Why Has Karnataka Forest Dept Temporarily Banned Tourists At Ettina Bhuja, A Popular Peak In Chikkamagaluru?

Trekking at Ettina Bhuja is an extraordinary experience for adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by enchanting views and scenic landscapes, it is a beautiful journey to trek here. Known as a part of Karnataka’s Charmadi Ghat, it is also one of the most appropriate treks for beginners. Its beauty is enough to lure you to trek here but you need to postpone your plans for now. The Karnataka Forest Department has banned tourists from exploring Ettina Bhuja in Mudigere Taluk. Here’s why!

The Forest Department Authorities Imposed Crucial Restrictions Recently

Alluring sights leading to a blissful trekking journey often entice adventure buffs, especially in the monsoon season. With travellers’ love to explore scenic views and spend time on nature’s lap, the famous Ettina Bhuja in the Chikkamagaluru district welcomed more than 20,000 visitors in 3 days. Noticing a significant rise in footfall, the Karnataka Forest Department decided to impose restrictions and ban the entry of tourists to Ettina Bhuja.

The picturesque location witnessed a rush of over 20,000 travellers over the weekend and on Monday. The sudden spike in visitors is indeed concerning, especially during the ongoing rainy season. The location of Ettina Bhuja has received rainfall in the past few days, which has boosted the destination’s natural glory to the fullest. To watch its magnificence, people were flocking there hurriedly.

However, they cannot enter the trekking destination now. It is quite risky to explore similar places during monsoons because of rainfall and fog meddling with rough stretches and terrain. To avoid any unfortunate incidents, the forest department decided to temporarily ban tourists from entering Ettina Bhuja. Until further notice by the authorities, access is restricted.

Also read: 26-YO Man Drowns In Karnataka’s Abbi Falls; Keep These Points In Mind To Be Safe While Visiting Waterfalls

The Destination Is Closed For Travellers As Of Now

Ishwara Khandre, the Forest Minister, strictly stated about controlling the tourist footfall and limiting their numbers. There is an online ticketing system to manage the rush, according to a report by Asianet Newsable. However, nothing could stop explorers from visiting the destination recently. Seeing the possible chances of tragic accidents at Ettina Bhuja, the Karnataka Forest Department has banned tourists’s entry completely, for now.

Also read: Survivors Of Uttarakhand Trekking Tragedy Recall “Sitting With Dead Bodies For Nearly 36 Hours” Before Rescue

Trekking gets thrilling but quite dangerous during monsoon season. If you have plans for trekking soon, be extremely careful.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

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