Chembra Peak is the highest point in Wayanad, standing at 2,100 metres above sea level. It is one of the most popular treks in the Western Ghats, and for good reason. The trail takes you through tea plantations, thick shola forest, and open grassland before reaching the famous heart-shaped lake that never dries up, even in peak summer.
Most trekkers stop at this lake, known locally as Hridaya Sarovar. The final stretch to the actual summit is currently restricted due to wildlife activity, so the lake is now the main destination for the trek.
Quick Info:
Location: Meppadi, Wayanad, Kerala
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 5-6 hours
Best Season: September to March
Minimum Group Size: 5 people
Permit: Mandatory
How to Reach
The trek starts near Meppadi, a small town about 20 km from Kalpetta in Wayanad district.
- By road: Meppadi is well connected by bus and taxi from Kalpetta and Kozhikode.
- By train: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode, around 90 km away.
- By air: Calicut International Airport is the closest, about 95 km from the trek’s starting point.
Permits & Entry Fee
A permit is mandatory and can only be obtained at the Meppadi Forest Office—online booking is not available. Trekking starts at 6 AM, and no permits are issued after 12 PM. Only 200 trekkers are allowed per day on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is important.
The entry fee for Indian nationals is ₹50 and ₹100 for foreign nationals. The trekking permit costs ₹4,000 for a group of up to 4 people, which includes a mandatory guide.
The Trail
The trek begins at the Chembra Forest Office, where you register and get your permit. From there a short jeep ride takes you to the base camp. The trail winds through tea plantations, dense forests, and open grasslands. About halfway up, you reach the famous heart-shaped lake, a natural formation that has become one of Kerala’s most photographed spots. The forest department generally restricts access beyond the lake, but the journey up to it is more than worth it.
Gear to Carry
- Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip
- Rain cover or poncho
- At least 2 litres of water
- Light snacks and energy bars
- A small first aid kit
- Sunscreen and a cap
- Valid ID proof—mandatory at the permit office
Things to Know
- Trekking during heavy monsoon is not recommended as trails get slippery
- Stay on the marked trail at all times
- Do not litter—carry your waste back
- A guide is included in the permit fee and is mandatory
- Reach the base by 6:30 AM during peak season to secure your permit
Nearby Places to Visit
Wayanad has a lot to offer beyond the trek. If you’re spending a day or two in the region, here are some places worth visiting after completing the Chembra Peak trek:
Banasura Sagar Dam: About 20 km from Meppadi, this is one of the largest earth dams in India and a beautiful spot to unwind after a long trek. The surrounding hills and the reservoir make it a very peaceful place to spend an evening.
Edakkal Caves: Located about 25 km away, these ancient caves have prehistoric rock carvings that date back thousands of years. A short but steep climb leads you to the caves, a great low-effort excursion for the day after your trek.
Pookode Lake: A scenic freshwater lake about 20 km from Meppadi surrounded by forest. Perfect for a quiet morning walk or a boat ride.
Soochipara Waterfalls: Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, this three-tiered waterfall is about 20 km from Meppadi and is one of the most visited spots in Wayanad. A short trek through the forest leads you to the falls.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: If you’re a nature lover, a safari or nature walk through the sanctuary is a great way to round off your Wayanad trip.