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The best offbeat trekking trails in Munnar are Kolukkumalai, Mathikettan Shola, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Phantom Head Peak, and the Muniyara Dolmens. These hidden trails offer unique experiences, from sunrise views above the clouds and dense rainforest walks to wildlife spotting and exploring ancient history. They provide a quiet, authentic adventure away from the main tourist crowds.
Munnar’s Hidden Gems: Why You Must Try These 5 Offbeat Treks
Munnar. The name itself brings pictures to your mind. You can almost smell the fresh tea leaves in the air. You can feel the cool mist on your face. This hill station in Kerala is famous for its rolling green tea gardens. It is a beautiful place that millions of people visit.
But with so many visitors, the popular spots can get crowded. You might find yourself in a line just to take a picture.
What if you want something different? What if you want to find the real Munnar? The quiet, wild, and untouched parts. What if you want an adventure that you will remember for a lifetime?
If that sounds like you, then you are in the right place. This guide is not about the usual tourist walks. This guide is about the offbeat trekking trails in Munnar. These are the hidden paths, the secret routes, and the challenging peaks that most people never see.
We will explore five amazing treks that take you deep into the heart of the Western Ghats. You will walk through ancient forests, see sunrises from above the clouds, and even find wildlife in its natural home. These treks are not just walks; they are experiences.
This is your ultimate guide to finding the best-hidden trekking trails in Munnar. Let’s get ready for an adventure.
What Does “Offbeat Trekking” Even Mean?
When you hear “offbeat,” think of it as “off the main path.” These are not the trails you will find on the front page of a travel magazine.
Here is what makes an offbeat trek special:
- Fewer People: You will not find big crowds. Often, it might just be you, your guide, and the sounds of nature. You get to hear the birds, the wind in the trees, and your own footsteps.
- More Adventure: These trails can be more challenging. They might be steeper, longer, or harder to find. This makes the reward at the end feel even better.
- Authentic Experience: You get to see the local nature and culture up close. You might walk through small villages, see unique plants, or spot animals that avoid the noisy tourist areas.
- Unique Views: Because so few people go, the views are fresh and unspoiled. You will get photographs that none of your friends have.
But there is a catch. Offbeat trails are less marked. You cannot just follow a sign. Safety is a big deal. You will need a local guide. You might need special permits from the Forest Department.
This is why planning is so important. But do not worry. We will cover all of that. Let’s look at the top 5 offbeat trekking trails in Munnar.
1. Kolukkumalai: The Sunrise Trek Above the Clouds
Imagine standing on a peak so high that you are looking down at the clouds. Then, watch as the sun rises and paints those clouds orange, pink, and gold. This is the Kolukkumalai trek.
Kolukkumalai is not just any tea estate. It is the highest organic tea estate in the world. The trek here is famous for one thing: the sunrise. It is a magical experience that you must see to believe.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 4 to 6 hours (including the jeep ride)
- Best Time: September to March. The skies are clearest during these months.
- Altitude: Around 7,900 feet
What Makes This Trail Special?
This trek is unique because of its height. You are trekking at a very high altitude, right on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The main reward is seeing the sunrise from above a “sea of clouds” that fill the valley below.
You also get to visit the old Kolukkumalai tea factory. This factory was built in the 1930s. It still uses the old, traditional methods to make tea. It is like a living museum.
The Trekking Experience: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Your day for this trek starts very, very early. You have to wake up around 3:00 AM. It will be cold and dark, but it is worth it.
The Jeep Ride: You cannot drive a normal car to the starting point. The road is a rough, rocky path. You must hire a special 4×4 jeep from the town of Suryanelli. This jeep ride itself is an adventure. You will be bumped around for about an hour and a half as you climb up the dark mountain.
The Starting Point: The jeep will drop you off near the Kolukkumalai tea factory. From here, your trek begins. It is still dark, so you will need a flashlight. Your guide will lead the way.
The Climb: You will walk for about 45 minutes to an hour. The path is rocky and can be steep in some places. You will be walking through the tea gardens. The air is thin and cold. You can see your breath. You will feel the excitement building as the sky starts to get a little lighter in the east.
