Chembra Peak Trek from Bangalore (2026) – Price, Itinerary & Complete Guide
Book Chembra Peak Trek from Bangalore at best price. 10 km trek inside Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, 2 days trip with transport, food & permits. Check itinerary, difficulty & best time. Limited slots.
₹5,000
₹4,500/ person
Trek at a Glance
Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Max Altitude
2,100 m / 6,889 ft
Distance
10 km
Pickup → Drop
Bangalore → Bangalore
Trip Highlights
- 2,100 m Summit — Wayanad's Highest Peak with 360° views of the Nilgiri hills, Wayanad valleys, and tea estates from the top
- Heart-Shaped Lake (Hridaya Thadakam) – iconic natural lake at 1,900 m, a rare formation found nowhere else on any south Indian trek
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Buffer Zone – trek through dense shola forests home to Nilgiri Langurs, Malabar Giant Squirrels, and endemic birds
- 10 km Round Trip, Easy to Moderate – well-marked trail with mandatory Forest Department-assigned guide; suitable for most fitness levels
- Day 2 Wayanad Sightseeing – Soochipara Waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, and Banasura Sagar Dam included in the package
- All-Inclusive Package from Bangalore – overnight transport, accommodation, forest permits, guided trek, and meals all covered
Chembra Peak Trek from Bangalore – Distance, Difficulty, Itinerary & Booking Guide
Chembra Peak Trek is a one-day trek to the highest peak in Wayanad, Kerala, at 2,100 m (6,889 ft) above sea level, packaged as a 2-day weekend trip from Bangalore. The trek is celebrated for Hridaya Thadakam — a heart-shaped lake at approximately 1,900 m that is believed to never dry up — making it one of the most distinctive natural features found on any commonly trekked summit in South India. The 10 km round trip climbs through dense shola forests inside the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary buffer zone, offering panoramic views of the Nilgiri hills, Wayanad tea estates, and on very clear days, the distant Kerala coastline. With Day 2 sightseeing at Soochipara Waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, and Banasura Sagar Dam, the Chembra package delivers a complete Wayanad experience over one weekend.
What Makes Chembra Peak Trek Different
Unlike most south Indian treks that are open ridge climbs or rocky scrambles, Chembra Peak Trek passes through protected Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary forest and leads to a naturally formed heart-shaped lake — a feature found nowhere else on any commonly trekked summit in India. The heart-shaped lake Hridaya Thadakam at 1,900 m is not just a scenic highlight; it is a genuine natural rarity that makes Chembra uniquely photogenic and memorable for every trekker who visits.
The trek also stands out for its biodiversity. Every step of the 5 km ascent passes through shola forest inside the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, supporting endemic flora, montane birds, Nilgiri Langurs, and Malabar Giant Squirrels. This combination of a rare natural landmark, protected forest, a high-altitude summit view, and Wayanad sightseeing on Day 2 is what sets Chembra Peak apart from any other weekend trek from Bangalore.
Trek Facts at a Glance
Location: Meppadi, Wayanad, Kerala
Distance from Bangalore: ~280 km (approx 7–8 hours by road)
Trek Distance: 10 km round trip
Altitude: 2,100 m (6,889 ft)
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Time: October to March
Forest Permit: Mandatory — issued at Meppadi Forest Checkpost, included in package
Guide: Mandatory — Kerala Forest Department-assigned guide
Pickup: 9:00 PM Friday from Bangalore
Group Size: 8–20 trekkers
Difficulty and Who Can Trek
Chembra Peak Trek is rated Easy to Moderate and is accessible to most healthy adults without prior trekking experience. The 10 km round trip involves a continuous uphill climb for the first 5 km, with steep sections in the first 2 km near the base and again just before the summit. There is no technical climbing, scrambling, or rappelling — the trail is well-defined and guided by a Forest Department guide throughout.
A basic fitness benchmark: if you can climb 6–8 floors of stairs without stopping, you are fit enough for Chembra Peak. Trekkers with knee pain or old injuries should carry trekking poles, especially for the descent. The Kerala Forest Department requires all trekkers to return to the checkpost before 3:00 PM, so an early start by 7:00 AM is essential.
How to Reach Chembra Peak from Bangalore
Chembra Peak Trek starts at Meppadi Forest Checkpost, approximately 280 km from Bangalore via NH 275 through Mysore, Madikeri, and Kalpetta. The drive takes 7–8 hours by road. Meppadi village is 18 km from Kalpetta, the nearest town with ATMs and medical facilities.
