Narasimhaghada Trek, Belthangadi

         'Narasimha Ghada' or 'Narasimhanagadi' or 'Jamalabad' (current name) is a hill top fort nested in Kudremukh National Park . This place is about 8 kms from Belthangadi (DK). We came to know about this place when were travelling from Belthangadi to Venuru . We decided to explore this place when we were returning from Venuru . We reached the base of the hill around 2:00 pm. There is a forest check post at the hill base where we can  get a permit for entry (Rs.40/- per head) . The man there put a word  that it will be difficult to reach the top during that time since we  were already late and were asked to return by 6:00 pm. We decided to climb up to 5:00 pm and return from that point . However, we managed reached the top much earlier than expected .

         This fort was built by Tipu Sultan after capturing the local ruler and destroying the old structure. Later, this fort was captured by  British from Tipu during  the 4th Mysore war . Tipu named this fort after his mother Jamalbi .Nothing much remains expect  a few ruins here and there . Most impressive part was the trek .Though steps were laid up to the top , rain water had made them very slippery and difficult to climb.

Initial Climb

Rock Cut Steps

Slippery Pathway

   The hill top was a flat surface having ruins of fort, micro ave station and a water pond . We got a birds's eye view of the entire range of Kudremukh National Park . We were also able to spot a water falls far away on another hill.

View Mid Way

Bird's Eye View

View from the Top

Another View

   On our way to the hill top, we spotted various forms of life.

Blue Dragon

Skimmer

Green Dragon

Dragon Fly

Common Sailor

Camouflaged  Lizard

Spiny Lizard

Stag Beetle

Cup  Mushroom

Mushrooms

Mushrooms

Wild Grass Flower

This is a wonderful place to explore and popular among trekkers.

Trip Date :  27 Sept' 2009.