Trekking is one of the most exhilarating activities for people who not only enjoy the beauty and diversity of nature but also take comfort in the solitude it provides. Trekking is perfect for people who want to move a bit away from their comfort zone and receive a big payoff. If you are in India and are looking for The Best Place For Trekking in Kerala might be perfect for you. The scenic beauty that this state provides is something very unique and memorable. Today, we are going to take a look at one of the most popular trekking destinations in Kerala viz. The Kerala Silent Valley Trek.
The Best Place For Trekking in Kerala- Kerala silent Valley trek
Located in the Nilgiri Hills of Kerala, The Silent Valley National Park is a place where paths of nature-lovers and trekkers merge. It is one of the most scenic, lush and biodiverse landscapes that is home to the unique wildlife of Western Ghats. It is an UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. Since it is the only surviving green forest in the Sahya Ranges, its unspoiled natural beauty teeming with biodiversity and tranquil atmosphere is unique. The Silent Valley Trek offers trekkers and nature-lovers a place to just let go and feel the 237.52 square kilometers of green paradise.
Why the Silent Valley Trek Stands Out
Silent Valley Trek is sought out by trekkers and tourists visiting Kerala because it can provide one of the most authentic wilderness experiences in the country. The beauty and natural landscapes of this valley is untouched and protected to ensure the best experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the midst of nature.
1. Pristine Environment:
Being one of the still relatively untouched and less-disturbed rainforests in the country, its pristine environment is home to a plethora of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region. Trekking in Silent Valley allows trekkers to witness this biodiversity in its natural habitat.
2. Challenging Terrain:
The trek offers a variety of terrains, from dense forests to open grasslands and rocky outcrops. This diversity makes the Silent Valley trek challenging and exciting for seasoned trekkers looking for a memorable adventure.
3. Stunning Scenery:
You get to encounter breathtaking landscapes during this trek. Towering trees, gurgling streams, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills gives you one of the flavours of trekking in India..
4. Rich Wildlife:
Silent Valley is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to several endangered species, including the Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, and Malabar Giant Squirrel. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the diverse avian population, which includes species like the Great Indian Hornbill.
Trails for Trekking in Silent Valley
The Silent Valley National Park offers trekkers three trails to embark on their trekking journey. Each of these trails have a certain level of difficulty and offer different views and experience. Depending on your experience level and taste you can choose one.
Sairandhri Trail
It is the trail that most use to experience the Silent Valley. This trail takes you along the Kunthi River where you encounter nice forests and gentle slopes. This trail ensures that you not only enjoy the greenery and denseness of the forest but also have a chance to encounter the elusive wildlife here.
- Highlights: Forested paths, river views, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for beginners and nature lovers.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March.
- Duration: Typically 3-4 hours, making it a great half-day trek.
Poochipara Trail
This is a trail for people with a bit more experience as it can be a bit challenging since the terrain is rocky and the path often cuts through dense vegetation. But the payoff can be quite good if you are into trekking.
- Highlights: Panoramic valley views, dense forests, and rugged terrain.
- Difficulty: Challenging, best suited for experienced trekkers or those seeking an adrenaline rush.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Duration: Typically takes 5-7 hours, depending on pace and weather conditions.
Mukkali to Silent Valley Trek
This is another trail that you can enjoy the scenery in and surrounding areas of the Silent Valley. It starts at the village of Mukkali and takes you through varying landscapes and greenery into the heart of Silent Valley.
- Highlights: Varied landscapes, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.
- Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Duration: Typically a full-day trek, with options for longer excursions.
Preparing for the Silent Valley Trek
Being well-prepped can ensure that you get the best experience while staying safe. Here are some things to keep in mind before embarking on this journey:
1. Physical Fitness:
Since the trek involves going through dense forest and varying terrains it is advisable to consider your level of fitness. As long as you have good fitness this trek can be a good balance of challenging and rewarding. If you are unsure, it might be a good idea to take a guided tour.
2. Proper Gear:
Carry Proper gear. Even though this trek is not too difficult, it is advisable to bring quality trekking shoes to avoid blistering your foot and weather-appropriate clothing. Bring the appropriate amount of water as the climate is humid. Insect repellants can often make the trek comfortable.
3.Guided Tours:
Since this is a moderately challenging trek, guided tours can be quite beneficial as it gets your toes dipped into the world of trekking. Guided trekking tours in Kerala can also benefit tourists in general because they know all the best hotspots for views, wildlife and offer valuable insights which add to the experience.
4.Permits and Regulations:
Prior to coming, you need to have all the necessary permits from the Forest Department. To make the most out of the experience and to ensure a good experience for future trekkers, adhere to park regulations to protect the environment and wildlife.
Conclusion
Silent Valley provides some of the most breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Its unique blend of flora and fauna has attracted people from all over the world. It is undeniably one of the highlights for any trekker and guess what, this trek is quite friendly for beginners. So, if you are looking for trekking tours in India and haven’t decided where to start then this can be the perfect starting point. The lush greenery that is offered by this lone surviving forest-scape of the Sahya Ranges is unmatched.
Trekking in Kerala is quite organized as it is a tourist hotspot. Though it might turn off people who like a lot of solitude, it makes these beautiful nature hotspots more accessible to folks with different levels of expertise and experience. This means you will have a much easier time getting started on your trekking journey. So, why not lace up your hiking boots and step right into the core of Kerala trekking.