Top 5 Trekking Trails in Kerala

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:

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

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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 ]

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Top 10 Hiking Trails in India

“Know the unknown” and “tame the un-tamable”, these are very common tendencies seen in humans, from the beginning of the civilization. However, the eagerness to reveal the secret has resulted in amazing discoveries by the human race. Hiking trails in India are the challenges that are taken up by adventure enthusiasts to conquer their inner fear and experience the thrill.

Trekking is not about spending days but a lifetime experience. This post is an endeavor to list the top 10 hiking trails in India. These hiking or trekking trails are special. They are about the communion with nature, of soaking in the awe inspiring views and surrounding, about being lost in the trails and finding yourself, where even the reality turns out to be abstract.

Withour further ado we bring to you top 10 hiking trails in India in no particular order.

Pindari Glacier Trek, Kumaon

Pindari Glacier is an easy and scenic trek in kumaon himalayas. Photo courtesy Ramesh Kumar Mumukshu

In Kumaon region, Pindari Glacier is the easily accessible glacier and is praiseworthy for its own beauty. Located between the Nanda Kot and sacred Nanda Devi mountains, Pindari is a gigantic glacier of almost 0.25 km in breadth and 3 km in length.

Pindar River also springs from this Glacier and further gushes down and joins the Alaknanda River. This trek is also popular as “Soft Adventure Trek” and the adventure enthusiasts are enthralled with the magnificence of the lofty Himalayas.

• Altitude: 3990 m
• Duration: 11 to 13 Days
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Season: May to October (Avoid during monsoon)

Hemkund & Valley of Flower Trek, Garhwal

Hemkund & Valley of Flower Trek is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The varieties of flowers, covering the valley, spellbound the visitors. The Pushpawati River also makes the valley a picturesque destination.

There are over 520 species of flowers and thus, the valley was acknowledged as a National Park in 1982. Himalayan Black Bears, Brown Bears, Musk Deer, and beautiful birds and butterflies find natural shelter here. The trek also includes visits to the sacred lake of Hemkund, which is an important pilgrimage of Sikhs and Hindus.

• Altitude: 3858 m
• Duration: 9 to 13 Days
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Season: May - October

Roopkund Trek, Uttarakhand

Photo courtesy TRAVELLERXPEDITION.COM

Located in the Chamoli district of Garhwal, Roopkund is one of the sought-after treks in India. The adventure enthusiasts could witness deep virgin forests, breathtaking campsites, gurgling rivulets, and surging meadows over the miles that gratify the soul of trekkers climbing 5029m from the sea level.

The lake of Roopkund is also popular as the ‘Mystery Lake’ due to remains of horses and human skeletons, belonging to the Paleolithic age, found here.

• Altitude: 5029 m
• Duration: 7 to 9 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Season: End May - October

Markha Valley Trek, Ladakh

Markha Valley Trek is one of the best experiences as the enthusiasts have to trek along the Markha River, flowing through the ‘Little Tibet’. These highest inhabited plateaus of the world remain secluded by snow, for months.

During the trek, the trekkers have to cross the Markha River and Ganda La. Trail through canyons, picturesque Ladakhi villages and barley and mustard fields imprint a long lasting impression on the hearts of enthusiasts. After reaching the height, one could explore the incredible vista of the Himalaya, the Karakorum, and Tibet.

• Altitude: 5150 m
• Duration: 12 to 15 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Season: June to October

Here's more on Markha Valley Trek and planning your trip to this magical hiking trail in Ladakh.

Pin Parvati Valley Trek, Himachal

The Pin Parvati Valley Trek includes a journey to the monsoon swept slopes and flourishing greenery of the Himalayan foothills from High altitude Deserts was revealed by an English explorer in the 19th century.

The valley is also dubbed as “Valley of Gods” due to its location being cuddled up between the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges.

The cold desert Spiti valley region also surrounds the place. The explorers have to pass through wild flowers, lush pine forests, and dramatic barren scenery. Most of the year, this region is covered under the snow. 

• Altitude: 5319 m
• Duration: 13 to 17 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous 
• Season: June to October

Dodital Trek, Uttarakhand

Morning in Dodital. Photo courtesy Bricolage

The beautiful lake of Dodital is located at the backdrop of picturesque Darwa Bugyal. The lake has its association with mythological history.  

Dodital is also regarded as Lord Ganesha’s birthplace and the place where Lord Shiva beheaded the deity. The circumference of the lake is about 3 km and also serves as the source of River Asi Ganga, which further merges with the Bhagirathi River near Gangotri. 

• Altitude: 4150m
• Duration: 6 to 8 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Season: May to October

Kumara Parvatha Trek, Karnataka

Kumara Parvatha Trek in Karnataka

‘Pushpagiri’ is the common name for The Kumara Parvata Peak, which is located at the backdrop of Kukke Subramanya, an ancient shrine.

This is the 3rd tallest peak in Karnataka and cuddled within the high clouds, is the magnificent scenario of the Western Ghats. Heavy winds and dense fogs always cover the region. Beware during the trek as leeches and snakes are found in abundance.

