Chembra Peak, Wayanad: Timings, Things to do, Tips for Visiting
Chembra Peak is the tallest among the Wayanads and is famous for its sheer beauty and charming scenery. It is also one of the best tourist places in Wayanad. It is approximately 2,100 meters above sea level and provides an exhilarating experience for nature explorers, trekkers, and photographers alike. The Trekkers to Chembra Peak pass through vast expanses of verdant forests, sprawling tea estates, and dreamy hilltops swathed in clouds. It isn’t just a simple walk; it’s perhaps the journey that showcases the calm, picturesque beauty synonymous with Wayanad.
Next, there is quite a lot of understanding that revolves around Chembra Peak that you need to appreciate, as well as essential tips that you need to know for your visit to be as flawless and fun as possible.
Allure of Chembra Peak
The heart-shaped lake called ‘Hridaya Sara’s lies halfway up the peak – the greatest attraction for the Chembra trek. The legend says that this lake never dried up, not even in summer months, which is why this lake has turned out to be the major attraction of this trek and a very romantic place for visitors. The view from Chembra Peak is dominated by a beautiful view of the Western Ghats, and on a clear, sunlit day, even the landscapes of Tamil Nadu and Kerala can be seen.
Whichever the case, whether you plan on coming here for adventure, relaxation, or some photography, Chembra Peak is quite the best place to appreciate mother nature and allow all the encumbrance of the outer world to seep away as you enjoy the very refreshing mountain breeze deep within you.
Chembra Peak Wayanad: Entrance Fee and Opening Hours
Chembra Peak entrance has been controlled by the forest department. This is not only for safety reasons but also for the environment. Visits must be done based on ascertaining the opening hours and then availing a permit in advance.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Time of Trekking Start Time: It is advisable to begin trekking from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Trekking is allowed at 11:00 AM.
- Closure Time: Visitors must leave the trek area by 5:00 PM. Night trek is not allowed.
Charge for Entrance
- Trekking Permit: For a group of 10, one has to pay INR 750 for a trekking permit.
- Extra Charge: Extra charge can be made by the guides or by parking at the base.
Since the permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, one should plan to arrive early or make bookings before the peak tourist seasons.
Chembra Peak Trekking Experience
Chembra Peak trek is not too strenuous and can be enjoyed even by first-time trekkers. The relatively 4 to 5-hour trek (round trip) opens up scenic views of tea gardens, lush forests, and small streams.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 7 km (round trip)
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Permit Fee: INR 750 (approx.) for a group of 10
Since the number of permits issued daily is limited to protect the ecosystem, it’s better to get there early or book permits in advance. The mist that often covers the trail in the early mornings adds to the mystery of the journey. The heart-shaped lake is where many trekkers relax before heading toward the summit. Although the trek across the lake is steeper and occasionally restricted, the view merits the climb.
Things to Do Around Chembra Peak
Though trekking remains to be the primary attraction, visitors can also explore other things to do in Wayanad on the tour:
- Banasura Sagar Dam: Falling close to Wayanad, India’s largest earthen dam provides scope for boating with a vogue of beauty.
- Edakkal Caves: Discover ancient rock carvings and peek into prehistoric art.
- Meenmutty Waterfalls: A short trek from the road brings you to these splendid three-tiered falls. Nature lovers will love it here.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: By joining a guided safari, observe diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
- Pookode Lake: Freshwater Lake is a great place to spend a day. Boat around this beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by forested hills.
Tips for Treks in Chembra Peak
To get the most out of your treks in Chembra Peak, do these tips:
- Start Early: The earlier, the better. Early mornings are cooler, and you will surely have time to view everything that a traveler needs to see.
- Bring Essentials: Always carry water, energy bars, and a first-aid kit, as there are no shops or stalls to buy anything during the course.
- Use Appropriate Shoes: Wearing trekking shoes is a requirement here as they become very slippery, especially during the monsoon season.
- Check Weather Conditions: You should avoid heavy rain because of the closure of trails or if there is danger.
- Permits & Guides: Get permission before you trek, and hire a guide to make the experience much smoother for you.
- Respect Nature: Littering is strictly prohibited, and visitors are told to carry all their trash to the base.
- Fitness Levels: The trek is moderately challenging, but it would be essential to stretch and hydrate before ascending the mountain, particularly the lower legs and abdomen, to prevent cramping.
Best Time to Visit Chembra Peak
The best season to visit Chembra Peak would be from September to March. The lush greenery will peak, and the weather is very pleasant. This period provides the perfect conditions for trekking as the temperature is quite cool, and the skies are clear.
September to November:
Post-monsoon months when the hills are vibrant and healthy green.
December to February:
Winters provide refreshing winds with a salubrious climate.
March through May:
Pleasant bressummer months with relatively mild warm weather are still quite tolerable for trekking.
