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Chembra Peak
Written by Buvaneshwari Gopinath on July 2, 2020 Share on

Adventures in Chembra Peak

Chembra peak located in Wayanad, Kerala is one of the tallest peaks in the region. The height of the peak is roughly 2100 feet above sea level. The peak provides a great exercising spot and visiting them is one of the best things to do in Wayanad. The Chembra peak shares its border with two other states. Making the peak is easily accessible from three different states. Situated about 8 kilometres from Kalpetta and 15 kilometres from Meppadi, these are the two closest towns to the peak. The peak can be viewed from almost all places from Wayanad and is an ideal spot for recreation and adventure. Not just Wayanad, you can also view Malappuram, Kozhikode and Niligiri districts from up here.

Chembra Peak
Image Source: Google

Though big in size, an interesting point here is that you can reach the peak by walking from Meppadi. The peak can be easily hiked or trekked even for tourists with no experience. It is considered to be one of the fun-filled challenges yet exciting treks to go in South of India. If you plan on hiking up through Meppadi, you do need prior permission from the forest department. There is numerous peaks right adjacent to the Chembra peak. Though you cannot trek or hike here due to its dense forest, the view from Chembra to this peak is truly amazing. You will get amazed by the enthralling beauty of nature here. There are numerous peaks nearby Chambra peak but it is difficult to climb those peaks as they are covered with dense forests.

How to reach Chembra Peak

Tucked away between Nilgris and Vallarimala, two different states, Chembra peak belongs to Wayanad in Kerala.

Road to peak
Image Source: Unsplash

By Train

The peak is located roughly about 79 kilometres from Kozhikode which happens to be the nearest train station. So if you are planning on a train trip, book your tickets to Kozhikode and then rent a cab to reach the peak.

By Flight

Flights can be the easiest mode to travel. The nearest airport that connects to the peak is Calicut International Airport. From there, you can either rent a cab or hire a self-drive car to reach the peak. The peak is roughly 2-hour drive and 92 kilometres long.

By Road

Road travel is always fun and exciting. If you are planning to drive yourself from the southern part of India, let me tell you, its pure bliss. The highways are filled with green landscapes which make the drive very scenic. Or, you can opt to take a private or public bus. The nearest bus stop will be Kalpetta or Meppadi depending on the bus you choose. From there, the only way up the peak is to hire a cab.

The most ideal time to visit the peak would be?

An ideal time to visit the peak would be between the months of October to June. During these months, the peak enjoys summer, making the paths dry and safe for trekking.

Where to stay at Chembra Peak?

There are no accommodations close by or around the peak. The closest accommodation is at Kalpetta. Kalpetta is located about 7 kilometres distance from the peak and is one of the decent accommodation. The place is a district headquarters with rooms available for everyone’s budget.

Where to eat?

Chembra peak does not have any restaurants or canteens inside. Head out to Cinnamon Restaurant in Kalpetta and try out the famous dishes like Kerala Parotta, Manchow soup and Ceylon Parotta.

Things to do around the Chembra Peak

If you are visiting or staying at Bangalore or Wayanad, head to Chembra Peak located near Kalpetta.This peak is an excellent spot to spend day time. Try your leg in trekking the Chembra peak, one way up or down to the peak alone takes roughly about 3 hours without any experiences. While you are there, enjoy the beautiful view of the town near it. Take a look at the Banasura Sagar Dam that stands separate on the green landscape. The view of the dam from Chembra peak is truly breathtaking.

Trail path
Image Source: Unsplash

Not just the peak, there is a cute little lake in the shape of a heart. The lake is entirely nature made. Go on and get a glimpse of nature’s love towards the Chembra peak. This lake is also fondly called as the ‘hridhayathadakam’ by the locals.

If you are not expert in trekking not to worry the Chembra Peak VSS governed by the South Wayanad Forest Department organises guided treks and tours for the tourists to explore the peak. You can pay an additional cost of Rs 500 for a group of 10 Indian nations and Rs 1000 for foreign nationals

Heart Lake
Image Source: Google

Tip

  • If you are not an experienced trekker, avoid trekking during the rainy season.
  • You will need trekking permits that can be obtained from the forest department at an additional cost only.
  • While visiting during the summer, carry warm clothes.
  • The forest department allows only 200 trekkers a day. So be sure to get your passes early on.
  • Video cameras are prohibited inside the peak.
  • Wear safe and comfortable shoes while trekking.
  • Be sure to carry enough water to keep you hydrated throughout the trek.
  • Carry first aid kit along. You never know when it’ll get handy.
  • No overnight camping is allowed at Chembra peak.

Entry fee

The entry for Indian national is Rs 20/- per person and Rs 30/- each for any foreign national. The Chembra peak has a special discounted entry fee for a student of Rs 15/- if a valid ID is shown.

The peak also has a discounted entry fee for tourists travelling as a group. The rates are as follows:

  • An entry fee of Rs 750 is charged for a group of 10 Indian national only. For an extra person, the entry fee is Rs. 75/-
  • For Foreign nationals, the entry fee for a group of 5 is Rs 1250/-. Any extra person would be charged Rs 300/-
  • Additional charges are applicable for parking and guided tours (if needed)

Open hours

The Chembra peak is open on all days of the week between 9 AM – 3 PM. The peak remains open during the public holidays and national holidays.

An amazing year-round destination is Chembra Peak. Although trekking might be a little difficult, get amazed with the enthralling views. Grab your bags and travel to Wayanad with Pickyourtrail. Choose from different Wayanad packages on our website and get going to trek the beautiful Chembra Peak. Need more help? Drop us a Whatsapp message and we will get back to you!

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