The 2026 Western Ghats Trekking Ban: Why the Mountains Need a Break (And What You Should Do Instead)

If you had a trek to Kudremukh or Netravati on your 2026 bucket list, I have bad news.

As of January 14, 2026, the Karnataka Forest Department has officially closed all major trekking paths in the Kudremukh National Park, Someshwara, and Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuaries.

The "Why": It’s Not About You, It’s About the Forest

Every year, as the Western Ghats dry out, the risk of forest fires skyrockets. High winds and dry grasslands (Shola) mean that a single spark can devastate thousands of acres of habitat.

To protect the ecosystem and ensure trekker safety, the department has halted entry to these 11 iconic trails:

1. Gangadikal

2. Kudremukh Peak

3. Kurinjal

4. Valikunja (Both S. Border & Kerekatte routes)

5. Narasimha Parvatha (Both Kigga & Malandur routes)

6. Kodachadri (Both Valur & Hidlumane routes)

7. Bandaje-Arbi

8. Netravati Peak

   
   

The Reality Check

A "tourist" sees this as a ruined weekend. A "Wanderophile" sees this as a necessary reset for the mountains we love.

The Western Ghats are a fragile biodiversity hotspot. Part of being a responsible adventurer is knowing when to step back and let the forest breathe. If we want these trails to remain pristine for the next decade, we have to respect the fire season protocols.

So, Is Your Adventure Season Over?

Absolutely not.

While the high-altitude grasslands of the Kudremukh division are off-limits, this is the perfect time to pivot. At Wanderophile, we are shifting our focus to regions that are still open and safe during this window:

• Coastal Karnataka: It’s prime season for the Gokarna Beach Trek and Honnavar backwaters.

  
  

• Heritage Trails: Exploring the boulders and history of Hampi.

  
  

• Riverside Adventures: Water-based activities in Dandeli or Mulki.

  
  

The mountains will be there when the rains return. For now, let’s head toward the coast.

Note to our booked trekkers: If you have an upcoming slot for any of the 11 banned treks, our team is reaching out today with transfer options to our Coastal/Hampi circuits or full credit for the post-monsoon season.