The charismatic exquisiteness of the splendid mountains taking off the Western Ghats and the emerald blue-green waters of the Arabian Sea mixing in a kind of glamorous concord with the natural forests and their astonishing flora and fauna summons masses of individuals to Kerala.

This impeccable setting appeals adventure buffs to participate in adrenaline-focused events. You can relish numerous adventure activities and sports like Bamboo Rafting, Biking, Bird Watching, Border Hiking, Camping, Jungle Petrol, Kayaking, River Rafting, Trekking, etc.

12 Best Trekking Places in Kerala:

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If you are a trekking enthusiast, looking for the best trekking spots in Kerala and want to have once in a lifetime traveling experience, do not miss these places:

1. Agastya Mala in Trivandrum:

This second highest peak in Kerala is a mountain range in Western Ghats at an altitude of 6,129 feet above sea level.

The mountain is admired by Buddhists as well as Hindus. It is supposed to be the residence of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara and of the saint Agastya, a devotee of Shiva.

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There are 2 paths to hike the peak of Agasthyakoodam. You can take either from Kotoor near Neyyar Dam or from Bonacaud. Buses are available from Trivandrum for Kotoor and Bonacaud.

Height	6,129 feet
Trek Distance	24 km
Trek Duration	2-3 Days
Difficulty Level	Moderately Difficult
Distance from Trivandrum	36 km

2. Anamudi Peak in Munnar:

It is the highest hill in entire South India and also highest trekking peak in Kerala and also the peak point in India outside the Himalaya-Karakoram, at an altitude of 8842 feet.

Anamudi, accompanied by the Eravikulam Park, is home to one of the biggest enduring populaces of Asian Elephants, Gaurs and Nilgiri Tahrs. Take permission from Wildlife authorities before beginning the trek to Anamudi peak.

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With the intention of just viewing the Anamudi peak from a distance, tourists can take the guided mini bus excursion of Eravikulam National Park which will take to the point that offers panoramic view of Anamudi and other neighbouring peaks. This is one of the most popular hiking places in Kerala.

Height	8,842 feet
Trek Duration	2-3 Days
Difficulty Level	Moderately Challenging
Distance from Munnar	16 km

Read Also: Amazing Tourist Places in Munnar for One Day Trip for Nature Lovers

3. Chembra Peak in Wayanad:

It is the premier peak in Wayanad and 3^rd highest peak in South India at an altitude of 2100 meters. It is part of the Wayanad mountain ranges in the Western Ghats.

A heart-shaped lake enroute to 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.

Height	6,890 feet
Trek Distance	4.5 km
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Moderately Difficult
Distance from Wayanad	34 km

Read Also: Hill Stations of South India Considered as Best Places to Visit

4. Kannan Devan Hills in Munnar:

Kanan Devan Hills is a village in Idukki district of Kerala at the elevation of 1700 mts. The land of the Kanan Devan Hills is conquered by tea and the fuel wood farms.

There are around 102 species of birds documented in the Kanan Devan Hills area. The mountains in the neighboring areas are the residence of the rare and Western Ghat rampant Nilgiri Tahr.

You can also see to numerous species of animals like Nilgiri Langur, Elephants, Gaur (Indian Bison), Panthers, Wild Cats, Sambar Deer, Barking Deers (Munjtacs), Malabar Giant Squirrels etc. along with numerous reptiles and amphibians.

This region is also known for offering the best trek in Kerala, attracting adventure enthusiasts.

Height	6,000 feet
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Moderately Challenging
Distance from Munnar	21 km

Also Read: 7 Best National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala

5. Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady:

With a wide area of 925 sq. km, this is an illustration of the environment’s abundance with great attractive allure, amusing biodiversity and offering absolute tourist satisfaction.

You must visit this one among 48 tiger reserves in India. Passionately protected and professionally managed reserve is a source of unusual, pervasive and scarce flora and fauna and forms the major crunch of two significant rivers of Kerala, the Periyar and Pamba.

Trek Distance	20-35 km
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Easy
Distance from Thekkady	2 km

Read Also: Guide to Periyar National Park, Thekkady: Nature Trails, Travel Tips, and Nearby Attractions

6. Ramakkalmedu in Idukki:

It is a hill station and a rural community in Idukki district of Kerala. Located about 15 km from Nedumkandom on the Munnar – Thekkady route this place offers a panoramic view of Tamil Nadu’s villages and towns.

It is the recommended spot for power generation using winds. It is believed that lord “Shri Rama”, had set his foot on this rock and henceforth the name Rama-Kal-Medu. It is also known as “Land of Wind”.

Height	3,500 feet
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Easy
Distance from Idukki	29 km

7. Vellarimala in Kozhikode:

This mountain range is spread crossways in Thiruvambady Panchayat in Kozhikode district and Meppadi Panchayat in Wayanad district of Kerala.

It forms a portion of a great hill range which is otherwise recognized as Camel’s Hump Mountains, a part of the Western Ghats.

The highest peak in this range is named Vavul Mala which is at an altitude of 2339 mts. The mountain ranges are reachable by foot from Muthappanpuzha, near Anakkampoyil, around 50 km from Kozhikode.

