Introduction

Are you an adventure junkie looking for the next thrilling trekking experience? Look no further than South India! With its diverse landscapes ranging from lush green forests to serene waterfalls and towering mountains, South India offers some of the best trekking destinations in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner seeking a new challenge, these 15 must-visit places will leave you awe-inspired and rejuvenated. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the untamed beauty of South India’s trekking trails!

Kudremukh

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Kudremukh is a haven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The name “Kudremukh” literally means “horse face” in Kannada, owing to its striking resemblance to the outline of a horse’s face.

The trek to Kudremukh peak takes you through lush green forests, gurgling streams, and rolling hills. You can spot rare species of flora and fauna along the way, including medicinal plants like eucalyptus and shola trees.

At an altitude of 1,894 meters above sea level, the summit offers breathtaking views of misty valleys and cloud-kissed mountains. The grassy slopes make it an ideal spot for camping under star-studded skies.

You can also visit nearby attractions like Hanuman Gundi Falls or explore local villages to get a glimpse of traditional life in rural India. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for some adventure, Kudremukh promises an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s bounty.

Kodachadri

Kodachadri is a scenic peak located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. With an elevation of 1,343 meters above sea level, it is one of the most popular trekking destinations in South India. The trail to the summit offers breathtaking views of dense forests, waterfalls and steep valleys.

The Kodachadri trek begins at the base village of Nittur and takes approximately 4-5 hours to reach the top. Along the way, trekkers can witness stunning panoramic views of Kollur and Nagara Fort. The highlight of this trek is undoubtedly reaching Hidlumane Falls which cascades down from a height of over 200 meters.

Once trekkers reach the summit, they are welcomed by a mesmerizing view that includes Arabian Sea on one side and lush green hills on other sides. A small temple dedicated to Adi Shankaracharya sits atop providing spiritual solace.

Kodachadri offers an experience like no other for nature lovers seeking adventure amidst serene surroundings in South India.

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Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak in Wayanad, Kerala is a trekkers paradise. It is the highest peak in the region and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape from its summit.

The trek to Chembra Peak takes you through dense forests, grasslands and streams. The trail is quite steep but well-marked with signposts along the way. As you ascend, you’ll come across heart-shaped lake which adds more beauty to this place.

The highlight of the trek is definitely reaching the summit where trekkers can witness breathtaking panoramic views of Wayanad district below. You can also spot other popular peaks like Banasura Hill and Brahmagiri from here.

It’s important to note that visitors need prior permission before embarking on their journey up Chembra Peak as it falls within a protected wildlife sanctuary area.

If you’re an avid trekker looking for a challenging yet rewarding climb then look no further than Chembra Peak!

Lakkidi

Lakkidi is a charming hill station located in the Wayanad district of Kerala. The winding roads to Lakkidi are surrounded by lush green forests and beautiful scenery that will leave you mesmerized.

At an altitude of about 700 meters above sea level, Lakkidi offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is also known for its cool climate throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for trekking enthusiasts.

The trek up to Thusharagiri Waterfalls from Lakkidi is one of the most popular treks in South India. The trail takes you through dense forest cover, streams and waterfalls before reaching the final destination – Thusharagiri Waterfalls.

Apart from trekking, there are several other activities that can be enjoyed while at Lakkidi. You can visit Pookode Lake, which is famous for its boating facilities or explore Edakkal Caves – a pre-historic site with carvings dating back to Neolithic times.

Lakkidi also has many resorts and homestays where visitors can relax amidst nature’s tranquility while enjoying traditional Kerala cuisine. So if you’re looking for some peaceful time away from the city’s hustle-bustle, then head over to Lakkidi!

Meesapulimala

Meesapulimala is a breathtaking trekking destination situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala. The peak stands at an elevation of 2,640 meters above sea level, making it the second-highest peak in South India after Anamudi.

The trek to Meesapulimala takes you through rolling grasslands and shola forests that are home to exotic flora and fauna. One can spot animals like Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Sambar Deer, and even elusive leopards if lucky enough!

As you ascend higher towards the summit, the mesmerizing views of mist-covered valleys will leave you spellbound. Once atop Meesapulimala’s summit ridge on a clear day, one can witness panoramic views of Munnar hills carpeted with tea plantations stretching till your eyes could see.

Meesapulimala also offers trekkers an opportunity for camping overnight amidst nature’s lap. You can set up camp near Rhodo Valley or Silent Valley to experience the true beauty of nature – star-lit skies and peaceful serenity.

If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding trekking expedition in South India then Meesapulimala should be on top of your list!

