Trekking In Kerala
Trekking in Kerala can turn out to be extremely refreshing and fun-filled. Here is a list of all the top trekking spots that one can visit on their trip to God’s Own Country.
Top 3 Types of Trekking in Kerala
Choose the trekking type that suits you the best. All the trekking experiences in Kerala are different from others. Make sure you select the one that fits you the best!
Wildlife Trekking
Wildlife trekking in Kerala is a popular activity for wildlife enthusiasts. The forests and mountains of Kerala are teeming with fauna. From exotic hornbills to Nilgiri tahrs, and macaques to Asian elephants, Kerala is home to a diverse range of forest animals. Wildlife trekking places in Kerala include Chimmony Sanctuary, Peechi-Vazhani, Tholpetty, and of course, Munnar.
Jungle Trekking
An extension of ecotourism projects, forest trekking in Kerala is a huge thing at this point. Done mostly in the evening, the hours can stretch between 7 in the evening and 4 in the morning. The jungle treks last 3 hours and are organized for groups with 8 members at most.
Trekking Camps In Kerala
Camp tours are also organized for trekkers in groups. Kerala trekking and camping trips vary in price depending on the duration. With a minimum of 2 hours and a maximum of multiple days, camping in Kerala is an activity for people of all age groups and interests. The trekking and camping trips mostly occur within a 100 km distance and the maximum number of trekkers in a group varies from one organizer to another.
Kolukkumalai Peak Trek
Kolukkumalai Peak is one of the most popular spots for carrying out trekking in Kerala. This peak is accessible from the same route as that of Top Station. Sitting at a height of 2280 m, the trek for the peak commences from the Kurangani Village which offers trekking trails connecting to various hamlets of the southern country. While the trail can get a little challenging, it is still achievable and worth every step. The highlight of this trek is certainly the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, which is the highest organic tea plantation in the entire world.
Duration of the Trek
7-12 hours
Length of the Trek
11 km from Kurangani Village
Who Is It For
Frequent hikers
Agasthyarkoodam Peak Trek
Trekking in Kerala is truly the best to get closer to all kinds of creatures that mother nature has to offer. One such spot where there is an extensive variety of bird species is Agasthyarkoodam Peak. Sitting in the zone of Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this Peak is the one where trekkers can enjoy the perfect blend of nature and thrill. Sitting at a height of 1868 m, the peak is certainly amongst the loftiest ones in the state. Several medicinal herbs and plants can be found in this land of Ayurveda in Kerala.
Duration of the Trek
2 days + overnight stay
Length of the Trek
20 km + 10 km
Who Is It For
Experience trekkers
Top Station Trek
Top Station is located in the vicinity of the plantation capital of Kerala, Munnar. This destination boasts a lot more than just tea plantations. Looking for some amazing spots in Kerala for trekking? Munnar has got you covered. Top Station is a viewpoint that is sitting at a height of 1880 m above sea level and thus, the path to Top Station turns into an easy trekking trail. These historical tribal paths also connect to the small, southern mountain villages. The tea estates, deep jungles, waterfalls, and serene valleys are truly magical.
Duration of the Trek
4- 6 hours
Length of the Trek
9 km from Kurangani Village
Who Is It For
Beginners
Raja Malai/ Eravikulam Park Trek
This is perhaps another one of the popular spots for trekking in Kerala. Eravikulam Peak is the peak that sits in the National Park with the same name. Most people trek to Rajamalai to witness the blooming Neelakurinji flowers that can only be found in this region of the entire country. This is the area where one can find approximately half of the entire world’s population of rare species. Spread across 97 sq km, this trek has a lot to do. One can also be a part of the safari and witness the wildlife in their natural habitat.
Duration of the Trek
3 – 4 hours
Length of the Trek
2 km from Eravikulam trek base
Who Is It For
Beginners
Dhoni Hills Trek
Dhoni Hills is one of the popular spots for trekking in Kerala for locals and tourists alike. This is the perfect destination for beginners who are just starting their journey of an adventurous life. Just a couple of kilometers long hike, the trail of the hills leads one to the Azhakampara Waterfall. These waterfalls are perfect for camping and picnicking with family and friends. For those who seek a wholesome experience, this spot of enchanting sounds and picturesque views is surely the place to be.
Duration of the Trek
3 – 4 hours
Length of the Trek
5 km
Who Is It For
Beginners
Meesapulimala Trek
Meesapulimala is a destination located at the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is located at the height of 2640 m above sea level and is one of the longest treks in the southern region. This trek is mostly covered by those people who are seeking to go further after the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. The trekkers usually tend to stay overnight at Rhodo or Silent Valley while on the way to the peak. This peak happens to be the second-most prominent peak of the southern country and hence, is a treat for experienced trekkers.
