Kolukkumalai Trek

• All our arrangements are fundamental; we do not/cannot provide luxury on such an event.

• In case of unforeseen Weather conditions, government restrictions, or permission changes, certain activities may be cancelled. In such cases, we will try to provide an alternate feasible activity or Postpone option. However, no refund will be provided.

• Once you book the Kolukkumalai Trek package there will be no cancellation.

• No Refund/No Cancellation Once you reach the property or on the event day.

• You agree to indemnify yourself for the risks involved in the outings varying from destination to destination.

• In case of damage or loss of any equipment or Items of Escape2explore, the responsible member has to bear the cost.

• We have designated pick-up and drop points to make your arrangements for transport to the desired pick-up point accordingly.

• We depend on a third-party transport agency; we don't have direct control over the vehicle or driver. Issues about pick-up and drop times or bus quality are quite rare. If you are too specific, please check before registering.

• Escape2explore is not responsible if any injuries or accidents occur during the event.

• Any client consuming Alcohol, Misbehaving, or causing delay during the event will be terminated without any prior warning, and no refund will be given. Such clients should arrange their transport on their way back, and Escape2explore is not responsible for terminating clients.

• Littering, smoking & consumption of alcohol are banned for Trekking packages.

For Bookings made from Third Party Websites:

• The client is responsible for communicating with a third party (booking website) for cancellation.

• Cancellation / Refund is done by a third party based on their policies. 

The Kolukkumalai Peak is a beautiful site in the Western Ghats, lying on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, India. The site is globally famous for its greenery, panoramic vistas, and high-altitude tea estates. The peak lies at an altitude of about 7,130 feet (2,170 meters) above sea level, and it is also the highest tea estate in the world. This hill station is a paradise for adventure tourists, nature enthusiasts, and trekkers who are keen to experience the tranquillity and serenity of the city hustle. As calm and natural as it is, Kolukkumalai is a goldmine of a destination that has people flocking towards it from all corners of the world.

Why Kolukkumalai is Famous

Kolukkumalai is well known for several reasons and. all of them contribute to making the destination. a place that people, both tourists and nature enthusiasts alike, would wish to visit. The major reasons why Kolukkumalai is off-the-beaten-track and needs to be visited are as follows:

• World's Highest Tea Plantation: The initial one among Kolukkumalai attractions is the tea estate, the world's highest organic tea plantation. The tea cultivated here adheres to the traditional, old method of tea manufacturing, which provides a distinct flavour and aroma, unattainable anywhere else. The old tea factory employed since the 1930s continues to adhere to the ancient processes, such as hand-plucking and slow processing, to produce the finest quality of tea.

• Scenic Sunrise Scenery: Kolukkumalai is well-known for having one of the most scenic sunrise scenes. Look at how gradually the sun arises behind mist-enveloped hills and illuminate the valleys with their golden beams. Its higher ground where it sits provides space to watch completely open skies, and therefore it's paradise for photography enthusiasts as well as nature admirers alike.

• Off-Road Adventure: The trip to Kolukkumalai is an adventure in itself. The final leg of the journey is an off-road hilly stony drive and is only feasible in a four-wheel-drive jeep. The bad road thrills are an adventure and a part of the value added to the experience. Scenic Hiking Trails Kolukkumalai is one of the trekking destinations for those who enjoy taking a tough but rewarding trek. The trek to the top offers a memorable scene of rolling hills, deep valleys, and tea plantations. The mountain air and tranquil scenery offer a relaxing trek.

Trek to Kolukkumalai: A Total Guide to Best Trekking Trails

The highest tea estate in the world, Kolukkumalai, is a scenic trek destination in the Western Ghats in Munnar, Kerala. The trek trail offers a bird's eye view of mist-clad mountains, tea plantations, and sunrise that is breathtakingly stunning and irresistibly appealing for adventure enthusiasts everywhere.

Two notable trekking paths to Kolukkumalai are:

• Kurangani Route: The most scenic and favoured route, beginning in the state's Tamil Nadu state's village of Kurangani. The trek traverses almost 12 km and could take 5-6 hours based on the fitness and pace of walking of the trekker. The trek traverses forest, meadow, and ridge and provides an experience almost as close to nature.