Avoid it at peak times from June to August as this is the monsoon period, and the track becomes slippery during heavy rainfalls. Moreover, during the monsoon season, the forest department may not allow trekking in certain areas for safety measures.
Things to Remember When Visiting Chembra Peak
For a hassle-free and enjoyable visit to Chembra Peak, here are the essential things to remember for a smooth visit:
- Permits and Timings: Try to arrive in time to collect your permits and complete the trek well before the deadline.
- Weather Conditions: It would be better to check the weather first and visit Chembra Peak when the rain isn’t too heavy.
- Trekking Equipment: Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy trekking shoes since the trail can get very uneven and slippery.
- Food and Water: Carry enough water and light snacks since there are no shops along the trail
- Travel Light: Avoid carrying heavy bags and unnecessary items. A small backpack with the essentials will be best.
- Treat the Environment: Don’t litter, don’t damage plants or disturb wildlife. Chembra Peak is a highly eco-sensitive area, and thus, visitors must strictly follow the principle of “Leave No Trace.”
- Guided tours: The experience can be made much more rewarding when hiring a local guide. This can be especially so if you are visiting for the first time.
- Safety: Refrain from wandering to those areas not covered by the marked trail. In group travel, inform the forest officials.
- Not Allowed to Camp or Trek at Night: There are restrictions on overnight stays and camping due to the protection of the environment.
There are moderate physical fitness requirements, though no one really needs a very high level of strength, but it is advisable to warm up before the climb.
How to Reach Chembra Peak?
By Road:
Chembra Peak is easily accessible from nearby towns like Kalpetta, which is located 8 kilometers away, and Meppadi, which is located 7 kilometers away. Taxis, local buses, and rented car services are readily available to arrive at the foothill area.
By Rail:
The closest train station is Kozhikode, approximately 79 km from Chembra.
Also, Calicut International Airport in Kozhikode is the nearest air travel port, 92km from Wayanad.
Once you land at Meppadi, which happens to be the base point of the trek, you need to collect the trekking permits from the forest department office. The trek thus acquires technically an official beginning only after this formality.
Conclusion
The visit to Chembra Peak cannot be avoided by anybody exploring Things to Do in Wayanad. They can view the scenery along the way to the peak, which offers much more than just scenic beauty. It provides the raw experience of the region’s wilderness and its immersions in the natural surroundings. Proper planning allows for a manageable and rewarding experience for beginners and trekkers alike.
More than Chembra Peak, Wayanad has much more in store. Right from the Meenmutty waterfalls and Pookode Lake to the wildlife sanctuary, you can expect varieties beyond your imagination. Whether adventure or serenity is in question, this destination promises an unforgettable ride.
Pack your bag, prepare your trekking shoes, and set on an adventure to Chembra Peak – where nature, serenity, and thrill go hand in hand.
For people who desire to visit several attractions within the same region, there is an opportunity to take up a Wayanad Travel package. Available packages encompass guided tours to Chembra Peak, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Edakkal Caves. This type of all-inclusive package typically includes transport, accommodation, and meals, and this makes traveling remarkably free of hassle and memorable. You can check other important details related to this package on PlanYourTour.
FAQs about Chembra Peak Wayanad
Chembra Peak can be visited between September and March, as the weather is cool and salubrious. The monsoon months of June to August must be avoided since the trails become slippery, and trekking is partially or absolutely prohibited.
Yes, visitors must apply for a trekking permit from the forest department office in Meppadi. This costs about INR 750 for a group of 10, and the number of permits is restricted, too, to protect the environment.
The Chembra Peak trek is of moderate difficulty. Thus, it is accessible to both novice and seasoned groups of trekkers. However, though it has certain stretches that are sharper than normal, a prepared trekker would still take close to 4 to 5 hours to complete the trek.
Hridaya Saras, or the heart-shaped lake, is around the middle part of the trek. It’s more of a stopover, and tourists certainly stop there. You can trek further ahead to the top for panoramic views; you may not be able to access certain sections.
Carry your water bottle, snacks, trekking shoes, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and a raincoat if it happens to be the rainy season. You are also advised to carry your camera to capture the beauty of nature along the trail.
Guides are not compulsory, though. If you get a guide, it’s always a good idea, especially for a novice, to keep the trail and to get some inside information on the vegetation and wildlife in the region.
Yes, kids can trek; however, parents are advised to accompany their children because of some steep slopes. Deciding if your child can tolerate treks for hours is always wise.
No camping is allowed on Chembra Peak to avoid harming the natural environment and to keep the visitors safe. Only trekkers can be permitted during the daytime and close before sunset.
On your Wayanad tour, visit Meenmutty Waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Chembra Peak. There is an adventure and some relaxation aplenty.
Many travel agencies and online travel websites offer customized packages to Wayanad, including visits to Chembra Peak, among other tourist destinations. A package will help guarantee accommodations, transportation, and guided tours around the sightseeing attractions.
