Fondly called the ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is home to gorgeous mountain peaks, exotic wildlife, pristine lakes, sprawling tea plantations, and countless sightseeing options. If you are looking forward to unfolding a world full of natural beauty, crisp air, and thrilling adventure, this South Indian state is the best place with a plethora of options. Chembra Peak or Chembra Mala, in the Wayanad district, is one such gem in its treasure chest of natural bounties. Perched at an elevation of 2100 m in the Western Ghats, it is the highest peak in the Wayanad hills and the third highest peak in South India. Being nestled amidst the beautiful Wayanad hills and the adjoining Nilgiri hills, trekking to Chembra Peak is one of the top things to do in Wayanad. If you are an adventure junkie, then try this trek while holidaying in Wayanad as part of Wayanad Tour Packages.
Highest Peak in the Wayanad Region
Tucked away between Nilgris and Vallarimala, Chembra Peak is situated about 17 km Kalpetta near Meppadi in the Wayanad, among the most scenic places to visit near Bangalore. Standing tall at a height of 6,890 feet above the sea level in the Western Ghats, it is the highest peak in the Wayanad region, and among the third highest peak in South India. Chembra Peak is a popular spot for intrepid trekkers and rock climbers to venture out and experience a thrill like never before. The beauty and splendor of this peak make it one of the must-visit Wayanad tourist places, especially for adventurous expeditions like trekking. 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.
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Heart Lake at Chembra Peak
The Heart-shaped Lake remains the main attraction of the Chembra Peak as it is bound to capture your heart at first sight. One can see the lake while going up to the Chembra Peak, among the top places for trekking near Bangalore. Tucked away in the lap of Chembra Hills, this lake is also known as the Hridayathadakam Lake by the locals of Wayanad, among the most popular hill stations in Kerala. It is believed that Goddess Sita took bath in the Chembra Peak lake, and is said to have never dried up. Known for its healing powers, the Chembra Lake is a great spot to take a dip in the clear waters and admire the surreal beauty around you.
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A Trekking Paradise
Perched at an altitude of 2100 m, Chembra Peak is one of the most exquisite places for trekking in Kerala. Being nestled amidst the beautiful Wayanad hills and the adjoining Nilgiri hills, trek to the peak is certainly a rejuvenating affair. Trekking to the Chembra Peak is a moderately difficult task and is recommended for trekkers with good physical fitness. Now, trekkers can trek up to the heart-shaped lake. The trek starts from the watchtower at the foothill of Chembra Peak which is about 4 km one way and takes about 2 hours to trek (one way). Visitors need to get permission from the entry gate itself. The District Tourism Promotion Council provides guides and trekking equipment to tourists. The route to the peak itself has a brilliant view along with a heart-shaped lake, waterfalls, and lush greenery the whole way.
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Camping around Chembra Peak
The rugged terrains, mesmerizing beauty, and the heart-shaped Chembra lake make Chembra Peak a must-visit amongst all the peaks in Wayanad, among the top hill stations near Bangalore. Although trekking and adventure activities are popular at Chembra Peak, camping at the peak is not allowed because of wild animals lurking around. Hence, camping at Chembra Peak is strictly prohibited and all adventure activities are controlled here.
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Best Time to Visit Chembra Peak
Trekking to Chembra Peak is one of the top things to do in Wayanad. The best time to trek the Chembra Peak is during the post-monsoon time i.e., from November to February. Since this period is just after the monsoon ends, the forest will be dense and lush green, and the atmosphere will be cool and cloudy. 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.
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