If you are planning a trip through the lush Malnad region of Karnataka, consider adding Kundadri Hill to your itinerary. This hidden gem offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore an ancient Jain temple perched atop its summit. Our visit to Kundadri Hills in May 2025 was a memorable adventure, and I am excited to share our experience with you in this blog post!
Discovering Kundadri Hills
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Shimoga District, Karnataka, Kundadri Hill stands at an elevation of about 826 meters. The hill is crowned by a 17th-century Jain temple dedicated to Parshwanath Tirthankara, the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism. The serene temple, surrounded by natural beauty, is a spiritual and scenic highlight of the region.
Near the temple, you will find two small ponds carved into the rock. These ponds once served as a water source for sages. They meditated in this tranquil setting.
The combination of spirituality and nature makes Kundadri Hills a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both peace and adventure.
Our Journey to the Kundadri Hill Top
We set out for Kundadri Hills in the late afternoon, arriving around 4:30 PM. Unfortunately, we learned that the Jain temple closes at 5:00 PM. By the time we reached the summit, it was already closed.
While we couldn’t explore the temple’s interiors, the journey was far from disappointing. The hilltop offered jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Rolling green hills stretched as far as the eye see.
The cool breeze was refreshing, and we spent some time soaking in the beauty of the landscape.
Though we missed the temple, the experience left me eager to return. I promised myself to revisit Kundadri Hill during an earlier time of day to explore the sacred site fully.
Trust me, this destination is worth a second trip, and it’s an ideal weekend getaway from Bengaluru!
Tips for Visiting Kundadri Hill
If you’re planning a trip to Kundadri Hill, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
- Timing is Key: Aim to visit during the daytime. Ideally, arrive before 5:00 PM. The Jain temple closes around that time. I’m unsure of the exact morning opening hours, so it’s best to arrive early. Additionally, it’s unclear if the gates to the hill stay open after 5:00 PM, so plan appropriately.
- Driving Caution: The road to Kundadri Hill is steep and curvy, which may be challenging for inexperienced drivers. Drive carefully, especially if you’re unfamiliar with hilly terrain.
- What to Expect: The hilltop offers stunning views, a peaceful atmosphere, and the chance to visit the historic Jain temple. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty!
Our Malnad Adventure
Our visit to Kundadri Hill was part of a larger trip through the Malnad region in May 2025.
Along the way, we explored other incredible destinations. These included the charming Kavimane and the serene Kavishaila. We also visited the refreshing Sirimane Falls and the spiritually uplifting Sringeri Temple.
Each stop added a unique flavour to our journey, making it a perfect blend of nature, culture, and spirituality.
Stay tuned for more stories from our trip. You can read them by following the links at the end of this post!
Share Your Kundadri Hill Experience
Have you visited Kundadri Hill? We do love to hear about your experience!
Did you get a chance to explore the Jain temple or witness a sunrise or sunset from the hilltop? Share your stories, tips, or additional information in the comments below or drop us a line at libranpress@outlook.com.
Your insights help fellow travellers plan their perfect trip!
Final Thoughts
Kundadri Hill is a destination that captivates with its natural beauty and spiritual significance. Whether you’re a nature lover, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for a scenic escape, this hilltop retreat in the Western Ghats won’t disappoint.
I’m already looking forward to my next visit to explore the Jain temple and relive the magic of Kundadri Hill. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let Kundadri Hill weave its charm on you!
Happy travels!
Explore more from our Malnad adventure: Kavimane, Kavishaila, Sirimane Falls, and Sringeri Temple.