Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad from Bangalore (2026) – Price, Itinerary & Complete Guide
Trek to Brahamagiri Peak (1,608 m) from Wayanad through Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala. 2-day Moderate trek, 295 km from Bangalore. Best time: Oct–Feb.
₹0
₹4,500/ person
Trek at a Glance
Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Max Altitude
1608 m
Distance
12 km
Pickup → Drop
Bangalore → Bangalore
Trip Highlights
- Brahamagiri Peak — highest point accessed from Wayanad at 1,608 m (5,276 ft), 295 km from Bangalore
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary — trek through shola forests home to elephants, leopards, and great hornbills
- Thirunelli Base — start from one of Kerala's most sacred ancient temples at the forest edge
- Ridgeline Summit Views — 360° panorama over the Wayanad valley and Western Ghats from open grassland top
- Kerala Forest Permit — regulated entry into Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, included in package
- Moderate Difficulty — 12 km | 1,608 m | 2 days | suitable for fit beginners
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad from Bangalore – Distance, Difficulty, Itinerary & Booking Guide
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is a 2-day Moderate trek to the highest accessible peak from the Kerala side at 1,608 m (5,276 ft), starting from Thirunelli in Wayanad district, Kerala — approximately 295 km from Bangalore. The trail passes through the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary's shola forest and montane grassland ecosystem, offering panoramic views across the Wayanad valley and Western Ghats on clear days. It is one of the few high-altitude regulated treks accessible from Bangalore that starts at the ancient Thirunelli Temple — one of Kerala's most sacred forest shrines.
What Makes Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad Different
The Wayanad route to Brahamagiri is distinguished by its start point at Thirunelli — a 3,000-year-old Vishnu temple surrounded by Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary forest, known as the 'Kashi of the South.' No other trek near Bangalore begins at a living ancient temple at the forest edge. The trail passes through protected Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary terrain with Kerala forest department oversight, keeping group sizes regulated and the trail uncrowded. The combination of cultural heritage at the base, biodiversity on the trail, and a high-altitude summit with Kerala valley views makes this a multi-layered trek experience that pure nature treks rarely match.
Trek Facts at a Glance
Location: Thirunelli, Wayanad, Kerala
Distance from Bangalore: ~295 km (approximately 6–6.5 hours by road)
Trek Distance: 12 km round trip
Altitude: 1,608 m (5,276 ft)
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours (Day 1)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time: October to February
Pickup: 10 PM from Bangalore
Difficulty and Who Can Trek
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is rated Moderate and requires a basic to moderate fitness level. The 12 km round trip involves a flat forest approach, a sustained climb through shola forest, and a steep open ridgeline section. No technical climbing is needed but trekkers should be comfortable with 6–7 hours of walking with elevation gain. Regular walkers, gym-goers, or anyone who exercises 3+ times a week are well-prepared. Not recommended for those with severe knee or cardiac conditions. Children above 14 with good fitness are welcome.
How to Reach Brahamagiri Trek from Bangalore
From Bangalore, the Wayanad route to Brahamagiri is via NH275 to Mysore (150 km), then via Gundlupet, Sulthan Bathery, and Mananthavady to Thirunelli in Wayanad — approximately 295 km and 6–6.5 hours. Backpackers United departs from Bangalore at 10 PM and arrives at the Wayanad homestay by 4–5 AM. Individual travellers can drive to Mananthavady and take local transport to Thirunelli. KSRTC buses connect Bangalore to Sulthan Bathery; Thirunelli requires private transport from there. Kerala forest permits must be pre-arranged — Backpackers United handles all logistics.
Wildlife and Nature
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and one of the most biodiverse wildlife corridors in South India. Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) are commonly encountered on the lower trail and are the species most likely to be seen. Indian leopards, gaur (Indian bison), and sloth bear are present in the sanctuary. The Malabar giant squirrel (Ratufa indica) is regularly spotted on the mid-trail shola trees. Birdlife is exceptional — great hornbill (Buceros bicornis), Malabar whistling thrush, Nilgiri laughingthrush, and the endemic Nilgiri flycatcher are all recorded on this trail. The shola-grassland mosaic at the summit supports Nilgiri pipit and various raptors. Early morning departures maximise wildlife sighting probability.