With Backpackers United, overnight transport departs from Bangalore at 9:00 PM on Friday, with pickups at Indiranagar (9:00 PM – Karachi Bakery), Domlur (9:20 PM – Union Bank), Yeshwantpur (10:30 PM – Metro Station Market Exit), and Gorguntepalya (10:45 PM – People Tree Hospital). Independent travellers can take overnight buses to Kalpetta and then a local auto to Meppadi, but permits and guide arrangements must be made in advance through the Kerala Forest Department.
Wildlife and Nature on Chembra Peak Trek
Chembra Peak lies inside the buffer zone of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve — one of India's most significant ecosystems and home to extraordinary levels of endemic biodiversity. The shola forest on the lower and mid sections of the trail supports a rich community of wildlife: Nilgiri Langurs and Malabar Giant Squirrels are frequently seen from the trail, while Indian Bison (Gaur) and Sambar Deer are occasionally sighted at lower elevations in the early morning.
Birdwatchers will find the trail especially rewarding — the Nilgiri Flycatcher, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta, and Crimson-backed Sunbird are among the endemic species regularly spotted. The shola forest floor is carpeted with wild orchids, rhododendrons, and dense ferns. Above the treeline, the open grassland ecosystem hosts its own community of montane species, including raptors circling the ridgeline on thermals.
Chembra Peak vs Other Treks Near Bangalore
Chembra Peak vs Banasura Hill: Both are Wayanad treks, but Chembra is higher (2,100 m vs 2,073 m) and features the exclusive heart-shaped lake. Banasura offers open rolling meadows with views of Banasura Sagar Dam. Choose Chembra for the lake and shola forest; choose Banasura for open grassland terrain.
Chembra Peak vs Kudremukh Trek: Kudremukh is a harder, longer trek (20 km) inside a national park with stricter permit limits. Chembra is more accessible and beginner-friendly with the unique Hridaya Thadakam. Both offer shola forest and wildlife — Kudremukh edges ahead on trail challenge and permit exclusivity.
Chembra Peak vs Mullayanagiri: Mullayanagiri (1,930 m) in Chikmagalur is Karnataka's highest peak — lower than Chembra and more open. Chembra's shola forest trail is richer in wildlife and the heart-shaped lake is a unique differentiator.
Chembra Peak vs Tadiandamol: Tadiandamol (1,748 m) in Coorg is lower and offers open meadows. Chembra wins on altitude, biodiversity, the heart-shaped lake, and overall trek character.
Backpackers United — Why Book With Us
Backpackers United has been organising Chembra Peak Trek from Bangalore since 2016, with thousands of trekkers successfully reaching the summit under our supervision. Our all-inclusive packages cover overnight transport, accommodation near Meppadi, all meals as per itinerary, Kerala Forest Department permits, mandatory guide fees, and an experienced trek leader — no hidden costs.
We keep group sizes small (8–20 trekkers) for a personal experience and prioritise safety with first-aid trained trek leaders throughout the trip. Flexible departure dates are available every weekend from October to March. Transparent pricing from ₹3,999 per person with a clean track record makes Backpackers United the most trusted operator for Chembra Peak Trek from Bangalore.
Itinerary
The Chembra Peak Trek is a 2-day package from Bangalore. You depart on Day 0 (Friday night), trek to the summit on Day 1, and return on Day 2 after exploring Wayanad's top sightseeing spots. Below is the detailed day-by-day itinerary.
Departure from Bengaluru to Chembra Peak Trek
On Friday, Get picked up in Bengaluru from the following points and start your Chembra Peak trekking tour. Travel in private Non A/C transportation.
Pick-up points include:
Indiranagar
Domlur
Mysore Road Metro Station
Chembra Peak Trek – Altitude: 6,889 ft | Round Trip: 10 km
Arrive at Meppadi resort in the early morning. Check in, freshen up, and have breakfast. Proceed to Meppadi Forest Checkpost to collect permits and meet your assigned Kerala Forest Department guide. Begin the 10 km trek through dense shola forests, ascending to the heart-shaped lake Hridaya Thadakam at 1,900 m for a rest and photography break. Continue the final push to the summit of Chembra Peak at 2,100 m for panoramic views of the Nilgiri hills and Wayanad valleys. Descend back to the checkpost and return to the resort for lunch and rest. Overnight stay at the resort.
Sightseeing & Return to Bangalore
After breakfast, check out from the resort and begin the journey back towards Bangalore. En route, visit Soochipara Waterfalls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls) for a scenic forest walk to the three-tiered cascade. Next stop is Edakkal Caves to explore ancient petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. Final sightseeing at Banasura Sagar Dam — Asia's largest earthen dam — before lunch at a local restaurant in Kalpetta. Evening departure towards Bangalore with expected arrival early next morning.
