Trekking in Kerala

1. Top Station Munnar: Offering a scintillating view of the Western Ghats, Top Station is one of the excellent spots for Trekking in Kerala. Due to its pristine trails,unmatchable aura and high altitude, it is lovingly called the 'Kashmir of South India'. Especially, the unspoiled wilderness is a prime reason for attracting numerous trekkers every year. Being a fairly easy trekking trail, Top Station is suitable for the beginners and takes 4 hours to cover the entire distance of 9 km.

Location: Munnar-Kodaikanal Road
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM

2. Chembra Peak: In Wayanad, Chembra Peak is one of the popular trekking places in Kerala and is the 3rd highest peak in South India. Bypassing the wild grasslands, the trail is of moderate grade and requires proper physical fitness. One of the major attractions of the Chembra Peak is the lovely heart-shaped lake which takes 2.5 hours to reach from the base. Owing to the presence of wildlife, ascent to the highest point of the peak is not permitted by the South Wayanad Forest Department. One can only trek to the heart-shaped lake.

Location: Mepaddi, Kalpetta, Wayanad District-Kerala
Timings: 7 AM to 12 PM

3. Anamudi Peak, Munnar: Anamudi Peak is known as the "Everest of South India" and is ideal for trekking in Kerala. Nestled inside the premises of Eravikulam National Park, it is home to several exotic species like Nilgiri Tahrs, Gaurs and Asian Elephants. The rarest of the rare Neelakurinji Flowers bloom here once in every 12 years. Due to the encapsulating beauty of Anamudi Peak and the presence of exotic wildlife, the trail is a photographers' paradise.

Location: Kannan Devan Hills, Munnar, Kerala- 685561
Timings: 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM

4. Dhoni Hills, Palakkad: An amalgamation of picturesque landscape, lush greenery, misty mountains and cotton ball clouds, Dhoni Hills Trek is brimming with an unrealistic charm. Since, the site falls under the zone of a Reserve Forest Area, it has emerged to be one of the popular trekking places in Kerala.Bypassing the dense canopy, trekkers can also indulge in a quick hike to the Malampuzha Waterfalls and witness nature in its most idyllic form.

Location: Puthuppariyaram, Palakkad, Kerala 678591
Entry Fee: Rs 100/ Person
Timings: 10:30 AM- 3 PM

5.Ramakkalmedu, Idukki: If you are in search of offbeat trekking places in Kerala, Ramakkalmedu is an ideal destination. At a distance of 40 km away from Idukki, it is located along the borders of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Encompassed by the panoramic Western Ghats, exploring this region through trekking is a refreshing affair. One of the prime highlights of Ramakkalmedu is the unperturbed vista of Tamil Nadu's countryside from the viewpoint. Overall, it takes 3-4 hours to cover this trail of 4 Km. 

Location: Idukki, Kerala
Entry Fee: Rs 5/ Person
Timings: 12 AM- 10 PM

6. Rajmalai Trek: Rajamalai is a quaint hill station and is one of the alluring trekking places in Kerala. Home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr, gear up to spot these beauties during the on-going trek. Since the site is inside the Eravikulam National Park, it's not uncommon to have encounters with other rare species of wildlife like Gaur, Leopard, Sambar, Tiger and Giant Squirrel. Enroute, you will also get an exclusive sneak-peek of Anamudi , the highest peak in South India.

Location: Munnar - Udumalpet Road
Entry Fee: Adults: Rs 120/ Person | Children: Rs 90/ Person | Foreigners: Rs 400/ Person
Timings: 8 AM - 4:30 PM

7. Thoovanam Waterfalls: Among one of the popular treks in Kerala, Thoovanam Waterfalls is located inside the campus of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. It takes 3.5 hours to cover the trekking trail of 4 km from the Alampetty check post. Although Thoovanam Waterfalls can be visited throughout the year, it springs to life during the Monsoon season. During this period, intermittent rain and the charming trails offer a unique experience.

Location: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Munnar-Udumalpet Road, Amaravathi R.F., Munnar, Idukki, Kerala, 642102, India
Entry Fee: Indian: Rs 200/ Person | Foreigner: Rs 300/ Person
Timings: 7 AM -10 AM | 3 PM- 6 PM

8. Kolukkumalai Peak Trek: Trekking in Kerala remains incomplete without indulging in Kolukkumalai Peak Trek. Fascinatingly perched at an elevation of 7900 feet, the trekking trails of Kolukkumalai pass through an organic Tea Plantation that is 94 years old. On your way up to the top, you will also get a delightful view of the Nagamalai Village. It is recommended to stay overnight in a camp and catch the early sunrise to have a memorable experience.

Location: Bodinayakanur, Kottagudi, Munnar, Tamil Nadu 625582, India
Price: Adults: Rs 75/ Person | Children: Free
Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM

9. Meesapulimala Peak Trek: In the Idukki district, Meesapulimala is the 2nd highest peak in the Western Ghats after Anaimudi. If you are a trekking-enthusiast, Meesapulimala Peak is a scenic place for trekking in Kerala. The marvellous trail covers 8 hilly slopes consisting of misty hills, streams, pine forests and rugged terrains. Stay overnight in a Base Camp Tent/Sky Cottage/ Rhodo Valley Stay to soak in the essence of the place.

Location: Kannan Devan Hills, Tamil Nadu 685616
Price: Base Camp Tent (2 People): Rs 3500 | Sky Cottage (2 People)e: Rs 7000 | Rhodo Valley Stay(2 People): Rs 7000
Inclusion: Stay, Guide, Trekking, Meals, Pick Up & Drop
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

10. VellariMala Trek: Considered among difficult treks in Kerala, VellariMala is suitable for professionals. The trekking path consists of steep climbs, dense forest and Elephant Corridor. On the way to the top, you will come across Olichuchattam Waterfall which cascades down in rhythm. Overall, it takes 3 days to cover the entire trail of 25 miles.

Location: Thusharagiri, Kozhikode District, Kerala
Price: Rs 3100/ Person

The best time to go trekking in Kerala is during the offset of the Monsoon Season i.e. between September-October. During this period, nature looks graceful and fresh. Splendid waterfalls gush downs in full force, rivulets overflow, and rolling hills turn green. Plus, absence of unbearable heat makes it a wonderful time to explore the trekking trails without any exhaustion

Yes, it is completely safe to indulge in trekking in Kerala. Every trekking trail is monitored by the Forest Department to ensure the security of the trekkers. However, it is recommended to hire professional guides for extra protection. Besides, avoid venturing into unknown territory without any proper instructions.

In order to get to Meesapulimala, one has to 1st reach Mattupetty via Aruvikkara Estate. Next, you have to travel to the Mountain Base Camp to commence the 2nd leg of your journey. After reaching the Base Camp, your next destination would be Rhodo Valley which is 3.5-4 km away.Beyond Rhodo Valley, cars are not permitted entry. Thus, the trekking trail begins here and the entire path until the top-most point has to be traversed by foot.

From Kozhikode, take a Bus to Kalpetta. Next, board another Bus to reach Meppadi which is located 7 km away from the peak’s base. Next, you can flag off your trekking journey to Chembra Peak through a serene landscape. It takes 2-3 hours to cover the entire path.