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad vs Other Treks Near Bangalore
Compared to the Coorg route to Brahamagiri, the Wayanad route begins at the culturally significant Thirunelli Temple, passes through Kerala's Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and returns via Wayanad's distinct sightseeing (Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Thirunelli Temple) — giving it a richer cultural layer. Compared to Chembra Peak in Wayanad (2,100 m, more crowded), Brahamagiri offers a less frequented trail at slightly lower altitude with a more immersive shola forest experience. Compared to Kudremukh (Karnataka, 265 km, 1,894 m), Brahamagiri Wayanad is comparable in biodiversity but more accessible for a moderate-fitness trekker. For trekkers who want a high-altitude Western Ghats trek with cultural, wildlife, and summit dimensions in one weekend from Bangalore, the Wayanad route to Brahamagiri is a top-tier choice.
Backpackers United — Why Book With Us
Backpackers United has built strong relationships with Wayanad homestay hosts and the Kerala forest department for the Brahamagiri Wayanad route, ensuring smooth permit processing and an authentic local experience for every group. Our trek leaders are Western Ghats specialists trained in forest department protocols, wildlife sanctuary safety guidelines, and elephant encounter procedures — particularly relevant on the Wayanad trail. Every trek includes a certified leader, Bangalore pickup, all permits, homestay accommodation, meals, and a first-aid kit. Group sizes are kept small by design.
Itinerary
The following detailed itinerary provides a day-by-day breakdown of your Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad experience. From your late-evening departure from Bangalore to the moment you arrive back home, we've outlined your activities and experiences to make the most of your trip.
Departure from Bangalore to Brahamagiri Trek, Wayanad
The Bramhagiri Trek commences on Friday with the following pick-up points in Bangalore. You can choose the one that is convenient for you.
Indiranagar
Domlur
Yeshwantpur
Gorguntepalya
Once you've completed your booking process, we will let you know the pick-up location and time. When you’re all set, sit back, relax, and enjoy an overnight journey to Bramhagiri.
Brahamagiri Trek – Altitude: 1,608 m | Distance: 12 km
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Arrive at the homestay early in the morning. You can unwind and enjoy a hearty breakfast while gearing up for the adventures that await you during the day.
Trek towards Bramhagiri Peak, which extends over a distance of about 12km in around 6-7 hours depending on your pace. You will have to wade through dense forests and amazing sceneries while climbing up.
Bramhagiri Peak stands at an altitude of 1,608 meters or 5,276 feet offering amazing views. Enjoy this vista spread before you while having your packed lunch followed by a well-deserved rest.
Once you reach the summit, spend some quality time taking in the views and appreciating the unique flora and fauna surrounding you.
Take up the trail leading to Bramhagiri Peak, making your way back to the homestay for the night to call it a day, relax, and share your stories of the day’s adventures.
Return to Bangalore via Wayanad Sightseeing
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Wake up and enjoy a hot breakfast at the Wayanad homestay before checking out.
Explore Wayanad on the return drive — popular stops include the ancient Thirunelli Temple (if not visited at dawn on Day 1), Edakkal Caves (prehistoric rock art, 2 km from the road), Banasura Sagar Dam (India's largest earthen dam), and Soochipara or Meenmutty Falls depending on timing and group preference.
Depart Wayanad after sightseeing and drive back to Bangalore via Mysore. Estimated arrival in Bangalore is between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM depending on traffic and sightseeing stops.
Best Time to Visit
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is open throughout the year, with each season offering a distinct experience. October to February is the best window — post-monsoon Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is at its lushest, skies are clear, and the summit views from the ridgeline are at their finest. Avoid peak monsoon (June–August) when Wayanad receives heavy rainfall and trails become slippery.
Oct – Feb
Recommended
Clear skies, cool temperatures between 14–22°C, and dry trails make October to February the ideal time for Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad. The shola forest canopy is vibrant after the monsoon, wildlife activity is high, and the ridgeline views across the Western Ghats are spectacular. Weekends fill quickly — book at least 7–10 days in advance.
Jun – Sep
Monsoon
Wayanad receives intense southwest monsoon rainfall from June to September, making the trail muddy, leeches very active, and the ridgeline exposed to strong winds. Trekking is possible for experienced trekkers but is not recommended for beginners. Carry leech socks, full waterproof gear, and expect limited summit visibility.
Mar – May
Summer
March to May brings rising temperatures and drier vegetation. The trail is less scenic and the summit can be hazy. Early morning departures help avoid the afternoon heat but the experience is noticeably less rewarding than the post-monsoon season. Avoid April and May if possible.
The best months are October, November, and December — book 2 weeks ahead for weekend slots. January and February offer the clearest summit views. Avoid June to August for a first visit. March is acceptable for trekkers comfortable with dry-season trails.