• Suryanelli Trail: This is shorter but more steeply inclined, 7 km long. It starts from Suryanelli, close to Munnar, and takes approximately 3-4 hours to reach the top. This one is trekked by people who prefer a shorter but still good trek.

Difficulty Level and Duration

The climb at Kolukkumalai is moderately strenuous. It's not a technical ascent that one needs to be an expert at, but it has very steep slopes and rocky outcrops, so it is not a good option for beginners. The trek takes about 5 to 6 hours, depending on the route one takes.

The descent takes 3 to 4 hours. Trekkers must be ready to face bad weather since the area is prone to mist and sudden drizzles. New trekkers are advised to undergo proper physical conditioning, such as cardio and strength training.

Best Time of the Year for Trekking

The best season for the trek to Kolukkumalai would be from September to March with good weather and clear skies. It provides easy trekking terrain and the best scintillating view of the landscape.

• Winter (December-February): Cold temperature and tough climbing but provides clear skies and wonderful sunrise moments.

• Post-Monsoon (Sep-Nov): Thickest foliage and foggy paths make the environment otherworldly.

• Summer (Apr-Jun): Mornings are nice, afternoons are scorched, and the trek feels tiring to some extent.

• Monsoon (Jul-Aug): Avoid because of rain, slippery paths, and poor visibility.

Must-haves Trekking Equipment

We need to pack the bare essentials to make the trek comfortable and safe. The bare essentials include:

• Apparel: Lightweight moisture-wicking fabric, wind jacket, and rain poncho for sudden drizzles.

• Footwear: Good grip trekking shoes that are strong and have ankle protection.

• Backpack: Lightweight (20-30L) comfortable backpack with rain cover.

• Water and Snacks: 2 litres of water, energy bars, dry fruits, and snacks.

• Trekking Pole: Knees get saved and it provides support on rocky terrain.

• Headlamp/Flashlight: Necessary for early morning hikes before sunrise.

• First Aid Kit: Brand band-aids, antiseptic cream, painkillers, and other medication for personal use.

• Camera: To take photos of the sunrise scenery and tea plantation views.

• Sunscreen and Sunglasses: To prevent sun exposure at high altitudes. With this travel guide, the traveller will be safe and well-equipped to make the most of the Kolukkumalai experience. Whether a nature enthusiast or an adventure tourist, the experience will leave you having some of the most memorable moments amidst the splendour of the Western Ghats.

Jeep Safari Experience: A Pictorial Off-Road Adventure

One of the most exciting and adventurous ways of travelling on bad roads, forests, deserts, and hills is a jeep safari. It provides tourists with an experience of driving on uneven roads, observing nature in its raw state, and observing varied wildlife. Whether it is a jeep safari on India's green jungles, yellow sand dunes of Rajasthan, or Himalayan snow trails, a jeep safari provides an experience that no other off-road adventure can.

Off-Road Adventure

The off-road tour is adventure tourism in which the tourist feels obligated to steer off the mainstream roads and hence have a sight of nature in its uninvestigated and unexplored way. Jeep safari is practised to traverse uneven roads like rock roads, rivers, dunes, and mountain roads in a joyous atmosphere. Jeeps are the only automobiles tough enough to face rugged roads and surprise road barriers and are thus the best automobiles that are capable of moving off-road. Jeep safaris allow one to travel to some of the most off-road and beautiful places, unreachable by other cars.

From crossing thick coverages of forests within national parks to ascending prickly hill roads, off-road transportation gives a person a first-hand experience of nature, wildlife, and scenery. Even certain safaris allow travellers to witness rare plant and animal species, and hence it is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.  Off-road excursions also involve the thrill of the unknown, as terrain can turn out to be different from what one would expect. Travellers need to prepare themselves for precipitous drops, narrow roads, water streams, and bumpy roads. A part of the adventure is this uncertainty, and that is what has turned jeep safaris into a much sought-after adventure sport for those living on the edge.

Safety Precautions

Though an exciting affair is the jeep safari, security always ranks number one. Following are a few things one has to follow when taking off for an off-road trip:

• Employ a Safe Driver: Rent safari always with an accredited tour organization so that autos remain well maintained, drivers well experienced, and safety guidelines earnestly followed.

