Chembra Peak, Wayanad - Timings, Accessibility, Best Time to Visit
Photo Credit: Flickr
#6 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad
Distance (From Wayanad): 17 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): Full Day
Transportation Options: Bus / Cab / Walk/Trek / + Walk/Trek
Travel Tips: 1. Food has to be carried from Meppadi town. Water is available at a stream on mid way to the peak, but it's suggested to carry enough water.
2. Start early, so that you can return before dusk.
3. This is the third highest peak in the South after Anaimudi near Munnar (2695 meters) and Doddabetta Peak near Ooty (2637 meters).
About Chembra Peak
At a distance of 17 km from Kalpetta, Chembra Peak is a mountain peak in the Western Ghats of the Wayanad district. This is one of the top places for trekking in Kerala, and another popular attraction not to miss as part of your Wayanad tour packages.
Located at an elevation of 2100 m above sea level, Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad & the third-highest peak in South India. The Chembra peak offers a panoramic view of not only the entire Wayanad district but also a large chunk of the Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Niligiri districts. The peak, its surrounding lush greenery, and the famed heart-shaped lake make it a paradise for travellers to explore.
Trekking to Chembra Peak
Trekking to Chembra Peak is one of the top things to do in Wayanad and is organized by Vana Samrakshana Samithi (VSS), a part of the forest department. Being nestled amidst the beautiful Wayanad hills and the adjoining Nilgiri hills, a trek to the peak is certainly a rejuvenating affair. The base of Chembra Peak is accessible by private vehicles from Meppadi town. Visitors can get permission from the entry gate itself. The peak is about 4 km one way and takes about 2 hours to trek (one way). The trek is a moderately difficult task and is recommended for trekkers with good physical fitness. There is a heart-shaped lake on the way to the top of the peak, which is believed to have never dried up and is a major tourist attraction here. Earlier, the trek used to be till Chembra peak. But, now visitors can only trek to the heart-shaped lake.
Permit for Chembra Peak Trek
Visitors will have to take prior permission from the forest office in Meppadi before trekking to Chembra Peak. One can also get it from the ticket counter itself, on the day of trekking. But be early as only 200 people are allowed in a day. Chembra Peak closing time is 4 PM, but you must reach there before 2 PM. No trekking permissions are issued after that.
Best Time to Visit Chembra Peak
The best time to trek the Chembra Peak is during the post-monsoon months from November to February. The monsoon period should be avoided as the path to the peak can get very slippery and reaching the top, as well as the descent, might be difficult. Summer is not recommended as it will be too hot to trek.
Chembra Peak Timings
Monday: 7 AM to 2 PM (should come back before 4 PM)
Tuesday: 7 AM to 2 PM (should come back before 4 PM)
Wednesday: 7 AM to 2 PM (should come back before 4 PM)
Thursday: 7 AM to 2 PM (should come back before 4 PM)
Friday: 7 AM to 2 PM (should come back before 4 PM)
Saturday: 7 AM to 2 PM (should come back before 4 PM)
Sunday: 7 AM to 2 PM (should come back before 4 PM)
Chembra Peak Entry Fee
Indians
Entry: Rs. 750 for a group of 10 Persons
Camera: Rs. 40 for Indians
Foreigners
Entry: Rs. 1500 for a group of 5 Persons
Camera: Rs. 80 for Foreigners
Tips to Visit Chembra Peak
1. Wear comfortable and sturdy footwear.
2. Take a guide for the best experience.
3. Carry plenty of water & snacks during the trek.
4. Return to the base before sunset.
5. Take an umbrella/raincoat.
How to Reach Chembra Peak
The actual trek starts from the watchtower at the foothill of Chembra Peak which is about 7 km from Meppadi. The trek entry point can be reached by private vehicles (jeeps) from Meppadi town. Visitors can get permission from the entry gate itself. The peak is about 4 km one way and takes about 2 hours to trek (one way). A forest guide will be provided for each group near the entry point. Camping is not allowed at the peak.
