Trekking in Kerala: A Complete Guide to God’s Own Country on Foot

The hills ahead, with valleys by the side, dotted with tea plantations, inspire every adventure-loving mind. Exploring the unknown and travelling offbeat, hilly tracks with an eagerness to reach a new place or to revel in a stunning view is pure magic. Kerala is known for its stunning natural diversity. Whether it’s the forests, hills, backwaters, beaches, or valleys, trekking in Kerala is nothing short of an adventure.

It is a fun, exciting, and moderately to difficult activity. With scenic hills and routes, Kerala is the perfect place for hiking and exploring. From Silent Valley National Park to Chokramudi Peak, one can find every type of landform here. Moreover, this fun and adventurous activity has been on the bucket list of every traveller planning an offbeat holiday in Kerala. Take a glance to know about Kerala trekking in detail and how adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and solo travellers can plan this fun vacation seamlessly.

Best Trekking Trails in Kerala: At a Glance

Best Time For Trekking in Kerala

The best time for trekking in Kerala is from October to March. These months are cooler and drier. The weather here is nice and comfortable, with a clear sky. The surroundings are lush and fresh, making trekking a fun and exciting experience.  The monsoon months from July to September should be avoided when trekking. Due to heavy rainfall, the trails are slippery and often waterlogged. The weather is hot and very humid, which makes it uncomfortable for trekking. Moreover, some trekking places open only during special festivals. Such as Agasthyakoodam, a peak between Tamil Nadu and Trivandrum in Kerala, which is open for trekking only from January to March.

Top 7 Trekking Trails in Kerala

1. Meesapulimala Trek – Touch the Clouds

Located between Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it is situated at an elevation of 2,640 m. This is one of the longest and most difficult treks in southern India. The place is 8 km from the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, and the trek usually takes 7-12 hours to complete. The trekkers stay overnight in Rhodo or Silent Valley during their 15-km-long journey. Surrounded by beautiful rhododendrons and green tea estates, the Meesapulimala Trek is both scenic and exciting.

Best time to visit: October to February
How to reach: Travel 24 km from Munnar via Mattupetty through Aruvikkad estate to reach the base camp of Meesappulimala.
Permit Required: A trekking permit issued by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation is necessary.
Entry Fee: No entry fee is required.
What to eat and drink: Water supplies, energy bar, trail mix and nuts for an energy boost
Average per person cost: INR 1600 per person. 

2. Agasthyakoodam Trek – Sacred & Strenuous

Known for its unique variety of bird species, this is an offbeat yet popular trek in Kerala, located within the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated at an elevation of 1,868 m, the Agasthyakoodam Trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The place is renowned for its medicinal plants, which are beneficial for various Ayurvedic treatments. The trek is 20 km long and takes 2 days to complete. It also requires an overnight stay. This is also another difficult path and is ideal for professional trekkers.

Best time to visit: The best time to trek here is between January and March.
How to reach: Travel to Bonacaud, roughly 60 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
Permit Required: Permit to be issued online from the Kerala Forest Department website.
Entry Fee: INR 2,700 per person.
What to eat and drink: Energy bars and dry fruits, and chocolates.
Average per person cost: INR 1800 per person

3. Chembra Peak – The Heart-Shaped Lake Adventure

This is a 17-km-long trek and is mostly covered by experienced hikers. Located at an elevation of 2000 m, this is a popular trekking destination in Wayanad. The trek offers the scenic beauty of the surroundings. Chembra Peak is also famous amongst beginners, who usually take guides from the tribal communities and complete the hike in 5-6 hours.

Best time to visit: The trek is popular from September to March when the forests and hills look fresh and green.
How to reach: Travel to Kalpetta or Meppadi in Wayanad by rail from Kozhikode.
Permit Required: A Permit issued by the Kerala Forest Department at the Chembra Peak VSS Forest Office is required.
Entry Fee: INR 20-30 per person.
What to eat and drink: The Chembra Trek is a full-day package organised by the forest department. It is advisable to carry high-energy, quick food and hydration supplies.
Average per person cost: The cost per person comes to INR 20-30 for Indian citizens, with additional charges for students and foreigners. There is a separate fee for cameras and trekking groups.

