How to Reach Mandalpatti National Park
Book your Mandalpatti Safari today and enjoy an unforgettable jeep ride to Coorg’s hidden gem, where adventure awaits!
Ranked as the best tourist spot in Coorg, Mandalpatti is a mountain at a height of 4050 ft. Nestled in Pushpagiri Reserve Forest, it is known for colorful birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. The hike towards the summit is easy, and the stunning views of the vast green plains, valleys, and forests are extremely rewarding. How to reach Mandalpati, the famous hilltop in Madikeri at a whopping height of 4050 ft? Well, the Mandalpatti jeep safari in a 4×4 jeep or trekking the last 3 km from the base of Mandalpatti is a perfect way to reach this beautiful spot.
It is a secluded spot offering a calming experience, so people from the nearby villages, like Madikeri, only 20 km away, head here on the weekend. Mandalpatti means mist or market of cloud, a just name as you start seeing fog up the roads as you start nearing the peak via your jeep safari to Mandalpatti. Abbey Falls to Mandalpatti distance is 11 km and is also the best route as you get the best view of Mandalpatti. The last 3 km, you will have to trek, as driving in a personal vehicle is not allowed by the forest department. The entire journey is worth it when you take the jeep safari to Mandalpatti and reach the summit. The view, greenery, and no sign of commercialization make it a perfect unwinding spot. Also, overnight camping here is possible, something exciting for all nature lovers.
Quick Facts
- Location: Mahadevpet, Madikeri.
- Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
- Entry fee: INR 25
- Trek Duration: 20-25 km from Madikeri accessible by Mandalpatti Jeep Ride but the last 3 km has to be trekked on foot.
Distance to Mandalpatti from Major Locations
Madikeri to Mandalpatti Jeep Safari
The distance from Madikeri to Mandalpatti is covered easily via road. For people staying in a resort or hotel in Madikeri, you can hire a jeep and head towards Mandalpatti. Hiring a jeep gives you the benefit of covering other scenic places too, like Kote Abbey Falls, Abbi Falls, and more.
The jeep ride from Madikeri to Mandalpatti will cost around INR 4000, and it will be a 4×4 jeep. As you reach the base of Mandalpatti, it is best to take a jeep ride, even if you are capable of trekking, because the view is superb and the thrill of jeep riding is unmatched.
Abbey Falls to Mandalpatti Jeep Safari
Abbey Falls to Mandalpatti distance is 11 km, and from the falls junction, the distance is approximately 20 km. The falls is one of the most beautiful yet hidden gems near Mandalpatti. After admiring the falls, you can take a jeep ride from Abbey Falls Junction, costing around INR 1500 for 5-6 people. The duration of this jeep ride to Mandalpatti viewpoint is one hour.
You can also drive from Abbey Falls to Mandalpatti, and you do not have to take a jeep ride from the junction. The road conditions till the base are ideal for self-driving. From the base, taking a jeep ride costing around INR 1000 is perfect, and then trek a few kms to reach the top. The summit has impressive views, and the trek is easy too.
Mysore to Mandalpatti Jeep Safari
A Mysore to Mandalpatti Jeep Safari is an exciting and adventurous way to explore the scenic beauty of Coorg. The journey begins with a drive from Mysore to Madikeri, around 130 km away, which takes about 3-4 hours. From Madikeri, you’ll take a rugged, off-road jeep ride for the remaining 25 km to Mandalpatti. The terrain is bumpy and uneven, making the jeep safari an exhilarating experience. You’ll pass through lush forests, coffee plantations, and winding roads, offering stunning views of Coorg’s landscapes. It’s the best way to reach Mandalpatti while enjoying the region’s natural charm and adventure.
Kalpetta to Mandalpatti Mandalpatti Jeep Safari
A Kalpetta to Mandalpatti Jeep Safari is an adventurous and scenic way to experience the beauty of Coorg. To begin, you’ll need to drive from Kalpetta (Wayanad) to Madikeri, which is about 120-130 km away, taking roughly 3-4 hours by car. From Madikeri, you can hire a jeep safari to Mandalpatti, located around 25 km away. The off-road journey is thrilling, passing through dense forests, rolling hills, and coffee plantations. The jeep ride offers fantastic views and a chance to spot local wildlife. The safari to Mandalpatti is perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Best Ways to Reach Mandalpatti
By Road:
Self-driving or hiring a cab for a road trip to Mandalpatti is a beautiful journey. The road distance between Mangalore and Mandalpatti is 211 km; from Bangalore, the distance is 284 km, and from Mysore, 118 km. You can drive to Madikeri on your own and then take a jeep ride or self-drive to the base of Mandalpatti and then take a jeep ride up or trek the last few km.
By Train:
The nearest major railway station is Mangalore Central Railway Station, and so are Mysore and Bangalore. However, there is a small station 85 km away from Madikeri, known as Subrahmanya Road Railway Station, connecting local trains. From the railway station, a bus ride or hiring a cab works the best.
By Air:
Mangalore International Airport, 160 km away from Mandalpatti, is the nearest airport. Flying here, you can take a taxi to reach Madikeri and then take a jeep ride to Mandalpatti and trek the last few kms to the summit. Or you can also fly to Bangalore airport, 250 km away from Madikeri, which you can reach via a car or bus.
