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The Western Ghats are one of the best places in India for trekking. This mountain range covers six states and has a variety of trails for all levels of trekkers. Trekking in Western Ghats takes you through dense forests, open grasslands, waterfalls, and rocky peaks. Some trails are easy and scenic, while others offer longer routes with stunning views. Along the way, you might spot wildlife, enjoy refreshing streams, walk through mist-covered valleys, and take in the rich biodiversity that makes this region so special.
Top 10 Places For Trekking In Western Ghats
Here are ten amazing places to explore the beauty and adventure of the Western Ghats:
1. Kudremukh
Photo: Mike Prince / Wikimedia Commons
Kudremukh mountain stands 1,892 meters tall and gets its name because its peak looks like a horse’s head (“Kudre” means horse, “mukh” means face). The 22-kilometre trek goes through thick forests, open grasslands, and clear streams, where deer, langurs, and Malabar giant squirrels live. The trek starts from Mullodi village, takes 7–9 hours, and needs prior permission. The best time to visit is when the hills are green from October to February. On clear days, you can see the Arabian Sea, while the rainy season brings mist and leeches, so waterproof gear is needed.
Major Attractions: Kudremukh Peak, Kudremukh National Park
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (approximately 99 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Mangalore Central Railway Station
2. Kalsubai
Photo: Ragz13 / Wikimedia Commons
Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra at 1,646 meters, is a popular trekking spot with a mix of adventure and local tradition. Stone steps help climbers reach the small Kalsubai temple at the top, which many people visit to pray. The trek is steep, but metal railings and chains make it safer for beginners. Hikers can see different plants, small animals, and wide valley views along the way. Those who start early can catch a stunning sunrise as the sky turns orange and pink over the Western Ghats, making the climb even more rewarding.
Major Attractions: Kalsubai Peak, Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (approximately 152 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Igatpuri Railway Station
3. Kodachadri
Photo: Akshaya govindasamy / Wikimedia Commons
Kodachadri, at 1,343 meters, is a well-known spot for trekking in Western Ghats. The trail starts in thick forests, crosses small rivers, and leads to Hidlumane Falls, where trekkers can rest before climbing. As the trek continues, the landscape changes to open grasslands before reaching the peak, where an old temple linked to Adi Shankaracharya stands. Heavy mist covers the area during monsoons, making the path challenging but exciting. Trekkers can take the steep Ganesha Gudi route or the easier Karekatte path, offering views of rare birds, medicinal plants, and diverse wildlife.
Major Attractions: Kodachadri Peak, Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (approximately 140 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Byndoor Mookambika Road Railway Station (approximately 28 km away)
4. Chembra Peak
Photo: Apletters / Wikimedia Commons
Chembra Peak, at 2,100 meters, is a popular trekking destination known for its heart-shaped lake, which remains visible throughout the year. The trek begins at the forest office, where visitors must obtain a permit and hire a local guide. The trail passes through tea plantations, dense forests, and open grasslands, with sections becoming steep and challenging. Mist often covers the peak, reducing visibility but enhancing the experience. From the top, trekkers can see the Western Ghats stretching across Kerala, with glimpses of nearby towns and valleys. The trek is moderately difficult and takes around four to five hours to complete.
Major Attractions: Chembra Peak, Heart-shaped Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (approximately 92 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station
5. Tadiandamol
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Coorg at 1,748 meters, is one of the places for trekking in Western Ghats known for its coffee plantations and diverse forest life. The well-marked trail passes through the Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various bird species and wildlife. Early mornings bring misty landscapes, and natural springs along the way provide fresh water. The trek is moderately challenging, making it suitable for beginners. Trekkers can enjoy views of the Brahmagiri mountain range and the surrounding valleys from the summit. The best time to visit is post-monsoon when the trails are full and green.
Major Attractions: Tadiandamol Peak, Nalaknad Palace
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (approximately 82 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction Railway Station
6. Dudhsagar Falls
Photo: Samson Joseph / Wikimedia Commons
Dudhsagar Falls, standing at 310 meters, is one of India’s tallest waterfalls, cascading in four stages to create a striking white flow, earning it the name “sea of milk.” The trek to the falls passes through dense forests, old railway tracks, and small streams, offering a scenic and adventurous journey. During the monsoon, the waterfall is at its most powerful, while the surrounding Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary remains rich with diverse plant and animal life year-round. Visitors can reach the falls via a trek, jeep safari, or train ride, offering a different perspective of this natural attraction.
Major Attractions: Dudhsagar Waterfall, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (approximately 70 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kulem Railway Station
7. Mullayanagiri
Photo: Avinash Kumar singh / Wikimedia Commons
At 1,930 meters, this towering peak offers a trek that begins in coffee plantations and moves through grasslands that change with the seasons, from monsoon green to winter gold. The trail combines stone steps and natural paths, leading to an ancient temple at the summit. Along the way, trekkers can explore caves hidden along the mountainside. At the top, views of the surrounding mountain ranges make the climb rewarding for adventure seekers and spiritual visitors. The best time to visit is between September and March for clear skies and pleasant weather.
Major Attractions: Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri Hills
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (approximately 150 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Chikkamagaluru Railway Station
8. Bhimashankar
Photo: Jayesh Singh / Unsplash
This mountain, one of the places for trekking in Western Ghats, is known for its natural beauty and spiritual significance, with a trail that passes through dense forests home to diverse wildlife, including the rare Giant Squirrel. The moderate trek leads to the ancient Bhimashankar Temple, a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Along the way, trekkers encounter unique rock formations, small shrines, and waterfalls that come alive during the monsoon. The route offers a mix of adventure and pilgrimage, attracting nature lovers and spiritual seekers throughout the year.
Major Attractions: Bhimashankar Temple, Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (approximately 110 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Pune Junction Railway Station
9. Anamudi Peak
Photo: Mdmadhu / Wikimedia Commons
At 2,695 meters, this towering peak is the highest in the Western Ghats and a key highlight of Eravikulam National Park. Known as Anamudi, its name, “elephant’s forehead,” comes from its distinct rounded shape dominating the landscape. Moreover, its slopes provide a habitat for the rare Nilgiri Tahr, which is often spotted grazing on the rugged terrain. However, trekking to the summit requires special permits and a guided route. Despite these restrictions, those who go through the journey are rewarded with views of South India’s highest mountain ranges, making it a favourite among nature enthusiasts and trekkers.
Major Attractions: Anamudi Peak, Eravikulam National Park
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (approximately 130 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station
10. Rajmachi
Photo: BHARATHGOTTEMUKKULA / Wikimedia Commons
The trek to Rajmachi starts from either Lonavala (a 16 km route) or Karjat (a steeper 12 km route). The trail passes through dense forests, small villages, and open plateaus before reaching scenic viewpoints overlooking Shirota Lake and the Ulhas Valley. During the monsoon, the region turns vibrant green, with waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. The final stretch leads to the twin forts of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, which once guarded trade routes between Mumbai and Pune. With a moderate difficulty level, the trek is manageable for both experienced trekkers and beginners looking for a historical and scenic adventure.
Major Attractions: Rajmachi Fort, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan Forts
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (approximately 78 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Lonavala Railway Station
Trekking in Western Ghats takes you through diverse landscapes, dense forests, and deep valleys. Every trail has something special, from wildlife and waterfalls to ancient temples and ever-changing mountain views. Along the way, you can explore villages, walk through tea and coffee plantations, and discover viewpoints that offer incredible scenery. Book your next trekking trip in India with TripXL for travel deals, accommodation choices, and guided tours.
Cover Photo: BHARATHGOTTEMUKKULA / Wikimedia Commons