Duration of the Trek
7- 12 hours
Length of the Trek
8 km from Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Who Is It For
Experienced trekkers
Silent Valley National Park Trek
Silent Valley National Park is one of the popular spots to try out trekking in Kerala. This National Park is sitting in the Nilgiri Hills and is famed for housing massive tropical rainforests and varied species of butterflies, beetles, and moths. The serenity and tranquility that the place exudes are truly marvelous. For those who seek forest trails, waterfall trails, or river trails, this is the spot where you can find them all. All the treks, however, require you to have permits from the forest authorities. The base camp for the treks in Mukkali.
Duration of the Trek
2 days + overnight stay
Length of the Trek
Differs with trails
Who Is It For
Beginners
Vellarimala Trek
Vellarimala is not just a peak but an entire mountain range sitting in Kerala. This range begins from Kozhikode and continues to the Wayanad district. Located at an altitude of 2200 m above ground level, this range is one of the popular hill resorts. Vavul Mala is the highest peak that can be found in this mountain range. One can hear the sounds and witness the views of River Chaliyar which flows along the rocky terrain. The entire place looks right out of a storybook and offers views that are as stunning as they can get.
Duration of the Trek
2 days
Length of the Trek
9km from Muthappanpuzha
Who Is It For
Experienced trekkers
Lion Tailed Macaque Trail Trek
Lion-Tailed Macaque Trail is named after the species of wildlife with the same name. This trail is surely the best one for all animal lovers out there. The trail has been curated specifically for eco-tourists to explore, stroll around, and learn more about the evergreen forests and wildlife of the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary. Two treks cater to both beginners and experienced hikers respectively. One can also witness various elephants, birds, gaurs, and other wilderness in the sanctuary. It is surely one of the best ones in Kerala.
Duration of the Trek
1 day
Length of the Trek
4 km and 18 km
Who Is It For
Beginners and experienced hikers
Chembra Peak Trek
The cherry on top of the experience that one can have in Wayanad is the Chembra Peak. This peak is sitting at the height of 2100 m and is a popular escape for many. Once you have permission to ascend from the authorities at the base, the trek is 17 km from Wayanad. If you are just beginning or this is the first trek of Kerala for you, it is better to hire the traditional guide who is usually from the tribal community. This is one of the most picturesque routes and peaks that one has ever stepped foot on. The aromatic air just adds to the brilliant experience.
Duration of the Trek
6 – 12 hours
Length of the Trek
10 km
Who Is It For
Beginners with guides and experienced hikers
Ramakalamedu Trek
Located at a distance of 40 km from Idukki, Ramakalamedu is a beautiful tourist place that is surrounded by green hills and refreshing air. From the peak of this mountain, one can witness the panoramic view of the villages in Kambam. This is one of the ideal places for trekking in Kerala and also enjoying the enigmatic beauty of nature.
Duration of the Trek
18-20 hours
Length of the Trek
28 Km
Ideal For
Moderate to Experienced Trekkers
Thusharagiri Waterfalls Trek
This is a beautiful attraction located close to Kozhikode and Kapetta and offers a scenic view to enjoy while in Kerala, The waterfalls are an ideal place for adventure junkies who want to take a drift and explore the rough trails. The name Thusharagiri means ‘snow-capped mountains’ which are two streams emerging from the Western Ghats and meeting at the Chalipuzzha river. The waterfalls are from a height of 75 meters.
Duration Of the Trek
2-3 Hours
Length of The Trek
8 Km
Ideal For
Beginners to moderate trekkers
Anamudi Peak
The Anamudi peak is located at the Western Ghats and is considered to be the highest point in South India. Resting at an altitude of 8842 feet, Anamudi is also famous for the Kurinji flowers which bloom once in 12 years. Considered to be one of the best trekking places in Kerala, this is a must-visit for adventure junkies.
Duration Of the Trek
2-3 Days from Ernakulam
Length of The Trek
NA
Ideal For
Moderate and Professional Trekkers
Chokramudi Peak Trek
Located at a distance of 22 km from Munnar, Chokramudi Peak is one of the famous mountain peaks known for trekking in Kerala. Resting between the Bison Valley and Munnar, this is one of the highest peaks in Munnar. Situated at a height of 7,200 feet in Eravikulam National Park, this peak remains isolated from other peaks. Surrounded by lush greenery, this makes a great place to visit for adventure travelers.
Duration Of the Trek
5 Hours
Length of The Trek
10 Km
Ideal For
Moderate & Professional trekkers
Kallippara Sunset Point Trek
Located at Vathikudy close to Munnar, Kallippara Sunset Point is one of the magnificent places to visit for nature and adventure lovers. Offering one of the amazing views of Munnar, this place is considered one of the prime locations. While the uphill trek offers surrounding lush greenery, the sound of gushing streams till the peak comes.
Duration Of the Trek
30 Minutes
Length of The Trek
NA
Ideal For
For All Kind of Trekkers
