Kolagappara

Kolagappara is one of Wayanad’s best-kept secrets for trekking enthusiasts who want open grassland summits and sweeping mountain views without the crowds that gather at more famous peaks. Located near Meppadi in the western part of the district, this offbeat hillock rewards visitors with a quiet, contemplative experience and some of the most expansive vistas in the region. If you have already trekked Chembra Peak and are looking for something less commercial, Kolagappara is an excellent alternative.

The Trek

The trek to the top of Kolagappara starts from a small village access point near Meppadi and passes through a mix of cultivated land, grassland, and scattered patches of shola forest. The trail is moderately easy and covers roughly 3 to 4 kilometres one way, with a gradual ascent that most reasonably fit visitors can handle. The final stretch opens onto a broad, grassy summit plateau where the wind picks up and the views extend in every direction. On clear days, you can see the layered ridges of the Western Ghats stretching into the distance, with the green carpet of tea plantations and forest below. The entire round trip typically takes three to four hours at a comfortable pace.

Why Visit Kolagappara

The main draw of Kolagappara is its solitude. Unlike Chembra Peak, which sees heavy footfall and requires permits, Kolagappara remains relatively unvisited. The grassland landscape at the summit is ideal for simply sitting and soaking in the scenery, having a packed lunch, or shooting landscape photography without other trekkers crowding the frame. The terrain is gentler than Chembra, making it more accessible for beginners and families with older children.

Location and How to Reach

Kolagappara is situated near Meppadi, approximately 10 kilometres from Sultan Bathery and about 20 kilometres from Kalpetta. The base of the trek is accessible by road, though the final stretch may require a sturdy vehicle or a short walk. From Kozhikode, the drive takes roughly two and a half hours via the Thamarassery Ghat. From Mysore, it is approximately 110 kilometres via Sultan Bathery. Local auto-rickshaws and taxis from Sultan Bathery or Meppadi can drop you at the trailhead.

Nearby Attractions

The western side of Wayanad around Meppadi is rich in natural attractions. Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a three-tiered cascade surrounded by dense forest, located within driving distance of Kolagappara. The pool at the base of the falls is popular for swimming. Meenmutty Waterfalls, one of the largest waterfalls in Kerala at nearly 300 metres, involves a moderate forest trek and makes a rewarding companion outing. The well-known Chembra Peak, with its famous heart-shaped lake partway up the trail, is also in the same part of the district.

Visiting Information

• Open: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free. No permits are currently required.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is cool and dry. The grasslands are at their greenest just after the monsoon in October and November. Avoid trekking during heavy monsoon rains from June to August, as trails can become slippery.