Beyond the Basics Of Life: Shivanand and Friends Netravati Trek Review With Thrillophilia
"Every now and then, step away from the noise to listen to what the silence has to say."
We didn’t plan for this escape to happen. It started like any other Thursday night–we were a team of eight coders, bonded together by endless hours of debugging and caffeine-fueled brainstorming sessions. Friday evenings for us usually meant sitting at our desks, neck-deep in code, exchanging half-hearted jokes about deadlines and then going to a bar to chill for the weekend.
But this Friday was going to be different.
The fatigue of the routine had started to creep in, and someone casually suggested a break. It wasn’t meant to be taken seriously, but the idea grew wings as the conversation shifted to treks and trails.
Minutes later, we were all on our phones, scrolling through options, and almost as if fate was nudging us, Thrillophilia’s Netravati Trek popped up on every screen.
The promise of misty mountains, serene waterfalls, and a journey into nature seemed like the perfect antidote to our tech-driven lives. It wasn’t too far, wouldn’t disrupt our schedules, but carried just enough adventure to shake things up.
Within an hour, plans were sealed, tickets booked, and eight individuals became one team, ready to embark on a journey we knew would be memorable.
Coffee, Laughter, and a Journey to Remember
The adventure began with an overnight ride from Bangalore. There’s something magical about travelling with a group. Conversations took on a life of their own, veering from nostalgic college stories to dramatic reenactments of office quirks. We played songs, argued over playlists, and shared snacks — a mix of local goodies and someone’s stash of chips that barely lasted the first hour.
We reached Kudremukh National Park early in the morning and were greeted by rolling hills that seemed to stretch forever. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers. Our pre-arranged breakfast was simple yet satisfying — soft idlis, spicy chutney, and endless cups of steaming filter coffee.
Our guide, Ramesh, stood out with his lively energy and knack for storytelling. “These mountains aren’t just a place to visit; it’s a place to feel,” he said, as he led us to the trailhead.
And, with every step, those words began to ring true.
Small Steps, Big Moments
The trek started at a slow pace, winding through lush forests where sunlight peeked through dense canopies. We talked less and looked more, noticing every small detail — dew shimmering on leaves, the sudden rustling of unseen animals, and the distant hum of a waterfall. A tiny stream appeared out of nowhere, its crystal-clear water gurgling like nature’s melody.
At one point, Neeraj— the life of our group — got overly ambitious trying to climb a rock for a photo. The inevitable slip and his humour had us all in splits, a moment that quickly became the highlight of the day.
As the trail grew steeper, the group naturally divided into pairs, some of us chatting while others focused on the climb. Priya, usually quiet, shared a heartfelt story about why she’d been eager to escape the city — a simple yet profound moment that made the trek feel more personal.
Reaching the summit was like entering another realm. Clouds kissed the peak, and the view stretched endlessly, with layers of green hills blending into the horizon. The wind carried a coolness that revived every tired muscle. We sat in a circle, sharing a few biscuits and staring at the vastness. No one felt the need to speak; the mountain seemed to be doing the talking for us.
Stories by the Fire and Lessons from the Land
Back at the base camp, the entire mood shifted from introspection to celebration. A hearty dinner of sambhar, rice, and pickle was just what we needed after a long day. The highlight, however, was the bonfire.
We huddled close, the flames lighting up our tired yet happy faces. Ramesh shared local tales — about the sacred Netravati River and the spirits the villagers believed watched over the mountain. His voice had a rhythm to it, drawing us into a world where nature and folklore intertwined.
The sky was a blanket of stars, and someone joked about spotting constellations. Lying on the cool ground, staring upward, it struck me how long it had been since any of us had truly stopped to just be.
From Waterfalls to Wisdom
The next morning brought a fresh wave of discoveries. The Netravati waterfall was a force of nature — its roaring cascade felt both overwhelming and calming.
We took turns dipping our feet into the icy water, the chill jolting us awake. A local woman washing clothes nearby shared that people believed the river’s water carried blessings. Standing there, feeling the spray on our faces, we didn’t need convincing.
Belur Temple was our last stop, and its detailed carvings left us speechless. The stories etched into the stone spoke of a time when art and faith went hand in hand. The priest’s quiet blessings added a sense of closure to our journey.
A humble eatery offered us a taste of Chikmagalur’s hospitality during lunch. Akki rotti, served with tangy chutneys and buttermilk, was simple yet soulful — much like the place itself.
Take the Trip, Find Yourself
As we returned to Bangalore, the vibe in the bus was different. The laughter was softer, the conversations deeper. We spoke about things that mattered — family, dreams, and what truly made us happy.
If you’re reading this, don’t think twice about booking the Netravati Trek through Thrillophilia. Their seamless arrangements, from the 30 minute jeep ride to the campsite, made all the difference. And when you go, take your time. Watch the locals, savour the food, and let the mountain teach you what it wants.
This trip wasn’t just about reaching a peak; it was about rediscovering the joy in small things — the chill of a mountain stream, the warmth of a shared laugh, and the silence that spoke louder than words.
Take the trip. You won’t regret it.
Read more: Thrillophilia Bangalore Trek Reviews