Agumbe

Agumbe is a small and picturesque village located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, nestled amidst the lush green Western Ghats. It has earned the title of “The Cherrapunji of South India” due to its high annual rainfall, which also makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

For trekkers, Agumbe offers some of the most challenging yet rewarding trekking trails in South India. The popular trek here takes you to the highest peak in Agumbe, called Narasimha Parvatha or Agumbe Peak. The trek involves hiking through dense forests and steep ascents, but once you reach the top, it offers breathtaking views that make all your efforts worth it.

Apart from trekking, Agumbe is also known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife. It houses one of India’s oldest rainforests – The Western Ghats Rainforest – which is home to numerous rare species like King Cobras and Indian Pangolins.

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway amidst nature’s beauty far away from modern-day chaos then visiting this beautiful hamlet should definitely be on your bucket list!

Tadiandamol

Tadiandamol is the highest peak in Coorg and one of the most popular trekking places in South India. The trail to Tadiandamol showcases breathtaking landscapes, dense forests, and spectacular views.

The trek starts from Kakkabe village and takes around 5-6 hours to complete. It’s a moderate level trek with a distance of approximately 8 km each way.

During the monsoon season, Tadiandamol turns into a paradise for nature lovers as it offers stunning vistas of lush green valleys and cascading waterfalls.

As you climb higher towards the peak, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of surrounding hills shrouded in mist. The view from the top is simply mesmerizing!

If you’re an adventure enthusiast looking for some adrenaline-pumping activities, then don’t forget to try camping at Tadiandamol. Spending a night under the stars amidst serene surroundings will surely leave you rejuvenated.

If you want to experience nature’s splendor up close while getting your dose of adventure, then Tadiandamol should definitely be on your list!

Brahmagiri

Brahmagiri is a mountain range located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. It is known for its picturesque beauty and breathtaking trekking trails that attract adventure enthusiasts all year round. The peak stands at an elevation of 1608 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest peaks in South India.

The trail to Brahmagiri peak starts from Iruppu Falls and stretches for about 7 kilometers through dense forests dotted with streams, waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna along the way. The trek offers several vantage points where trekkers can stop to admire stunning panoramic views of surrounding hills and valleys.

As you climb higher towards the summit, the terrain becomes more challenging but also more rewarding as you are treated to unobstructed vistas that stretch as far as your eyes can see. On reaching the top, trekkers are rewarded with magnificent views of rolling hills covered in lush greenery on one side and wide-open plains on another.

Brahmagiri trek is an experience that will leave you refreshed both mentally and physically. With its natural beauty combined with challenging yet gratifying trails, this place definitely deserves a spot on your bucket list if you’re looking for some outdoor adventure amidst nature’s lap!

Mullayanagiri

Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka, standing tall at 1,930 meters above sea level. It is a popular spot for trekking enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The trek to Mullayanagiri takes approximately 3-4 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

The trail leading up to Mullayanagiri is challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain. However, it’s worth every effort as you reach the summit and witness stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills covered in lush greenery.

At the top of Mullayanagiri, there’s a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva which attracts many devotees throughout the year. The cool breeze blowing across your face along with serene surroundings makes it an ideal place for meditation.

Mullayanagiri also serves as a base camp for treks to nearby peaks like Baba Budangiri and Kemmangundi. Adventure junkies can indulge themselves in activities like rock climbing & rappelling here.

Mullayanagiri trek is one experience that every nature lover should have on their bucket list while exploring South India’s natural beauty!

Pushpagiri

Pushpagiri is a beautiful peak located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. It stands at an elevation of around 1,712 meters above sea level and serves as a perfect destination for trekking enthusiasts. The trek to Pushpagiri starts from the Kukke Subramanya temple, known for being one of the most sacred places in South India.

The trail is steep and challenging, but it rewards trekkers with stunning views of lush green forests and valleys along with rare species of birds and wildlife. As you ascend higher, you’ll come across waterfalls like Kumarparvatha Falls that are simply breathtaking.

One unique aspect about Pushpagiri trek is that it’s best done during monsoon season when the entire region comes alive with vibrant colors and misty clouds. However, hikers should be cautious while trekking during this time as landslides are common due to heavy rainfall.

If you’re looking for an adventurous yet rewarding experience amidst nature in South India then Pushpagiri should definitely make it on your list!

Kunti Betta

Kunti Betta, located in the Mandya district of Karnataka, is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. The hill gets its name from the legend of Kunti, one of the characters in the Indian epic Mahabharata. According to local folklore, Kunti and her five sons spent some time on this hill during their exile.

