10 Essential tips for adventurers trekking Chembra Peak in Wayanad

The Chembra Peak is in a lush hill station named Wayanad, and offers an ideal environment for hiking and adventure enthusiasts. The Chembra Peak is the highest peak of Wayanad, which stands at an elevation of 6,890 feet above sea level, making it the third tallest summit on the Western Ghats. Trekking at Chembra Peak offers exceptional views, including a heart-shaped lake at the top and stunning vistas of Wayanad city. The climb is challenging but manageable, and the tranquillity of the surroundings makes the experience truly rewarding.

With proper planning you can turn this into a magical trip. Follow these tips to make your adventure to Chembra Peak as smooth and enjoyable as possible:

1. Pick the best time

When planning your visit to Chembra Peak, it's important to consider the best time to go to make the most of your experience. The ideal period to visit is from September through February. While the peak remains accessible year-round, some seasons present challenges that can affect your trip. The rainy season (June to August) makes the trail too slippery, and the summer months can be hot. By visiting during the recommended time frame, you can enjoy the pleasant weather and the lush, vibrant surroundings of the tea plantations. The lake's blue waters and the floating clouds create a magical atmosphere that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Key points to remember

• Best time to visit: September through February
• Rainy season (June-August): Trails are slippery and unsafe
• Optimal weather: Pleasant climate and lush landscapes

Chembra Peak, Wayanad | Credits: chembrapeak_official, Instagram

2. Get permissions

The South Wayanad forest department controls the core trek route in Chembra Peak; hence, trekkers must pay entry charges, which includes all the permits and service fees. You have to arrive early because the office opens at 7am, submit your identity proofs, and finish other formalities before the deadline. Avoid the rush hours to fully enjoy the trekking experience.

Chembra peak Wayanad timings and entry fee

• Timings: Trekking begins at 7 AM and the peak closes at 5 PM.
• Entry fee for Indian nationals: ₹750 (approx) for a group of up to 10 people. Additional ₹75 per person if the group exceeds 10
• Entry fee for foreign nationals: ₹1500 for a group of up to 5 people. Additional ₹300 per person if the group exceeds 5
• For more info head to their official website.

Additional charges

• Camera fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹80 (Foreigners)
• Student entry fee: ₹15
• Parking fee: ₹10 for 2-wheelers, ₹25 for 4-wheelers
• Important notice: Drones are not allowed
  

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3. Start early, be prepared

To get the most out of your trek, you should ideally reach the base point by 5 AM. Plan your departure accordingly. The distance from The Hosteller Wayanad to Chembra Peak is 28.9 km via SH29 and Meppadi - Chooralmala road. Starting off early, between 7 AM and 8 AM, allows ample opportunity for viewing. Note that late reporting after 2 PM is prohibited. Ensure you have enough food and water—preferably two litres per person. While there are shops at the base for water, supplies cannot be purchased during the trek.

Key points for preparation

• Start time: Begin between 7 AM and 8 AM
• Reporting deadline: No entry after 2 PM
• Footwear: Wear comfortable trekking shoes

Group of trekkers climbing up the Chembra Peak, Wayanad | Credits: Canva

4. Additional information on the trek

The Chembra hike can be broken into two parts:

• Forest office to Trek start point (40 min walk, 15 min drive)
• Heart Lake to Chembra Peak (1.5 km, 1.5 hours)

The first part is an easy walk, while the next section is moderately difficult with steeper patches of rock. The peak assault requires stamina as it is very steep in nature. Awareness of what lies ahead helps in determining body strength.

Chembra Peak, Wayanad | Credits: chembrapeak_official, Instagram

5. Be aware of the constantly changing landscapes

This trek is full of diverse landscapes that will bring you joy throughout its duration. Walk through thick tea estates and dense forests with tall grasslands, which lead to a heart-shaped lake, the halfway point.

Further up, when one climbs towards the peak, the landscape turns desolate and rocky. Views keep getting more beautiful with each step taken due to this fact; do not hurry up! Enjoy the pure beauty of nature surrounding you here.

Key highlights here

• Tea estates: Begin your trek through lush tea plantations
• Dense forests: Walk through areas with tall grasslands
• Heart-shaped lake: The picturesque halfway point
• Rocky terrain: The landscape becomes desolate and rocky as you approach the peak
• Stunning views: Enjoy increasingly beautiful vistas with every step

Chembra Peak, Wayanad | Credits: chembrapeak_official, Instagram

6. Be enchanted at Heart lake

Hridaya Thadakam Lake, often referred to as the Heart Lake, is a sight that can leave anyone enchanted with its perfect heart shape. People believe that Goddess Sita bathed in the lake at Chembra Peak, and it has never dried up. Nestled in a lush green valley surrounded by verdant hills and often cloaked in foggy clouds, the lake's bright blue waters create a mesmerising scene. Spend some time on its banks, soaking in the breathtaking views of Chembra Peak and the Western Ghats. Don’t forget to capture these moments with your camera before continuing your trek.

