Ethina Bhuja Trek is a lesser-known trail sitting amidst western ghats near Dharmastala temple. The peak of this mighty mountain resembles the shoulders of an ox, hence it is called “ Ethina Bhuja” which means “ox shoulders” in local language Kannada. Undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful and adventurous trekking destinations across Chikmagalur to have me-time with nature. However, you will hardly find anyone, as this is hidden and unknown to the masses.
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Trekking To Ethina Bhuja or Shishila Gudda
Interestingly, there are 2 routes to Ethina Bhuja Trek.
Trekking Route From Shishila Village
Shishila is a small village which is 15 Km from Dharmastala. If you love trekking then take this 13 Km long trek which will normally take 6 hours to complete. You will start your trek near the age-old Durga temple where locals offer prayer every day. As you stroll into the dense forest this trekking trail leads you through multiple streams, tall grassland, and steep valley before reaching the top.
Trekking route From Byrapura Village
Byrapura is a quaint village in Mudigere taluk. It is a short trek of 5 km which will take about 2 hours to reach the peak. This is definitely good for the travellers that don’t trek on a regular basis.
Both sunset and sunrise views are absolutely delightful and breathtaking. Hence, make sure you reach the peak by evening and camp here to view the mist-filled sunrise too. Besides this, the whole view of lush green valley, small streams, ghats, and clouds that pass all over you is something not to be missed.
You can even camp overnight on the hilltop and homestays will help you out with this. There is a flat land just 50 m below the peak where you can set up a tent and bonfire. No need to worry about water as there is a small stream passing by near the camping site. You can make this a home for a night and gaze at stars as the wind blow gently at your face. Furthermore, you can even carry small portables stoves if you are fond of cooking.
Note: Be careful about the mighty tuskers and wild pigs that inhabit in the nearby vicinity.
How To Reach Ethina Bhuja Trekking Base
There are frequent buses from Bangalore that takes you to Dharmastala Temple. And, from here you have to either go to Shishila or Byrapura.
Dharmastala To Shishila
Shishila is 32 Km from Dharmastala. You can catch a local bus that drops you at Kokkada village and from there you can take a jeep ride to reach Shishila
Dharmastala To Byrapura
Mudigere is 55 Km from Dharmastala. You can catch a local bus that drops you at Mudigere and from there you can take a jeep ride or hop into another bus to reach Byrapura.
Where To Stay And What To Eat Near Ethina Bhuja Trek
There are a few homestays near the Shishila and Byrapura village. These homestays provide lip-smacking delicious local cuisines like idli, dosa, upma, Kesari bath, rice sambar, etc. Apart from this, they also provide a trekking guide to help us throughout our treks. Don’t expect luxury as most of the stays is in remote areas.
Above all, there is a Kapila river flowing here called “Shishila Matsya Teertha”, so that means you can go for a swim.
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