Kodachadri Peak is the second mountain peak in Karnataka that is situated along the Western Ghats, in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. Kodachadri is perched in the middle of the Mookambika National Park which is the habitat of several species of flora and fauna. The Government of Karnataka has declared it as natural heritage site.

Naming of Kodachadri Peak
The name Kodachadri has a great significance, it is a derivation of Sanskrit word "Kutakachalam." However, the peak is popular by various local names, in Kannada, it is called Kodashi Parvatha.

Location of Kodachadri Peak
The peak is located in the Hosanagara taluk of Shimoga district and is considered to be the highest peak in the district. It has an altitude of 1343 meter above sea level. It is situated at a distance of twenty kilometres from Kollur.

Flora and Fauna of Kodachadri Peak
Kodachadri Peak houses several endemic and endangered species of flora and fauna. Malabar Langur, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Paradise flycatcher, Indian Tiger, Indian Leopard, Indian Elephant, Hyena, Gaur, Indian Rock Python are some of the important animal life of this peak. Among these animals several are threatened.

Other Attractions of Kodachadri Peak
Kodachadri Peak and its neighbouring regions act as a major attraction for the tourists. The Peak forms a picturesque background to the famous temple of Mookambika in Kollur. There stands an iron pillar of about 40 feet length in front of the Moola Mookambika Temple which is compared with massive similar historic iron pillars located at Dhar, Mount Abu etc. Around the peak rain forests and shola forest appear to envelop in a perpetual layer of mist. The gorgeous backdrop summons a huge flock of tourists to the peak. Thus, the peak has earned recognition as one of the major tourist destinations in Karnataka.

The famous places of visit in Kodachadri include Sarvajna Peetha; it is located on the top of a hill. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya meditated in this particular place. The other alluring sites include the Belakallu theertha, Arisinagudi Waterfalls, Agastya Teertha Waterfalls, Hidlumane Falls, Arasinagundi falls and Nagara fort.

Trekking in Kodachadri Peak
The peak has been a continuous attraction for the trekkers too. Tourists visiting the place engage in exploring through hiking. The Kodachadri trek is approximately 10 kilometres from the base to the peak. The trekking point is reached by a bus from the Kollur Bus stop. The trekking spot can be reached from Nagodi village, near Kollur. Another easier trekking route on jeep road starts from Sampekatte village (Hosanagara Taluk).

The trek around the Kodachadri Peak though hectic yet proves to be quite interesting. The scenic beauty is sure to enthral the onlookers. The five hour drilling trek offer vantage points for spectacular view of the surroundings. Furthermore, the presence of clouds as one nears the top of Kodachadri especially during the monsoons make the surrounding area more appealing. The trekking also unfolds numerous enchanting experiences such as panoramic view of the sunset and sunrise.

Connectivity of Kodachadri Peak
The peak can be accessed by an all rough jeep road on which only jeeps can travel. It is advisable to hire only expert local jeep drivers as this hilly road is not well maintained. Jeeps services can be availed at Kollur and at Kattinahole village near Kodachadri base.