1. Chembra Peak, Wayanad

The most photogenic trek in Wayanad, Chembra Peak has a heart-shaped lake sitting almost at its top. The trail is moderate and well-marked, and it can be easily completed in half a day, which makes it a favorite among beginners looking to start trekking in Kerala. The Wayanad Forest Department currently limits the number of visitors per day, so booking your slot in advance online is strongly recommended.

2. Anamudi Peak, Munnar

With its 2,695 meters height, Anamudi Peak is the highest trekking peak in Kerala, and it is also the highest peak in South India. The trek starts in the Eravikulam National Park and is subject to strict control to protect the Nilgiri Tahr population, so obtaining a permit is absolutely necessary for this one. It’s an advanced trek aimed at people with good stamina, not a leisurely walk. If you’re planning a Munnar trip, adding the Anamudi Peak trek can be an exciting adventure for experienced trekkers.

3. Meesapulimala, Munnar

Coming second in terms of elevation, Meesapulimala is one of the most beautiful high-altitude treks in Kerala that will take you through rolling grasslands and shola forests. It is a two-day trek with camping facilities provided during the route and is a regular leader among the best trekking places in Kerala for those who want an overnight wilderness experience without traveling too far away from Munnar town.

4. Kolukkumalai, Munnar

Being home to one of the tallest tea plantations in the world, Kolukkumalai provides a trek route that allows you to explore the tea plantations with the backdrop of sunrise amidst the clouds. Although the base can be reached by jeep now, it’s the tea gardens you have to walk through that make it one of the most sought-after trekking destinations in Kerala for photography lovers and early birds.

5. Agasthyakoodam, Thiruvananthapuram

Agasthyakoodam forest trek is unique in many ways when compared to other trekking places in Kerala, taking you through the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized hotbed of biodiversity. Opened to trekkers for a limited time of the year, online permits from the Kerala Forest Department are mandatory for this trek. This one is ideal for those trekking in search of unique flora and true wilderness.

6. Ponmudi, Thiruvananthapuram

Ponmudi is one of the easiest ways to discover trekking in Kerala, with defined paths through rubber and tea plantations that lead to vantage points overlooking the Western Ghats. This is one of the closest trekking trails to the capital city and is therefore preferred by family groups and beginners who still wish to experience a real hill climb.

7. Banasura Hills, Wayanad

Banasura Hills overlook the colossal Banasura Sagar Dam and take you across reserve forests covered in wildflowers and small streams. This is considered one of the adventure trekking places in Kerala owing to its unpredictable weather and steep ascent towards the summit, making a guide more than just helpful while doing this trek.

8. Brahmagiri, Wayanad

Brahmagiri lies at the Kerala-Karnataka border and takes you through a forest trekking route covered with thick canopy and open ridges. Wildlife sightings, including elephants, are frequent, and therefore a certain amount of caution is required while trekking through this moderately difficult trail. This trail is recommended for trekkers attempting it with a certified guide from the Forest Department.

9. Illikkal Kallu, Wayanad

Illikkal Kallu gets its name from the huge rocks standing as if stacked on each other at the summit. This trekking route takes you across coffee estate paths and then over the rocks as you trek towards the summit. This is shorter than other treks in the Wayanad region and is therefore suitable for those looking to complete one of the famous trekking places in Kerala within a short time.

10. Vellarimala, Kozhikode

Known as the quieter cousin of the Chembra trek, the Vellarimala trek runs through the buffer area of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and treats trekkers to panoramic views of the Chaliyar River valley. A moderate fitness level and fewer crowds compared to other commercial trails make it ideal for trekkers who prefer to enjoy solitude during their adventure.

11. Thusharagiri, Kozhikode

Thusharagiri is known as the “mist-capped hills,” and the trek follows a series of waterfalls before continuing through dense forest terrain. It is perfect for those who prefer to combine their trekking day with water activities and photography opportunities rather than focusing only on climbing.

12. Pandimotta, Idukki

Pandimotta is located near Munnar and provides beautiful views of the Kannan Devan Hills. It is often combined with visits to tea estates near the trailhead. While the trek is moderate, the last leg of the journey involves a ridge walk with valley views on either side, making it one of the best trekking places in Kerala.

13. Gavi Forest Trek, Pathanamthitta

Gavi is a forest area managed by the Kerala Forest Department as an eco-tourism destination, which usually includes trekking in combination with jeep safaris and boating in the reservoir. It is located in the buffer area of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where trekkers can see gaur, deer, and sometimes elephants. Hence, it is considered one of the best forest trekking destinations in Kerala.

14. Kurisumala, Idukki

Kurisumala, meaning “Cross Hill,” is both a pilgrimage site and a trekking destination. Trekkers come to this place as much for the panoramic views of the Idukki Dam as for the summit’s religious significance. This trek is relatively short and steep in certain places but can still be completed within a few hours.

15. Sabarimala Trek via Erumeli

Although this route is associated with pilgrimage, it is also considered one of the best forest trekking routes in Kerala by adventure groups outside the pilgrimage season. Dense forest cover, river crossings, and continuous inclines make this trek quite challenging and suitable for experienced trekkers only.