With sultry days peppered with intermittent summer showers making life in the plains a tad stifling, people are scouting for hill stations to beat the heat. An alluring destination that would soothe your mind and body is the Chokramudi Peak. The peak is definitely a slice of paradise as you could see white cotton-like clouds floating down below if could stand atop the hills just before sunrise. This is why every traveller is looking forward to trekking to the top of the Chokramudi Peak in Munnar in Idukki district.
The Chokramudi Peak won’t pale before mountains such as Anamudi and Meeshapulimala when it comes to popularity and elevation from sea level. While Anamudi is the highest peak in Kerala at 2,695m, Meeshapulimala comes second at 2,650m. The Chokramudi Peak is not far behind as it is third on the list at 2,643m. The unique vistas of the tea plantations, Anamudi Peak and the Idukki dam from the top of the Chokramudi hills are a feast for the eyes of every traveller.
Where is this incredible spot
You can reach Chokramudi from Munnar via Devikulam. The Chokramudi trekking base camp is situated on the right side when you drive forward after reaching Gap Road while travelling through the Chinnakanal Road. The ticket rate per person for domestic and foreign tourists is Rs 400 and Rs 600 respectively. You can also scale the Chokramudi Peak from Pothamedu, which is near Munnar.
When to trek
Though you can trek through the Chokramudi hills in the morning and evening, the surreal sights when the sun rises provide an out-of-the-world experience. It takes close to two hours to reach the top of the peak from the base camp, and if you are an experienced trekker, the trek would take only 90 minutes. It is better to reach the base camp early and start trekking by 5am so that you can immerse yourself in nature’s magnificent display called sunrise.
After 30 minutes of trekking, you will be transported to a world replete with mist and verdant forest. It is amazing to see how fast nature switches its spectacular frames once you reach the top of the hills. The expansive blue sky, the thick mist and the floating white clouds are always on change mode. There are many spots atop the peak for the travellers to chill and return rejuvenated and recharged. It doesn’t take much time to return to the base camp downhill.
What about camping
Longing to pitch a tent amidst mist atop the mountains? Then Chokramudi hill has the requisite facilities to fulfil your dreams. You have to just contact recognized agents for camping and a stay in the tents on the top of the hills. It is noteworthy that different types of packages are on offer for the tourists. The travellers can get food, water and camp fire along with the combo to stay atop the Chokramudi hills. While planning to stay on top of the mountains, make sure to pack some warm clothes as mercury may drop drastically at night. BSNL has a great connectivity in the region and also carry a power bank to recharge your cellphones.
When is the best time
Winter is the best season to visit Munnar and the Chokramudi Peak. The period between September and March is marked by gentle breeze and thick mist and trekking can definitely be a memorable experience. It is better to avoid visiting Chokramudi Peak during summer and monsoon seasons.