Meesapulimala is the second highest peak in the Western Ghats, standing at 2,640 metres. It lies near Munnar in Kerala, and the trek is known for its rolling grasslands, shola forests, and views that stretch across the hills on a clear day.
The old route through Kolukkumalai to Meesapulimala is now closed, since that land has been declared government reserved property. Today, trekkers start from Rhodo Valley near Munnar instead.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Height | 2,640 m (8,661 ft) |
| Distance | About 8 km one way |
| Duration | Full day, or overnight with a stay |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging |
| Starting point | Rhodo Valley, near Munnar |
| Nearest town | Munnar |
| Best season | September to February (December and January are best for clear skies) |
| Permit | Required, through KFDC Munnar |
| Accommodation | Available at Meesapulimala Base Camp or Rhodo Valley, run by the Forest Department |
How to Reach
The trek starts at Rhodo Valley, which is accessed through Munnar town.
- By road: Munnar is well connected by bus and taxi from Kochi, Kottayam, and other major towns in Kerala.
- By train: The nearest railway station is Aluva, around 110 km from Munnar.
- By air: Cochin International Airport is the closest, about 130 km away.
From Munnar, you will need to take an auto or taxi to the KFDC (Kerala Forest Development Corporation) office to collect your permit before heading to the starting point.
The Trail
The trek begins at Rhodo Valley and moves through open grasslands right from the start. This part of the trail offers wide views of the surrounding hills and is a good warm up before the terrain gets tougher.
Further ahead, the path enters shola forest, where the trail is shaded and the air turns noticeably cooler. This stretch can take around 40 minutes to cross, and the ground may be uneven, so watch your footing.
Past the forest, the trail climbs steadily toward the peak, passing through more grassland and rocky patches. On a clear day, you can see nearby peaks and valleys spread out below. Trekkers usually reach the summit by midday, spend some time resting and taking in the view, then begin the descent in the afternoon.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal window is September to February. December and January are considered the best months, since the skies are usually clearest and there is a good chance of catching a sea of clouds at sunrise. Summer months get hot, and the monsoon brings fog, leeches, and slippery trails, so it is best avoided during that time.
Permits and Stay
Permits for Meesapulimala are arranged through KFDC Munnar. It is best to book online in advance and then collect the signed hard copy from the Munnar Forest Department office before heading to the trek’s starting point.
If you plan an overnight trek, accommodation is available at Meesapulimala Base Camp or Rhodo Valley, both managed by the Forest Department. Meals are usually included with the stay, and you can reserve a spot when you collect your permit.
Tips for the Trek
- Book your permit online in advance, since only a limited number of trekkers are allowed each day.
- Carry warm clothing, especially if you plan to stay overnight, as temperatures drop sharply after sunset.
- Wear proper trekking shoes with good grip for the forest and rocky sections.
- Carry enough water and some snacks, since there are no shops along the trail.
- Carry rain gear if trekking close to the monsoon months.
- Follow eco-friendly practices and carry your waste back down with you.