Trek Route Breakdown
The Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad follows a single out-and-back trail starting from the Thirunelli forest base in Wayanad, Kerala. The trail passes through three distinct zones — a flat forest approach, a moderate climb through dense shola forest, and a steep final ascent to the summit at 1,608 m. Total distance is 12 km round trip.
Base Village to Forest Checkpost
2 km approx 45 minThe trail begins at the Thirunelli forest entry point and follows a well-defined path through secondary deciduous forest. The terrain is largely flat to gently undulating. Wildlife sightings — elephants, bonnet macaques, Malabar giant squirrel — are common in this lower zone during early morning. The Kerala forest department permit is verified at the entry checkpost approximately 2 km from the base.
Forest Checkpost to Ridgeline
2.5 km approx 1.5 hrsBeyond the checkpost, the trail climbs steadily through dense shola forest — a montane evergreen ecosystem unique to the Western Ghats above 1,000 m. Temperature drops noticeably as altitude increases and the canopy closes in. This 2.5 km section involves sustained uphill on a narrow earthen trail with some rocky sections. The ridgeline marks the end of the shola zone with the first panoramic views over the Wayanad plateau.
Ridgeline to Brahamagiri Summit
1.5 km approx 1 hrThe final 1.5 km follows the exposed ridgeline through open montane grassland to the Brahamagiri summit at 1,608 m (5,276 ft). On clear winter days, the 360-degree view covers the Western Ghats, the Wayanad valley below, and distant Kerala peaks. Allow 30–45 minutes at the summit before descending on the same trail back to Thirunelli base.
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Comfortable non-AC transportation from Bangalore to Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad base and back
- Meals as per itinerary (Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner on Day 1; Breakfast on Day 2)
- Overnight accommodation at Wayanad homestay on sharing basis
- Kerala forest department entry permit for Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Experienced and certified Backpackers United trek leader
- Safety first-aid kit on trail
- Wayanad sightseeing on Day 2 return as per itinerary
- Group trek completion certificate
What's Excluded
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal trekking gear (shoes, backpack, rain gear, headlamp, leech socks)
- Personal expenses and incidentals
- Entry fees at sightseeing spots on Day 2 (e.g. Edakkal Caves)
- Travel insurance
- Anything not explicitly listed under inclusions
What to Expect
The Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad experience combines three layers — ancient heritage at the base, wilderness immersion on the trail, and a high-altitude summit finish. Starting at the Thirunelli Temple forest edge, trekking through Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary's shola ecosystem, and summiting at 1,608 m with Kerala valley views is an experience that genuinely cannot be found on any other weekend trek from Bangalore. The overnight homestay in Wayanad adds locally cooked Kerala meals, warm hospitality, and a meaningful connection to the forest community that surrounds the sanctuary.
Accommodations
Accommodation is in a traditional Wayanad homestay near Thirunelli, provided on shared dormitory or twin-sharing basis with clean bedding and attached or shared bathroom. The homestay serves authentic Kerala meals — rice, sambar, Kerala curries, and locally sourced produce. Expect simple, warm, forest-adjacent hospitality rather than resort-style amenities. This is a deliberate choice by Backpackers United to support local homestay operators and provide participants an authentic Wayanad community experience.
Backpackers United
All Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad batches are led by experienced trek leaders with specific knowledge of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary trail and Kerala forest department protocols. Our leaders are wilderness first-aid certified, trained in elephant encounter safety procedures — essential on this trail — and familiar with the shola forest terrain and monsoon conditions. Group sizes are kept small to maintain trail safety and the integrity of the sanctuary environment.
Things to Carry
Documents & ID Government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar preferred). Required at the Kerala forest department checkpost. Keep accessible throughout the trek.
Backpack A 30–40 litre pack for the 2-day trip. Leave non-essential items at the homestay on trek day — carry only what you need on trail.
Trekking Shoes Ankle-support trekking shoes with grip are essential. The shola trail becomes muddy after rain and the ridgeline is rocky — no sports shoes or sandals.
Clothing Full-length trekking trousers and full-sleeve shirt. Warm fleece or jacket for the ridgeline (10–14°C in winter). Change of clothes for Day 2.
Rain Gear Lightweight rain poncho or jacket — Wayanad can receive afternoon showers even in winter. Pack in an outer pocket for quick access.
Leech Socks Mandatory from June to November. Wayanad's shola forest has active leeches during and after monsoon. Available at trekking gear stores in Bangalore.
Water Bottles At least 2 litres per person. No reliable water sources on trail beyond base. A hydration bladder or two 1-litre bottles work well.
