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Chembra Peak, at about 2,100 metres, is the highest point in Wayanad. It rises above the tea estates near Meppadi, south of Kalpetta in the Western Ghats. The trek is one of the most popular outdoor experiences in Kerala, mainly because of the small, heart-shaped lake on the way up.
The trek is managed by the Kerala Forest Department through a local Vana Samrakshana Samithi (VSS, a forest protection committee). You cannot simply walk up on your own: you buy a permit at the counter and go with a forest guide.
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Important: what is open at the time of writing
Access to Chembra changes often, so read this before planning a trip around it. The trek has been closed for long spells in recent years, including after the July 2024 landslides in Wayanad, according to travel reports. At the time of writing it is open, but only part of the route: according to the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) Wayanad, the second half of the trail is restricted because of wildlife activity, so treks turn back around the heart-shaped lake and do not go to the summit.
The number of trekkers allowed each day is capped, permits are sold only at the counter (no online booking at the time of writing), and the trek can be suspended without notice in heavy rain, in the dry fire season or for wildlife reasons. Always check with DTPC Wayanad or the forest office the day before.
The trek to the heart-shaped lake
DTPC notes that you reach the starting point by jeep from the parking area, up to the forest watchtower area. From there the guided walk climbs steadily through open grassland with patches of shola forest; DTPC gives the trek length as roughly 3–3.5 km.
The lake, known in Malayalam as Hridaya Thadakam (‘heart lake’), sits in a fold of the grassy slope and, seen from the ridge above, is shaped like a heart. Local belief says it never dries up, and there is a story linking it to Sita. On a clear day you look out over the tea estates and the green hills of Wayanad.
The slope is steep and can be slippery; the grass is tall, the sun is strong, and there is almost no shade. Allow 3–4 hours for the walk, including time at the lake.
Timings and fees
At the time of writing, DTPC Wayanad lists the site as open from about 7 AM to 3 PM, with trekking permits issued only from about 7 AM to 12 noon. Fees are set per visitor, plus a group trekking fee for up to five people that includes a forest guide, with separate rates for foreign nationals and students and extra charges for cameras. Fees and rules change, so check before you go.
Tips
- Arrive early: be at the counter when it opens at about 7 AM – the daily cap fills up on weekends and holidays.
- Carry ID: keep a government photo ID with you.
- No plastic: plastic bottles and wrappers are checked at the forest post; carry water in a reusable bottle.
- Shoes and cover: wear trekking shoes, a hat and sunscreen; light long sleeves help in tall grass.
- Leeches: after rain, leeches are common; salt or leech socks help.
- Season: October to March is best. Avoid the south-west monsoon (June to September), when trails are slippery and the trek is often closed.
Visiting from Pondicherry
Wayanad is about 505 km from Pondicherry, a long day’s drive via Salem, Mysore or the Nilgiris, so plan at least two nights there. The morning time slot means you should stay near Kalpetta or Meppadi the night before. Our Wayanad, Ooty and Mysore tour can include Chembra on request if it is open, with a backup plan if it is closed on the day. For other options, see our trekking and adventure page, or our hill stations page.
Frequently asked questions
Is Chembra Peak open now?
At the time of writing, the trek is open only up to around the heart-shaped lake; the upper half to the summit is restricted. It can close at short notice, so check with DTPC Wayanad or the forest office before you go.
Can I book the Chembra Peak trek online?
At the time of writing, no. Permits are issued at the counter on a first-come, first-served basis, roughly from 7 AM to 12 noon, with a daily cap.
Can I trek Chembra without a guide?
No. Treks go with a forest guide, and the guide is included in the group trekking fee.
How high is Chembra Peak?
About 2,100 metres above sea level. It is the highest peak in Wayanad.