TOP 6 TREKS IN WESTERN GHATS (Part 1)

During lockdown and COVID crises we all realised that staying for months together between 4 walls is tough and after a point, it starts getting to our mind.

Ever wondered why the saying goes “out of box” thinking/action as our creativity gets invoked when we think or do different things. Mainly it breaks the regular pattern!

As per health experts, Nature and Adventure are one of the major influencers in the positive transformation of one's life.

Thus, trek becomes the best way to experience the majestic mountain, thrilling escapade from the same routine and a viable source to push our boundaries.

We truly hope that this crisis gets resolved soon so that we can again explore the scenic beauty and the magic of mountains.

We have a list of 6 best treks in the world’s renowned mountain range - Western Ghats. It is even older than the mighty Himalayas and recognised as one of the world’s eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity.

Starting from Gujarat until the southern tip of Kerala, it covers an area of 1,40,000 sq kms.

Kalsubai trek - The Everest of Maharashtra!

Nestled in the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary and often called the ‘Everest of Maharashtra’. This peak is situated at an elevation of 1646 meters (5400 ft).

The entire landscape of this mountain is surrounded by paddy fields, lush greenery, steep route, rich flora, and fauna. This makes it the first choice for passionate trekkers.

Ways to reach:

By Air - Mumbai Airport is the most accessible which is around 160 kms (4 hrs drive).

By Train - From CST or Dadar railway station (Mumbai) you can take a local train to Kasara Railway Station (2 hrs journey). From Kasara, there are multiple options of bus, tempo, or rickshaw to travel by road to Bari Village (1.5 hrs journey).

Local train and Kasara link are the best affordable and time-saving way to reach or else one can also directly drive down to Bari Village from Mumbai / Pune / Nashik.

The trek which starts from Bari village has steep slopes, sharp stone outcrops, and an exhausting route which makes it ‘moderate’ difficulty level for trekkers.

The best part is to catch the sunrise as well as the mesmerizing views of nearby hills after reaching on top of the peak. You will also find the Kalsubai temple there on the top. Have your packed meal and get ready to sense the adrenaline rush while descending the mountain. It is a safe trek as the government has installed iron railings, concrete steps with metal landings along the route.

The best time to trek is during Monsoon (June – September) as you will experience nature’s delight – exotic forest, fresh air (rare for urbanites!), waterfalls, mist, river streams, and even rainbows if you are lucky.

We highly recommend Kalsubai for an amazing trekking experience and it will surely be in your memories forever!

Chembra Peak - the pride of Wayanad!

For all those who love trekking, Chembra is one of the highest peaks in southern India which is around 2100 metres in altitude.

Trekking at this place is best known for the greenery around the peak which is richly filled with tea & coffee plantations and authentic herbs of the region.

Another jewel of Chembra is its heart-shaped lake which will be a highlight in your Insta pictures. The lake view and cool breeze have the best soothing effects.

Ways to reach:

By Air - If you are flying in, the nearest airport is the Calicut International Airport which is 92 km away.

By Train - The nearest railway station is Kozhikode which is 79 km away.

By Road - From Kozhikode, there are several buses by both government and private operators that can take you to Kalpetta which is about 13 km. From here you will need to take another bus which takes you to Meppadi which is 7 km from the base. Also, one can take their own vehicle and reach the base village.

Trekking at this place needs the approval of the forest administration and it's only a day trek as night stays are riskier because of the wild animals.

There are numerous peaks around this highest peak but trekking those is difficult and dangerous due to dense thick coverage of forests.

It's one of the best scenic places and a destination spot for trekking clubs.

Chembra Peak is worth visiting all year round but isn't suggestible during monsoon months of june and july.

Kodachadri Trek - thrilling to its core!

Stay Tuned and read about Part 2 of this travel blog in which we will cover the next 3 treks.

The Kodachadri trek is for the ones who love adventures while trekking. A little more extra care is needed if you and your gang have decided to trek this mountain. Having said that, it's one of the highest peaks in Karnataka and famous for the dense jungle surrounding the peak.

This peak is dry and deserted which makes it hard to spot from the ground. The trekking peak has this beautiful reddish-brown color due to the presence of iron ores in its soil.

As you trek and climb above sea level, you witness tremendous views and species of flora and fauna as this trek is also located in one of the National Parks.

Ways to reach:

By Air - Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport, which is about 153 km away.

By Train - Shimoga and Kundapura are the nearest towns to reach Kodachadri. If you reach the nearest railway station, vehicles are available there as well and the road passes through the Nittur village.

By Road - From Kollur, by road and hiring vehicles is the best way to reach the spot. It is around 40 kms away.

There are basically two options to reach the top of the peak. You can either trek or you can rent a vehicle to reach halfway and trek the other half.

If you are planning a whole trek from the ground level, then you can witness the Hidlumane Falls, Shankara Peetham, Ganapati Cave, the Sunset Point, and Chitramoola which has to be done under the supervision of the guide. If you are planning to camp, then permission is required from the forest admins.

Climbing down is more dangerous than the other way around in Kodachadri. With great care, patience, and guidance, one can achieve an adrenaline rush through this trek.

The best time to trek is in January. To witness both the barren and greenery at one place, Kodachadri is indeed the best choice.