Snacks & Energy Energy bars, dry fruits, glucose biscuits in addition to the packed lunch provided. The 6–7 hour trail needs consistent energy intake.
Power Bank Mobile signal is limited inside the sanctuary. Keep phone charged for offline maps and emergency contact.
Personal Medication Carry all regular medication. Inform the trek leader of any medical conditions before departure.
What NOT to Carry
- Sandals or slippers — unsafe on muddy shola and rocky ridgeline terrain
- Alcohol or intoxicants — strictly prohibited inside Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Single-use plastic — banned inside the sanctuary by Kerala forest department rules
- Loud music or speakers — prohibited in wildlife sanctuary to avoid disturbing animals
- Heavy luggage over 8 kg — leave excess at homestay on trek day
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Frequently Asked Questions
15 questionsWhat is Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad and why is it famous?
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is a multi-day trekking experience through the dense forests of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, leading to the summit of Brahamagiri peak at 1,608 metres (5,276 feet). The trek is famous for its rich biodiversity — including wild elephants, leopards, and gaur — set within one of India's richest wildlife corridors in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is also closely associated with the ancient Thirunelli Temple, a revered Hindu shrine nestled in the Brahmagiri hills. The combination of dense Shola forests, panoramic Western Ghats views, and deep spiritual heritage makes it one of the most unique treks in Kerala.
How far is Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad from Bangalore?
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is approximately 280–300 km from Bangalore, taking around 6–7 hours by road via NH-275 through Mysore and Mananthavady to the base camp at Thirunelli. By private cab the drive takes roughly 6 hours depending on traffic through Gundlupet and Sultan Bathery. KSRTC overnight buses from Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) to Mananthavady are also available, with a cab onward to Thirunelli. Backpackers United provides direct group transport from Bangalore as part of the 3-day package.
What is the altitude of Brahamagiri Peak in Wayanad?
The summit of Brahamagiri peak in Wayanad reaches an altitude of 1,608 metres (5,276 feet) above sea level. The base camp at Thirunelli sits at approximately 900 metres (2,953 feet), making the total elevation gain around 700 metres over the 2-day trek. Temperatures at the summit range from 8°C to 18°C during the trekking season (October–February), making it significantly cooler than Bangalore. The altitude also brings in morning mist and cloud cover, creating a dramatic and memorable summit experience.
What is the difficulty level of Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad?
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is rated moderate to difficult due to its dense jungle terrain, steep ascents, stream crossings, and the mandatory navigation through Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The total trekking distance is approximately 14–16 km across two days, with the main ascent on Day 2 covering 7–9 km. Trails can be slippery and narrow during and after the monsoon season, requiring sturdy footwear and physical fitness. Prior trekking experience on moderate-grade trails is strongly recommended before attempting this trek.
Is Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad suitable for beginners?
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is not recommended for absolute beginners due to its moderate-to-difficult grading, dense jungle paths, and mandatory forest department permit requirements. Trekkers with at least 2–3 prior moderate trek experiences and reasonable fitness can complete it comfortably with a certified guide. Participants should be comfortable walking 7–9 km per day on uneven and hilly terrain. Backpackers United provides experienced certified guides and forest department liaisons to support the group throughout the trek.
What is the best time to visit Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad?
The best time to visit Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is from October to February, when the post-monsoon greenery is at its peak and trekking conditions are ideal. October and November offer lush forests and active waterfalls, while December to February brings clear skies, cooler temperatures (12°C–22°C), and the best panoramic visibility from the summit. Avoid the peak monsoon months of June to August when the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary restricts trekking access due to safety and wildlife concerns. March to May is warm but manageable, though the forest paths are drier.
How long does Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad take?
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is a 2-night, 3-day package from Bangalore. Day 1 is an overnight journey departing Friday evening, arriving at Thirunelli base camp early Saturday morning. Day 2 covers the full trek to Brahamagiri summit and back, approximately 8–10 hours of trekking with breaks. Day 3 includes a visit to Thirunelli Temple, Edakkal Caves, and Banasura Sagar Dam before the return drive, arriving back in Bangalore by Sunday night.
How do I reach Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad from Bangalore?
To reach Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad from Bangalore, take NH-275 via Mysore and Gundlupet, then continue through Sultan Bathery to Mananthavady (Wayanad), and finally to Thirunelli — approximately 280–300 km, taking 6–7 hours by road. KSRTC operates overnight bus services from Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) to Mananthavady, from where a local cab can be hired to Thirunelli (about 30 km). Backpackers United provides direct group transport from designated Bangalore pickup points as part of all trek packages.
