Kumbakarai - Vellagavi - Kodaikanal- (Camp stay)
Kumbakarai - Vellagavi - Kodaikanal- (Camp stay)
Tough
14.0 KM
One way
12 Hours
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the scenic Western Ghats as you trek from Kumbakarai Falls to the tranquil village of Vellagavi and onward to the misty hills of Kodaikanal. This trail takes you through lush forests, coffee plantations, and charming mountain villages, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. The route is known for its steep ascents and rocky paths—ideal for those who enjoy a bit of challenge amid breathtaking landscapes. Experience the warmth of camp life under a starlit sky, surrounded by nature’s serenity. Along the way, spot exotic birds, soak in panoramic views from Dolphin’s Nose, and witness the simplicity of Vellagavi, where villagers walk barefoot as a mark of their harmony with nature.
⇒ Explore Trek Atlas of Kumbakarai - Vellagavi - Kodaikanal
KEY ATTRACTIONS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
- Pine forests
- Guna caves
- Berijam Lake
- Kurinji Trail
- Poombarai
Maximum Elevation: 1997 MSL(Approx.) Meters
Forest Type: South Indian sub-tropical hill savannah
Nearby Medical Facility: periyakulam GH - 8 km
Nearby Bus Stand: periyakulam - 8 km
Nearby Airport: Madurai - 105 km
Nearby Railway Station: Dindigul - 28 km / Theni - 27 km
Parking Facilities: Yes
- Leopard
- Indian Gaur
- Python
- Daypack or small hiking backpack
- Hiking boots or trail shoes as per your convenience
- Reusable water bottle
- Breathable and quick-drying Clothes are best for changing conditions
- Fleece or lightweight down jacket
- Sun hat or caps
- Trail mix, energy bars, nuts, dried fruits
- Personal medication
- Personal Identity Card
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repellent
- Hand Sanitizer
- Trash Bag
- Water-Resistant Wrap for Electronic Devices for rain protection
- Leech socks
- Rain Jacket or Poncho
- Sunglasses with UV protection
{{ type.name }}
{{ type.desc }}
{{ type.display_price }} per person
Guests
Extra prices:
Select Accomodation
- {{total_price_html}}
- {{pay_now_price_html}}
Know Your Package
Included
Excluded
Your transport upto reception point prior to the trek
Everything that falls outside the inclusions stated above
Things to remember before you book a trek
- Trekking in forests invariably requires physical endurance depending upon the category of the trek.
- Right planning and adequate preparations will make treks immersive and memorable.
- Pick the right trail that matches your fitness level and experience.
- Research your trek destination, be aware of local weather conditions and prepare for it.
- Know the Rules before you embark on the trek.
- Camouflage is the key to observe wildlife; Striking colours, aromatic sprays and Noise will easily give you away.
- Follow appropriate dress code and wear comfortable trekking shoes.
- Carry your backpack: water, snacks, jacket, personal medication etc.
- Please be aware that amenities at the destinations may be offering minimal comfort.
- Pay attention to instructions of the trek leader/ guide.
- Maintain lane discipline and stay with the group; short cuts may turn adverse.
- Observe carefully and do not miss out the little surprises and signs of the animal world.
- It's not a race, listen to your body and take adequate breaks as and when required.
- Selfies at your own risk.
- Refrain from picking wild plants and flowers though they may attract you.
- Treat wildlife with respect: approaching and feeding wild animals can endanger yours and group’s safety.
- Enjoy the scenic view of forest streams & waterfalls; Bathing is prohibited.
- Be a responsible trekker and leave no trash.
Guest reviews
🦅🌿 An Unforgettable Eagle Nest Trekking Experience 🌄🌄🌄
The overall experience was amazing and truly memorable. The food, drinking water, tent accommodation, campfire, and toilet facilities at the campsite were very good. There were also sufficient charging points for mobile phones, which was really convenient. The sunrise was absolutely breathtaking and one of the highlights of the trek. 🌅 The service and hospitality from everyone, including the guides and camp organizers, were excellent. They were friendly, supportive, and made sure we had a safe and comfortable experience throughout the trek. A wonderful trekking experience! Thank you, Trek Tamil Nadu, for organizing such a memorable adventure. 🥾🌿❤️
Wonderful Trek! - Had a great time.
I went to this on August, the climate was great with no sun as it had rained the previous day. The trek felt moderate. It's mostly traverse inside the trees, we could hear lot of birds singing etc. Do go for eagle's nest booking, the view was top notch. They even take you to the top hill on 2nd day morning, which was impeccable and time flew by when we were on the top of the top. The guides were telling a lot of stories surrounding the village and stuff. Definitely eat your breakfast before starting the trek, minimum 2 bottles per person will not have your worry about water depletion. Take fruits and protein bars will be helpful to snack along the way.
Trek Distance
Everything was amazing. Based on Strava application distance from Kumbakarai to Vellagavi is approximately 11km. May be its good to update the Trek distance, for sure full trek is not 14 km but more.
Kumbakarai to Vattakanal via Vellagavi - Tough uphill trek
This is an awesome trail, historic and used for a long time by the villagers of Vellagavi. The uphill trek is only for fit and trained people, DONOT try this if you cannot climb continously for 4-6 hours. The 2 day 14KM trek has an total elevation gain of around 1800m, and the uphill trek is relentless, its steep all the way. You start at Kumbakarai Checkpost (for public transport - reach there using an auto from Periyakulam), the first day is 7-8km (depending on the Campsite chosen). Ensure to carry less luggage, but enough water for the first day - most seasons there won't be any water source on the trail. You can refill at Vellagavi Campsite. Old Kodai Camping (or Eagle Nest camping) - both offer peaceful stay, nice views of the Kodai Valley - you can see all the way from the Periyakulam/VaigaiDam, to Coakers walk, Kodai town, Green Valley view and Guna Caves. Morning sunrise on clear days would be a bliss. Second day trek from Vellagavi to Dolphin nose and then to Vattakanal - its still tough and steep, but easier than the first day. Now there are roads laid upto Dolphin nose, so you will see commercial shops from near Dolphin Nose. Ensure your pickup vehicle reaches Vattakanal, narrow lane it can get crowded and traffic jam during peak season. Else, you need to walk up to the bridge or Church or Bryant Park (3-4 km additional) - this is a good option on good weather days. Or you could rent a van/taxi from Vattakanal to Kodai lake/Bus Stand. Overall, great experience. Choose this uphill trek only if you are fit and strong. The same downhill trek - might look easier while trekking, but will lead to leg pain for a long time. PLEASE do not litter on the trails, carry back all your garbage - there is no one on the hills to pickup your trash. THANKS.
Wonderful experience !!
This was my first trek and it was an amazing experience. The guides, members of the Vellagavi Village, were knowledgeable of route. The food provided during the trek was good. I stayed at Eagles nest and enjoyed it. The bonfire in the night was an added joy. PS: There were cab drivers who drove the car from Kumbakarai to Kodaikanal for a fee. It made the return journey convenient.
You might also like