• Dress Accordingly: Dress comfortably and according to the season. Do not dress up in wildlife parks since animals enjoy playing tricks on them. Wear securely closed shoes, wear sunglasses, and even caps.

• Buckle Up: Seat belts are usually fitted in jeeps and must be buckled during travel, especially while driving on bad roads and hilly terrain.

• Obey Guide Instructions: Keep an eye on the guide and driver at all times, especially when in the wildlife zone. Careless behaviour can put travellers’ and animals' lives in danger.

• Remain Inside the Vehicle: Never try to get down from the jeep within the wildlife zone as it is not safe. Getting down is not allowed in most national parks because predators such as leopards and tigers inhabit there.

• Carry Basic Necessities: Carry adequate water, food, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit. Medical assistance may be far off in off-road travel.

• Equipment for Weather: Off-road weather is erratic. Carry rain gear while traveling in monsoon, and extra clothing if heading to cold destinations.

• Respects Nature and Wildlife: Do not make too much noise, litter, or feed wildlife. Stay away from wildlife to avoid disturbing them and their natural environments.

Scenic Overlooks En Route

Jeep safaris provide some of the most stunningly beautiful scenery vistas, and due to this very reason, they turn out to be a heaven on earth for nature lovers and photographers as well. The charm of a safari is not only created by the adventure but also by the stunning scenery along which one can drive.

• Ladakh – The Roof of the World: Jeep safaris in Ladakh cover tourists over high-altitude passes, picturesque valleys, and crystal lakes. Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Khardung La Pass provide breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

• Ranthambore National Park – Tiger Safari: Ranthambore has a jeep safari as a substitute for tiger sightings. Picturesque lakes, ancient ruins, and the rocky terrain of the park provide it with a picturesque appearance.

• A Desert Mountain Wonder of Spiti Valley: On a jeep safari trip to Spiti Valley, one travels across arid mountain landscapes, ancient monasteries, and canyon roads. A few of the places that cannot be missed on the journey are Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake, and Pin Valley.

• Thar Desert – Sand Dunes and Sunset Landscape: During a desert safari tour in Rajasthan, tourists are welcomed by the majesty of the golden dunes. The Jeep view of the dunes at sunset is simply magical.

• Jim Corbett National Park – Flora Fauna and Wild Woodland: Jim Corbett jeep safari engulfs the tourists into interior depths of dense forests, and pilgrims have the chance to spot elephants, leopards, and a few bird species. Ramganga River, a magical feature, brings natural beauty to higher heights.

• Kaziranga National Park – Land of Rhinos: Kaziranga jeep safari provides the traveller with a view of the elusive one-horned rhino, green grasslands, and winding rivers forming scenic views.

•  Tea Gardens and Misty Hills: Munnar Jeep Safari transports visitors through rolling tea gardens, misty hills, and waterfalls, providing a shivering and scenic experience.

The Mesmerizing Sunrise

There is something fabulously magical about witnessing the earliest dawn rays slither across the horizon, overflowing the world in golden light. Dawn breaking has held man under its spell for millennia, symbolizing hope, renewal, and the magic of nature's round-about rhythm. From the height of a mountaintop summit, a quiet seashore, or an empty desert, seeing the break of dawn is something that remains embedded in the mind. This article explores some of the most spectacular sunrise spots, climates and times to take the best sunset picture, and why the Kolukkumalai sunrise is breathtaking.

Kolukkumalai, Tamil Nadu-Kerala Border, India

Situated in the Western Ghats, Kolukkumalai boasts the world's highest tea estates, situated at approximately 7,900 feet above sea level. The hill country and rolling hills are the ones providing the enchanting landscape, with sunrise greetings to paint the sky orange, pink, and golden. The Kolukkumalai landscape is nothing less than breathtaking, with clouds beneath the summits, and it leaves one with an evanescent ethereal floating sensation.

Tiger Hill, Darjeeling, India

Another beautiful spot to view the sunrise is Tiger Hill in Darjeeling. The landscape of the site is of the Kanchenjunga range of mountains. If the day is clear, the morning light of the sun ascends on the mountains, casting a golden colour that later changes to pink and eventually to shining white. This beautiful landscape attracts tourists from all over the world.

