Ettina Bhuja Trek: A Complete Guide for Adventure Seekers

Hidden in the enchanting corners of Sakleshpur, Ettina Bhuja trek is the hidden bounty of nature admirers, adventure seekers and weekend seekers. Literally meaning the Shoulder of the Ox in Kannada, Ettina Bhuja offers a beautiful walk up to the top. It is a soul-stirring experience that provides a panoramic view, easy access, and a somewhat moderate trail. Hence, it is one of the most popular trekking destinations at Sakleshpur.

Regardless of your experience as a trekker or your desire to spend some time in the tropic bliss, Ettina Bhuja is close to giving you the right mixture of thrill, silence, and untouched natural ride. This is a comprehensive guide to all things you should know, including the location of Ettina Bhuja, the route you have to take, the highlights as well, and, of course, how you can take up this adventurous ride out of Machaan Plantation Resort, Sakleshpur.

Majestic Ettina Bhuja peak lies in Charmadi Ghat part of Western Ghats, which is around 25 km distance to Sakleshpur, which is a small hill station in Karnataka. The Ettina Bhuja destination is covered in the area of Mudigere in Chikmagalur district, and the area is covered by both Sakleshpur and Chikmagalur.

The closest town would be Mudigere, but the majority of travellers choose to be based in Sakleshpur. It has many options in terms of stay as it houses the beautiful Machaan Plantation Resort, a perfect place to start your Ettina Bhuja trek. Also, it is one of the many easy treks in Karnataka, making it suitable for all.

The Ettina Bhuja trek distance is not very long; hence, it is friendly to the novice and easy trek seekers in Karnataka. The total distance of the hiking, including the base and back to the peak, is 4-5 kilometres. The route leads you across a combination of open grassland, forests, and rocky terrain and ends with a breathtaking view of the terrains that offer panoramic effects at the top.

Here’s a quick overview of the trek:

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Trek Distance: ~5 km (round trip)
• Time Required: 3–4 hours
• Altitude: 1,290 meters (4,232 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

When you settle in Machaan Plantation Resort, Sakleshpur, you have the right location to stay and explore some of the best trekking spots near Sakleshpur. It takes a picturesque drive through a short route to reach the hotel and the starting point of the trek base, i.e., the Ettina Bhuja destination.

The route of travelling to the Machaan Plantation Resort to Ettina Bhuja:

• Being at the resort, start off early in the morning in order to have the best.
• Head to Mudigere using SH 57.
• Go to Byrapura village- the starting point of the trek.
• The starting trail can be reached by a short jeep ride or by foot in Byrapura village.

Machaan Plantation Resort staff is available to ease your worries by booking services of transportation or a local guide so you can enjoy the adventure.

In case you are interested in a step-by-step Ettina Bhuja trek guide, then this is what your adventure will be like:

The Trailhead 

You will kick off your walk at a tiny clearing close to Byrapura village. The trek begins slowly as it runs past tall grasslands and leads to an expansive canopy of the Shola forests- the typical character in the Western Ghats.

Mid-Trail Ascent 

The second step entails a tapered slope. You will pass areas of gravel and thick vegetation. The forest path gives it untouched mysticism and is particularly cool in the morning fog.

Last Ascent to the Summit

As you approach the Ettina Bhuja hill, the flora dies out, making way to the open grasslands and rock fields. The last 200 meters are a bit steep. However, the 360-degree view is worth the hike.

The Summit 

The surface will usher you with spectacular views of the Charmadi ranges, coffee plantations and the wavy hills of the Western Ghats. This is the best spot to rest, to photograph and to enjoy the silence.

Although the town of Sakleshpur is already blessed with natural beauty, trekking in Sakleshpur really gets a new life with trails such as Ettina Bhuja. This is why this trek is a favourite among trekkers:

• Scenic Sights: Marvel at a panoramic scenic view of the Western Ghats and adjacent valleys.
• Short & Sweet:The moderate distance of the Ettina Bhuja trek makes it an ideal one both for a novice and a family.
• Flora and fauna: The path goes into forested areas with high levels of flora and fauna.
• Photographer Heaven: Green pastures, foggy hills, and rock mountains provide a stunning difference.
• Uncrowded Experience: The Ettina Bhuja is a quiet respite away from the tourists as compared to other treks.

Technically, the Ettina Bhuja trek is a year-round trek, but the best weather for the trek is the cooler months of October to March. The weather at this time is good. Also, the skies are clear, and the countryside is greenish after the monsoons.

The monsoons (June to September) should be avoided because the trail may be slippery and dangerous in the rainy season. In case you want to do a bit of trekking along with being in a homely-like atmosphere, then the winter season is also the best time to visit Machaan Plantation Resort, Sakleshpur.

