Banasura Hill Trek - Wayanad

Details

We start off our overnight bus journey from Bangalore at 8:30 PM. Although we begin our adventure as a group of strangers, our trek leads have some exciting ice-breaking sessions planned that are guaranteed to turn any boring bus journey to an experience not to be missed! However, do make sure to get some sleep in between all the fun as a long and adventurous day awaits us the next day.

Details

The trail to the top of Banasura hill is clearly defined for the most part. The majority of the trail winds through some very dense Shola trees. From its base, Banasura, a massive cone-shaped hill, may be seen in all its glory. The Banasura Falls diverge into a babbling stream that meanders over stones and plants. Another possible starting point is the Banasura Sagar Dam in Wayanad, the largest earth dam in India and the second largest of its kind in Asia. About 2.5 kilometres from the Banasura dam in Wayanad is where the ascent begins. The Meenmutty waterfalls are about a half-walk hour's from the Forest Service office and are worth the effort (beginning stage of the Banasura Hill trek). Meenmutty Falls is Wayanad's most impressive waterfall, with its numerous, spectacular cascades. The 1,000-foot cascade is famous for its three-tiered playing field.

It's a tough climb to the top of the hill. The hiking path winds its way stealthily through the valleys, where swaying crops provide a lush backdrop. Throughout the Trek, there are a few spots where the grandeur of the Shola forests really stands out. The trek offers a progressively more impressive view of the Karamanathodu stream of the Kabini River. The three hour hike to the summit is stimulating and taxing due to the path's undulations and steepness. The first 45 minutes of this route are the most challenging because of how steep it is from the get-go. Some parts of the Trek are particularly dangerous due to the presence of leeches and thorny bushes, therefore the travellers must proceed with caution. About halfway there, you'll see three or four breathtaking mountain streams where you can refill your water bottles. After the initial hard elevation, the remaining 1.5 hours will be a gradual incline. Because of the possibility to hike alongside the yellowing fields as they move, this region is particularly beautiful. In addition to rocks and boulders, the grass on the trail is knee-high. One of the best features is the breathtaking scenery.

The final kilometre is especially steep, and there is little tree cover, so you may be parched by the end. Several cliff sides provide a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Carry on ambling down the trail; you'll pass a few knolls en route to the summit. The top is the best place to get breathtaking views of the surrounding area. As far as the naked eye can see, the mountain ranges continue on forever. The Banasura dam near Wayanad is the best place in Kerala for hiking.

Returning to:

Continue down the same path you came down with. It'll take you three to four hours to make your way down the nine kilometre stretch of winding terrain that includes thick brambles, mountain streams, knee-high prairie, and 60-70 degree inclines.

Details

The Banasura Sagar dam, India's largest earthen dam, and Asia's second-largest impound the waters of the Karamanathodu, a Kabini river tributary. This is a beautiful location for a picnic.
With the Banasura hill in the distance, the view of the reservoir created by the dam and its many little islands covered in lush vegetation is breathtaking. 

We would return to Bangalore after a day full of adventure and activities.