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There are numerous picturesque lakes in India, but rare are the lakes rendering a unique view like Chembra Lake in Kerala. Atop the Chembra Peak in Wayanad, this heart shaped lake in India is a wonder of nature. Regarded as a testament to love, it draws trekkers, couples and nature lovers looking for secluded bliss. The lake, intact year-round, fed by natural springs, provides an abundance of panoramic views of misty hills. If you need a romantic getaway or an adventure getaway, a visit to this lake is worth it.
Quick Details About The Heart Shaped Lake In India
Location: Wayanad, Kerala
Trekking Permit: ₹500 per group
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Altitude: 2,100 meters above sea level
Trekking Distance: 3.5 km (moderate difficulty)
Other Names: Hridaya Saras or Hridaya Thadakam
Location
Photo: Karkiabhijeet / Wikimedia Commons
Chembra Lake is located atop the Western Ghats in the trekking range of Chembra Peak in Wayanad, Kerala. Set amid lush tea plantations, rolling grasslands and thick forests, it is within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. This heart shaped lake in India is located 1.5 km off the main trekking route, accessible only via guided trek. The place is around 8 km away from the town area of Meppadi and about 35 km away from Kalpetta. Hiking to the lake reveals beautiful vistas of fog-drenched hills and valleys.
How To Reach
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
By Air:The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode), which is 90 km away. At the airport, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Wayanad.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode Railway Station, 80 km. Take a KSRTC bus or taxi and reach Meppadi from the station.
By Road: From Bangalore, it is 280 km (6 hours via NH 766). From Kochi, it is 260 km (6.5 hours via NH 66). A distance of 141 km from Mysore (4 hours via NH 766). From the major cities, private vehicles, state-run KSRTC buses and taxis are available.
Things To Do At The Heart Shaped Lake In India
When visiting Chembra Lake, take advantage by indulging in the following activities in this beautiful heart shaped lake in India:
1. Trek To Chembra Lake
Photo: Vivekobey / Wikimedia Commons
Getting to Chembra Lake, which is a heart shaped lake in India from the top, requires a moderate 3.5 km trek. This is through green tea plantations, misty forests, and rocky grasslands. The Meppadi Forest Check Post is the starting point of this trek, which winds through meadows and ridges. It offers stunning views of adjacent valleys. Trekking through it, see the rare flora and fauna, hidden streams and peaks caressed by the clouds. The last part of the trek is especially beautiful, displaying the emerald-green waters framed by the rippling ranges of the Western Ghats.
2. Indulge In Photography And Birdwatching
Photo: Robin S Kishore / Wikimedia Commons
Chembra Lake gives aerial shots of the heart-shaped lake, mist-covered mountains, and colourful meadows. Misty, sunlit moments make for surreal captures during early morning visits. The region is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with sightings of Malabar whistling thrushes, woodpeckers, Nilgiri flycatchers and serpent eagles. The undisturbed ecosystem presents opportunities to photograph exotic species such as butterflies, wild orchids, and rare flora endemic to the Western Ghats. For the best shots, bring a telephoto lens (for wildlife) and a wide-angle lens (for landscapes). The summit views, especially during sunset, are breathtaking for long-exposure photography.
Places To Visit Near The Heart Shaped Lake In India
Explore these places around Chembra Lake, the heart shaped lake in India and experience the beauty of this part of Kerala:
1. Meenmutty Waterfalls
Photo: Rajeshkunnoth / Wikimedia Commons
Wayanad’s tallest waterfall, Meenmutty, is a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down 300 meters. Unlike regular waterfalls, you have to trek through the forest for 2 km to reach this place, where you have to pass through the dense greenery and rocky roads. The roaring sound of the water and the misty surroundings is surreal. Due to safety concerns, only the first tier is accessible during monsoons and the full cascade may be explored during drier months. Plastic is prohibited in the region because it is a reserved forest.
Distance From Chembra Lake: 29 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults, ₹30 for children, ₹300 for foreigners
Best Time To Visit: October to May
2. Edakkal Caves
Photo: Asif K Karim / Wikimedia Commons
Edakkal Caves are known for Neolithic petroglyphs (rock carvings) that are 6,000 years old. Edakkal is not a cave in the conventional sense, but two rock shelters reached only by a 1.5-kilometre uphill hike. Inside, you can discover engravings of humans, animals, symbols and ancient scripts, as well as a glimpse into the olden times. The hike provides spectacular views of the valley, and the site is an archaeological gem. History buffs should hire a local guide to learn about the carvings and their meaning.
