Situated at the southern part of India, the tiny little state of Kerala is known by the name of ‘God’s Own Country‘ due its warm climate and pristine landscapes. Green mountain ranges of the Western Ghats and the rare flora and fauna totally entices you. The aroma of the tea plantations through the path of the clouds and mist follow you along the trail. Adventure and trekking options in these peaks are plenty and here are top 10 treks in Kerala.
1. Agasthyarkoodam Peak
The mystical Agasthyakoodam peak in Kerala is part of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The place gets its name from the Hindu sage Agastya and is considered to be a pristine place. Special permissions are required before trekking as the surroundings are home to rare species of birds and animals. A lot of Ayurvedia herbs are also found in this place. The best part of the trek is the sight of Neelakurinji flowers which blooms once in twelve years.
Altitude: 1868 m
2. Chembra Peak
Trek to Chembra peak passes through the tea plantations and hard paths. On the way to the top of the peak is a heart shaped lake. The ascent is not recommended during rainy season as the path becomes slippery and the views are hazy. The paths are steep and tiring but with the best company, you will feel the distance shorter. You can reach the foothill from where the actual trekking begins through rickety roads.
Altitude: 2100 m
3. Meesapulimala
Meesapulimala is a heaven situated on the border between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The journey to the base camp though the tea estates, frothy waterfalls and brooks is a refreshing experience. The trek is a bit steep and not advisable if you are not in your full health. The Neelgiris look like a bashful bride covered in mist and adorned with Neelakurinjis. Stay and food arrangements are available in the tourism resorts nearby.
Altitude – 2,640 m
4. Dhoni Hills
Trek to Dhoni hills is a short and easy one and appropriate for first-time trekkers. The major attraction of the trek is the Dhoni waterfalls which can be reached by a 4 km trek. Streams of water rushing through the hill is an enchanting sight to watch. You can freshen yourself up right below the waterfall. You can also carry food and water to the top of the hill and have a weekend picnic enjoying the true feel of nature.
Altitude – 1200 m
5. Silent Valley National Park
Silent Valley is the tropical rain forest in Kerala and is known for its copious growth of trees and the diversity of animals, butterflies, moths and beetles. Silent Valley National Park is also called Sairandhrivanam named after Sairandhri or Draupadi who was the wife of the Pandavas. Stories say that the Pandavas halted here during their exile. You can trek through the waterfalls or the longer route through the dense forests.
Altitude – 2000 m
6. Ramakkalmedu
Ramakalmedu peak is in Idukki which is situated in the State border. The panoramic view from the top of the hill offers a view of many villages in Tamil Nadu. Grasslands, bamboo forests and the refreshing breeze that continues to blow at the place leaves you energized. Through the fog that cuts the green mountains, a statue depicts the Sangam Period and Sangam landscape of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and provides a unique feel.
Altitude – 1600 m
7. Thusharagiri Waterfall trek
Tusharagiri is a waterfall in the Malabar region of Kerala. Chalippuzha River diverges into three waterfalls which can be visited during the trek. The place is a tourist hub during September to November when the waterfall is in its grandeur after the monsoon spell. Intriguing paths through rocks, streams and forest are indeed moments of glee.
8. Ponmudi
Ponmudi is situated in the capital city of Kerala– Trivandrum. The climate is pleasant throughout the year and hills lie green and covered in fog. On the way to Ponmudi from the capital city, there are waterfalls and dams which can be visited. You can bring home fresh tea leaves and fruits plucked from the tea estates and trees and sold.
Altitude – 1100 m
9. Nelliyampathy
Nelliyampathy and its velvety green patches on the mountains is something any traveler must experience. It offers a stunning view of the Sholayar Pass and the ever so tranquil Poonthudi Reservoir. You can reach the place after a journey through the hairpin curves and rainforests.
10. Chokramudi Trek
Trek to Chokramudi situated in Munnar is a rejuvenating one with cool breeze and misty landscapes. You will be greeted with elephants and other wildlife as you asced through the paths in the forest. How far you ascend depends on your experience as a trekker and it is advisable that beginners stop after the first level. The climb to the peak and hide and seek through the forest is bound to leave the memory of a lifetime.
Altitude – 2140 m
The major trekking season in Kerala are the monsoon treks and the winter treks. For places that are accessible even during monsoons, this time is the best when the cold drizzles fall. This season is photographers delight. For difficult and slippery terrains, winter treks throw the misty view of green mountain tops. Although the peaks are situated at low heights, due to the humidity, the journey can be tiring. It is advisable to carry water and refreshments.