4. Silent Valley Trek—Deep into the Rainforest

One of the most popular treks, the Silent Valley trek, is located between Gorkhey and Srikhola. Spanning an area of 237.52 sq. km, this trek through tropical forests is suitable for beginners and first-time hikers. Located in the Palakkad district of Kerala, this area is renowned for its lush tropical forests and is home to a diverse array of butterflies, beetles, and moths. The trip takes approximately 5 hours to complete, and no overnight stay is typically provided inside the park.

Best time to visit: September to February
How to reach: Reach Mannarkkad from Palakkad. The base point is 40 km from Mannarkkad.
Permit Required: A Permit issued by the Kerala Forest Department is needed
Entry Fee:  No entry fee
What to eat and drink: Snacks and nuts
Average per person cost: INR 3600-4600 per person. 

5. Dhoni Hills—Short, Sweet, and Scenic

This is a 5 km long trek and usually takes about 3-4 hours. Ideal for beginners, the Dhoni Hills trek is a scenic route leading to the Azhakampara Waterfall. Popular among tourists, adventure lovers, and locals, the waterfall area is the perfect spot for camping and picnics, offering a stunning view.

Best time to visit: June to October
How to reach: Travel 15 kilometres from Palakkad and reach the Dhoni Hills
Permit Required: No permit is required.
Entry Fee: INR 100 per person.
What to eat and drink: Quick snacks and energy bars along with disposable bottles.
Average per person cost: INR 100-120 per person

6. Ramakkalmedu Trek—Windy Views & Rolling Hills

Located 40 km from Idukki, the Ramakkalmedu Trek is a moderately difficult trek in Kerala that takes approximately 18-20 hours. This is a 28 km long stretch and offers a beautiful top view of the Kambam village. This is one of the windiest places in Asia; hence, the area is cold, airy, and refreshing. It begins at Ramakkalmedu Junction near Nedumkandam and passes through rocky terrain, featuring statues of Kuravan and Kurathi from local folktales. Located at an elevation of 3,500 feet, the Ramakalamedu Trek is a haven for photographers.

Best time to visit: September to February
How to reach:  From Kottayam, take a bus to Nedumkandom, located 100 km away.
Permit Required: No permit is required.
Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
What to eat and drink: Carry light snacks and water supplies.
Average per person cost: No such cost. 

7. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Trails—Trek with Tigers

This is a guided trek through the Periyar National Park, designed to spot tigers, elephants, and other wild animals. Spanning a distance of 20-35 km, this area is home to a diverse array of trees, spice plants, and medicinal herbs. Known for camping, trekking, boat safaris in the River Periyar, and night safaris, this is a popular trekking option in Thekkady. Beginners and professional hikers alike will find this place a good choice.

Best time to visit: October to February
How to reach: Reach Thekkady and enter the Periyar forest area
Permit Required: A permit issued by the forest department.
Entry Fee:INR 45 per adult
What to eat and drink: Lunch and dinner are provided at guided forest trails.
Average per person cost: INR 155 for a boat safari to INR 7,500 for the 3-day Tiger Trail trek

Offbeat Treks in Kerala For The Explorer in You

1. Ponmudi Hills

Speaking of offbeat trekking in Kerala, the Ponmudi Hills offer numerous routes within a protected forest. Among all of them, the Varayadumotta trek is one of the most popular and difficult ones on the list. It is a 13 km round trip and requires permits from the Eco-Tourism Department of Mankayam or Ponmudi. One needs to pay a fee to the forest guide for accompaniment, as the ridge is a protected site. 

2. Illikkal Kallu

Located in the Kottayam district, Illikkal Kallu is a unique single rock. It offers challenging yet very scenic trekking paths. The best time to visit here is from September to March. There is an entry fee per person, and a separate charge applies for the jeep service if you choose to use it instead of walking. 

3. Thusharagiri Waterfalls Trek

The Thusharagiri Waterfalls trek is situated 40 km from Kozhikode. One must walk through the forest to reach this scenic waterfall. It consists of three different waterfalls and can usually be covered in a day. Start early to enjoy the nice weather.  

4. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Treks

This is a guided trek through the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, up to the Thoovanam Waterfalls. It is usually a guided trek by the forest guards for safety. Along with different trees and wildlife, one can spot the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India during the trek.

