Trekking, an adventurous journey any voyager craves for. When it comes to exploring Kerala, traveller’s favourite tourist destination, the options are plenty to pick. Kerala is blessed with its mesmerizing beauty, be it backwaters, magical waterfalls, wildlife bios, pristine lakes, hills, beaches, rocky terrains; what a feast it will be if this enchanting nature escorts you up the trekking trails! For the trekking lovers out there, God’s own country has more to offer you with the best hide-outs to discover. Go frolicking!
Anamudi Peak
The famous peak located in Idukki district, Munnar. The hill town Munnar is the hub to this beautiful trekking destination. Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in the Western Ghats and South India, at an altitude of 2695m. Nestles by the striking attraction of the hills, green plantations, Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking fans. From Anamudi, you can get the fabulous view of Neela Kurinji flowers (rare flowers which blooms once in 12 years) and it will be times exciting if you climb the hills during the blooming season. A photographic location any backpacker would love to visit. Prior to trekking, you need to get permission from the Forest Department.
Peeru Hills
It is located in Idukki district, 4km away from Kuttikanam. The serene hill station is a feast for eyes as well as a desired destination for trekkers and tourists. The trekking spot offers a soothing experience; cool breezy atmosphere, incredible view of hills, mountains, etc. Peer hills, was named after Peer Mohammed (the Sufi saint) who lived his last days at Peeru.
Agasthyarkoodam Peak
Agasthyarkoodam peak is located in Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Western Ghats of South India, in the district of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram and districts of Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. Agasthya peak, the historic residence of saint Agasthya, stands majestically at an altitude of 1868m above sea level. The second largest peak of Western Ghats not only provides a haunt for trekkers, but an adventurous spot to meander! Thepanoramic view from atop the hill is mind-blowing, Arabian Sea on one side and huge mountain ranges on the other side. Way up the hill, you get to see a small waterfall, Bona waterfall and plethora of rare medicinal plants (2000 species). With prior permission from the Forest Department you can enjoy the thrilling journey along the wilderness, surrounded by dense greenery.
Chimmini
Chimmini, the wildlife national park is located in Thrissur district, along the Western Ghats. This is an ideal hideout for birdwatchers and explorers. The wildlife sanctuary is rich in flora and faura, adorned with the scenic beauty beyond imagination. Trekkers and birdwatchers can stroll and trek along borders of the park and even through the thick forest with prior permission. Chimmini is an exquisite hideout for avid birdwatchers, butterfly watchers, trekkers and campers. Elephants, sloth bears, varieties of birds, sambars, etc are seen in the sanctuary. The Forest Department offers bamboo rafting for travellers along the Chimminilake, in and around the wildlife park.
Ponmudi
Ponmudi, the Golden peak is a well-known tourist destination located in Thiruvananthapuram district, at an altitude of 1100m above sea level. The climate surrounding the hill station is amazing throughout the year, and serves as a favourite place for camping and trekking. Trekkers get to see rare butterflies, flowers, rivulets and the expanse of natural beauty. Out of the many peaks, Motta Peak is famous for trekking. The place has cool hill resorts and tea plantations. The road connecting the peak to Thiruvananthapuram city has 22 hairpins with scenic splendours; misty mountains, greenery –a worth tourist attraction to add to the bucketlist. The Golden peak is blessed with a carpet of lush green tropical forest up to its foot, enriched by small streams, variety of flowers and plants. Along the Golden Peak is the Golden Valley, connects to the Kallar river-stretching through the wilderness to the village.Meenmutty Falls, deer park, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary are other attractions.
This article is authored by Sooraj Kumar who is one of the authors of the blog Ayurveda, you can find him at Google+