Time and Weather Conditions for Ideal Sunrise Photography

Taking a perfect sunrise involves some planning, and there are quite a large number of factors that go into the final result. Some of the most important sunrise photography tips to keep in mind are as follows:

• Timing: Golden hour is best to capture a sunrise photo, typically 30 minutes before sunrise and for a brief period afterwards. Waking up early will enable you to set up your camera gear, get to the best vantage points, and take slow pans of the colour change.

• Weather Conditions: Weather is also taken into account for sunrise photography. Clear mornings produce the best sunrises, but some cloud covers can add depth to the image and shoot amazing colours. Fog or cloudy skies too thick will conceal the sunrise entirely from view.

• Elevation and Location: More elevated positions, including hilltops and mountains, will be more dramatic for sunrise photography as they enable the open horizon. Beaches, deserts, and lakes are good locations for active light and reflection.

• Camera Settings: To get great sunrise photos, the right camera settings are necessary. Low ISO (100-200) provides the subject with sharp focus, and a small aperture (f/8 to f/16) produces a high depth of field. Slow shutter speeds can also help to create soft water and cloud reflections, and a tripod is advisable for support.

• Planning and Patience: Cross-checking the weather forecast, prior scouting of locations, and waiting are all elementary ingredients of excellent sunrise photography. Waiting for a few minutes after the actual sunrise time sometimes provides richer colours and incredible lighting conditions.

Why Kolukkumalai Sunrise is Unique

Among all the mind-blowing sunrise locations, the Kolukkumalai sunrise is one of the most out-worldly and reminiscing ones. Here's why:

• The Highest Tea Plantation in the World: Kolukkumalai is famous for having the world's highest tea estate. Besides fine elevation for quality tea, a bird's-eye view is also offered to whoever values the morning sunrise. Cloud-misty tea estates make it more beautiful and it becomes a fairyland.

• Sea of Clouds Phenomenon: One of the most enchanting aspects of Kolukkumalai’s sunrise is the mesmerizing sea of clouds. As the sun rises, the clouds often settle below the mountain peaks, giving the illusion of floating above a vast ocean of mist. This rare phenomenon creates an otherworldly experience, making visitors feel as if they are standing in the heavens.

• Pristine and Unspoiled Beauty: Unlike other tourism sites that have been commercialized, Kolukkumalai is least touched by man and yet possesses its natural glory in its true form. Due to the absence of manmade objects, the human being has the opportunity to relate with nature as it should. The cool, crisp air, chirping of birds, and mild rustling of tea leaves are enough for the experience.

• Thrilling Trek to the Summit: Getting to Kolukkumalai itself is an adventure. It is done by riding an off-road jeep along bumpy mountain roads, which is designed to build tension and suspense.

Wildlife and Nature at Kolukkumalai

Located in the picturesque Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, Kolukkumalai is a mystical land that is unparalleled in natural beauty. The world's highest tea estate, this picturesque hill station is famous not just for its green tea gardens and scenic views but also for its rich biodiversity. The area is heavily covered with flora and fauna and is a nature lover's, wildlife enthusiast's, and eco-tourist's paradise.

Most Frequently Observed Animals and Birds

Kolukkumalai's diversified landscape features a diversified variety of fauna that thrives based on its altitude as well as abundant forest cover. Locals from the area can observe plenty of intriguing animals in nature easily. Two of the region's most widespread mammals include the Indian gaur (Bos Taurus), a robust wild bison with a muscular body, and Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiritragus hypocrisy), a Western Ghats mountain goat that is also listed as being endangered. Leopards (Panthera pardus) are also found in the region but never seen because they are nocturnal and secretive creatures. The majority of the remaining animals like the Indian giant squirrel (Ratufa indica), sambar deer (Rusa unicolour), and wild boar (Sus scrofa) also wander around near the patches of greenery.

Birdwatchers also have heaven here with plenty of endemic and migratory birds flying into the location. The Malabar parakeet (Psittacula columboides) by its glistening colours, the Nilgiri flycatcher (Eumyias albicaudatus) by its call, and the black-and-orange flycatcher (Ficedula nigrorufa) by its glistening colours are few of the showiest bird dwellers. The Great Indian hornbill (Buceros bicornis) with its casque and considerable wingspan shall be seen swooping by once in a while. They also have some other raptors that patrol the zone, including the crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela) and black eagle (Ictinaetus malaiensis), which feed on reptiles and small mammals. Biodiversity of the zone provides birdwatchers and cameramen enough opportunities to see some of nature's most wonderful animals.

