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The Thusharagiri trekking trail is a great trail to Wayanad and offers majestic and scenic views of picturesque waterfalls, rustic log bridges, various shades of greenery, streams bursting from ravines, and more. The literal meaning of Thusharagiri is ‘snow-capped mountains.’ Two streams meet here to form the Chalippuzha River. This river diverges into three falls creating a misty, snowy spray giving the name Thusharagiri. This trail is commonly known as a ‘trekking paradise’ because it offers challenging trekking and rock climbing. This trek is perfect for adventure, nature, and wildlife lovers.
Factors That Affect Thusharagiri Trekking
Photo: Dr.Juna / Wikimedia Commons
Some factors that can affect the Thusharagiri trekking are:
Rainfall: Trekking during rainfall and monsoon days is a risky affair here. The trail becomes slippery and there can be chances of landslides.
Climate: The hot and humid climate is not favourable for trekking here, as it can get very uncomfortable to walk.
Fitness Level: The fitness level of the trekker is also a deciding factor for this trek as it is a challenging trek and not for weak hearts. The trekker must be in a good physical and mental state to enjoy this trek.
How To Reach Thusharagiri
Photo: Girish Mohan P K / Wikimedia Commons
Tourists can first reach Kozhikode by air, rail, or road and then reach Thusharagiri easily.
By Air: Calicut International Airport is around 23 km away from the main town of Kozhikode. There are daily flights from metro cities. After that, you can take local transport to reach Thusharagiri.
By Rail: Kozhikode Railway Station is well-connected to major cities with a good number of mail and express trains.
By Road: Kozhikode is well connected by road to other cities. Thusharagiri is around 48 km from Kozhikode, at the foothills of the Western Ghats. It is very easy to reach this trek. A winding road branches off from NH 212 (Kozhikode – Ooty Highway), take that road and go for 10 km. It will lead you to the base of this trek.
About Thusharagiri Trekking
Photo: Manojk / Wikimedia Commons
Thhusharagiri Trek begins from the base of the Thusharagiri Ecotourism ticket counter. Many trekkers return after enjoying the beauty of the first waterfall. Others proceed to the second and third falls. It is better to begin trekking early in the morning.
- The first waterfall can be seen after you walk through a narrow steep path that leads to a ravine. After passing the first cascade, you will find the famous “Thanni Muthassi Maram,” a grand and old Bedda Nut tree, that indicates entry into the dense forest.
- A few kilometers inside the jungle will make you experience the wilderness. You may also hear the sounds of the Indian giant squirrel, which is considered the guardian of the jungle.
- After walking for 1.5 km (which will take around 45 minutes), you reach ‘Nootipathu (110),’ where you will find a natural pool. The wild elephants come here to drink water from the pond and have food.
- This area has vast grassland and thereafter it will be only forest. There will be rock formations in various parts of the forest. The trek through this dense jungle is very arduous.
- After passing through Jeerakappara and passing the stumps and creepers for 2.5 km, you will hear the sound of the waterfall. A mammoth rock stands amidst the crystal clear waterfall.
- The other part of the trek becomes more strenuous after every 100 meters. You will hear birds chirping and black monkeys shrieking. As you go up the hills, the trees get shorter.
- After another 5 km, a huge rock is found at the end of the forest cover, called the ‘Honey Rock’ or Thenpara. This peak is 2,897 feet above sea level.
- The trek down can be challenging and every step must be taken carefully. It can get slippery.
Places To Visit Near Thusharagiri Trek
Tourists coming for this trek can also plan to visit some other nearby destinations. Here are some of the best places to visit near this trek.
1. Chembra Peak
Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
Chembra Peak is a famous tourist destination in Wayanad, which is surrounded by a lush green valley. This peak is the highest in Wayanad and offers breathtaking views of the exotic flora and fauna. It has the famous heart-shaped pond which will surely mesmerise you at first sight. Walking through the lush tree plantations will offer one of the best trekking experiences. Tourists can click scenic pictures, enjoy the panoramic views, or simply relax amidst nature.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹15 for students, ₹750 trekking charges for 10 people
2. Lakkidi View Point
Photo: Sudharshan Solairaj / Wikimedia Commons
Lakkidi View Point is a very popular tourist destination, also referred to as the “Gateway of Wayanad.” It offers a bird’s eye view of the town. Tourists can view the rolling hills, hairpin bends, and lush green valleys. The ideal time to witness the magic from this point is during a misty day. Its fresh environment will soothe your soul and offer a perfect healing experience. If possible, you must plan to witness a sunrise or a sunset from this point.
Timings: 24*7
3. Soochipara Falls
Photo: M.arunprasad / Wikimedia Commons
Soochipara Waterfalls is a three-tiered waterfall, surrounded by deciduous, evergreen forests. It lies at a height of 200 meters and is a perfect place for all those looking for a natural retreat. The falls descend from a height of 100-300 feet and the natural pool below the falls attracts a lot of visitors. Soochipara means needle-like rock. There is a small lake called Cheenikkund on the top of the fall and is reachable through the forest. Its mesmerising beauty is worth all your efforts.
Timings: 8 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
4. Pookode Lake
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
Pookode Lake is a freshwater lake and is a major tourist attraction in Wayanad. It is nestled amid the evergreen forest and mountain slopes at 770 meters above sea level. This lake is also the point of origin for the Panamaram River. People come here for family picnics, boating, and to enjoy the serenity of the place. The lake also houses a lot of lotuses and lilies. The pleasant weather here adds to the hypnotic charm of this region.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children; ₹350 for rowing the boat, ₹100 – ₹200 for pedal boat
Best Time To Visit Thusharagiri
Photo: Manojk / Wikimedia Commons
The best time for trekking in Thusharagiri Kerala is from September to December. The monsoons recede by September leaving behind lush green carpet over the landscape. The flora and fauna are in full bloom and the climate is also pleasant for trekking. Photographers and nature enthusiasts must not come later than December as the water flow may dwindle by that time.
Where To Eat
Photo: Lakshmiaju / Wikimedia Commons
Tourists will find many good restaurants near the Thusharagiri Waterfalls, like Udupi Restaurant, The Coffee Grove Restaurant & Resorts, White House, Blue Ginger Resorts, Cafe Ladder, Wilton Restaurant, and more. They offer a scrumptious menu so that you can enjoy a hearty meal.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Monito – Money Transfer Comparison / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tourists must pay heed to the following factors and consider them while planning a trip to Thusharagiri:
Price For Trekking
Thusharagiri Trekking price for a group of 5 people is ₹2,355. This price is minimal and apart from this, you will only incur the transportation cost to reach the base of the trail. Overall, this turns out to be a budget-friendly adventurous trip.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable clothing and trekking shoes
- Carry water and snacks for the trek, to avoid dehydration
- Wear a hat and apply sunscreen to avoid the sun’s rays
- Keep a good-resolution camera handy to click the scenic pictures on the way
- Apply a mosquito repellent to keep the jungle mosquitoes away
- Keep an extra pair of clothing and an umbrella in your backpack
Thusharagiri trekking is worth indulging in as it offers breathtaking views and is surrounded by magical waterfalls and evergreen forests. The pristine beauty of this trail attracts a lot of trekkers every year. This place is one of the most picturesque locations in the Western Ghats, nestled among lush green forests. All thrill lovers must plan a trip to Kerala with TripXL and visit this amazing trekker’s paradise.
Cover Photo: Eric Sanman / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