The Sunrise: You will reach the viewpoint just in time. You will stand on a rocky ledge. Below you, the world is covered in a thick blanket of white clouds. It looks like a soft, cotton ocean. Then, the sun starts to peek over the distant mountains. The light hits the clouds, and the colors change every second. It is silent, beautiful, and feels like you are on top of the world. This view makes it one of the most stunning trekking trails in Munnar.
The Walk Down: After the sun is up, you will trek back down. Now you can see everything! You are surrounded by green tea plants. You can see the rolling hills of Tamil Nadu on one side and the mountains of Kerala on the other. You might see tea pickers starting their day, with baskets on their backs.
The Factory Visit: Your trek ends back at the tea factory. You can take a tour and see how tea is made. You can also taste a fresh, hot cup of tea. It is the perfect end to the morning.
Scenery and Wildlife
The main scenery is the “sea of clouds” and the 360-degree views of the Western Ghats. You will see endless tea gardens covering the slopes. Because it is so high, you will not see big animals. You might see some small birds. The main attraction here is the landscape itself.
Getting There and Permits
You must reach Suryanelli, which is about 25 km from Munnar town. This is where you hire the jeeps. The permits are usually included in the price of your jeep ride and guided trek. Your guide or tour operator will handle all the paperwork. You cannot go without a guide.
2. Mathikettan Shola: The “Mind-Confusing” Rainforest Trek
Are you ready to feel like an explorer in an ancient jungle? This trek is for you.
Mathikettan Shola is a National Park. The name “Mathikettan” in the local language means “mind-confusing.” Legend says that people would easily get lost in this dense forest. This is not a trek on an open, grassy hill. This is a deep dive into a “shola,” a unique high-altitude rainforest found only in the Western Ghats.
This is one of the most protected and wild trekking trails in Munnar.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (can be long and confusing)
- Duration: 5 to 7 hours
- Best Time: October to February. Avoid the monsoon (June-September) at all costs. The trail will be full of leeches and very slippery.
- Altitude: Varies, with high points around 6,000 feet.
What Makes This Trail Special?
This trek is all about the forest. It is a “biodiversity hotspot.” This means it is filled with thousands of different kinds of plants, animals, and insects. Many of them are not found anywhere else on Earth.
You will walk under a thick, green roof of leaves. Sunlight struggles to reach the forest floor. The air is damp and smells like earth and wet leaves. You will cross small, clear streams. It feels like a different world.
The Trekking Experience: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
This trek usually starts from a point near the town of Poopara, which is a drive from Munnar.
Entering the Forest: The moment you step onto the trail, everything changes. The outside world disappears. It becomes quiet. You are surrounded by giant trees covered in moss and ferns.
The Path: The trail is narrow. It is not a paved path. You will be walking on soft earth, tree roots, and rocks. Your guide is your most important asset here. They know the way through this “mind-confusing” forest. Without a guide, you would be lost in minutes.
The Sights and Sounds: Listen. You will hear the calls of strange birds. You might hear a Malabar giant squirrel chattering in the trees above. You will see colorful butterflies and dragonflies. The trees themselves are amazing. They are old and covered in orchids and hanging moss.
The Leeches: Yes, you need to be prepared for leeches, especially after it rains. Your guide will tell you how to prepare. You can wear special leech socks or use tobacco leaves or salt. Do not let this stop you. It is a small price to pay for such a wild experience.
The Openings: The trail is not all dark forest. Sometimes, you will come out into small, grassy openings. These clearings offer a break from the dense jungle. You might get a quick view of the mountains around you before you dive back into the green.
The End: The trek can be long and tiring. Your legs will be sore. But you will feel a huge sense of accomplishment. You have walked through a forest that is millions of years old.
Scenery and Wildlife
The scenery is all about the “shola” ecosystem. Giant trees, ferns, moss, and streams.
This is a great place for spotting wildlife. You must be quiet. You have a good chance to see:
- Malabar Giant Squirrels: These are large, colorful squirrels.
- Nilgiri Langurs: Black monkeys with long, white fur around their faces.
- Birds: Many types of birds, like the Malabar trogon and the hornbill.
- Elephants: You might see signs of elephants, like broken branches or footprints. Your guide will keep you safe.
