Overview
The Chembra Peak, the highest peak in the Wayanad Hill Range, is located near Meppady and only 8 kilometers south of Kalpetta. It stands 2000 meters above sea level. The Chembra peak provides a panoramic view of not only Wayanad, but also much of Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Niligiri. The peak, its surrounding lush greenery, and the famous heart-shaped lake make it a paradise for visitors to discover.
Chembra Peak Trek
The trek to Chembra Peak is widely regarded as the best in Kerala, and the offer is undeniably appealing. The District Tourism Promotion Council, in collaboration with the South Wayanad Forest Development Agency, has made the necessary arrangements for trekking to the enthralling peak.
The trek begins at the foothills of the Chembra Peak, which are surrounded by a vast landscape of tea estates. The climb continues for 1 km until you reach a watchtower that offers a view of the Chembra peak and its surroundings. Another 2 kilometers into the trek, you’ll arrive at the heart-shaped lake, Hridayathadakam Lake. You can spend some time by the lake and enjoy the cool water. As you continue your journey from the lake, you will eventually arrive at Chembra Peak after 1 km. Overall, it is a 4.5-kilometer climb on each side that will take 3 to 4 hours each way.
The difficulty level of the trek is moderate until the second stage, which leads to the heart-shaped lake. The difficulty increases slightly after this point until the peak, as the trek becomes steeper.
As you walk through the forest, nature blows gentle winds to revitalize and refresh you. The crackling of dry leaves underfoot, the narrow shafts of sunlight cutting through the thick branches, the playful chirping of birds, and the faint sounds of beetles in the background will make you fall in love with nature all over again. Wading through the dense forests of the Wayanad Hill Range and discovering a pure and untouched environment is an unforgettable experience.
Permit for Chembra Peak Trek
Before trekking to Chembra Peak, you must obtain prior permission from the Forest Office in Meppadi. You can hire agents online or seek assistance from your hotel. Once you have obtained permission, you will be issued a pass that allows you to enter the designated forest area.
Best Time To Visit Chembra Peak
The best time to trek to Chembra Peak is between September and March. Because this is just after the monsoon season, the forest will be dense and lush green, and the weather will be cool and cloudy. As summer approaches in February and March, the grass will gradually turn brown and yellow, and trees may begin to shed due to the dry weather. So, if you want to go on a trek surrounded by greenery, plan your trip before February.
It is not recommended to trek during the monsoon season because the path will be very slippery and the weather will not cooperate.
Also, it is preferable to begin the trek early in the morning. The morning freshness and soft sunshine are memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Sightseeing Around Chembra Peak
As you make your way up to Chembra Peak, don’t miss the Heart Shaped Lake or Cupid Lake, which is an absolutely breathtaking sight.
How to reach Chembra Peak
Air: The nearest airport is Karipur International Airport, which is 92 kilometers away and well-connected by state buses and taxis.
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Rail: The nearest railhead is in Kozhikode, which is 79 kilometers from Chembra Peak Base Camp. Again, state buses and taxis are the best ways to get to Chembra Peak Base Camp.
Road: Get down at Kalpetta if coming from Bangalore or Kozhikode, from there take a bus or taxi to the Forrest Office which is the base of the trek.
Things to do at Chembra Peak
The peak is well-known among trekkers for offering an excellent one-day trekking experience lasting approximately three hours. On the way to the peak, they come across another natural wonder in the form of a heart-shaped lake that is said to have never dried up and is a popular tourist destination. The peak can be reached on foot from Meppady. The view from the Banasura Sagar Dam is also spectacular. The large dam stands out against the green blanket, resembling a shiny silver metal disc sitting between the trees. The treks are organised by the ‘Chempra Peak VSS’, which is part of the South Wayanad Forest Development Agency.
