Explained: How a Missing Trekker was Found in Tadiandamol forests in Kodagu After Four Days

Sharanya, a resident of Kozhikode, had travelled to Kodagu for trekking and was staying at a homestay in Kakkabbe village.

A 36-year-old trekker from Kerala, Sharanya G.S., who went missing in the forests of Tadiandamol in Kodagu district on April 2, was found safe on April 5 after an intensive multi-agency search operation. Here is a breakdown of what happened and how the rescue unfolded.

What happened?

Sharanya, a resident of Kozhikode, had travelled to Kodagu for trekking and was staying at a homestay in Kakkabbe village. On April 2, she set out for the Tadiandamol hills along with a guide and a group of 15 trekkers.

While the rest of the group returned to base camp later that day, Sharanya did not. She managed to call the homestay to inform them that she had lost her way in the forest — a crucial alert that triggered rescue efforts.

How was she found?

According to Kodagu Superintendent of Police Bindu Mani R.N., Sharanya was located nearly six kilometres away from the Tadiandamol peak.

She was found by a coordinated team comprising local Kudiya tribal community members and Forest Department personnel. After four days in the forest, she was discovered in a “safe” and “healthy condition.”

Officials said she survived by drinking water and spent nights sleeping near rocks, showcasing remarkable endurance.

What made the search difficult?

Dense forest terrain and the lack of mobile network significantly hampered rescue efforts. Without a clear signal, authorities could not track her exact location, leading to delays.

Despite this, search teams combed large stretches of forest over multiple days, navigating difficult terrain typical of the Western Ghats.

Who was involved in the rescue?

Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre said five teams were initially deployed, comprising around 50 personnel, including police, forest staff, an anti-Naxal force, and a dog squad.

Following directions from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the operation was intensified on April 5. Additional teams and drone technology were deployed, taking the total to nine teams with around 90 personnel.

Why were local communities crucial?

Local Kudiya tribal members played a key role due to their deep knowledge of the terrain and forest routes. Their involvement significantly aided in locating the missing trekker.

What happens next?

The Forest Department has arranged for Sharanya to be safely escorted back home to Kerala. The Minister emphasised that the government bears responsibility for rescuing trekkers who go missing, regardless of their home State.

The incident highlights both the risks of trekking in dense forest regions like Tadiandamol and the importance of coordinated rescue systems involving authorities and local communities.

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