Rise above the clouds and stand atop the magnificent Etthina Bhuja — one of the most rewarding and accessible treks in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Located just 240 km from Bangalore near the lush hill town of Sakleshpura, this stunning peak sits at 1,300 metres above sea level and rewards every trekker with breathtaking 360° panoramic views of the endless green ridgelines, mist-covered valleys, and the rolling Western Ghats canopy stretching to the horizon. The trek itself is a 6 km round-trip trail (3 km up, 3 km down) rated Easy — making it the perfect introduction to mountain trekking for first-timers while still offering genuine wilderness, dense forest cover, and the pure joy of reaching a summit. The early morning ascent through cool, dewy forest trails is an experience that stays with you long after the trip ends. Beyond the trek, this trip is packed with cultural and natural highlights. Visit the awe-inspiring Bettada Byraveshwara Temple perched dramatically on the hillside, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Hoysala masterpiece of Belur Chennakeshava Temple — one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture in India — and enjoy a peaceful morning at the scenic Yagachi Dam backwaters, where optional water games add a playful end to the journey. With comfortable homestay accommodation, four wholesome meals, forest permits, a dedicated trek lead, and round-trip transport from Bangalore — this is the ideal budget-friendly weekend mountain escape by MAC — Mountains Are Calling.