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If you are looking for a thrilling and scenic trekking experience in Kerala, you should visit Chokramudi Peak, Munnar. Located in the Idukki district of Kerala, Chokramudi Peak is one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats, standing at an altitude of 2,160 meters above sea level. It offers a panoramic view of the lush green hills, tea plantations, valleys, and lakes of Munnar.
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At a Glance
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | 1 km, Mild incline, expansive grasslands, shrubs, and flowers |
| Location | Near Bison Valley, Munnar, Kerala, India |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to Difficult |
| Trekking Time | 3 hours |
| Trekking Distance | 4 km |
| Trail Categories | Base, Shola Forest, Grassland, Peak |
| Base Section | 3 km, Gentle incline, tea estates and plantations |
| Shola Forest | 2 km, Steep ascent, dense forest, rocky stretches |
| Grassland | Commence trek early, carry adequate water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, a jacket, sturdy trekking shoes, respect nature, and avoid littering |
| Peak Section | 500 m, Strenuous ascent, loose rocks and boulders |
| Wildlife | Monkeys, barking deer, wild boars, elephants |
| Optimal Time | October to March |
| Peak Timings | 6 AM to 6 PM |
| Entry Fee | INR 400 for Indian nationals, INR 600 for foreigners |
| Recommendations | Hire jeep or a taxi from Munnar town to Pothamedu base camp, 10 km away |
| Transportation | Commence trek early, carry adequate water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, jacket, sturdy trekking shoes, respect nature, and avoid littering |
Chokramudi Peak Munnar: A Trekker’s Paradise
The Chokramudi Peak Trekking route is a challenging trek that can be completed in a single day and is considered to be of a moderate to difficult level. The trek begins from the Gap Road located near Bison Valley and entails traversing a steep and rocky path that passes through dense forests, grasslands, and shola patches. The trail is properly marked and has a few signboards to assist hikers. The trek can be categorized into four parts, namely the base, the shola forest, the grassland, and the peak.
The initial stage of the trek is the base section, which spans approximately 3 km and takes about an hour to traverse. The path comprises a gentle incline through tea estates and cardamom plantations, offering occasional vistas of the adjacent hills and valleys. The base section culminates at a tiny stream, where you can refill your water bottles.
The following stage of the trek is the Shola forest section, which spans roughly 2 km and necessitates approximately an hour and a half to traverse. The path comprises a steep ascent through dense and dimly lit forests, with a few rocky stretches. The trail is narrow and might be slippery in certain places. This segment of the trek is known to have some wildlife such as monkeys, barking deer, wild boars, and elephants, so it’s advised to be cautious. The Shola forest section ends at an open space where you can take a break and savor the scenery.
The subsequent segment of the trek is the grassland section, which spans approximately 1 km and requires approximately 45 minutes to traverse. The path comprises a mild incline through expansive grasslands embellished with shrubs and flowers. The trail is broad and easy to walk on. You can catch sight of breathtaking panoramas of the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, and the Eravikulam National Park, a sanctuary for the endangered Nilgiri tahr. The grassland section culminates at a rugged ridge where you can catch a glimpse of the Chokramudi Peak towering ahead.
The final phase of the trek is the peak section, which spans approximately 500 meters and necessitates approximately 30 minutes to traverse. The path comprises a strenuous and arduous ascent over loose rocks and boulders. The trail is exposed and might be gusty in certain places. It’s recommended to be cautious and attentive while ascending this section. The peak section culminates at the summit of Chokramudi Peak, where you can relish a stunning 360-degree panorama of Munnar and its vicinity.
Undertaking the Chokramudi Peak trek is a fulfilling and thrilling experience that challenges your endurance and abilities. To make the most of your trek, it’s recommended to commence your journey early in the day to avoid the high temperatures and crowds. Additionally, it’s advisable to carry adequate amounts of water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, jackets, and sturdy trekking shoes. It’s equally important to uphold respect for nature and refrain from littering or harming the surrounding flora and fauna.
Chokramudi Peak in Munnar is an unmissable attraction for those who appreciate nature and seek adventure. The hill station is endowed with a multitude of natural splendors that can be discovered and enjoyed by trekking enthusiasts.
Plan Your Visit
Chokramudi is situated near Munnar and can be reached by taking the Kochi-Dhanushkodi NH and then the Gap Road. To reach Chokramudi Peak, you will need to hire a jeep or taxi from Munnar town to transport you to the base camp situated at Pothamedu, which is approximately 10 kilometers away. From there, you can commence your trekking expedition along the trail that leads to the summit, which spans approximately 4 kilometers and takes approximately 3 hours to traverse.
The optimal time to visit Chokramudi Peak is between October to March when the weather is mild and the skies are clear. You can also relish the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views from the peak. The peak is open every day from 6 AM to 6 PM, and the entry fee and trekking charges are INR 400 for Indian nationals and INR 600 for foreigners, which includes a guide and a permit. The temporary trekking office located near Gap Road is where trekkers can obtain the pass and permission needed for the trek. Please remember to carry ample supplies of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat for the trek.