The trek to the top of Kunti Betta takes around two hours and covers a distance of approximately 3 km. The trail is not very difficult but does require some level of physical fitness. As you make your way up, you will be greeted by stunning views of lush greenery and rocky terrain.

Atop the hill lies an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Many visitors take a break here to offer prayers before continuing their descent. If you’re lucky enough to visit during sunrise or sunset, you can witness breathtaking views that are sure to leave you spellbound.

Kunti Betta offers a unique combination of history, mythology and natural beauty that makes it worth adding to your list of must-visit trekking places in South India.

Yamunotri Trek

Yamunotri Trek is a picturesque trekking destination located in the northern state of Uttarakhand. It is famous for its natural beauty, breathtaking views and religious significance. The trek takes you through lush green forests, rocky terrain and icy glaciers.

The trail begins at Janki Chatti, which is about 7 km from Yamunotri Temple. From there, it’s a steep climb to Yamunotri Glacier where you get to witness the source of River Yamuna. The glacier offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains that will leave you awestruck.

During the trek, one can also visit Saptarishi Kund and Hanuman Chatti which are popular pilgrimage sites for Hindus. These places offer spiritual rejuvenation along with the thrill of adventure.

The best time to undertake this trek is between May-June or September-November when the weather conditions are favorable and the beauty of nature is at its peak. However, trekkers need to be physically fit as this trek requires moderate fitness levels.

Yamunotri Trek offers an unforgettable experience that combines adventure with spirituality amidst stunning natural surroundings making it a must-visit destination for all nature enthusiasts out there!

Sandakphu Trek

Sandakphu Trek is a popular trekking destination among adventure enthusiasts, located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. This trek offers breathtaking views of four of the world’s highest peaks, namely Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu. The best time to undertake this trek is from April to June and September to November.

The trail takes trekkers through dense forests filled with rhododendrons and oak trees. As you ascend higher, you will witness stunning landscapes including alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains that seem like they’re within arm’s reach.

The highlight of the Sandakphu Trek is without a doubt reaching its summit which stands at an elevation of 12,000 feet above sea level. From here, one can experience panoramic views that are simply awe-inspiring. The sunrise view from Sandakphu leaves everyone mesmerized.

Trekking through remote picturesque villages such as Manebhanjang along with friendly locals who welcome trekkers warmly gives an insight into their lifestyle & culture.

Sandakphu Trek provides an unforgettable experience for anyone who wants to explore nature’s beauty while challenging themselves physically by testing their limits on every step they take towards conquering Himalayan trails!

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills is a popular trekking destination near Bangalore, located in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. The hill station is situated at an altitude of 4,851 feet above sea level, making it an ideal place for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The Nandi Hills trek offers picturesque views of lush green landscapes, valleys and hills. The trail to the top is surrounded by dense forests that are home to a variety of flora and fauna. Trekkers can also spot several species of birds along the way.

The summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plains. It’s a perfect place to witness sunrise or sunset with friends and family while sipping on hot tea or coffee from local vendors selling their products.

Apart from trekking, visitors can explore other attractions like Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and Fort Nandidurga which was once used as a stronghold against British forces during India’s struggle for independence.

Nandi Hills is an excellent weekend getaway for people looking to escape from city life and immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.

Vellarikundu

Located in the Kasargod district of Kerala, Vellarikundu is a hidden gem for trekking enthusiasts. The lush green forests and hilly terrain make it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

The highlight of this trek is the Vellarikundu waterfall which cascades down from a height of 300 feet and offers a breathtaking view to visitors. The trail leading up to the waterfall passes through dense forests filled with unique flora and fauna, making it an unforgettable experience.

One can also explore the nearby Tea estates that are abundant in this area. These estates offer scenic views as far as eyesight goes, making it perfect for nature lovers who want to capture some stunning photographs.

The best time to visit Vellarikundu is between October and May when the weather remains pleasant, allowing trekkers to enjoy their hike without facing any hurdles due to harsh weather conditions.

Vellarikundu should definitely be on your list if you’re planning a trip down South India. With its picturesque surroundings and natural beauty, it promises an unforgettable experience for all those who venture there.

Conclusion

South India is a treasure trove of natural beauty and trekking opportunities. From the rugged terrain of Kudremukh to the lush green forests of Agumbe, each trekking spot has something unique to offer. So if you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a break from city life, pack your bags and head out on an adventure to one of these 15 must-visit trekking places in South India. With stunning landscapes, rich flora and fauna, and challenging trails, these locations are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.