Best Time to Visit
Chembra Peak Trek is best visited between October and March when the weather is clear and the trails are safe. The trek starts from Meppadi Forest Checkpost in Wayanad, and conditions vary significantly across seasons. Monsoon season (June–September) is best avoided due to slippery trails and active leeches.
Oct – Feb
Recommended
October to November is the post-monsoon season and one of the most scenic times for the Chembra Peak Trek. The Wayanad forests are lush green, waterfalls are active, and the heart-shaped lake Hridaya Thadakam is brimming with water. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making the trek comfortable though trails may still be slightly slippery from recent rains.
Jun – Sep
Monsoon
December to February is the peak trekking season for Chembra Peak. Skies are clear, offering panoramic views of Wayanad's rolling hills and Nilgiri ranges from the 2,100 m summit. Temperatures range from 8°C to 20°C, with early morning starts recommended to catch sunrise from the peak. Carry warm layers as nights and early mornings can be quite cold at this altitude.
Mar – May
Summer
March is an excellent month for the Chembra Peak Trek with pleasant weather and relatively thinner crowds. The trails are dry and easy to navigate, and the heart-shaped lake remains clearly visible. Temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C during the day. This is the last good window before summer heat and pre-monsoon showers begin to set in.
Avoid the Chembra Peak Trek from June to September during peak monsoon season. The forest trails become extremely slippery, visibility drops due to heavy cloud cover, and leeches are very active throughout the route. The Kerala Forest Department may also restrict or close access during periods of heavy rainfall for safety reasons.
Trek Route Breakdown
The Chembra Peak Trek route begins at Meppadi Forest Checkpost in Wayanad and ascends through dense shola forests to the iconic heart-shaped lake before reaching the 2,100 m summit. The 10 km round trip is well-marked and guided, offering stunning views of Wayanad's hills and the Nilgiri ranges throughout the climb.
Meppadi Checkpost to Shola Forest Zone
2 km 1 – 1.5 hoursThe trek starts at Meppadi Forest Checkpost where permits are collected and guides are assigned by the Kerala Forest Department. From the checkpost, the trail ascends steeply through dense shola forests with tall canopy, rich undergrowth, and occasional sightings of Nilgiri Langurs and Malabar Giant Squirrels. The first 2 km gain significant elevation quickly and set the rhythm for the rest of the climb.
Shola Forest to Heart-Shaped Lake
2 km 1.5 – 2 hoursAs the forest canopy opens up, trekkers reach the famous Hridaya Thadakam — the heart-shaped lake at approximately 1,900 m altitude. This naturally formed lake is the highlight of the Chembra Trek and is clearly visible from the ridgeline above. The area around the lake is flat and open, offering panoramic views of Wayanad's tea and coffee plantations spread across the valleys below.
Heart-Shaped Lake to Chembra Summit
1 km 45 min – 1 hourFrom the heart-shaped lake, the final ascent to the summit of Chembra Peak at 2,100 m takes about 30–45 minutes. The trail here is open and exposed, providing 360-degree views of the Nilgiri hills, Wayanad valleys, and on clear days, distant Kerala ranges. The summit is a flat rocky plateau and serves as an ideal viewpoint and rest stop before the descent back to the checkpost.
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Comfortable non-AC transportation from Bangalore to Chembra Peak base and back
- Meals as per itinerary (Dinner on Day 0 halt; Breakfast, Lunch on Day 1; Breakfast on Day 2)
- Kerala Forest Department trek permit and mandatory local forest guide
- Experienced Backpackers United trek leader
- Accommodation on dormitory/sharing basis at a resort or homestay near Meppadi
- Day 2 sightseeing — Soochipara Waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam
What's Excluded
- Entry fees to Day 2 sightseeing locations (Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls)
- Personal expenses and shopping
- Any meals not mentioned in the inclusions
- Personal trekking gear, clothing, and equipment
- Personal travel insurance
- Anything not listed in the inclusions above
What to Expect from Chembra Peak Trek
The Chembra Peak Trek with Backpackers United is a fully guided, well-organised 2-day experience from Bangalore. From the moment you board the vehicle to the moment you return, every detail — transport, accommodation, forest permits, guide fees, and meals — is taken care of so you can focus entirely on the trek and the breathtaking landscapes of Wayanad.
Backpackers United Team
Our experienced trek leaders and Kerala Forest Department-assigned certified local guides will accompany you throughout the trek to ensure safety, trail compliance, and a smooth overall experience.
