One of Bengaluru's most popular weekend treks, partly because the train ride to the base is half the fun. A gentle rocky climb to a hilltop temple with views over the surrounding countryside — now done as a 6 to 10 am slot booked online, so go for the sunrise.
On the trail now and the next 7 days
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Forecast for the trek's map point. It is usually colder and windier at the top.
Makalidurga, planned for you
Day-by-day timings, the route, what each part costs, where to sleep and eat, and a checklist. One PDF that works offline: print it, or send it to everyone going.
- Day 1 Makalidurga: the trek
- TravelBase: Makalidurga village, 55 km from Bengaluru
- PermitPermits and entry
- On the trailEasy trek to 930 m₹300
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The route
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On the map
Makalidurga · Open in Google Maps ↗
The climb
How to reach the start
Train from Bengaluru City to Makalidurga station (a scenic, popular weekend rail trip), then a short walk to the base.
Step 3 of 6Next: Permits↓Permits and rules
Rules change. Check the park office or official booking system before you travel.
Step 4 of 6Next: Gear↓What to carry
What it costs
Ballpark ranges, not live quotes. Prices last updated 10 October 2026. Prices move with season and demand, so check live fares before you book. Spot a wrong price? Tell us and we fix it.
Covers local transport, permits or entry, a guide where needed and food on the trail. Getting to Makalidurga village is extra.
Photos
Questions people ask
How hard is the Makalidurga trek?
Easy grade. It takes Half day (morning slot) and climbs to about 930 m. One of Bengaluru's most popular weekend treks, partly because the train ride to the base is half the fun. A gentle rocky climb to a hilltop temple with views over the surrounding countryside — now done as a 6 to 10 am slot booked online, so go for the sunrise.
Do I need a permit for Makalidurga?
Book online on the Karnataka Forest Department's Aranya Vihaara portal, 1 to 30 days ahead: 6 to 10 am slot, up to 300 people a day, original photo ID required (checked October 2026).
How do I reach the Makalidurga trek?
Train from Bengaluru City to Makalidurga station (a scenic, popular weekend rail trip), then a short walk to the base. Base: Makalidurga village, 55 km from Bengaluru.
What is the best season for Makalidurga?
Year-round, best Oct–Feb.
How much does the Makalidurga trek cost?
From about ₹300 per person from the base, covering local transport, permits or entry, a guide where required and food. The journey to the base is extra.
What should I carry?
Trainers, water, and a cap: the slot ends at 10 am but the rock heats fast.
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Costs are indicative ballparks for doing it yourself and change with season and demand. Always check live fares, rates and opening rules before you book. Trip Under is not a travel agency: we don't sell packages or bookings, we take no commission, and we link to maps and official sites, never to booking sites. Every guide is free; our only paid products are optional downloadable trip plans and itineraries. Photographs come from Wikimedia Commons under free licences; see credits.
By Gokul · Updated 10 October 2026 · Photo: Sanjeevengineer · CC BY-SA 4.0 · source · Photo: Shreekanth Ramasamy · CC0 · source · Photo: Adityamadhav83 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
