes only 20 to 25 minutes to reach the peak. Enjoy the view from the peak.
It will take about 3 hours to descend from the same route to come back to Nalknad Palace.
Activities
• sight-seeing
• Walk along the Shola Forest
• Trekking
• Witnessing rare Flora and Fauna
Precautions and Essentials
•Good trekking shoes are must to ensure comfortable and smooth trekking experience.
• Wear light and comfortable clothes.
• Carry woolen clothes.
• Alcohol consumption and smoking is highly unadvisable.
• You should stay in a group as there are wild animals in the forests.
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Complete trekking gear
• ID proof is necessary for all trekkers.
• Bring along some water and food with yourself.
• Carry a double strap backpack, sling bags are not recommended.
•Carry mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
• For emergencies carry raincoats, jackets, first aid and some extra clothes.
• Carry minimum weight.
• Don’t litter.
• Stay with group and don’t wander on your own.
• Take care of your own luggage.
• Carry your medicines, if any.
• Carry your camera and mobile phones at your own risk.
• Don’t endanger your life while trying to click risky pictures.
Tadiandamol Trek is one of the most talked-about treks among trekkers beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The thrill and excitement after reaching the peak of Tadiandamol is unmatched. Trekking amidst the clouds is something one must definitely experience. This trek is your ticket to that weekend backpacking trip break, and you will not regret trekking here.
