Wayanad Trekking Guide
Best Trails & Tips for 2026

1. Chembra Peak — The Crown Trek

Elevation: 2,100m | Distance: 7 km round trip | Difficulty: Moderate

Chembra is Wayanad's highest peak and the most popular trek. The trail passes through grasslands, shola forests and the famous heart-shaped lake (Hridaya Thadakam) — a naturally formed pond halfway up that never dries. Summit views on clear days extend over the Nilgiri hills and Wayanad plateau.

Permit: Required from Meppadi Forest Range office. Trek only with an authorized guide. Start by 7 AM for the best experience. Season: October to May (closed during monsoon).

2. Edakkal Caves — Heritage Hike

Elevation: 1,200m | Distance: 1 km climb | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

More of a climb than a trek, but the cave at the top contains 10,000-year-old Neolithic and Mesolithic rock engravings — one of the oldest evidence of human presence in South India. The viewpoints along the way are spectacular. Arrive early to avoid midday crowds.

3. Brahmagiri Peak — Wilderness Trek

Elevation: 1,608m | Distance: 6 km one way | Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

Starting from Thirunelly (near the Kerala-Karnataka border), this less-crowded trail passes through pristine Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot Malabar giant squirrels, hornbills and gaur along the way. The summit offers views of three states — Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu simultaneously.

4. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary Trail

Elevation: 1,744m | Difficulty: Difficult

One of Kerala's most unique treks — through dense forest to a cave complex inhabited by rare birds and the endangered lion-tailed macaque. Requires 2-day permit from the Forest Department. Not for beginners. Guided only.

Trekking Tips for Wayanad

• Season: October to May. Avoid July-September (heavy rain, landslides, leeches).
• Start early: 6-7 AM. Afternoons get hot and visibility reduces as mist builds.
• Permits: Book 1-2 days in advance for Chembra. Forest Department offices open by 7 AM.
• Guide mandatory: Required for all permits. Guides are local and knowledgeable.
• Footwear: Trekking shoes are essential. No sandals or flip-flops.
• Water: Carry 2 litres minimum per person. No water sources on most trails.
• Leeches: Spray salt solution on shoes during late monsoon period.

Join a Wayanad Adventure Trip

Strangers Ride organizes Wayanad adventure trips covering Chembra Peak trek, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam and tribal village visits — with all permits, guide and transport sorted.