Trekking In Kerala: Explore The Top 15 Trekking Places

For enthusiasts, Trekking in Kerala offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with its diverse terrain, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural heritage. From the majestic Western Ghats to the serene backwaters, Kerala’s trekking trails offer a chance to connect with nature, challenge oneself, and experience the local culture like never before.

Trekking in Kerala is not just about reaching the summit or completing a trail, it’s about immersing oneself in the beauty of nature, learning about the local flora and fauna, and experiencing the warm hospitality of the Kerala people. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner, the trails for trekking in Kerala have something to offer everyone. 

So, why not lace up your trekking boots, grab your backpack, and get ready to explore the beautiful places to visit in Kerala on foot? 

Let’s embark on one of the most unforgettable adventure activities in Kerala, that is: trekking in Kerala! You will discover along the way, why it’s a must-visit destination for every travel enthusiast!

Top 15 places for Trekking in Kerala:

1. Agasthyarkoodam Peak Trekking:

Animals like Elephants and Wild Bulls and the biodiversity one can see in this wildlife trekking include about 1800 to 2000 species of flora and fauna on either side of the trekking trails.

Ornithologists or bird-watchers flock here to enjoy the sight of rare birds and jungle trekking in Kerala. Trekking trail through the middle of the forests at this peak enables people to unwind and refresh from whatever stress or tension they are facing. An adventurous wildlife trekking for you to get yourself away from the hustle and bustle. It’s one of the best trekking places in Kerala.

• Duration Of The Trek: 2 days + overnight stay
• Length Of The Trek: 20 kms + 10 kms

2. Chembra Peak in Wayanad:

A heart-shaped lake en route to the top of the hill is a major fascination. The real trek begins from the lookout tower at the foothill of Chembra Peak which is around 7 km from Meppadi. 

The trek’s entry point can be reached by personal or sharing vehicles (jeeps) from Meppadi town. There is another way to visit Soochipara Waterfalls (11 km) when you trek down from Chembra Peak.

• Duration of the Trek: 1 day
• Length of the Trek Distance: 22 km

3. Meesappulimala Trekking:

The trek begins from the base camp at Kattappana, which is around 10 km from the Ranni town. The real trek begins from the Rhodo Valley, which is around 4 km from the base camp. The trek’s entry point can be reached by personal or sharing vehicles (jeeps) from Kattappana town. There is another way to visit the Anamudi Peak (11 km) when you trek down from Meesappulimala.

• Duration of the Trek: 2 days (1 night stay at the campsite) or 3 days (2 nights stay at the campsite) for a more leisurely pace
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) from the base camp to the summit and back

4. Dhoni Hills for Trekking in Kerala:

The real trek begins from the Dhoni Forest Range, which is around 2 km from the base. The trek’s entry point can be reached by personal or sharing vehicles ( autos/buses) from Palakkad town. The trek takes you through lush forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

• Duration of the Trek: 1 day
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) from the base to the summit and back

5. Silent Valley National Park Trekking:

The real trek begins from the Mukhari forest range, which is around 5 km from the entrance. The trek’s entry point can be reached by personal or sharing vehicles (autos/buses) from Palakkad town. The trek takes you through dense forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain, offering opportunities to spot rare wildlife such as the Lion-tailed Macaque, Tiger, and Elephant.

• Duration of the Trek: 2 days (1 night stay at the forest lodge) or 3 days (2 nights stay at the forest lodge) for a more leisurely pace
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 18 km (11 miles) from the entrance to the park to the core zone and back

6. Ramakkalmedu Peak Trekking in Kerala:

The trail takes you through rolling hills, grasslands, and rocky terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. This one of the more ideal trekking places in Kerala for beginners, with a moderate level of difficulty, and is a great way to learn the craft of trekking.

• Duration of the Trek: 1 day
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) from the base to the summit and back

7. Thusharagiri Waterfall Trekking in Kerala:

The trail takes you through dense forests, rocky terrain, and scenic viewpoints, offering stunning views of the waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. The trek is of moderate difficulty and is suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the waterfalls and the surrounding nature. It can be called as one of the best trekking places in Kerala.

• Duration of the Trek: 1 day
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) from the base to the waterfalls and back

8. Ponmudi Trekking in Kerala:

Ponmudi Trekking, also known as Golden Peak, is situated 60 km from Trivandrum. The trek begins from the base of the hill, which is around 2 km from the Ponmudi village. The trail takes you through rolling hills, grasslands, and rocky terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. The trek is of moderate difficulty and is suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Western Ghats and the surrounding nature.