• Start early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.
• Check weather conditions before heading out.
• Carry your trash back to maintain Ettina Bhuja's pristine.
• Avoid playing loud music or disturbing wildlife.
• Always follow instructions if you're with a guide.

Even though it's a short trail, having the right gear ensures safety and comfort. Here's a packing list:

• Comfortable trekking shoes with good grip
• Reusable water bottle (at least 1 litre)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
• Light snacks or energy bars
• Small backpack
• First-aid kit
• Lightweight jacket or windcheater
• Camera or phone with enough storage and battery for photos

Other than Ettina Bhuja, there are many other trekking places near Sakleshpur area which are worth trekking:

Bisle Ghat Viewpoint 

It is a nature lover and a birdwatcher's place with wonderful views of the Western Ghats. Bisle Ghat Viewpoint is a captivating destination for anyone enchanted by the raw beauty of the Western Ghats. It is located around 55 km from Sakleshpur. This viewpoint offers one of the most awe-inspiring panoramic views in Karnataka. You can witness a stunning canvas of the Kumara Parvatha, Pushpagiri Hills, Dodda Betta, and Yenikallu Bettaon a clear day.

Jenukal Gudda 

It is one of the tallest mountains in Karnataka but with a more difficult path and amazing sun sights. The peak is often called the second-highest peak in Karnataka, Jenukal Gudda (meaning Honey Rock Hill in Kannada). It is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding trek for those who crave altitude and solitude. The peak is located approximately 35 km from Sakleshpur. It’s a must-visit for serious trekkers looking to test their stamina amidst nature’s grandeur.

Pandavara Gudda 

The peak offers an exotic journey. This hill was supposedly a resting place of the Pandavas in their exile. Hence, you can experience mythological fun here. The trail to Pandavara Gudda is more gentle compared to Jenukal Gudda. But it is slightly longer than Ettina Bhuja. It winds through lush coffee plantations, wildflower-laced trails, and forested areas alive with birdsong and buzzing insects. As you hike higher, you'll cross old stone paths and moss-covered boulders.

All these trails are also situated around Machaan Plantation Resort, so you will have an opportunity to organize several hikes during your visit.

In case you intend to spend a longer holiday break, you can visit other spots in and near the town in addition to the best trekking places in Sakleshpur. Add the following tourist attractions in Sakleshpur to your trekking experience:

• Manjarabad Fort- A fort whose shape is in the form of a star that was constructed by Tipu Sultan.
• Hemavathi Backwaters at Talaulim- It is the perfect place to hold a scenic drive and make a picnic.
• Sakleshpur Railway trek- A distinct experience when you walk through the old railway bridges as well as tunnels.
• Magajahalli Waterfalls- A serene waterfall suitable for taking a small break in nature.
• Coffee Plantation Tours- The heart of the Coffee-Growing Zone in Karnataka.

Location and comfort are important aspects that one should consider when searching trekking destinations around Sakleshpur. One can find both at Machaan Plantation Resort. Below are the reasons why it is the best place to have a trekking tour:

• Closeness to Ettina Bhuja: Just a few hour's drive to the trek base.
• Scenic Source: It is enveloped with coffee estates and forest cover, making it a destination by itself.
• Trekking Services: The resort has the capacity to facilitate guides, packed lunch and transportation to the trek.
• Contemporary comfort: Spend the day hiking and then get into comfortable rooms, tasteful food, and relax in nature.

Your adventure doesn’t have to end with trekking. Sakleshpur has several tourist attractions that are perfect for sightseeing after your trek:

• Manjarabad Fort: A star-shaped fort built by Tipu Sultan
• Sakleshpur Railway Bridge Trek: Offers colonial-era tunnels and railway bridges
• Hemavathi Backwaters: Great for birdwatching and sunset views
• Magajahalli Waterfalls: A charming waterfall just a short drive from town

More than a hike, Ettina Bhuja trek is an adventure in the Western Ghats. Its trekking distance is relatively short considering the length of the Ettina Bhuja trek, whereas the natural beauty of this location is rich, and it is all the more accessible through the Machaan Plantation Resort. A trail that is perfect for taking a trip alone, with a partner, or with kids allows you to take some time, relax your body and renew your passion towards nature.

You can come to Ettina Bhuja either to have a weekend getaway, a soft adventure, or even just to take a relaxing stroll through nature, and this place is going to be ready and waiting to see you. Book your stay at Machaan Plantation Resort, Sakleshpur, and let the adventure begin at the best hiking spots in Sakleshpur.