What is the significance of Thirunelli Temple near Brahamagiri Wayanad?
Thirunelli Temple, located at the foothills of Brahamagiri in Wayanad, is one of Kerala's most ancient temples — believed to be over 3,000 years old and dedicated to Lord Mahavishnu. It is regarded as a moksha-sthala, a sacred site where Hindus perform last rites (bali karma) for ancestors, with the holy Papanasini stream flowing alongside the temple complex. The temple is surrounded by pristine forest and is often called the 'Kashi of Kerala' for its spiritual importance. The Brahamagiri trek begins near this temple, making the journey a rare blend of wilderness adventure and deep cultural heritage.
What wildlife can be spotted in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary during the trek?
Brahamagiri falls within Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve — one of India's most biodiverse protected areas. Trekkers commonly encounter wild elephants, gaur (Indian bison), Malabar giant squirrels, and a wide variety of endemic bird species including hornbills, kingfishers, and Malabar whistling thrushes. The dense Shola forests along the trail also harbour leopards, sloth bears, and sambar deer, though sightings depend on season and trail conditions. Entry requires a mandatory forest permit, and trekking must be done with a certified forest department guide at all times.
What is the origin of the name Brahamagiri and its mythological significance?
The name 'Brahamagiri' is derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'mountain of Brahma' — the Hindu god of creation — reflecting the peak's deep mythological significance in the Western Ghats. Local legends say the sage Brahma meditated on this summit, making it a sacred site long before it became a trekking destination. The Brahmagiri range stretches across the Karnataka–Kerala border, and the Wayanad side of the peak falls within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The adjacent Thirunelli Temple further cements the area's identity as one of the most spiritually and naturally significant ranges in South India.
What are the views and sightseeing spots near Brahamagiri Wayanad?
From the Brahamagiri summit in Wayanad, trekkers are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the Western Ghats — including the Wayanad plateau, Kerala's forested valleys, and the Karnataka highlands on a clear day. The surrounding Shola forests and the glittering waters of Banasura Sagar Dam (India's largest earthen dam) can be seen from upper sections of the trail. On Day 3, Backpackers United's itinerary includes Thirunelli Temple, Edakkal Caves (Neolithic rock engravings, ~50 km), and Banasura Sagar Dam — making it a complete cultural and scenic package beyond just the summit.
What should I carry for Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad?
For Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad, carry sturdy trekking shoes with good grip (mandatory for slippery jungle paths), leech socks (essential inside Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary), a rain poncho or lightweight waterproof jacket, 2–3 litres of water, and high-energy snacks like dry fruits and energy bars. A 20–25 litre daypack is sufficient for the summit day. Pack lightweight layered clothing as summit temperatures can drop to 8°C, and bring a torch or headlamp for early morning starts. The Kerala Forest Department enforces a strict no-plastic rule within the sanctuary — carry reusable containers and avoid single-use plastics.
Is Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad safe for solo trekkers and women?
Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad is safe for solo trekkers and women when organised through a registered operator like Backpackers United, which operates in fixed group sizes with certified local forest guides. All treks are conducted under Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary regulations with mandatory forest department permits and guide accompaniment. Women trekkers are advised to wear full-length trekking pants, carry insect repellent, and apply leech socks before entering the forest. The route is well-established and safe when undertaken with proper guidance and standard trekking precautions.
What is the entry fee for Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad?
The entry fee for Brahamagiri Trek Wayanad includes a mandatory Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary permit issued by the Kerala Forest Department, approximately ₹150–₹300 per person for Indian nationals (subject to seasonal revision by the department). A separate guide fee is also charged by the forest department, typically ₹500–₹800 per group per day. Backpackers United includes all permit and guide charges within the package price — there are no hidden or additional costs on the day of the trek. International trekkers may have a different permit fee structure as defined by the Kerala Forest Department.
Transparent cancellation policy
Good to know
- Once a flight or train is booked, it is non-refundable.
- Minimum 8 trekkers required for group departures. If the group falls below 8, you'll be offered an alternative.
- In case of weather, strikes or government restrictions, trips may be modified. Cash refunds aren't issued in such cases.
- 5% GST + 3% booking fee is non-refundable on all bookings.
| Days before | Charge | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| 15–30 days | 25% | 75% refunded |
| 7–15 days | 50% | 50% refunded |
| 3–7 days | 75% | 25% refunded |
| 0–3 days | 100% | No refund |