Vagamon Trekking Guide: Best Trails and What to Expect
Vagamon's geography makes it one of Kerala's most rewarding trekking destinations. The plateau's varied terrain — open grasslands, dense shola forest, tea estate tracks, and rocky ridgelines — offers trails suited to every fitness level and interest. And the views, almost wherever you go, are extraordinary.
Trek 1: Vagamon Peak (Moderate, 8–10 km, 4–5 hours)
The most popular full-day trek in Vagamon. The route ascends from the Vagamon plateau through shola forest to the highest point of the surrounding range, offering 360-degree panoramic views at the summit. On a clear day (best October–February), you can see all the way to the Kerala plains.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start point: 8 km from Simons Holidays
- Best season: October to February
- Guide required: Yes — arrange through the resort
Trek 2: Murugan Hill (Easy, 4 km, 2 hours)
A shorter, gentler climb to a hilltop with a small Murugan temple and excellent valley views. The trail passes through grass and scrub, with good bird-watching opportunities. Suitable for families with children over 8.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Best time: Sunrise or late afternoon
- Suitable for: Families, photography, first-time trekkers
Trek 3: Thangal Para Forest Walk (Easy, 3 km, 1.5 hours)
A gentle walk through the pine and eucalyptus forest near Vagamon. Mostly flat, well-marked path. The pine forest section is particularly photogenic — tall straight trunks and a carpeted floor. Ideal for morning walks.
Trek 4: Kurisumala Ridge Trek (Moderate, 6 km, 3 hours)
The trail to Kurisumala Ashram follows a ridge with continuous valley views on both sides. The ashram at the summit is a serene Cistercian monastery welcoming visitors. The return route offers different perspectives on the valley below.
Trek 5: Tea Estate Circuit (Easy, 5 km, 2.5 hours)
A self-guided or guided loop through the working tea estates surrounding Simons Holidays. Walk among the tea rows, observe the plucking process, and circle back to the resort for breakfast. The most accessible trek for guests of the resort — you can start from the property itself.
What to Pack for Vagamon Trekking
- Waterproof hiking boots (ankle support recommended)
- Leech socks for monsoon and post-monsoon trekking
- Layered clothing — mornings are cool at altitude
- Trekking poles (optional but helpful on descent)
- Water and energy snacks for longer treks
- Sunscreen — UV is stronger at altitude
Book Your Trekking Base at Simons Holidays
Our adventure concierge can arrange guided treks, transport to trailheads, packed lunches, and early breakfast for pre-dawn starts. Contact us to add trekking to your Vagamon stay package.