Getting There and Permits
Mathikettan Shola is a National Park. You cannot just walk in. You MUST have a permit from the Kerala Forest Department. You MUST also hire a registered guide.
This is not a trek you can plan on your own. You need to book this through a recognized trekking company. They will get the permits and provide the expert guide you need for this specific trail.
3. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: A Trek to Thoovanam Falls
Get ready for a complete change of scenery. Most trekking trails in Munnar are in cool, wet, green tea gardens. But Chinnar is different.
Chinnar is in the “rain shadow” region of the mountains. This means the mountains block the rain, so the land is drier. This trek takes you through a dry, scrubby forest. It is one of the best places in Kerala to see wildlife. The highlight of this trek is the beautiful Thoovanam Waterfalls.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours (round trip to the falls)
- Best Time: December to April. The weather is dry and pleasant.
- Altitude: Around 1,600 to 2,000 feet.
What Makes This Trail Special?
Wildlife. This is the number one reason to trek in Chinnar. It is home to the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, which is very rare. You can also see deer, elephants, monkeys, and lots of birds.
The landscape is also unique. It is not the green of Munnar. It is a mix of red earth, cactus plants, and dry trees. The trek follows the Pambar River, which is one of the few rivers in Kerala that flows east.
The Trekking Experience: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Your trek starts from the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary check post on the Munnar-Udumalpet road.
Starting the Trek: You will be assigned a forest guide. This is mandatory. Your guide will be from the local tribal community. They know this forest like the back of their hand.
The Trail: The path is well-defined but can be rocky. You will walk through the dry forest. The guide will point out things you would miss. You might see a spotted deer hiding in the bushes. Or they might show you the giant web of a spider.
Following the River: Soon, you will start to hear the sound of water. The trail meets the Pambar River. You will walk along the river bank. The trees here are bigger and greener. It is a beautiful, peaceful walk.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes open and be very quiet. This is your best chance to see animals. Your guide will stop and point. You might see a family of elephants drinking from the river far away. You might see peacocks or wild boars.
The Waterfalls: After about an hour or so, you will hear a loud roar. You have reached Thoovanam Falls. The water crashes down from a high cliff into a big pool. It is a stunning sight in the middle of the dry forest.
The Reward: You can rest here. You can sit on the rocks and enjoy the view. The spray from the waterfall is cool and refreshing. This is the perfect spot to eat your packed snacks.
The Walk Back: The walk back follows the same path. You get another chance to spot any wildlife you missed on the way in.
Scenery and Wildlife
The scenery is a mix of dry forest, rocky hills, and the green, lush riverbank. The waterfall is the main highlight.
This is a top spot for wildlife lovers. You can see:
- Spotted Deer
- Sambar Deer
- Grizzled Giant Squirrel (if you are very lucky)
- Elephants
- Peacocks
- Langurs and Macaques
- Turtles in the river
Getting There and Permits
Chinnar is about 60 km from Munnar town, past Marayoor. You must drive to the forest check post. At the check post, you will pay the entry fee and the fee for the guide. You cannot enter without a guide from the Forest Department.
Your Munnar Trekking Adventure: Planning and Safety
You have picked your trail. You are excited. Now, let’s make sure you have a safe and amazing trip. Planning is the most important part of any offbeat trek.
When is the Best Time to Go?
The “best” time depends on what you want to see. But the “safest” time is clear.
- Post-Monsoon (September – November): This is just after the heavy rains. Munnar is incredibly green. The waterfalls are full and powerful. The weather is cool. This is a beautiful time to trek.
- Winter (December – February): This is the peak season for trekking. The weather is perfect. It is cool and dry. The skies are clear, giving you the best long-distance views. This is the best time for high-altitude treks like Kolukkumalai. Mornings will be very cold, so pack warm clothes.
- Summer (March – May): The low-altitude treks (like Chinnar) can get very hot. But the high-altitude trekking trails in Munnar are still very pleasant. It is a great way to escape the heat from the cities.
- Monsoon (June – August): Avoid trekking during this time. The trails become very slippery and dangerous. There is a high risk of landslides. The forests are full of leeches, and you will not get any good views because of the constant rain and mist. Most national parks and high-altitude trails are closed.
