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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
995 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.7 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-6h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Chembra Peak Hike

Chembra Peak Hike
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Chembra Peak calls Wayanad home, a plateau in the west escarpment of the Nilgiri biosphere. It is part of the World Heritage site known for its outstanding natural beauty. Chembra is the highest peak on the Wayanad plateau and makes for a challenging trek for adventurous mountaineers.

Route Description for Chembra Peak Hike

The Chembra Peak route starts right on Thollayiram Road. The first half hour of the hike winds through sweet-smelling tea plantations, verdant with blooming plants.

The trail then heads uphill with a steep climb on rough terrain for another couple of hours. This is the hardest part of the hike, but there are many beautiful viewpoints and resting places along this track.

Eventually, you’ll hit the grassland fringe joining the first sky island forest. The peak is further up, but is not accessible to tourists due to conservation laws.

Regardless, this part of the trail is a romantic setting with wild grasslands, wildflowers, blue waters, low-lying clouds and panoramic views of the plateau. This area also offers excellent views of the Wayanad Plateau.

Return on the same path, but stop to observe the ethereal wildflowers and bog orchids in this grassland. Mountain birds like bush chat, kestrel, and black eagle are also a common sighting. You might even spot Wayanad laughing thrush, an endangered endemic of this plateau, before returning to the starting point.

Insider Hints for Chembra Peak Hike

  • We suggest choosing a morning hike, as there is a limit to the number of visitors allowed per day.
  • You can’t self-guide yourself on the Brahmagiri Peak hike in the Western Ghats, you must have a guide for this walk.
  • There is only one trail to get to the Chembra Peak.

Getting to the Chembra Peak Hike Trailhead

The reporting point is at the Chembra forest checkpost on Thollayirum Road. The destination is 14.3mi from Kalpetta. Take the Kalpetta-Meppady road, then turn onto Chooralmala Road, then onto Thollayiram Road straight to the checkpoint. It is also accessible from the Sultan Bathery town of Wayanad.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    November to February

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Chembra Peak Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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