Kudremukh National Park

Kudremukh National Park
Kudremukh National Park
Interactive map of Kudremukh National Park
LocationChikmagalur and Dakshin Kannada districts Karnataka, India
Area600.57 km²

Kudremukh National Park is a protected area in Chikmagalur and Dakshina Kannada districts of Indian state of Karnataka. It is named after the mountain in Chikmagalur district, in Karnataka, India. The name literally means 'horse-face' and refers to one picturesque view of a side of the mountain.

The name also refers to the small town near the mountain, about 48 kilometres from Karkala and about 20 kilometres from Kalsa. It was primarily an iron ore mining town where the government run Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL) which is closed due to aesthetic and conservation purposes. It is noted for its scenic beauty, located in midst of mountains. Built on lines of colonial towns this place is worth a visit. Owing to the dense forests, sighting wildlife can be challenging, though the area is rich in wildlife. Nonetheless, the drive through the forest ranges can be enchanting and exhilarating. Three important rivers, the Tunga, the Bhadra and the Nethravathi are said to have their origin here. A shrine of goddess Bhagavathi and a Varaha image, 1.8 m within a cave are the main attractions.

The Tunga River and Bhadra River flow freely through the parklands. Kadambi waterfalls area definite point of interest for anyone who travels to the spot.

The animals found there include the malabar civet, wild dogs, sloth bear and spotted deer.