Kerala Shola Forest and Tea Hills Trekking Tour

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Munnar and its surrounding areas, one of Kerala’s most cherished destinations. Ideal for families, friends, nature enthusiasts, and leisure travelers, this 4-day trekking tour offers an immersive experience in the untouched ecosystems of the Western Ghats. Traverse the mist-soaked shola forests, trek through the grasslands of Meesapulimala (2640 m), explore the high tea and cardamom plantations of Suryanelli, and witness the enchanting sunrise from the mountains of Suryanelli. Each trail is carefully selected to showcase the pristine beauty and biodiversity of the region, offering trekkers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and observe the local spice cultivation and simple village life.

Why Choose This Tour
Private and Personalized Experience

Opt for a private tour tailored to your preferences and pace. Enjoy the flexibility of customizing your itinerary and experiencing Kerala’s natural beauty in an intimate setting.

Experienced Certified Guide

Embark on your adventure with the assurance of having an experienced and certified guide. Our guides are knowledgeable about the local flora, fauna, and culture, ensuring a rich and informative trekking experience.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Journey through some of the most scenic and unspoiled areas in Kerala. From the lush shola forests and rolling tea hills to the pristine Anaerangal Lake, each day offers a new and captivating landscape to explore.

Challenging and Rewarding Treks

For those seeking an adventure, this tour includes some of the toughest treks in South India. Challenge yourself with the Meesapulimala Trek, and be rewarded with panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment.

Unique Ecosystem and Biodiversity

Explore the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique ecosystem. Encounter diverse flora and fauna, and learn about the conservation efforts that protect this rich biodiversity.

Cultural Immersion

Get a glimpse into the local culture with visits to cardamom and tea plantations, village walks, and interactions with local communities. Experience the simple and harmonious lifestyle of the villagers.

Comfortable and Scenic Accommodations

Stay at carefully selected forest mansions, tea estate bungalows, and nature camps that offer comfort amidst nature. Enjoy serene environments, stunning views, and the sounds of the wild.

Memorable Sunrise Experience

Witness the enchanting sunrise at Suryanelli, one of the most picturesque locations in Kerala. The early morning trek and the spectacular views make for an unforgettable experience.

Peace and Tranquility

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. This private tour offers a peaceful retreat, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with the natural world.

Choose this tour for an exclusive, adventurous, and deeply enriching journey through the heart of Kerala’s Western Ghats. Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience the authentic beauty of South India in a private setting.

Tour Highlights

  • Meesapulimala Trek
  • Western Ghats Trekking in South India
  • Sunrise Trek
  • Tea Plantation Walk and Factory Visit
  • Cardamom Plantation & Local village visit
  • Stay at Forest Mansion / Camp

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Munnar
Activity: Arrive Munnar, Jeep ride to Trek Start Point, Hike to Rhodo Valley
Hotel: Forest Mansion / Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
We will meet up at Munnar town after your lunch. Here, you will hop on to the Jeeps and ride towards the trek start point. Enroute, we will be clearing the documentation at a forest check point After, alighting the vehicle, we will start hiking to the Meesapulimala Forest Camp. We will walk through villages, tea plantations and patches of Shola forest. for approx. 06 Kms to reach the Rhodo Valley – a scenic valley with grassland, pine trees, flowers and small rivulets. Will spend the night at the forest Mansion / Camp here and our guide will do arrangements for your dinner. You can also stargaze from the valley on a clear night sky or enjoy the peaceful night away from the monotonous urban dwelling.
Day 2: The Meesapulimala Trek
Activity: Meesapulimala Trek, Drive to Suryanelli
Hotel: Tea Bungalow
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
We'll start early this morning to reach the Meesapulimala peak before sunrise. Meesapulimala, the second highest peak in South India, is well known for the shola forest and grassland ecosystem. You will be amazed by the pine and rhododendron trees, the blooming flowers, and the thick forest patches that we will pass on the way up. Be on the lookout for Nilgiri Thar, endemic birds, butterflies, and small rivulets with fresh water. As you approach the summit, the giant waves of mist will blow over you, and you can admire the vibrant morning colors of the sun from above the clouds. After spending some time at the peak, we will walk back to the Rhodo valley. After a light breakfast, we will check out of our accommodation. A jeep will take us from one of nature's hidden treasures to another. We will ride for more than an hour along the Lockhart Gap road to reach Anaerangal Lake, a beautiful lake tucked away in a lovely spot. The massive lake, with its arms stretched wide and a small earthen dam, is centrally located in the hillocks of Suryanelli. This is the key source of water for wildlife, especially the elephant herds, and the villages in this remote hilly area. We'll spend time boating and taking in the scenery around the lake, relishing the cool breeze and the beautiful landscapes. Then, we'll arrive at the tranquil location of Suryanelli and check into a 100-year-old tea estate bungalow.
Day 3: Tiny hamlet of Suryanelli
Activity: Tea experiential walk, Village & Cardamom Plantation Walk
Hotel: Camping / Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
Morning, it’s time for the Tea estate walk and tea plucking experience with the staff. We will also visit the Tea factory and taste different varieties of tea. The experience will accustom you with history of tea cultivation in the region, its management and processing. We will do a small round of Kayaking with the backdrop of misty tea hills and mighty blue mountains stretched across till horizon. Next activity is a stroll through the thick high cardamom plantations and the nearby Papathy Shola village to meet the mountain-dwelling aboriginals here, visit their traditional temple and humble living in sync with nature. Now, it’s time to enjoy a bumpy Jeep ride through thecraggy and winding roads through the tea plantations to the scenic Kolukkumalai valley. Here you will be camping with accommodation in dome tents, best to enjoy the refreshing climate with a bonfire and again a clear starry sky
Day 4: Enchanting Sunrise
Activity: Sunrise Trek, Tour Ends, Departure
We will set off early morning for the 45 minutes walk through misty valleys with lush tea plantations and hilly trail with patches of shola vegetation. The region is also known for its highest organic tea plantation. From here you can see the bundling clouds caressing the blue mountain ranges and the sun showering array of lights from pink to orange and to yellow on a clear sky day. It will be one of the finest mornings you ever had with a view of another enchanting sunrise from the towering Kolukkumalai. Will walk back to the camp for an energising breakfast, relax for a while before packing our bags. With fond memories the mountains and the rejuvenating nature, it’s time to say adieu till the next adventure.

Gallery

Inclusions

  • Tent / Guest House Accommodation on Twin Share
  •  Meals as per itinerary
  •  Refreshments and Drinking Water
  •  All activities including Walks and Visits as per Itinerary
  •  English Speaking Guide
  •  Entry Fee at Forest, Temple, Plantation etc
  • Support Vehicle
  •  Government Taxes

Route map

You May also Like

Trek misty peaks, raft through rainforests & kayak past bird sanctuaries. Explore tribal villages, swim in forest pools & summit breathtaking trails. Adventure, culture & wildlife combined!
Pedal through tea estates, trek misty peaks & raft Periyar’s waters. Kayak backwaters, spot wildlife, witness Kathakali dances & martial arts. Unwind on houseboats, explore spice gardens & relax on beaches.
Explore South India with a blend of hiking, biking, & kayaking! From Bandipur safaris to Munnar’s tea plantations & Alleppey’s tranquil backwaters, this adventure offers thrills & scenic beauty at every turn.