Travel Essentials: What Every Kerala Trekker Should Know

1. Gear Checklist

Whether it’s a hilly terrain or forest trekking in Kerala, one must keep a note of some essential items to carry. It is important to carry hiking boots with proper grip and ventilation. This will help to prevent skidding and sweating. Choose socks made of moisture-wicking materials such as nylon or polyester. It is always advisable to opt for quick-drying t-shirts, hiking pants, or shorts made from breathable fabrics. Sunglasses, a cap, and sunscreen are a must. 

A sturdy backpack, trekking poles, and a hydration pack or reusable water bottle are essential to carry. If you are trekking at night or in low light, don’t forget to bring headlamps or flashlights with extra batteries.

2. Local Guide or DIY?

A local guide provides detailed information about the various trekking spots in Kerala and shares offbeat insights. A DIY trip is a flexible and cost-effective option. It makes the tourists comfortable, as they can enjoy it at their own convenience. 

In Kerala, community-run treks are quite popular. They are less formal and offer an authentic cultural experience. Structured trekking in Kerala, organised by tour operators, is professional, planned, and safe. There are no logistical issues, and they are available across different budgets. 

3. Trekking Permits & Rules

Trekking in Kerala requires prior permission from the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to protect the ecologically sensitive forest and wildlife areas. Moreover, booking is a must for popular treks like Agasthyarkoodam. It is essential to carry a valid ID proof, such as an Aadhaar or a Passport, for verification and authentication. People who are planning can connect with Travel Triangle, which facilitates all the permits, approvals, and booking processes. 

For trekking and hiking in eco-sensitive zones, one must obtain permission for entry, hire only authorised guides, and avoid activities that disturb the wildlife. Feeding the animals, littering, and making noises are strictly prohibited. 

Where to Stay: Homestays, Camps, And Eco-Lodges

Trekking options in Kerala are diverse and cater to all budget ranges. From eco-stays like forest retreats and treehouses to camping and glamping options in Munnar and Thekkady, these are popular choices. 

Niramaaya Retreats Cardamom Club, Blanket Days Resort Thekkady, and Blackberry Hills Munnar are some of the popular options for staying during a trek. Cottages in Munnar and Ponmudi, as well as forest resorts like Ela Ecoland in Munnar, are also good options. Connect with Travel Triangle to access the best offers and enjoy a seamless and quick booking process. 

What Makes Kerala Trekking Unique?

The popular treks in Kerala offer scenic and diverse landscapes. From green valleys and tea and spice estates to hills and dense forests, everything looks pretty. The misty mountains of Munnar and lush green tea plantations treat the eyes, offering breathtaking views. 

Moreover, the location is situated in the Western Ghats—one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, making the Kerala trekking experience very unique and adventurous. There are several locations where local tribal people assist trekkers as guides. 

Responsible Trekking: Leave No Trace

• Minimising waste during trekking in Kerala is one of the best eco-friendly practices. One must avoid using single-use plastics and ensure that all types of waste products, including organic waste, are properly disposed of. 
• Adherence to the Leave No Trace is another practice. Tourists planning to trek must focus on reducing their carbon footprint and environmental impact on the lands of Kerala.
• One can support the local community by hiring tribal people as guides. They offer authentic insights into the local environment and culture of various trekking spots in Kerala.

Curated Kerala Trekking Packages by Travel Triangle

Travel Triangle curates Kerala trek packages for beginners as well as professionals. Take a look.

Travellers Testimonials

Raheja Family

The Thekkady forest trekking in Kerala, as planned and booked by Travel Triangle, turned out to be one of the best ones in my life. I didn’t have to worry about obtaining any permits, hiring local guides, making hotel bookings, or arranging transportation. They arranged everything. A perfect trekking experience. 

Anderson Mathew

We booked the Wayanad trekking package for 3 nights and 4 days from Kozhikode. Travel Triangle customised it to the core, and we created wonderful memories. The rates are so competitive, and every arrangement is flawless. 

Conclusion

Planning an exciting, fun, and adventurous trekking tour with family or a solo trip in mind for Kerala’s trekking destinations? Worry not! Travel Triangle got it covered. It offers amazing, all-inclusive yet low-cost trekking packages in Kerala for adventure lovers, families, and solo travellers. It also has offbeat trekking tours and focuses on responsible and eco-friendly tourism packages. Hiring local people as guides also engages with the local indigenous communities and culture. If a Kerala trek is already on the cards, choose from Travel Triangle’s Kerala packages and turn it into a super fun yet exciting trip. Do not miss the chance to share your exciting stories with us!

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Ritika Agarwal

Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.