Also known as the ‘God’s Own Country’, the South Indian state of Kerala has been blessed several natural wonders. Verdant mist-clad mountain ranges, tropical rainforests and cascading waterfalls are some of these wonders. All these also offer memorable trekking experiences and become some of Kerala’s best trekking routes. The natural views, variety of flora and fauna is simply spectacular.
It is no exaggeration when we say that trekking is one of the most popular adventure activities in Kerala. The blog enlists 5 popular trekking & hiking trails in Kerala:
Starting the trek from Meppady, near Kalpetta (district center of Wayanad), walking past aromatic huge green tea plantations, crossing mist-covered clouds like in a dream. You gradually make your way into the verdant jungles. Here you follow the trail made by the former trekkers or make your new trail to arrive the Chembra Peak, which has a height of 2100 m above sea level.
After covering this trek of 14 km, when you arrive at the summit, you realize it’s worth all the hardships. Trekking to Chembra Peak is ideal for those who have previous experience of trekking. You can also take guidance and assistance from the local tribal people. Do take their words! Prior permission from the Forest Office is mandatory.
Best Season : October to May
One of the most popular trekking trails in Kerala are the Dhoni hills. It takes a duration of 3 hours to reach the top. On the way, savor the lovely views of a small waterfall while on your way up.
If you are a peace-loving person who like places that are not crowded, there is a farmhouse on the top of the hill. This farmhouse houses hundreds of Swiss and other European types of cattle.
Best Season : After monsoon
Positioned at a height of 1868 m above the sea level, the Agasthyarkoodam Peak is reachable only on-foot. If folklores are to be believed it is said that revered Sage Agasthya made this peak his peaceful dwelling, staying amid nature. The local people say that females should avoid embarking on this trek as the Sage will not approve of it. All this adds to the charm of already mystical lush thick forests.
While trekking, savor the scenery and the tranquility spread all around you. You feel like you have been transferred into a whole new old. The trek route to Agasthyarkoodam Peak is a treasure house of different kinds of medicinal plants known to hold a lot of importance in the holistic healing science of Ayurveda. As you reach the hilltop, you can see a life-size statue of Sage Agasthya.
The trekking base is around 61 km from the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram. Seek prior permission of the Forest Department. Another amazing sight on the top of the hill, is the view of blue-colored Neelakurinji flowers that blossom once in 12 years.
Best Season : December to April
Also known as Sentinel Rock waterfalls, Soochipara waterfalls are a three-tiered strong waterfalls that are popular for its trekking experiences. The waterfalls are around 22 km from Kalpetta, in the Vellarimala village. The last 2 km towards the waterfalls have to be covered on-foot, taking you through verdant forests. If you are lucky you might spot a friendly deer. The trek is of around 30 minutes. You will forget all your tiredness as you reach the falls. Do take a dip in the pool at its foot and enjoy swimming.
Best Season- June to September
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The Periyar Tiger Trail takes around 24 to 36 hours and thus including night stay. Camping is arranged before the trek. The trek starts in the morning around 8:00 or 9:00 am. Walk past a herd of elephants or a shy deer. Do not disturb them! You are in their home. After the trek, you can simply relax by the Lake Periyar. This is a pure form of adventure trekking and camping.
Best Season : October to May
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It is no exaggeration when we say that trekking is one of the most popular adventure activities in Kerala. The blog enlists 5 popular trekking & hiking trails in Kerala:
1. Chembra Peak
Starting the trek from Meppady, near Kalpetta (district center of Wayanad), walking past aromatic huge green tea plantations, crossing mist-covered clouds like in a dream. You gradually make your way into the verdant jungles. Here you follow the trail made by the former trekkers or make your new trail to arrive the Chembra Peak, which has a height of 2100 m above sea level.
After covering this trek of 14 km, when you arrive at the summit, you realize it’s worth all the hardships. Trekking to Chembra Peak is ideal for those who have previous experience of trekking. You can also take guidance and assistance from the local tribal people. Do take their words! Prior permission from the Forest Office is mandatory.
Best Season : October to May
2. Dhoni Hills
One of the most popular trekking trails in Kerala are the Dhoni hills. It takes a duration of 3 hours to reach the top. On the way, savor the lovely views of a small waterfall while on your way up.
If you are a peace-loving person who like places that are not crowded, there is a farmhouse on the top of the hill. This farmhouse houses hundreds of Swiss and other European types of cattle.
Best Season : After monsoon
3. Agasthyarkoodam Peak
Positioned at a height of 1868 m above the sea level, the Agasthyarkoodam Peak is reachable only on-foot. If folklores are to be believed it is said that revered Sage Agasthya made this peak his peaceful dwelling, staying amid nature. The local people say that females should avoid embarking on this trek as the Sage will not approve of it. All this adds to the charm of already mystical lush thick forests.
While trekking, savor the scenery and the tranquility spread all around you. You feel like you have been transferred into a whole new old. The trek route to Agasthyarkoodam Peak is a treasure house of different kinds of medicinal plants known to hold a lot of importance in the holistic healing science of Ayurveda. As you reach the hilltop, you can see a life-size statue of Sage Agasthya.
The trekking base is around 61 km from the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram. Seek prior permission of the Forest Department. Another amazing sight on the top of the hill, is the view of blue-colored Neelakurinji flowers that blossom once in 12 years.
Best Season : December to April
4. Soochipara Waterfalls
Also known as Sentinel Rock waterfalls, Soochipara waterfalls are a three-tiered strong waterfalls that are popular for its trekking experiences. The waterfalls are around 22 km from Kalpetta, in the Vellarimala village. The last 2 km towards the waterfalls have to be covered on-foot, taking you through verdant forests. If you are lucky you might spot a friendly deer. The trek is of around 30 minutes. You will forget all your tiredness as you reach the falls. Do take a dip in the pool at its foot and enjoy swimming.
Best Season- June to September
See More:
25 Best Beaches in Kerala
5. Periyar Tiger Reserve
Periyar is a reserve forest and hence it remains in its natural form. This trek means admiring wonderful greenery, all around. During Periyar tiger reserve trek, you are accompanied by armed forest guards who are appointed by the Forest Officer. These guides known each and every thing about the forest and you must listen to what they say.
[ Read More About Periyar National Park ]
The Periyar Tiger Trail takes around 24 to 36 hours and thus including night stay. Camping is arranged before the trek. The trek starts in the morning around 8:00 or 9:00 am. Walk past a herd of elephants or a shy deer. Do not disturb them! You are in their home. After the trek, you can simply relax by the Lake Periyar. This is a pure form of adventure trekking and camping.
Best Season : October to May
[ Read More About Trekking Trails in Kerala ]
Related Post
Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala - A Complete Travel Guide
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