Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Kochi, Kerala, India

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Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Kochi, Kerala, India

1. Munnar Hill Stations

A series of hill stations offering breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails in the Western Ghats.
  • Altitude Variety: Ranges from 1,400 meters (4,600 ft) to 2,695 meters (8,842 ft) above sea level.
  • Lush Greenery: Traverse through dense forests of tea plantations and spice gardens.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Encounter diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds.

2. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

An enchanting forest reserve perfect for hiking trails with chances to spot endangered species like the Bengal tiger and elephant.
  • Wildlife Observation: Opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Boat Safari: Take a boat safari on Lake Periyar for additional wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Guided Tours: Explore the sanctuary with experienced guides to ensure a safe and informative hike.

3. Eravikulam National Park

Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers challenging hiking trails for adventurous travelers.
  • Rare Species: Opportunity to observe the critically endangered Nilgiri Tahr up close.
  • Anthropoid Bridges: Cross hanging bridges high above the valleys for panoramic views of the park.
  • High Altitude Hiking: Traverse steep and rocky terrain at elevations ranging from 1,500 meters (4,921 ft) to 2,800 meters (9,186 ft).

4. Silent Valley National Park

A pristine tropical rainforest and one of the few largest continuous tracts of such forests left in India.
  • Tropical Rainforest: Traverse through dense, evergreen forest filled with unique flora and fauna.
  • Endemic Species: Spot endemic bird species like the Malabar Grey Hornbill and the Indian Giant Squirrel.
  • Guided Hikes: Join guided hikes to learn about the park's rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem.

5. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

A picturesque wildlife sanctuary offering a variety of hiking trails through lush forests and rolling hills.
  • Flora and Fauna: Traverse through diverse flora including medicinal plants and spot wildlife like elephants, bison, and sambar deer.
  • Waterfalls: Hike to beautiful waterfalls like Thusharagiri Falls for refreshing breaks along the trail.
  • Off-the-beaten Path: A less crowded alternative to more popular hiking destinations in Kerala.

6. Vagamon Meadows

A picturesque hill station with lush meadows and scenic hiking trails.
  • Meadow Views: Take in breathtaking views of the meadows from various vantage points.
  • Tea Plantations: Walk through sprawling tea plantations for an authentic taste of Kerala.
  • Rock Climbing: Try rock climbing on the rugged hills surrounding Vagamon for added excitement.

7. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

A serene sanctuary featuring a variety of hiking trails with opportunities to spot numerous bird species.
  • Birdwatching: Spot over 500 different species of birds, including cormorants, egrets, and herons.
  • Backwaters Boat Tour: Take a backwaters boat tour to observe birds from a unique perspective.
  • Guided Walks: Join guided walks with experienced birdwatchers for in-depth knowledge and bird identification.

8. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Known as the 'Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary', it is a paradise for birdwatchers with over 600 species of birds.
  • Birdwatching: Spot numerous bird species, including the Malabar Grey Hornbill and the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon.
  • Guided Tours: Join guided tours led by local ornithologists for an enriching birdwatching experience.
  • Eco-friendly Lodging: Stay in eco-friendly lodges that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings.

9. Kollam-Sasthamkotta Backwaters

A serene network of backwaters offering tranquil hiking trails and opportunities to spot wildlife.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Spot a variety of wildlife, including otters, monitor lizards, and water snakes.
  • Scenic Boat Rides: Take scenic boat rides through the backwaters for unique perspectives of the local ecosystem.
  • Fishing Villages: Visit fishing villages to learn about traditional fishing methods and taste delicious local seafood.

10. Kumarakom Beach

A picturesque beach offering scenic hiking trails along the coast.
  • Beach Walks: Take leisurely walks along the pristine beach.
  • Fishing Villages: Visit nearby fishing villages to learn about traditional fishing methods and taste delicious seafood.
  • Mangrove Forests: Hike through mangrove forests for a unique glimpse of the local ecosystem.

11. Varkala Beach

A picturesque beach with cliff-top hiking trails offering panoramic views.
  • Cliff-top Views: Take in breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea from cliff-top vantage points.
  • Papanasham Beach: Visit Papanasham Beach, where pilgrims bathe to cleanse their sins.
  • Traditional Ayurveda: Relax with traditional Ayurvedic massages and treatments at local spas.

12. Alappuzha Backwaters

A network of interconnected canals, rivers, and lagoons perfect for scenic hiking trails.
  • Scenic Boat Rides: Take boat rides through the backwaters to explore hidden villages and witness daily life.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Spot a variety of wildlife, including otters, water snakes, and cormorants.
  • Rice Barges: Experience life onboard traditional rice barges for a unique perspective of the backwaters.

13. Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

A center dedicated to the training and rehabilitation of elephants, offering guided hikes through the surrounding forests.
  • Elephant Interaction: Interact with and observe elephants during your hike.
  • Forest Trails: Traverse through the forested hills surrounding the center.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Spot additional wildlife, including sambar deer, wild boars, and various bird species.

14. Thekkady Periyar Tiger Reserve

A tiger reserve offering challenging hiking trails through dense forests with opportunities to spot wildlife.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Spot a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and numerous bird species.
  • Guided Tours: Join guided tours to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Eco-friendly Lodging: Stay in eco-friendly lodges that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings.

15. Idukki Arch Dam

A series of dams offering scenic hiking trails with stunning views.
  • Stunning Views: Take in breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains.
  • Hydropower Station: Learn about the hydropower station and its role in powering Kerala.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, sambar deer, and gaur (Indian bison).