Height	7,350 feet
Trek Distance	9 km
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Moderately Challenging
Distance from Wayanad	33 km

8. Kolukkumalai Peak Trek:

A breathtaking journey awaits up the Kolukkumalai Peak, where a stunning panoramic view of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu can be seen. Located somewhere around 7,130 feet above sea level, this is one of the best adventure trekking places in Kerala.

The hiking towards the peak is truly rewarding with plenty of flora and fauna to observe.

Height	7,130 feet
Trek Distance	8 km
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Easy
Distance from Munnar	35 km

9. Top Station:

The hike from Kurangani village to Top Station is one of the best jungle trekking in Kerala that you won’t forget. Your trekking trail takes you through a series of breathtaking Central villages and Kurangani Hills, where the dense woods and rolling grasslands provide some magnificent views.

The weather on your journey can change quickly as you climb up, with strong winds accompanied by low-hanging clouds and a chilly atmosphere adding to the thrill of the destination.

Height	6,170 feet
Trek Distance	9 km
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Moderately Challenging
Distance from Munnar	34 km

10. Meesapulimala Trek:

Meesapulimala is a must visit for anyone looking for an enthralling Kerala trekking places and camping experience. Located in Idukki district of Kerala, it is the second highest peak of the state.

It stands tall at 8,661 feet above sea level. With its dense jungles, meandering rivers and beautiful streams, Meesapulimala’s views are absolutely mesmerizing. One can experience spectacular sunsets from up there with cool breeze caressing their face, making it one of the most sought-after forest trekking places in Kerala.

Height	8,661 feet
Trek Distance	8 km
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Moderately Difficult
Distance from Munnar	33 km

11. Chokramudi Peak Trek:

Chokramudi Peak is one of the best trekking places in Kerala. Standing at a height of 7,200 ft, the peak offers an impressive view of the tea plantations, Anamudi Peak, and Idukki Dam. What makes this truly unique is that it’s isolated from other hill ranges, adding to the mystique and grandeur when facing your final ascent.

Height	7,300 feet
Trek Distance	10 km
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Moderately Difficult
Distance from Munnar	11 km

12. Dhoni Hills:

The three hour trek from the base of Dhoni hills is not only invigorating for your senses, but also is an unforgettable journey through lush green surroundings. Along the trek you will climb some of the exciting hilly terrains, and explore some unique forest ecosystems of the Western Ghats. Rare species of flora and fauna make their home here, offering an unmatched experience that can’t be found elsewhere.

Trek Distance	4 km
Trek Duration	1 Day
Difficulty Level	Moderately Challenging
Distance from Trivandrum	10 km

Kerala Forest Trekking Rules: Permits, Timings & Safety Guidelines:

Most trekking places in Kerala fall under protected forest or wildlife reserve zones. Entry without permission may not be allowed.

• Forest Department / KFDC Permits: Required for treks like Agasthyakoodam, Meesapulimala, Periyar, and Anamudi.
• Limited Daily Slots: Certain treks allow only a fixed number of trekkers per day.
• ID Proof Mandatory: Government-issued ID is usually required.
• Guide Compulsion: Some regions mandate trekking with authorized local guides.

Booking permits well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak trekking season.

Scenic Trekking Routes in Kerala’s Western Ghats:

Unlike regular hikes, Kerala treks offer diverse landscapes within a single trail:

• Dense tropical forests
• Shola grasslands
• Tea plantations
• Bamboo groves
• Rocky ridges
• River crossings and natural streams

Each trek transitions through multiple ecosystems, offering ever-changing views and trekking challenges.

Trekking Difficulty Levels in Kerala: Which Treks Are Right for You?

Difficulty levels vary based on terrain, distance, altitude gain, and weather exposure.

• Easy: Suitable for beginners and families with basic fitness (Ramakkalmedu, Kolukkumalai).
• Moderately Challenging: Requires good stamina and balance (Chembra Peak, Top Station, Vellarimala).
• Moderately Difficult: Long distances and steep ascents (Agasthyakoodam, Meesapulimala, Chokramudi).

Trekkers with knee issues, respiratory problems, or heart conditions should consult a doctor before attempting high-altitude treks.

Nature and Wildlife Experiences in Kerala Trekking Routes:

Kerala’s trekking routes pass through some of India’s richest biodiversity zones.

You may encounter:

• Nilgiri Tahr
• Asian Elephants
• Malabar Giant Squirrel
• Sambar and Barking Deer
• Wild Boars
• Rare birds like Malabar Whistling Thrush, Hornbills, and Sunbirds

Wildlife sightings are unpredictable and should be observed from a safe distance.

Why Kerala Is a Paradise for Adventure & Trekking Enthusiasts:

You may know Kerala for Ayurveda, Spices, Meditation, Tree Houses, Boat Races, Beaches and every other thing explained in the books and web but this is what you must know about Kerala if you are visiting it ones in your lifetime. If you want to visit these places in Kerala then book your Kerala tour package at the lowest price with Kerala’s leading tour operator.

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