Father– the unsung hero of our life; one who always tries his hardest to make us feel special.

What are your plans for making them feel special on father’s day?

If you're thinking about hosting a party at home, then cancel those plans. Why not break free from the usual rituals of gifts and dinners as father’s day approach.

Here's a better idea– Take him for an exceptional adventure to create memories that he'll cherish forever: a family trek in the beautiful Western Ghats.

Bonding with your father and loved ones amidst misty hills, cascading waterfalls and green valleys with breathtaking views. Western Ghats is one of UNESCO World Heritage sites with many hiking trails for all ages and fitness levels making it ideal for a family vacation.

Discover some of the best trekking spots in the Western Ghats that your father would love to explore.

1. Tadiandamol trek, Coorg

The Tadiandamol Trek in Coorg is one of the highest peaks in Karnataka and has an easy climb suitable for families. The trek takes you through dense shola forests, colourful wildflower meadows, and streams.

From its summit the Western Ghats and surrounding valleys can be viewed panoramically. It’s a nice way to make children start liking treks while enjoying the natural beauty of Coorg.

What to see:

• Birds eye view from one of the highest peaks in Karnataka
• Little inclines rather than steep ones with signage on them
• Suitable for families with young children
  

2. Kolukkumalai trek, Munnar

Take a walk through the most elevated tea gardens globally while walking on Kolukkumalai Trek at Munnar. With moderate level difficulty this hike is good enough even for families.

On this path, you will get to see some of the most beautiful sceneries offered by Western Ghats together with Tamil Nadu plains down here. Moreover this hike allows visiting Kolukkumalai Tea Estate where it is possible both to familiarise yourself with tea manufacturing procedures and have a cup of fresh tea.

What to see:

• Crossing worlds’ widest tea plantation areas on foot while hiking
• Wonderful views over Tamil Nadu Plains & Western Ghats Mountains range altogether during the walk along Kolukkumalai Trail.
• Travel to Kolukkumalai Tea Estate.
  

Credits: Canva

3. Dudhsagar waterfalls trek, Goa

Goa is not only known for the beaches. A perfect adventure for families is the Dudhsagar Waterfalls Trek. The trail leads you right up to one of India’s highest waterfalls where you can take a dip in its beautiful crystal-clear pools.

This trek starts from Castle Rock and passes through dense forests, streams and railway tracks. And then, there are the magnificent Dudhsagar Falls that fall from a height of 310 meters. The whole experience is very refreshing.

What to see:

• Spectacular Dudhsagar Waterfalls
• Refreshing natural pools
• Moderate trek suitable for families

4. Kalsubai peak trek, Maharashtra

For those risk-takers among you, we can’t recommend anything better!

Climbing to Maharashtra’s tallest peak isn’t fun but it feels great at the summit (and what views!). Kalsubai Peak Trek commences at Bari village and continues upwards through some tough areas including rock faces with iron ladders bolted into them.

This trek, although difficult, can be done by families who have teenage children. The view from the top includes Sahyadri ranges as far as Bhandardara Dam.

What to see:

• Highest peak in Maharashtra (1646 metres)
• Thrilling climb with iron ladders
• Panoramic views of the Sahyadri ranges
  

Credits: Canva

5. Brahmagiri hills trek, Karnataka

This one’s definitely made for nature enthusiasts! Brahmagiri Hills Trek unfolds various landscapes such as thick woods, ancient caves and fascinating waterfalls.

Starting from Iruppu Falls, this trek will take you inside Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary with its greenery all around. During your journey you will get an opportunity to see several types of plants and animals along with trees that provide shelter to those creatures. Also on this route lies Rameshwaram Temple and Narimale Forest Camps, which will offer unforgettable moments during your vacation.

What to see:

• Scenic Iruppu Falls
• Dense forests and wildlife sanctuary
• Ancient caves and temples
  

Credits: Canva

Activities for an unforgettable experience

A family trek in the Western Ghats is not only about hiking, but also embracing the rich culture of the region, trying local delicacies and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Here are some activities that will make your father’s day trek even more special.

1. Wildlife safari

There are several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the Western Ghats. Plan a trip to see elephants, tigers, leopards and birds in their habitat through a wildlife safari.

Some good options include Bandipur National Park in Karnataka and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala. The guided tours give information on biodiversity of the area as well as its conservation efforts making it educational for all ages.

2. Coffee plantation tour

Visiting coffee plantations is one of the major attractions at Coorg and Chikmagalur. Join a tour to discover how coffee is made from bean to cup. Sample different blends of coffee before purchasing freshly ground beans as souvenirs for friends back home. This is one way of immersing yourself in the area identity while unwinding.

3. Waterfall rappelling

Waterfall rappelling is a must-try activity for the brave. These stunning waterfalls in the Western Ghats serve as great places to do this exciting sport. Chelavara Falls and Mallalli Falls are popular spots for rappelling in Coorg. You can thus descend with your family down a waterfall under the guidance of instructors who have done it before making it an unforgettable father’s day adventure.

4. Try traditional dishes

When you visit any place, you should try its traditional dishes. The Western Ghats display their diverse culinary abilities right from the hot flavours of Kerala to the spicy aroma of Karnataka.

Get such meals at small coffee shops and do not forget to taste local dishes including Coorgi Pandi Curry, Mangalorean Neer Dosa, Kerala Sadya among other typical foods that will add flavour to your trekking experience.

A Father's day to remember

This Father’s day, give your father a gift of an adventurous trip with your family members in the Western Ghats. Let this father’s day be only about your dad as you take him on a family trip through the Western Ghats.

From foggy Coorg hills to Munnar tea gardens, Western Ghats is known for its beautiful and diverse landscapes which will leave a lasting impression on you. Take part in common adventures, discover the rich biodiversity of this place and consume what it provides.

What are you waiting for? Load up your backpacks, tie up your hiking boots and get set to create some amazing memories with dad and family. The Hosteller offers affordable and cozy accommodations that will enable you to revive all the excitement at night after each day’s trek.

Create an unforgettable moment during this year's fatherhood celebration amidst natural beauty.
 

Note: The feature image has been generated through AI (Images copyright- Midjourney)