What to Pack: The Essential Gear List
Packing light is smart. But packing the right things is even smarter.
- Good Trekking Shoes: This is the most important item. Do not wear new shoes. Make sure your shoes are broken in. They must have a good grip.
- Day Pack: A small, 20-30 liter backpack to carry your water, snacks, and extra layers.
- Water Bottle: At least 1-2 liters. A reusable bottle is best for the environment.
- Layered Clothing: The weather changes fast. Do not wear cotton. Wear a synthetic T-shirt (it dries fast). Carry a fleece or light jacket for warmth.
- Rain Jacket or Poncho: Even outside the monsoon, you can get sudden showers or thick mist that makes you wet. A rain jacket is a must.
- Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The sun is very strong at high altitudes, even when it feels cool.
- High-Energy Snacks: Things like trail mix, nuts, fruit, and energy bars.
- First-Aid Kit: Your guide will have one, but it is good to carry your own with basics like band-aids, antiseptic, and any personal medicines.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: This is essential for sunrise treks like Kolukkumalai.
- Insect Repellent: Very useful, especially in the shola forests.
- Leech Socks: If you are trekking just after the monsoon, these are a lifesaver.
- Camera: You will want to take pictures of the amazing views.
Safety First: Tips for a Safe Trek
Your safety is more important than any summit.
- Never Trek Alone: This is the number one rule for offbeat trails. If you get hurt, you will have no help.
- Hire a Local Guide: We have said this many times. It is the most important safety tip. They know the path. They know the weather. They know what to do in an emergency. They are trained to handle wildlife encounters.
- Respect the Wildlife: You are a guest in their home. If you see an elephant, do not go close to take a picture. Be quiet. Listen to your guide. Do not feed any animals.
- Stay on the Trail: Do not wander off. This is how you get lost. The “mind-confusing” forest is a real thing.
- Tell Someone Your Plan: Before you leave, tell someone at your hotel which trail you are hiking and when you plan to be back.
- Know Your Limits: Do not push yourself too hard. If you feel sick or very tired, it is okay to turn back. The mountain will still be there tomorrow.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water often, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Why You Must Hire a Local Guide
For popular, paved paths, you might not need a guide. But for the offbeat trekking trails in Munnar, a guide is not a luxury. It is a necessity.
Here is why:
- Navigation: These trails are not on Google Maps. There are no signs. A guide knows the way.
- Permits: Many trails (like Mathikettan Shola and Chinnar) require Forest Department permits. A guide or a trekking company is the only way to get them.
- Safety: They are trained in first aid. They know how to react if you see an elephant or a bison.
- Local Knowledge: They will point out birds, plants, and animals you would never see on your own. They will tell you the local stories and history.
- Support: You are giving a good job to someone in the local community. This helps protect the forests, as it shows that a living forest is valuable.
Finding a trustworthy guide is key. Many trekkers who visit the region recommend local, professional operators. For example, outfits like Mountains Moto specialize in these kinds of guided trekking trails in Munnar. They handle the logistics, safety, and permits, which lets you just enjoy the walk. Look for operators with strong local roots and good safety records.
Beyond the Trails: What Else to Do in Munnar
Your legs might be tired after all that trekking. Munnar has plenty of other things to see.
- Visit a Tea Museum: Learn how the tea you drink is made, from the leaf to the cup.
- Eravikulam National Park: This is the home of the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat. The park is often closed during the breeding season (Feb-Mar), so check first.
- Top Station: One of the most famous viewpoints in Munnar. It is often crowded, but the view is classic.
- Mattupetty Dam: A beautiful spot for boating and a popular tourist destination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are there any easy trekking trails in Munnar for beginners or families? A: Yes, Munnar has several beginner-friendly trails. The Muniyara Dolmens trek in Marayoor is an easy historical walk. Other options include the Lakshmi Hills trek, which offers beautiful tea garden views without being too strenuous.
Q: Which trekking trails in Munnar are best for sunrise and sunset views? A: For sunrise, the Kolukkumalai trek is unparalleled. For sunset, Phantom Head Peak and Top Station offer breathtaking views over the Western Ghats. Both are fantastic trekking trails in Munnar for photography.
