Monsoon Trekking- Best Trails in Western Ghats

 

In India, monsoon is not merely a change of seasons the monsoon is an emotional, visual and sense experience that equals to rebirth.

And nowhere is this change more dramatic than in the Western Ghats, a major UNESCO World Heritage, which spans Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

With the rains coming in June the range explodes to green life in a haze of mists, waters trickling down the sides in a lacework of waterfalls, the song of birds and the rustle of leaves.

To trekkers, the monsoons can be described as a magical invitation. Western Ghats proves to be host to the most glorious and spiritually rejuvenating trekking trails in India.

Regardless of whether you are an experienced seasoned hiker or an adventure seeking weekend explorer, these monsoon hikes will surely provide glimpse in to the wild untouched nature and reflective isolation.

Karnataka, Kudremukh Trek

Kudremukh is situated in the Chikmagalur district in the state of Karnataka, and as the name suggests, it is derived after a term in the use of Kannada, which means horse face.

The rainy season between June and September turns the trail alive with floated clouds, streams of rain-washed water and grass-green hills.

The day-long hike along the 22 kilometres takes you through bamboo forests, and Shola grasslands and some wildlife sightings as well.

The whole trail looks like a canvas which is being painted with countless layers of fog and rain. It is moderately difficult but so exquisitely beautiful and wonderfully solitary, that it is intensely gratifying.

Maharashtra Rajmachi Fort Trek

Rajmachi Fort Trek is a monsoon classic and is nestled between twin hill stations of Lonavala and Karjat in Maharashtra.

It is an easy to reach trail that is near Mumbai and Pune which becomes an enchanted trail with waterfalls, mossy rocks and the woods.

There are longer and scenic trek routes to choose which start at Lonavala, or more steeper and shorter trek pick up points at Karjat.

The panoramic views of the misty Sahyadris are witnessed by the twin forts of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan.

Local homestays also create a cultural beauty particularly in July until September when the whole scenery appears to be a movie set.

Agumbe Rainforest Trail in Karnataka

Agumbe is known as the Cherrapunji of the South as it is one of India with the highest rainfall. Situated in Malnad region of Karnataka; Agumbe provides a rich rainforest experience.

The nature lovers who do not mind getting soaked do have the best trail here and amongst them the Barkana Falls or Narsimha Parvatha treks are the most suitable.

Trekkers travel through dense jungles, traverse undiscovered waterfall, and even venture into what looks like unexplored caves.

The continual rains only contribute to the fantasy. It is a very renowned trail among herpetologists and wildlife photographers because of the biodiversity of flora and fauna present within the trail with a few instances of King Cobras being spotted.

Meesapulimala Trek Kerala

The second tallest peak in South India, Meesapulimala closer to Munnar is one of the beautiful trekking destination during monsoons.

It is translated as tiger-moustache hill and the trail does not fall short of its image as it offers some striking views, beautiful narrow ridges as well as rhododendron valleys.

The trek normally takes two days and has accommodation in campsites near Rhodo Valley.

Heavy rains occur in June and July but August to October is the best time of the year during which time a virtual rain-drenched adventure will be enjoyed by those wishing to have it a little less hazardous. the trek is memorable as one can see the sights of Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and Nilgiri tahrs can be spotted at times.

Coorg, Karnataka Tadiandamol Trek

Tadiandamol is the tallest mountain in Coorg which provides a soothing but exciting getaway to foggy sceneries and the jungles of peace.

The trail begins with the archaeological Nalknad Palace then traverses through tropical rain-forests, misty grasslands and the gurgling creeks.

The trail is perfect for the birdwatchers and people who are seeking solitude because it is comparatively thinner than the famous Coorg attractions.

The monsoon transforms the area into a dreamlike patch of greens and grey during July to October making it the perfect time to explore Tadiandamol.

Wayanad, Kerala Chembra Peak Trek

Wayanad is also home to the Chembra peak trek that is famous because of the popular heart-shaped lake, the Hridaya Saras.

It is not safe to visit the peak during peak monsoon months and it remains closed but the forest trail that takes you to the lake is mostly open after monsoons.

The trail provides a forest-sensitive eco friendly trekking and is eco certified by the forest department.

The most appropriate time of the year to go is between September and November when the landscape is green and dramatic but also quite safe.

The scenery that one may get at the lake point at a glance of the Wayanad district is worth the climb.

Harishchandragad through Nalichi Vaat, Maharashtra

Harishchandragad via Nalichi Vaat is one of the hardest monsoon treks among Sahyadris, and is suitable to seasoned trekkers.

It is rocky, steep and slippery- many people have died trying to walk this route, hence the name given to it that is translated as the path of nails.

The ascent is a challenge in muscle strength as well as resolve. But the superfine pay off when you reach the top is a jaw dropping view of the Konkan Kada- a huge concave landmass with the shape of a Cobra.

The ancient caves (including the rock-cut temples and the natural water cisterns) which add a mysterious touch to this pilgrimage in the monsoons.

Monsoon Season Tip for Trekking

Monsooning treks take special preparations. Rain ponchos, backpack rain covers and clothes that easily dry are necessary.

Select extra ankle support and deep treaded shoes to explore the muddy and slippery path.

Another precaution (especially in places like the rainforest, such as Agumbe) is to take anti-leech pills like salt or leech socks with you.

Never leave the place without local forecasts, a full-charged power bank, torch, and a basic, functional medical kit.

Never litter or disrespect local ecosystems, wherever necessary, seek the permission of forest departments.

Why Monsoon Trekking in the Western Ghats is Life Changing

Trekking in Monsoon is not just a physical experience; it is a very spiritual one.

When you stroll through mists onto trees and find your way through soft, rain-dampened trails, there is a certain connection with nature, which is spiritual.

You can hear the rain before you can see the rain; you can smell the earth long before your boots get stuck in the mud.

Western Ghats in monsoon is not just a background, it is a character on a living play in your journey.

The loneliness with only the accompaniment of the birds or falling waterfalls helps in developing a form of humility and inner-peacefulness that is unusual in the normal life.

Conclusion

The monsoon in the Western Ghats is not beautiful, not merely beautiful, it is life changing.

Trek to here in the rains is a test of fortitude, a hymn to nature, and most of the times a voyage of self discovery.

Every path has its own rhythm, new mood and its own taste of wilderness. The theme however is the rawness and wild beauty that the rains reveal.

Therefore, just admiring the monsoon in your balcony this season is not a good idea. Put on your shoes, buckle your belt and immerse your soul in the trails of Western Ghats.