Gangamoola

Gangamoola is a forested hill peak inside Kudremukh National Park in Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka, part of the Western Ghats. It is notable as the origin of three major rivers - the Tunga, Bhadra and Netravati. At about 1,458 metres elevation, it features dense shola forests, grasslands and rich biodiversity and is accessed by a guided forest trek from near Samse village.

Visitors can expect a guided trek through dense evergreen and shola forest, grassy slopes and streams within Kudremukh National Park to reach the hilltop. The area is the marked source point of the Tunga, Bhadra and Netravati rivers with a small shrine dedicated to Goddess Varahi. Surroundings include mist-covered hills, wildlife habitat and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Access is controlled by the forest department and requires permission and a local guide.

Gangamoola lies in the Kudremukh range historically known as Varaha Parvata, associated with Varaha legend. The surrounding Kudremukh region was later known for iron-ore mining, now closed, and the hill remains protected within Kudremukh National Park notified for Western Ghats biodiversity conservation.

Considered sacred as the birthplace of the Tunga, Bhadra and Netravati rivers. A small shrine to Goddess Varahi/Bhagavathi at the source is visited by pilgrims and trekkers, and the rivers hold religious importance in Karnataka.