Q: Can I camp overnight on any of the trekking trails in Munnar? A: Wild camping is generally not allowed, especially in national parks or forest reserves. However, several guided treks, like the one to Meesapulimala or camps near Suryanelli, offer organized camping at designated, safe campsites as part of their package.
Q: What is the main difference between the trekking trails in Munnar and other places? A: The main difference is the unique landscape. Most trekking trails in Munnar take you through high-altitude “shola” forests and the world’s highest tea plantations. This combination of rolling green gardens and dense, misty forests is unique to this part of the Western Ghats.
Q: Are there any trekking trails in Munnar that I can reach by public transport? A: You can reach base towns like Munnar, Suryanelli, or Marayoor by public bus. However, the exact starting points (trailheads) for most offbeat treks are in remote areas and are not serviceable by buses. You will typically need to hire a jeep, auto-rickshaw, or arrange transport with your guide.
Q: What should I do if I encounter an elephant on one of the trekking trails in Munnar? A: Stay calm and do not panic. Do not make loud noises or try to get closer for a photo. Quietly and slowly back away, keeping your eyes on the elephant. Always follow the specific instructions of your guide, as they are trained to handle these situations safely.
Q: What is the best time of day to start these trekking trails in Munnar? A: For sunrise treks like Kolukkumalai, you must start by 3:00 AM or 4:00 AM. For all other trekking trails in Munnar, an early morning start (around 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM) is best. This allows you to avoid the harsh afternoon sun and gives you plenty of daylight for your trek.
Q: What should I know about leeches on the trekking trails in Munnar? A: Leeches are common, especially in the shola forests like Mathikettan and during or just after the monsoon. They are harmless but a nuisance. You can wear leech-proof socks or apply salt, tobacco, or a strong repellent around your shoes and socks to deter them.
Q: Are these offbeat trekking trails in Munnar suitable for children? A: It depends on the trail. The Muniyara Dolmens trek is easy, short, and very suitable for children. Most other trekking trails in Munnar, like Kolukkumalai or Chinnar, are better suited for older children (10+) who have some experience with hiking and can walk for several hours.
Q: Are the trekking trails in Munnar safe for solo female travelers? A: Munnar is generally considered safe for solo travelers, including women. However, for offbeat or forest trekking trails in Munnar, it is strongly advised for everyone, regardless of gender, to hire a certified local guide. This ensures safety from wildlife and prevents you from getting lost.
Q: Do I need a permit for all trekking trails in Munnar? A: Not for all, but for many. Treks that enter National Parks (like Mathikettan Shola, Chinnar) or protected forest areas (like Meesapulimala) require mandatory permits from the Kerala Forest Department (KFDC). Always book with a guide or company that handles these permits for you.
Q: Which trekking trails in Munnar include waterfalls? A: The trek inside the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary leads directly to the stunning Thoovanam Waterfalls. The Attukal and Cheeyappara waterfalls also have small trails around them, though they are more of a viewpoint than a long-distance trek.
Q: What is the average cost for guided trekking trails in Munnar? A: The cost varies widely. A short, half-day trek might cost between ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per person. A full-day, more challenging trek (like Kolukkumalai, including the jeep ride) could range from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000. These prices usually include the guide, any entry fees, and sometimes basic snacks.
Your Munnar Adventure Awaits
Munnar is more than just a sea of tea gardens. It is a land of adventure. It has hidden valleys, ancient forests, and peaks that touch the clouds.
The popular spots are beautiful, but the real magic of Munnar is found on its hidden paths. These five offbeat trekking trails in Munnar offer you a chance to see a side of this famous hill station that most people miss.
It will be challenging. You will have to wake up early. You might get muddy. But you will be rewarded with silence, beauty, and a feeling of adventure that you will never forget.
So, pack your bags. Hire a good guide. And get ready to explore the real, wild heart of Munnar. The hidden trails are waiting. Which one will you explore first?
Contact Mountains Moto
Website: mountainsmoto.com
Phone/WhatsApp: +91 97781 14647
Email: mountainsmoto@gmail.com
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