Brahmagiri Hills

Brahmagiri Hills stands as one of Wayanad’s most rewarding trekking destinations, rising to 1,608 metres above sea level on the Kerala-Karnataka border. Part of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and a recognised segment of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage cluster, the hill range shelters dense shola forests, rolling grasslands, and a remarkable variety of endemic wildlife. The trek to the summit rewards you with panoramic views stretching from the misty valleys of Wayanad on one side to the coffee plantations of Coorg on the other, making it a highlight for serious trekkers and casual nature lovers alike.

The Trek

The most popular trekking route begins near Thirunelli Temple at the Pakshipathalam Forest Station. The trail runs approximately 7 kilometres one way through evergreen and semi-evergreen forests before opening out to grassland meadows near the summit. The first half of the trek follows a well-marked path through thick canopy, while the final stretch involves a steeper climb across open grassland where the views begin to unfold. Most trekkers complete the round trip in 6 to 8 hours. The trail connects to Iruppu Falls on the Karnataka side, though crossing the state border requires separate permits. Forest Department guides are mandatory and can be arranged at the check post near Thirunelli.

Wildlife and Vegetation

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary covers around 181 square kilometres and is home to elephants, gaur, sambar deer, Malabar giant squirrels, and occasionally leopards. Birdwatchers can spot species such as the Malabar trogon, Nilgiri flycatcher, and white-bellied shortwing. The sanctuary sits within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and its forests transition from tropical wet evergreen at lower altitudes to montane grasslands near the peak. Orchids, ferns, and mosses cover the forest floor, and the landscape turns especially green during and just after the monsoon season.

How to Reach

Brahmagiri Hills is about 70 kilometres from Kalpetta. Drive north through Mananthavady and continue toward Thirunelli, where the trek begins near the Thirunelli Temple forest check post. The road from Kalpetta to Thirunelli takes roughly 2 hours. The final stretch passes through the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary area, so keep an eye out for wildlife even on the drive. Private vehicles and hired taxis are the most practical options, as public bus services to Thirunelli are limited to a few trips per day.

Nearby Attractions

• Thirunelli Temple — an ancient Vishnu temple at the base of the hills, just 2 kilometres from the trek starting point
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary — offers jeep safaris through elephant and bison territory, about 20 kilometres from Thirunelli
• Kuruva Island — a cluster of river islands on the Kabini, roughly 30 kilometres from Thirunelli and ideal for a half-day bamboo raft trip
• Pazhassi Tomb — a historical monument in Mananthavady that you pass on the way from Kalpetta

Visiting Information

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM (entry closes by 10:00 AM for the full summit trek)
• Entry Fee: Approximately ₹50 per person plus a mandatory guide fee (around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per group)
• Best Time to Visit: September to March, when skies are clearer and trails are dry; monsoon months (June to August) see heavy rain and leeches
• Duration: Allow a full day for the trek, or combine with a visit to Thirunelli Temple
• What to Carry: Sturdy trekking shoes, at least 2 litres of water per person, packed lunch, rain jacket, and leech socks during monsoon and post-monsoon months
• Permits: Trekking permits must be obtained from the Forest Department office at the Thirunelli check post on the morning of the trek; availability is limited, so arrive early