How to Get to Kolukkumalai

Kolukkumalai, the world's highest tea estate, is a scenic retreat in Tamil Nadu's Western Ghats that shares the border of Kerala. It is renowned for its scenery, foggy hills, and organic tea gardens. Kolukkumalai is heaven for nature and adventure tourism. It is not exactly an effortless journey to visit this remote oasis as it is accessible only through a bumpy jeep path. Here is the step-by-step guide to visiting Kolukkumalai by various modes of transport.

Nearest Airport and Railway Station

• By Airport: The nearest airport is 125 km from Cochin International Airport (COK). It is well connected with domestic and international flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and world cities like Dubai, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. The second airport that could be in the range is Madurai Airport (IXM), which is around 135 km from Kolukkumalai.

• By Train: Theni Railway Station is nearest to Kolukkumalai, at a distance of 60 km. It enjoys good road connectivity to Madurai, Chennai, and other destinations in Tamil Nadu. One can easily travel from Theni in a taxi or bus to Munnar and then by jeep to Kolukkumalai.

Road Connectivity from Major Cities

• From Munnar (35 km): Munnar is the nearest large town to Kolukkumalai. To reach Kolukkumalai, you have to drive to Suryanelli, a small village 20 km from Munnar. It is only possible to reach Kolukkumalai by 4x4 jeep from Suryanelli, as the road is bumpy and hilly. The drive-by jeep would take 1.5 to 2 hours, and the scenery is great en route.

• From Kochi (125 km): If travelling by car from Kochi, drive on NH85 (previously NH49) to Munnar, for 4-5 hours. The same route from Munnar through Suryanelli to Kolukkumalai can be done in a jeep.

• From Madurai (135 km): For the people of Madurai, the shortest distance is Through Theni – Bodi – Suryanelli, a distance of about 135 km. By road, it would take 4-5 hours. From Suryanelli, one has to go in a jeep to reach Kolukkumalai.

• From Bangalore (500 km): If you are arriving from Bangalore, the best would be Salem – Dindigul – Theni – Munnar. It would be 9-10 hours by road. Alternatively, you can also come overnight by bus to Munnar and drive up to Kolukkumalai.

Transportation Available

• By Bus/Tourist Bus: Government and private regular buses from big towns like Kochi, Madurai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore reach Munnar. Taxis or jeeps can be rented from Munnar to Suryanelli and further to Kolukkumalai.

• By Taxi or Car Rental: For a smooth ride, the ideal choice is a self-drive vehicle or a private taxi. Taxis are readily available from Madurai, Theni, Ernakulam, Aluva, and Cochin to Munnar. From Munnar, take a 4x4 jeep to Kolukkumalai.

• By Jeep (Last Leg): The trip over the remaining 12 km of Suryanelli to Kolukkumalai is by jeep road only in 4x4. Jeeps are booked at Suryanelli or Munnar and are taken on hire at ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per jeep according to off-season or off-season requirements.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August) is hot but ideal for visiting hill stations, sea resorts, and high-altitude destinations. June is the start of the monsoon season in the tropics, with heavy rain and lush vegetation. It is a good season for nature tourism, waterfall tours, and rainforest treks. July and August witness maximum monsoon activity everywhere, and travel is a hindrance owing to constant rain, landslides, and wetness.

• Autumn (September to November) is also suitable to travel because the monsoon retreats with rejuvenated landscapes and clear blue skies. September is a time of transition as rains begin to recede and traveling becomes an easy proposition. October is well-liked with visitors due to a good climate with negligible rains and acceptable temperatures. It's the holiday season too for the majority of countries, thus diversity in cultures attracts tourism.

• Winter (December to February) is ideal for individuals who enjoy cold weather and snow sports. December is a month of celebrations due to the Christmas and New Year holidays, and hence it is the season of highest visits to urban areas, cultural sites, and beach resorts. Snow lovers can go to snowed-up highlands where winter landscapes have been converted into fairy worlds with snow.