Why Visit the Chembra Peak in the Wayanad Hill Ranges?

Standing at a height of 6,890 feet above the sea level, the Chembra Peak is a popular spot for intrepid trekkers and rock climbers to venture out and experience a thrill like never before. It is the holy grail of adventure junkies to challenge their limits and pump their adrenaline. Tucked away from the chaotic city life, this peak offers a magnificent panoramic view of the surroundings.

The rugged terrains, mesmerizing beauty, and the heart-shaped Chembra lake make Chembra Peak a must-visit amongst all the peaks in the Wayanad Hill Ranges. The beauty and splendour of this peak make it a popular spot to make adventurous expeditions. Even for those who don't wish to climb it, Chembra Peak provides a gorgeous backdrop and photo-op and makes one fall in love with the surrounding landscape.

Things to Know While Planning for the Chembra Trek

Full of enigma, charm and challenges, the Chembra Peak is one of the most sought after treks in the Western Ghats. If you are planning a trip to this exquisite trekking site, here is everything you need to know to experience the best adventure of your life.

· The distance between Meppadi to Chembra Peak's trekking point is approximately 10 kilometres and public vehicles do not ply to the Peak. You have to travel through private or hired transport to cover Chembra Peak trekking distance.

· The trails of Chembra Peak are quite challenging and strenuous.

· You need to take permission from the authorities and pay the Forest Department charges to undergo adventure activities here.

· At least a group of five people are needed to make bookings for the Chembra Trek.

· The minimum age required for Chembra Trek is 11 years.

· Only 200 people can undertake the Chembra Trek per day, so make your bookings at the earliest.

· You must be physically fit and certified by a medical professional to undertake the Chembra Peak trek.

· You must hire a skilled instructor to indulge in a safe trekking experience.

· The trails are quite slippery and difficult to trek throughout the monsoons.

· Ideally, this is a one-day trek but if you want to explore the biodiversity around, you can also go for a two-day trek with the permission of the forest department.

· There is a strict "no littering policy" at Chembra Peak. So, if you litter the place, you will be charged a fine.

· The first 0.3 kms amidst the trekking trail are easy and pretty much a walk. The trail gets more challenging as you cover more distance.

Estimated Cost & Permission for Trekking at Chembra Peak

The South Wayanad Forest Development Agency arranges the visits to Chembra Peak. The “Chembra Peak VSS (Vana Samrakshana Samithi)” is responsible for all the organization and guides for trekking. Thus, tourists have to take permission for trekking or rock climbing at Chembra Peak from the Chembra Peak VSS.

You can get permission between 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. from the forest office. However, you must visit the office personally as permission cannot be taken online.

The total costs are as follows:

· Chembra Peak Entry Fees: Rs.15 per Indian student, Rs. 20 per Indian adult, Rs. 30 per foreign adult

· Trekking Entry Fees for Indian Nationals: Rs. 750 for a group of 10 nationals with an additional charge of Rs. 75 per person

· Trekking Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals: Rs. 1500 for a group of 5 foreigners with an additional charge of Rs. 300 per person

· Fees for Trekking to the Peak: Rs. 500 for an Indian adult, Rs. 1000 for a foreign adult

· Still Camera: Rs. 50

· Guide: Rs. 150

· Two-wheelers Parking: Rs. 10

· Car Parking: Rs. 20

· Littering Fine: Rs. 100 per bottle/wrapper

*Please note that these prices may vary and change from time to time.

Chembra Peak Trekking Distance & Time Taken

The Chembra Peak Trek can be divided into three sections and has a total distance of around 4.5 kms long. This includes:

· 1 km distance between the trekking point and the watchtower,

· 2 km distance between the watchtower and the beautiful Chembra Lake, and

· 1.5 km distance between the Chembra Lake and the Chembra Peak.

The time required for the Chembra Trek can be divided into three sections just like the distance.

· Trek point to Watch Tower: 15 to 20 minutes

· Watch Tower to Chembra Lake: 1 to 2 hours

· Chembra Lake to Chembra Peak: 1.5 to 2.5 hours

Trekking can be done only from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. here. If you start your trek early in the morning, you can easily return by 3:00 p.m.

Chembra Peak Height

The elevation of Chembra Peak is 6,890 feet (2100 meters) above the sea level and holds various records due to its majestic height. The gigantic height of this mountain peak makes the trek quite challenging and strenuous. The difficulty level is “intermediate”, so if you are a novice trekker, you may be comfortable trekking only from the starting point to the Chembra Lake.

Camping around Chembra Peak, Kerala

Although trekking and adventure activities are popular at Chembra Peak, camping is not allowed here because it is unsafe due to the eco-sensitive zone and is a habitat to wild animals. Hence, camping at Chembra Peak is strictly prohibited and all adventure activities are controlled here.

Right Time to Visit Chembra Peak for Trekking

The trek to Chembra Peak is recommended during the non-monsoonal months, making September to March the best time to undertake this thrilling activity. If you start your trek early in the morning, you may have the opportunity to explore the flora and fauna at your leisure. The trails are wet and slippery throughout the monsoons, which makes it quite risky and dangerous.

How to Reach to the Chembra Peak

Nearest Railway Station

Kozhikode Railway Station, located 79 kms away from the trek base point.

Nearest Airport

Calicut International Airport, located 92 kms away from the Chembra Peak trek start point.

Four Wheelers

· If you want to take public transport, various public and private buses ply throughout the city every day. The buses can either drop you to Kalpetta, located about 13 kms from the base or to Meppadi, which is situated around 7 kms from the base.

· Alternatively, you can also take a taxi to reach the base of the trekking point.

· If you are driving yourself, all you need is Google Maps to follow along. Once you reach the base, you can pay a nominal fee to park your vehicle.

Things to Do at Chembra Peak

There is no dearth of activities that you can undertake at Chembra Peak. Some of the most popular things to do at Chembra Peak are:

1. Trekking

Trekking is undoubtedly one of the best and must-do things at Chembra Peak. This activity is sure to offer you mesmerizing views of the surroundings. Hiking through the rugged trails, misty clouds, lush green vegetation and hearing the chirping of birds gives you a rare and unique experience.

2. Jeep Safari

The trekking trail to Chembra Peak is a beautiful sight to behold. Riding in a jeep amidst the lush tea plantations and witnessing the unparalleled view around is an activity that you must add to your bucket list.

3. Sightseeing

Witnessing the gorgeous beauty and admiring the local flora and fauna is surely going to provide you with a peaceful experience as you reconnect with nature.

4. Picnicking

Although you cannot pitch a tent and camp here, you can find a cosy spot to rest and have your perfect picnic near the heart-shaped Chembra Lake.

5. Take a Dip in the Healing Waters

Said to have healing powers, the Chembra Lake is a great spot to take a dip in the clear waters and admire the surreal beauty around you.