Share Your Love:
Wondering where to go next in an adventure trip in this year or maybe in a worse scenario, in 2021? Looking for one of the best treks in Kerala? Then you have just clicked on the right link! Read on…
Meesapulimala, at an altitude of 2640 meters is the second-highest peak in the whole of southern India and also in Western Ghat Mountain Ranges. From a very early age, I was a mountain lover and I could not imagine that there are scenic and mystic mountains spread across southern parts of the country until I experienced it with my own eyes. So I decided to lose myself in one of the best treks in Kerala.
Among the Western Ghat ranges, the Nilgiri mountains are Spectacular as per as scenic beauty is concerned. The altitude here makes it Unique – Though few Flora – Like Pine Tree and Rhododendron would be similar to those of the Himalayan Ranges, the Landscape is nothing like you can experience anywhere else on the Planet.
Nowhere else you could the clouds flying beneath you making a bed of clouds beneath, to gear up your fantasies. The Valleys are made of green and purple velvet. The abundance of wildlife around these parts gives a boost to the adventure. Over the years I got to visit Kerala a few times already.
For me Kerala is not about the Beaches and Backwater, my heart rather lies in those mystic Mountains and those mysterious Jungles. So I did the Meesapulimala Trek twice and here I will tell you about.
How to Go to Meesapulimala , When is the Best Time for the Trek, Where to Stay the Detailed Experience & Itinerary of the Trek, What to expect, Flora and fauna.
The Trek in Kerala:
The trek is organized by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation Eco-Tourism unit. It is one of the most scenic treks in Kerala. A paradise for Nature lovers, Bird Watchers, and Wildlife enthusiasts. The high valleys and forest are filled with Wildlife like – Dhole or Indian Wild Dogs, Gaur – Indian Bison, Sambar Deers many others, and if you are lucky enough you will spot some.
The Base camp for this trek is around 24 km from Munnar via Mattupetty Lake. It is another 4 km from the base camp to Rhodo Valley which can only be accessible by four-wheelers. Usually, tourists are supposed to arrive by the afternoon and spend the night in accommodation by KFDC Munnar Eco-Tourism. The trek starts early the next morning. it’s an easy trek that can be done by anyone. The difficulty level would be easy to moderate. Meesapulimala is trek is just 8 km long from Rhodo Valley and if you start from Base Camp then it is a 12 km trek both are manageable.
Reasons why you must trek to Meesapulimala in Kerala:
1. in just a day trek in Kerala you cross through three different types of vegetation and landscape. First through the Rain forest, then comes the Nilgiri Pines and Nilgiri Rhododendron Forest and at last, the trekking trails go through Grass Land.
2. A very good chance of spotting some wildlife and incredible birds. Animals like Nilgiri Thar, Indian Wild Dogs, Sambar Deer, Leopard, Elephants, and some time Tigers roam these Mountains. So if you are a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or just someone who wants to feel the thrill, you must add Meesapulimala in your Wish list.
3. Half of the trek route goes Shola Grass Land. From far away it looks like a canvas of grey colour Velvet with a Blueish Hue on it.
4. You will have to cross 8 hills to get to your summit on Meesapulimala Peak.
5. Meesapulimala at 2640 meters is the second-highest peak after Anamudi in Western Ghat and as well in the whole of Southern India.
6. The Heart Shaped Tiny Blue Lake – just after crossing the first Hill, while going down you will see a beautiful little waterbody or pond which exactly Heart Shaped and the water is blue.
7. The Sunrise from top of the peak of any of the 8 hills is a view one would like to wake up to every single morning. The white fluffy could flotation on the canvas of the blue sky just beneath you makes you speechless. I thought I was lost in Paradise.
8. The birds-eye view of Munnar and Matupetty damn. from 1st and 2nd hilltop both Munnar town and the stunning Mattupetty is visible like a birds eye a view.
Accommodation
There are 3 options of accommodations:
The Base Camp – At the base camp, there are pitched tents to stay. The arrangements are basic, but it will surely give you a feel of adventure. Enjoy the chillness of Munnar Hills and cherish the sound of Nature. In the evening one can enjoy the Campfire and delicious dinner cooked by the local cooks. Maximum 40 people can be accommodated on a single night at the Base Camp. The Package includes Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner. A campfire is included. And obviously the trekking too.
The Sky Cottage – Sky Cottage is exclusively for Honeymooners. This beautiful and secluded cottage is located on a cliff facing a waterfall, and also offers an amazing view of Anamudi peak, the highest in western ghat mountains. If the sky is clear in the night one can enjoy Star Gazing through the transparent ceiling. This variant is for 2-3 people maximum. The package includes Trekking, Guide Service, and Food.
Rhodo Mansion – Rhodo Mansion is a group of small cottages. It is located at a higher elevation compared to the other two accommodation options. Also, Rhodo mansion is much closer to Meesapulimala Peak so the next day one can summit easily. The most fascinating fact is that it is much closer to the forest where a variety of wildlife roams so if you are lucky you might spot one. There is no need to worry about your safety. The Rhodo Mansion is protected by Elephant Trenches, Guide Service, Food, and Campfire is included in the Package.
Best time for Meesapulimala Trek
The best time to visit almost throughout the years just except Monsoon. Anyone would agree with me that going out on a trek in the rainy season is not a very good idea. Summer around the Hills is pleasant. In winter it can be a bit chilly. In the summer the temperature around Meesapulimala is 15 – 30 degrees Celsius and in the winter the temperature would be 10 – 20 degrees Celsius.
How to Book Meesapulimala Trek
This Trek is organized by the Munnar Ecotourism branch of Kerala Forest Development Corporation. The good news is you can directly book with them.
Click here to book online.
Mobile No – +91 8289821408
Landline – 04865-230332
Let me know if this Blog helps you and inspires you to travel/trek to Meesapulimala. Please do share your valuable feedback in the comments below. Share about this incredible Trek in Kerala with your friends in Social Media.