By Bus:
There are a few bus stops, but the closest one to Mandalpatti is the Shivamogga bus terminal. It has good connectivity with other cities. From here, take a local bus to Madikeri bus stand or Stuart Hill. Madikeri to Mandalpatti distance is approximately 20 km, covered via a jeep ride and trekking.
Travel Tips for Visiting Mandalpatti
- If you are reaching Mandalpatti via foot, be part of a group. Or better yet, go with a trekking guide.
- You should take plenty of rest before trekking to the Mandalpatti summit.
- Ensure to wear comfortable clothing, as trekking or taking a jeep ride to cover the Madikeri to Mandalpatti distance is scenic but challenging.
- 3 km from the summit, you cannot drive your personal vehicle. Only trekking is allowed. So, make your travel plans accordingly.
- The hilltop gets windy and cold. So, carry a light jacket with you.
- Always use sunglasses and put sunscreen on to save yourself from UV rays.
- Carry enough water to keep yourself hydrated. Also, carry some nuts and a protein bar for snacking.
FAQs
Are there any entry fees for Mandalpatti?
Yes, there is an entry fee for Mandalpatti. It is INR 25 per person, and if you take a jeep ride towards the peak, it is 1500.
Can we visit Mandalpatti during the monsoon season?
Yes, visiting Mandalpatti during the monsoon season is possible. Some nature lovers consider this the best time as rain enhances the greenery, creating a beautiful misty atmosphere. The views are stunning and there is also a kind of serenity and solitude, ideal for peace seekers. However, also remember that reaching Mandalpatti during monsoon is challenging as the roads are not in good condition. There is reduced visibility because of fog. It is best to hire a jeep to reach Mandalpatti to navigate the slippery terrain.
Can we go to Mandalpatti in your own car?
How to reach Mandalpatti via your car is a question on the mind of everyone heading to this scenic place. From Madikeri, you can drive to Mandalpatti using your own car or by hiring a cab. There are no direct buses between Madikeri and Mandalpatti. From Madikeri, you will come to a diversion where the road forks into a ‘Y.’ Here you will find many drivers asking you to hire a jeep to reach Mandalpatti, claiming it is not allowed. However, you can still drive for 15 km via your car; the above statement by the drivers is not true. If you are not confident driving up the hill, hire the guide.
As you drive to the start of the hillock, you will see deserted roads with dense greenery on both sides. When you start seeing fog on the road, you will find that Mandalpatti is near. Pay a parking fee of INR 20. From here, you can either hire a jeep for INR 500-700 to cover the rest of the 5 km towards the park. Or you can also trek the whole distance if you want.
How can I reach Mandalpatti from Madikeri?
Madikeri to Mandalpatti distance is 17 km, and you can cover this distance three ways. These are:
By taxi: You can take a taxi to Mandalpatti; it is a 17 km ride that you will be able to cover in 30-45 minutes.
By jeep: You can also hire a 4×4 jeep from the KSRTC bus stand, Madikeri. Or you can hire a jeep at the Abbi Falls junction. Or from the start of the hillock, till where you can also drive your own car.
By trek: Trekking from the base of Mandalpatti, a simple 3-km trek is also a perfect way to reach Mandalpatti.
How can I reach Mandalpatti from Mysore?
Mysore to Mandalpatti distance is 130 km, taking you around 3-4 hours to reach your destination.
By car: Self-drive or hire a taxi and take the route to Hunsur. Then drive to Coorg via the Ponnampet route. From Coorg, take a bus or taxi to Madikeri, and from here, you can take a jeep ride to reach Mandalpatti.
By bus: There are direct buses from Mysore to Madikeri, starting from as low as INR 170. From the station, take a taxi or jeep ride to the base of Mandalpatti.
By train: A few trains, like the Kannur or Karwar express, also run between Mysore and Subramanya Road. From this station, take a local taxi or bus to Madikeri, covering 85 km. Reaching Madikeri, you can take a jeep ride or taxi to Mandalpatti base.
How to reach Mandalpatti from Bangalore?
Bangalore’s distance from Mandalpatti is 250 km, and it will take you 6 hours to cover this distance.
By bus: There are direct buses from Bangalore to Madikeri. After reaching Madikeri, take a taxi or jeep ride to Mandalpatti.
What is the distance between Kalpetta and Mandalpatti?
The distance from Kalpetta to Mandalpatti is 139.8 km, and you reach your destination via Madikeri. From Kalpetta, you cover a distance of 128.8 km and reach Madiker in approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. From Madikeri, take a taxi or jeep ride to Mandalpatti. To reach Madikeri from Kalpetta, you can take a private KSRTC bus costing around INR 600-800 or even a private taxi for the entire journey.
How far is Abbey Falls from Mandalpatti?
Abbey Falls is approximately 11.2 km. From Abbey Falls Junction, almost 20 km from Mandalpatti, you can hire a private jeep for INR 1500 for 5-6 persons. However, you can also drive your own car to the base of Mandalpatti (do not pay attention to the drivers trying to scare you). From there, you can take a jeep ride for INR 1000 (5-6 people) towards Mandalpatti peak.
Is mobile network available in Mandalpatti?
Yes, most mobile operators are available in Mandalpatti. But the network connectivity depends, as it is good in the higher altitude region and not so good in other regions. It is best to carry Airtel and BSNL SIMs, as they work the best.