5 Offbeat treks in South India
Trekking is one of the best ways to know the mountains and hills. Of all the adventure activities, trekking is definitely the most beneficial one. It helps in keeping fit, in making new friends and developing long-term relationships, and most of all, it helps in understanding and appreciating the beauty of nature. Climbing a mountain is fun because we get to walk a different path from our monotonous lives. Embarking on a trek is the best way to have a fun-filled time with strangers, friends or family and to test your endurance level. And then, there is a larger scope of visiting offbeat places that are hidden secrets of nature. There are a lot of exciting trekking trails in India that are non-touristy and unexplored. The most popular trekking trails in India are located in the Himalayas followed by the Western Ghats. However, there are several outstanding trekking trails in South India that trekking enthusiasts generally tend to ignore. Hence, they are still very offbeat and unexplored. Here’s a list of 5 offbeat trekking spots located in South-India that are worth hiking to –
1. Chembra Peak, Wayanad
Chembra peak is tallest amongst all peaks in Wayanad. It is located at an altitude of 2100 metres above sea level and offers a panoramic view of entire Wayanad town from the top. The hike to Chembra peak starts from Meppady village. The trail to Chembra peak falls under forest department and is highly restricted. You need to take permission from the Meppady forest office before trekking Chembra peak. It is an easy to moderate trek and the peak can be easily submitted by amateur trekkers. On the way to the peak, you will come across a heart-shaped lake and plenty of beautiful waterfalls.
2. Shevaroy Temple Trek, Yercaud
Shevaroy Temple is the highest point of the hill station, Yercaud. It is located at an altitude of 1515 metres above sea level. The temple can be reached by road but it is highly recommended to trek to it. The trekking path to the temple is extremely scenic and it offers a picturesque view of the Mettur dam from above. The hill is generally covered by clouds and it is amazing to walk through the foggy mist. The trek is through green landscapes and a rather short one, allowing even an amateur trekker to enjoy the hike.
3. Swamimalai Hills, Yelagiri
Swamimalai Hills is the highest peak in Yelagiri. It is located at an altitude of 4626 metres above sea level. The trek to the hill is easy and starts from a village named Mangalam. The locals from the village double up as guides to earn some extra income. On the top of the hill, there is a small Shiva temple. Towards one side of the temple, there is a higher rock which you can climb using an iron ladder kept by the authorities. From the top of the rock, you will be able to see a phenomenal view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
4. Brahmagiri trek, Wayanad
This is a moderate to difficult trek on the rocky stretches of the Brahmagiri Hill in Wayanad. The peak of Brahmagiri Hill is 1608 metres high from the sea level. It starts from the forest department office in Thirunelli village. Getting permission from the forest department and hiring a guide is compulsory to trek the Brahmagiri Hill. Climb to the peak is steep and not for the faint-hearted. The trek will take you through the Shola forest, open grasslands and river streams. However, once on the top, Brahmagiri Hills offers a spectacular view of the valleys and forests below. There is a watchtower at the top of the hill which provides the most amazing views of the Western Ghats.
5. Kiliyur Falls, Yercaud
The Kiliyur falls originate at a location where the Yercaud River flows into the Kiliyur Valley from a height of 300 metres. The falls is 2.5 kilometres ahead of the Yercaud Lake and one has to trek through cliffs and rocky terrains to reach the Kiliyur Falls. The falls is located in between a lot of greenery. The best time to visit the falls is during or immediately after monsoon season as the falls is overflowing with water at that time.
Stay at Sterling resorts at all these 3 places (Wayanad, Yercaud and Yelagiri) is highly recommended. They offer excellent service and will make your stay extremely comfortable. The staff at Sterling Resorts will also help you arrange for the above-mentioned treks and will curate a memorable experience for you. Sterling Resorts at all these 3 places are situated at picturesque locations on top of hills offering majestic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. So, don’t curb the adventurer in you and plan a trip to these destinations.