Distance From Chembra Lake: 25 km
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners, ₹20 for students
Best Time To Visit: November to March
3. Banasura Sagar Dam
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
Banasura Sagar, India’s largest earthen dam, is a special attraction. It is a dam that is quite different from regular sightseeing dams, as it offers activities like speed boating, trekking, bamboo rafting, etc. The Banasura hills surrounding it offer a stunning setting, best seen on a jeep safari. To get aerial views of the reservoir, trek up Banasura Peak, which is a 6 km trek for adventure. Not only that, but it is also home to a floating solar power plant, adding to its sustainability credentials.
Distance From Chembra Lake: 37 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹40 for adults, ₹20 for children
Best Time To Visit: September to February
4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected wildlife reserve where you can find elephants, tigers, leopards, gaurs, and Malabar giant squirrels. It is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, with a total area of 344.44 sq km. The sanctuary is separated into Tholpetty and Muthanga, two separate areas. Unlike many sanctuaries, it has early morning and evening jeep safaris for wildlife-watching opportunities. The terrain comprises moist deciduous forests and bamboo groves, which are perfect for nature photography. Visitors are encouraged not to make noise and to avoid bright colours to have the best chance of seeing animals.
Distance From Chembra Lake: 20 km
Timings: 7 AM – 10 AM, 3 PM to 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹110 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners, ₹50 for children ( ₹600 for jeep safari)
Best Time To Visit: November to May
5. Karapuzha Dam Lake
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
Built across the Karapuzha River, the masonry Karapuzha Dam spans 405 square kilometres. It is situated close to the Wayanad resort in Kerala. Karapuzha is a place where you can enjoy the calmness of the lake in one of the largest earth dams in India. This place is perfect for picnics, kayaking, and birdwatching. The dam’s wide reservoir draws migratory birds, making it a key attraction for birdwatchers. The Karapuzha Adventure Park adds thrill to the visit with ziplining, rope courses and a floating bridge.
Distance From Chembra Lake: 30 km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹30 for adults, ₹20 for children
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Where To Stay
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay close to the heart shaped Lake in India, the Vythiri Resort is a good option. It features luxury treehouses and jungle cottages. Budget travellers can forgo the heat and stay at Meenmutty Heights for eco-friendly cottages. At the midway point is Upavan Resort, offering valley views and mid-range comfort. Backpackers can bed down at Zostel Wayanad. Guide treks, plantation walks and traditional Kerala meals are often part of the experience at many such resorts.
Where To Eat
Photo: vivek raj / Wikimedia Commons
For authentic Kerala flavours, head to 1980’s A Nostalgic Restaurant, which is famous for thali from Kerala, fish curry and Malabar parottas. Head to the Wilton Restaurant, ideal for Wayanad-style biryani and pepper chicken. For South Indian vegetarian dishes, a good option is Udupi Pure Veg. For a pleasant café setting, opt for ClayHut, serving woodfire pizzas and local cuisine. Most resorts prepare an authentic Kerala sadya meal on request.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Mishrasasmita / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip:
A 2 day trip to Chembra Lake can cost ₹6,000 to ₹15,000 per person, depending on travel style. Budget travellers (buses, hostels, local food) can be within ₹6,000. Mid-range travellers (private stays, local taxis) spend about ₹10,000. Luxury travellers (high-end resorts, guided tours, fine dining) can drop ₹15,000 and more.
Tips For Travellers:
- The path to Chembra Lake is steep, hence, wear trekking shoes.
- When you arrive, try to reach early (before 10 AM) as entry closes early.
- Bring water and snacks, since there are no food stalls by the lake.
- Plastic is restricted here, so pack alternatives.
- Plan to book safaris and permits well in advance of your trip, particularly during peak seasons. For this part of Kerala, stay in Wayanad (Kalpetta or Meppadi) for easy access to attractions.
Chembra Lake, a heart shaped lake in India, is an introduction to a world of adventure, lush green mountains and rich culture in Wayanad. The lake itself symbolises love and the work of nature, making it an ideal location for trekkers, couples and nature lovers. From wildlife encounters and adventure treks to peaceful retreats, this area has it all. Plan your trip with TripXL and create unforgettable memories in Kerala’s green paradise.
Cover Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
