Tadiandamol: Planning a Trek in the Coorg Highlands
In short: Tadiandamol (1,748 m) in Madikeri taluk, Kodagu, is the highest peak in Coorg and a popular day hike that can be done up and back in under five hours. Entry closes at 5 pm, camping has been banned since December 2016, and the greenest season is late July to September.
Quick facts
| Starting point | Madikeri |
|---|---|
| Height | 1,748 m |
| District | Kodagu, Karnataka (Western Ghats, Madikeri taluk) |
| Time | Day hike, under 5 hours up and back, as reported |
| Entry | Closes at 5:00 pm |
| Camping | Banned since December 2016, as reported |
| Season | Late July to September for greenery after the monsoon begins |
What to expect
Tadiandamol is the highest point in Kodagu, with patches of shola forest in the valleys and grassy ridges on the way up. It is a popular route with trekkers and naturalists, and the easiest route is a hike rather than a technical climb.
Plan the day
- Start early; entry closes at 5 pm, so you must be off the hill in good time.
- Expect up to five hours for the ascent and return, longer with children or heavy rain.
- Monsoon brings green hills but also slippery trails, leeches and poor visibility; see how to read weather forecasts.
- Camping on the peak has been banned since December 2016, so plan a day hike and stay in Coorg.
Prepare
Use the day hike packing list and check the difficulty with how to judge trail difficulty. Confirm entry rules, fees and any guide requirement with the Karnataka Forest Department before you go.
Make it a Coorg weekend
Combine the hike with a family stay; see planning a family camping weekend in Coorg. For another Karnataka trek, read the Kudremukh trek guide.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Tadiandamol?
About 1,748 metres, the highest peak in Kodagu.
How long does the trek take?
Reported as under five hours up and back, depending on pace and conditions.
Can I camp on Tadiandamol?
Camping has been banned since December 2016, as reported; check the current rules.
When is the best season?
Late July to September is described as the greenest, but the monsoon also brings slippery trails and poor visibility.
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Read nextRules, closures, fees and conditions change. Confirm with the relevant authority before you travel, and treat this guide as planning help, not a substitute for local advice.
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