Key points to remember

• Enchanting heart shape: The lake is perfectly heart-shaped
• Lush surroundings: Enclosed by green valleys and hills
• Foggy clouds: Often reflected on the bright blue waters
• Scenic views: Offers stunning views of Chembra Peak and the Western Ghats
• Photo opportunity: A perfect spot to take memorable photos

Heart lake, Chembra Peak, Wayanad | Credits: chembrapeak_official, Instagram

7. Attempt to climb the peak at your own risk

While reaching Chembra Peak’s summit is officially restricted for safety reasons, some experienced mountaineers still attempt it at their own risk. This endeavour is inherently dangerous and not recommended without thorough consideration. If you decide to go beyond the lake, carefully assess your fitness level, as the final ascent is steep and requires significant agility and endurance.

Key points to consider

• Summit restrictions: Officially restricted due to safety concerns
• Risk and danger: Attempting the summit is done at your own peril
• Fitness assessment: Carefully evaluate your fitness level before proceeding
• Steep ascent: Requires agility and endurance
• Permissions and fees: Obtain necessary permissions and pay additional charges if required

Tea plantation, Chembra Peak | Credits: chembrapeak_official, Instagram

8. Descent can be just as difficult as ascent

Particularly post-monsoon, when rocks can be slippery and one may easily slip down. Trekking poles will help you balance yourself as you walk on these treacherous paths while ensuring that those used for shoes have a good grip. Take all the time needed for descending without haste, descend using the same track; be very careful over steeper sections.

Key points to remember

• Slippery rocks: Particularly tricky post-monsoon
• Trekking poles: Helpful for balance
• Footwear: Ensure shoes have a good grip
• Take your time: Descend without haste
• Same track: Use the same trail for descending
• Steeper sections: Be very careful

Chembra Peak at sunset, Wayanad | Credits: chembrapeak_official, Instagram

9. Be mindful of forests

Chembra Peak is situated within the ecologically sensitive Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, so it's essential to be mindful of the environment. Maintain a light footprint, avoid littering, and refrain from creating noise pollution. Stick to the marked trails to protect endangered plants, and never feed or disturb the wildlife you might encounter. Preserving the pristine surroundings is crucial for maintaining the sanctuary's natural beauty.

Key points to remember

• Ecologically sensitive area: Located within Wayanad wildlife sanctuary
• Light footprint: Avoid littering and noise pollution
• Stick to trails: Protect endangered plants by staying on marked paths
• Wildlife etiquette: Do not feed or disturb animals
• Preserve nature: Help maintain the pristine environment

Chembra Peak, Wayanad | Credits: thehimalayanwoman, Instagram

10. Beware of leeches and other insects

While trekking Chembra Peak, it's important to be aware of leeches and other insects, which are particularly common in the forested areas, especially during the rainy season. Leeches can latch onto exposed skin, causing discomfort and potential infections. To protect yourself, it's essential to carry and regularly use insect repellent. Additionally, wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves, long pants, and high socks can help minimise skin exposure and prevent leeches from attaching. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

Chembra Peak, Wayanad | Credits: chembrapeak_official, Instagram

Conclusion

The Chembra Peak trek is a visually pleasing activity with a taste of adventure and a sense of fulfilment after conquering its summit. No doubt, it’s one of the most satisfying treks in South India, boasting an enchanting heart-shaped lake and breathtaking high-altitude views. Keep these tips in mind and get ready for an epic experience filled with visual grandeur, natural tranquilly, and lasting memories!

Extend your holiday into a prolonged stay

After your epic trek to Chembra Peak, extend your Wayanad holiday by staying at the wonderful The Hosteller Wayanad. Resting amidst bamboo gardens and scenic greenery, this serene getaway helps you recover from fatigue after ascending those hills. It is also designed to offer cosy private rooms as well as lively dorms, all set around the sparkling pool or recreational spaces featuring designs infused with local arts, culture, and architecture. You can visit other scenic waterfalls like Soochippara or Kanthanpara, or explore the fascinating Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient stone-age carvings.

For travellers who desire memorable cultural expeditions, it is only 5 minutes away from Pookode Lake. Extend your holiday at The Hosteller following that thrilling climb!