• Altitude: 1712 m
• Duration: 1 or 2 Days
• Difficulty Level: High
• Season: October to Febuary

Har ki Doon, Uttarakhand

Har Ki Doon trek - One of the most famous trek in Garhwal Himalayas

The Hanging Valley of Gods, Har-Ki-Doon is a treat for trekkers. This trek takes you to the least explored regions of Garhwal (Uttarakhand). The valley is adorned with wild Himalayan Flowers. The natural and colorful appearance of the valley during monsoon overwhelms the hearts of the explorers.

The trek makes the adventure seekers explore Sankri, Osla, Taluka, Datmi, and Seema. From November to April, the region remains either wet or very cold. Due to rich wildlife, this trek also wins the hearts of nature lovers.

• Altitude: 3500 m
• Duration: 12 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Season: May - October

Indrahaar Pass Trek, Himachal

Towards Laqa enroute Indrahaar Pass in Himachal. Photo courtesy Nikhil Chandra

The magnificent trekking point, Indrahaar Pass Trek, in Himachal is not an easy trekking. But the stunning views of the Indian plains in the South and snow capped Pir Pankal Range and Mani Mahesh Kailash peak in the North more than compensates for the tough climbing.

The continuous climb over mountains takes one on an ill defined trail of Hindu religious places, finally reaching the beautiful Ravi Valley.

• Altitude: 4342 m
• Duration: 5 to 10 Days
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Season: May - June (Summer); Sep - Oct (Autumn)\

Churdhar Peak, Himachal

Churdhar - the highest peak in southern Himachal Pradesh

Churdhar Trek offers breathtaking scenery and unparalleled views while traversing the high altitudes of the Himalayas. The highest peak of Himalayas, Churdhar Peak is a sanctuary of alpine regions, hidden among vast temperate forests.

Numerous multicolored and agile Monals in the forests and pleasing trekking points at Sarain, Nohra, and Pulbahal attracts each and everyone.

• Altitude: 3,647 m
• Duration: 4 to 10 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Season: March - June (Summer); September - November (Autumn)

Useful Tips for Indian Hiking Adventure

• Get thorough information about the trek. Make sure you know the best time to visit, activities involved, route, etc.
• Do not forget to carry a hat, hike backpack, waist packs, jackets, water bottles, hike tour route maps, sunscreen, binoculars, gloves, a pair of shades, and salt.
• Do not head onto the unknown trek routes as that may lead to frustration and trouble.

Beautiful flora & fauna and picturesque sites are addenda to a successful hiking voyage in India. Shirk from watching television, sleeping, or simply sitting idle at home. Numerous hiking destinations are expecting you.

Contributed By Neelam Talreja

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Triund Trek from McLeodganj

Trekking from McLeod Ganj to Triund and Beyond

Trek to Triund in Dharamsala is one of the most popular activity among tourists and visitors in McLeod Ganj. Triund Hill is referred to as the jewel of Dharamsala. This heavenly retreat far from the madding crowd of McLeod Ganj is a short trek of 9 kilometers.

Camping after hike to Triund Hills from McLeodganj near Dharamsala in Himachal

Triund Hill is located in the Dauladhar Range of Himalayas in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh at an elevation of 9,800 feet (2975 meters).  

One of the reasons for the popularity of Triund Trek is its moderate nature which means tourists and picnickers could do it in a single day and return back to McLeod Ganj or Dharamsala.

Depending upon from where you start your trek, the road from Dharamkot, Naddi and Bhagsunag meet at Galu Temple and from here a single goat trail lead you to Triund Hill.

The trek starts easy but the gradient becomes sharper as you ascend up hill. After crossing 2 shacks where most of the trekkers stop to catch their breath and quench their thirst & hunger, you'd come across snow nullah (a mountain stream which is mostly dry) the trail becomes tiring as well as difficult as the gradient rises abruptly.

Despite the fact that it’s a tiring trail, the panoramic view of the lush valley, snow capped peaks and the township below is invigorating as well as refreshing. Cool breeze on your face does take away the fatigue as soon as you reach the Triund Hill top and lay yourself on the lush meadow. 

Sights from the top are awe inspiring. You could see three cotton wool peaks of Dauladhar range from here, the reason this place is named Triund as I was told by the locals. 

Triund is a popular camp site and picnic spot. Accommodation could also be taken up in government guest house. Accommodation is reasonably cheap and available from INR 500 per night. Food and water  are also easily available but at a premium price (Packages mineral drinking water cost INR 40). The trek which takes around 2-4 hours (depending upon your stamina)could be done in 1 day or you could camp for the night to watch the stunning panoramas during sunset and sunrise.

The trail to Laka from Triund Hill near Mcleodganj in Himachal

From here, you could opt for yet another uphill trek to Ilaqa (11,000 feet) from where show line of Dauladhar Range start. Accommodation is available in Laka (Snowline Cafe) too with camp for 2 costing INR 500. Further ahead on the trail is Lahesh Caves where the trekkers doing Indrahaar pass trek spend the night.

Moving on towards Laka from Triund Hills near Mcleodganj

For Indrahaar Pass trek more than a day is needed but the trail up to Laka and back to McLeod Ganj could be completed in just one day.

Contributed by Nikhil Chandra

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