Kerala is usually associated with backwaters and beaches, but its hills hold some of South India’s best trekking. From tea estate walks to demanding peaks, here are 25 trails worth exploring on your next visit.
1. Agasthyakoodam. Kerala’s second highest peak, named after sage Agastya, combines a tough four to five day climb with dense forest home to rare medicinal plants. Best attempted December to March.
2. Meenmutty Waterfall Trek. A five to six hour route in Wayanad ending at a striking three tiered waterfall dropping around 300 metres. Best October to March.
3. Chembra Peak. Known for its heart shaped lake, this four to five hour round trip in Wayanad offers views over tea gardens and green valleys. Best September to March.
4. Anamudi Peak. South India’s highest point, inside Eravikulam National Park, is a six to eight hour one way trek through meadows where Nilgiri Tahr are occasionally spotted. Best October to March.
5. Dhoni Hills. An easy three to four hour trail near Palakkad leading through forest to a quiet waterfall, well suited to beginners. Best October to March.
6. Periyar Tiger Reserve. A four to six hour trek offering the chance, however rare, of spotting a tiger among other wildlife. Best October to April.
7. Banasura Hill Trek. Named after a mythical demon king, this six to seven hour Wayanad trail climbs rocky terrain to the region’s second highest peak. Best October to March.
8. Silent Valley National Park. A five to seven hour walk through one of India’s few untouched rainforests, rich in biodiversity. Best October to March.
9. Nelliyampathy Hills. Sometimes called the poor man’s Ooty, this four to six hour trail passes coffee and tea plantations with views over the Palakkad Gap.
10. Kurisumala Trek. A spiritually significant four to six hour route in Idukki marked by 14 crosses representing the stations of the cross.
11. Ponmudi Trek. A four to five hour walk through mist covered hills and tea gardens near this popular hill station.
12. Illikkal Kallu. A challenging four to five hour trek known for its marble like rock formations and rewarding summit views.
13. Vagamon. Often called the Scotland of Asia, this four to five hour trail moves through meadows and pine forest for a calm, scenic hike.
14. Chokramudi Peak. A five to six hour Munnar trek through forest and grassland to sweeping views of the surrounding hills.
15. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. A five to six hour walk through the world’s highest organic tea plantation, with the scent of fresh tea leaves along the trail.
16. Meesapulimala. A six to seven hour trek through tea estates and grassland to a panoramic summit view. Best September to March.
17. Vellarimala. Known as the Camel’s Hump Mountains, this five to six hour Kozhikode trail is a relatively undiscovered route with strong Western Ghats views.
18. Kurumbalakkotta. A five to six hour trail offering a 360 degree view from the summit, manageable for beginners.
19. Pakshipathalam. A six to seven hour round trip through the Brahmagiri Hills, popular with birdwatchers thanks to its dense forest and cave like passages.
20. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. An easy to moderate three to four hour trail with chances to spot elephants, leopards and various bird species. Best November to April.
21. Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary. A four to five hour trail near Thrissur passing forest and waterfalls, home to a wide range of species.
22. Thoovanam Waterfall Trek. A four to six hour route inside Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary ending at a dramatic waterfall.
23. Varayadumotta. One of the more demanding routes on this list, following a narrow ridge with steep drops on either side for dramatic views.
24. Kottancheri Hills. A quiet four to five hour trail near Kasaragod, ideal for travellers who prefer to avoid crowds.
25. Vattavada. A four to six hour trail near Munnar through cool, scenic plantation country, suitable for beginners year round.
Conclusion
From the demanding heights of Agasthyakoodam to the gentle paths of Vattavada, Kerala’s trails offer something for every level of trekker. The state’s mix of forest, plantation and mountain scenery means the destination is only part of the appeal. The walk itself is usually just as memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Kerala’s best trekking spots? Anamudi Peak, Agasthyakoodam, Meesapulimala, Vattavada and the Wayanad hills are consistently among the top picks.
2. How difficult is trekking in Kerala overall? It ranges widely, from easy walks suitable for beginners to demanding routes like Agasthyakoodam and Anamudi Peak.
3. When is the best time to trek? October through March offers the most comfortable weather across most trails.
4. Do I need a permit? Some routes inside protected areas, such as national parks and sanctuaries, require permits, so check with local authorities before setting out.
5. How long do these treks usually take? Anywhere from two to four hours for shorter trails up to six to eight hours or more for demanding routes like Anamudi Peak.
6. What should I pack? Comfortable trekking shoes, light layers, water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat and a first aid kit are all worth carrying.
Written by
Raunak Mehta
A passionate traveler and writer sharing authentic stories from across India with Troova's community.