• Duration of the Trek: 1-2 days
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 10-15 km (6.2-9.3 miles) from the base to the summit and back

9. Nelliyampathi Trekking in Kerala:

The Seetharkund viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. The trek is of moderate difficulty and is suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Western Ghats and the surrounding nature.

• Duration of the Trek: 1-2 days
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 8-10 km (5-6.2 miles) from the base to the Seetharkund viewpoint and back

10. Anamudi Peak Trekking in Kerala:

The trail takes you through lush forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. The trek is of high difficulty and is suitable for experienced trekkers and as such is rated amogst the best trekking places in Kerala.

• Duration of the Trek: 2-3 days
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 16 km (10 miles) from the base to the summit and back

11. Chokramudi Trekking in Kerala:

The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. The trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

• Duration of the Trek: 5 hours
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) from the base to the summit and back

12. Kannan Devan Hills Trekking in Kerala:

The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. The trek is of moderate difficulty and is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

• Duration of the Trek: 1-2 days
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 5-10 km (3.1-6.2 miles) from the base to the summit and back

13. Periyar Tiger Reserve Trekking in Kerala:

The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and deer. The core zone offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. The trek is of moderate to high difficulty and is suitable for experienced trekkers. Prior permission from the forest department is required for trekking in the reserve.

• Duration of the Trek: 1-3 days
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 10-20 km (6.2-12.4 miles) from the base to the core zone and back

14. Ramakkalmedu Trekking in Kerala:

The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. The trek is of moderate difficulty and is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

• Duration of the Trek: 1 day
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 5-7 km (3.1-4.3 miles) from the base to the summit and back

15. Nelliyampathy Hills Trekking in Kerala:

The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. The trek is of moderate difficulty and is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

• Duration of the Trek: 1-2 days
• Length of the Trek Distance: Approximately 10-15 km (6.2-9.3 miles) from the base to the summit and back

What to pack for Trekking in Kerala?

– Comfortable trekking shoes/hiking boots

– Socks (extra pairs)

– Trekking pants/trousers

– Moisture-wicking shirts (quick-drying)

– Lightweight rain jacket or poncho

– Warm layers (fleece or jacket) for cooler months

– Hat and gloves (depending on the season)

– Extra underwear and socks

2. Personal Gear:

– Backpack (30-40 liters) with rain cover

– Water bottle or hydration pack

– Sleeping bag (if camping)

– Sleeping mat (if camping)

– First-aid kit

– Headlamp or flashlight

– Extra batteries

– Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)

3. Safety and Navigation:

– Map and compass

– GPS device or smartphone with GPS app

– Whistle

– Emergency shelter or bivvy sack

– Fire starter or matches

– Personal identification and medical insurance cards (if applicable)

4. Food and Water:

– Water purification tablets or filter

– Energy-rich snacks (nuts, dried fruits, etc.)

– Trail food (energy bars, sandwiches, etc.)

– Fresh fruits and vegetables (if available)

– Water bottle or hydration pack

5. Miscellaneous:

– Sunscreen and sunhat

– Insect repellent

– Camera and extra batteries

– Binoculars (if interested in wildlife or scenic views)

– Guidebook or research material

– Cash and credit cards (for emergencies or unexpected expenses)

Also Read: Parasailing in Kerala: Adventure Guide to Soar Over Arabian Sea

Unique tips for Trekking in Kerala:

• Be a responsible trekker: Take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints. Respect the local culture and environment, and remember to pack out what you pack in. 
• Try local delicacies: Don’t forget to try the local cuisine and drinks, like toddy and tea, and enjoy the hospitality of the Kerala people. 
• Practice caution: Be prepared for leeches and mosquitoes, and take necessary precautions. 
• Keep your camera ready: Don’t miss the opportunity to spot wildlife, like elephants and monkeys, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. 
• Enjoy the vacation away from work: Finally, take your time, and soak in the beauty of God’s Own Country.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to River Rafting in Kerala

Wrapping up the guide to Trekking in Kerala

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, the trails for trekking in Kerala offer a unique and unforgettable experience. So, lace up your trekking boots, grab your backpack, and get ready to explore the beauty of Kerala on foot. 

Remember to respect the local culture and environment, and take nothing but memories, leaving nothing but footprints. Happy trekking in Kerala!

Also Read: Hidden Gems: 10 Unconventional Kerala Backwaters