Things to Carry
Documents & ID Carry a government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar or driving licence). The Kerala Forest Department checks ID at Meppadi Forest Checkpost before issuing permits. Soft copies on your phone are not accepted.
Backpack A 20–30 litre daypack is ideal. Leave heavy luggage at the resort — you only need essentials for the one-day trek. Use a rain cover or waterproof bag liner as Wayanad weather can change quickly.
Trekking Shoes Proper trekking shoes with ankle support and good grip are essential. The lower trail can be muddy and the upper slopes are steep and stony. Sandals or canvas shoes are not suitable.
Clothing Wear full-sleeved t-shirts and full-length track pants — the shola forest has thorns, insects, and undergrowth near the trail. Carry one warm layer (fleece or windcheater) for the cold summit at 2,100 m.
Water Carry a minimum of 2–3 litres of water. There are no water sources or refilling points beyond Meppadi Forest Checkpost. Dehydration is the most common issue on the Chembra ascent.
Snacks & Energy Carry energy bars, dry fruits, nuts, or glucose biscuits. The trek takes 5–6 hours — snacks between meals keep energy levels stable on the climb.
Head Torch If starting before dawn, carry a head torch with spare batteries. Phone flashlights drain battery quickly and leave you without light in the dark shola forest.
Power Bank There is no charging facility on the trail or at the checkpost. Carry a fully charged power bank to keep your phone and camera working throughout the day.
Personal Medication Carry any prescription medication you take regularly, plus ORS sachets, basic pain relief tablets, and blister plasters.
Sunscreen & Lip Balm The open grassland above the treeline and the summit plateau have no shade and direct sun exposure for 1–2 hours. SPF 50 sunscreen is strongly recommended.
Leech Socks / Salt Pouch Post-monsoon (October–November) visits may encounter leeches on the lower forest trail. Leech-proof socks or a small salt pouch are strongly recommended for October and November treks.
What NOT to carry
- Heavy trolley bags or large suitcases — leave at the resort; you trek with a daypack only
- Alcohol or glass bottles — strictly prohibited inside Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Plastic disposable water bottles — carry a reusable bottle; Forest Department restricts single-use plastic
- Loud Bluetooth speakers — protected area; noise disturbs wildlife and other trekkers
- Valuable electronics or jewellery — unnecessary on a forest trek and risk of loss or damage
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Frequently Asked Questions
15 questionsWhat is Chembra Peak Trek and why is it famous?
Chembra Peak Trek is a one-day trek to the highest peak in Wayanad, Kerala, standing at 2,100 m (6,889 ft) above sea level. It is most famous for the heart-shaped lake called Hridaya Thadakam situated at approximately 1,900 m, which is a rare natural formation visible from the trail above. The trek passes through dense shola forests rich in endemic wildlife and offers panoramic views of the Nilgiri hills and Wayanad's tea and coffee plantations. It is one of the most popular weekend treks from Bangalore.
How far is Chembra Peak Trek from Bangalore?
Chembra Peak Trek is approximately 280 km from Bangalore, located near Meppadi village in Wayanad district of Kerala. The drive takes around 7–8 hours via NH 275 through Mysore, Madikeri, and Kalpetta. The trek base at Meppadi Forest Checkpost is also accessible from Kozhikode, which is approximately 80 km away. With Backpackers United, overnight transport from Bangalore is included in the package.
What is the altitude of Chembra Peak?
Chembra Peak stands at 2,100 m (6,889 ft) above sea level, making it the highest peak in Wayanad district of Kerala. The famous heart-shaped lake Hridaya Thadakam is located at approximately 1,900 m altitude, about two-thirds of the way to the summit. The elevation gain from Meppadi Forest Checkpost to the summit is approximately 600–700 m over the 5 km one-way trail distance.
What is the difficulty level of Chembra Peak Trek?
Chembra Peak Trek is rated Easy to Moderate in difficulty, suitable for most fitness levels with basic preparation. The 10 km round trip involves a continuous uphill climb for the first 5 km with some steep sections near the start and close to the summit. The trail is well-defined throughout and does not require any technical climbing skills. Trekkers with basic fitness can comfortably complete the trek in 5–6 hours including breaks.
Is Chembra Peak Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, Chembra Peak Trek is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail is clearly marked and guided by Forest Department-assigned guides, making it safe for first-time trekkers. It is advisable to carry at least 2–3 litres of water as there are no water sources on the upper trail. Avoid the monsoon months (June–September) for a first attempt as the trails become slippery and leeches are active.
What is the best time to do Chembra Peak Trek?
The best time for Chembra Peak Trek is October to March when the weather is clear and trails are safe. October to November offers lush green landscapes post-monsoon with the heart-shaped lake full of water, while December to February provides clear skies and cool temperatures of 8°C to 20°C ideal for summit views. March is pleasant with dry trails and fewer crowds. Avoid monsoon season (June–September) as trails become slippery and leeches are very active.
How long does Chembra Peak Trek take?
Chembra Peak Trek takes approximately 5 to 6 hours to complete the 10 km round trip including rest breaks. The ascent from Meppadi Forest Checkpost to the summit takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, and the descent takes 2 to 2.5 hours. Trekkers usually start by 7:00 AM and return by 1:00–2:00 PM. The Kerala Forest Department requires all trekkers to be back at the checkpost before 3:00 PM.
How do I reach Chembra Peak from Bangalore?
From Bangalore, reach Chembra Peak Trek via Mysore–Madikeri–Sulthan Bathery–Kalpetta–Meppadi, covering approximately 280 km in 7–8 hours. Overnight buses are available from Kempegowda Bus Station to Kalpetta or Sulthan Bathery in Wayanad. From Kalpetta, take a local auto or taxi for 18 km to Meppadi. With Backpackers United, overnight transport from Bangalore to Meppadi Forest Checkpost is included in the trek package.
What is the story behind the heart-shaped lake on Chembra Peak?
The heart-shaped lake on Chembra Peak is called Hridaya Thadakam, meaning 'Heart Lake' in Malayalam, named after its distinctive heart-shaped formation clearly visible from the surrounding ridgeline. Situated at approximately 1,900 m altitude, it is believed to never dry up completely even in peak summer, fed by natural springs within the shola ecosystem. Local folklore considers the lake sacred and it has long been associated with the mystique of the Wayanad highlands. It is the defining feature that makes Chembra Peak one of the most photographed trek destinations in Kerala.
What wildlife can I spot on Chembra Peak Trek?
Chembra Peak lies within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary buffer zone, making it a rich habitat for wildlife. Trekkers commonly spot Nilgiri Langurs, Malabar Giant Squirrels, and montane birds including the Nilgiri Flycatcher and Malabar Whistling Thrush. Indian Bison (Gaur) and Sambar Deer have also been sighted on the lower trail sections near the forest edge. The dense shola forests also host endemic flora including rhododendrons, ferns, and wild orchids.
Is Chembra Peak the highest point in Kerala?
No, Chembra Peak is not the highest point in Kerala — it is the highest peak in Wayanad district. The highest peak in Kerala is Anamudi at 2,695 m (8,842 ft) in Eravikulam National Park in Idukki district. Chembra Peak at 2,100 m (6,889 ft) is among the highest peaks in the Western Ghats and the dominant summit of the Wayanad highlands, offering some of the finest panoramic views in northern Kerala.
What are the views and photography spots on Chembra Peak Trek?
Chembra Peak Trek offers exceptional photography at multiple points. The heart-shaped lake Hridaya Thadakam viewed from the ridgeline above is the most iconic shot of the trek. The summit at 2,100 m provides 360-degree views of the Nilgiri hills, Wayanad's tea estates, Banasura Hills, and on very clear days, the distant Kozhikode coastline. The shola forest trail also offers shots of the dense canopy, endemic flora, and morning mist rolling across the valleys.
What should I carry for Chembra Peak Trek?
For Chembra Peak Trek, carry at least 2–3 litres of water as there are no water sources beyond the checkpost. Pack light snacks like energy bars, nuts, and fruits for the 5–6 hour trek. Wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip and carry a light windcheater or fleece for the cold summit. Sunscreen (SPF 50+), UV sunglasses, a hat, a small daypack (20–30 litres), personal medication, and ID proof complete your essential kit.
Is Chembra Peak Trek safe for solo trekkers and women?
Yes, Chembra Peak Trek is safe for solo trekkers and women. The trek is conducted within the Kerala Forest Department's jurisdiction with mandatory guide assistance assigned at the checkpost, and all groups are supervised throughout. Backpackers United groups always trek together with experienced trek leaders and support staff. It is recommended to complete the descent well before 3:00 PM and not to venture off the marked trail.
What is the entry fee for Chembra Peak Trek?
The Chembra Peak Trek entry fee is set by the Kerala Forest Department at Meppadi Forest Checkpost. As of 2026, the permit fee is approximately ₹150–₹200 per person for Indian nationals plus a mandatory Forest Department guide fee of ₹700–₹800 per group. All permits, guide fees, and related forest charges are included in the Backpackers United trek package priced at ₹3,999 per person.
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 |