Many have asked about the most affordable way to visit Meesapulimala. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip efficiently.
Getting There
When traveling to Munnar via Adimali, you’ll first reach Old Munnar, where the KSRTC bus stand is located. Continuing forward, you’ll enter Munnar town. Cross the bridge, turn right, and you’ll find the Jeep Taxi Stand, with the Munnar Post Office opposite it. The KFDC office, where you’ll need to purchase passes for Meesapulimala, is about 1.5 km from here.
700 year old rhododendron arboreum.. 💮 View from Meesapulimalai..!
Booking Your Trip
At the KFDC office, you can park your vehicle and buy passes for Meesapulimala. The entrance also leads through the Rose Garden, an added attraction.
The journey to the Meesapulimala Base Camp is 30 km. After traveling 25 km, you’ll stop at Silent Valley Viewpoint for about 30 minutes. Here, you can take photos and enjoy a cup of tea before continuing the final stretch to the base camp.
Jeep Safari & Travel Stages
Whether you rent a private jeep or arrange a forest vehicle, your journey will consist of four main phases:
- Travel from KFDC to Base Camp (Day 1)
- Early morning trek from Base Camp to Meesapulimala Sunrise View (Day 2)
- Return from the view point to Base Camp
- Collect luggage and return to Munnar
What to Expect at the Base Camp
- Cold Weather: Munnar is already chilly, but the base camp is even colder. Sleeping bags will be provided.
- Facilities: Separate bathrooms for men and women, along with three-pin sockets for charging phones.
- Mobile Network: Only Jio has coverage. Ensure your phone is fully charged before you set off.
Trekking Tips
- Wake up by 5 AM and freshen up. On holidays, expect bathroom queues at the base camp.
- Carry essentials for warmth: Sweater, jacket, muffler, cotton socks, trekking/sports shoes.
- Keep light snacks: Dry fruits, biscuits, chocolates, and a water bottle to stay energized during the trek.
- Avoid heavy luggage. The trek is challenging, and extra baggage will make it harder.
For Families
- If traveling with family, prepare them mentally for the 4-hour uphill trek.
- Avoid taking children under 8 years or seniors over 60 as the climb is physically demanding.
- The first hill climb may feel exhausting—take it slow and rest as needed.
The Trek Experience
- The trek includes seven hills. The sunrise view is from the first hill, but the best sights come after sunrise.
- Expect heavy fog and strong winds during winter—secure lightweight items like caps.
Packing List
- Medical supplies: Ominigel for muscle pain, basic medicines.
- Personal items: Mobile charger, toothpaste, toothbrush.
- Energy boosters: Chocolates or traditional energy sweets.
Additional Sightseeing
After trekking, you can explore more of Munnar:
- Top Station: Pay a little extra to your jeep driver for a quick visit.
- Botanical Garden: Located near Munnar town, a good stop if you have time.
- Avoid Rajamala on weekends/national holidays due to long queues.
- Kanthalloor & Marayoor: Ideal for an extra night stay.
- Visit Irachil Para Waterfall and Muniyara Viewpoint.
- Buy Marayoor jaggery, known for its quality.
Travel Tips for Own Vehicles
- Refuel at the Transport Stand in Munnar for good-quality petrol.
- Tea Shopping: Rippl’s first-quality tea is sold until 5 PM in Munnar town—available in unique flavors.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months for Meesapulimala trekking are December to February.
Budget Trekking Options
It’s best to go in a group rather than solo, as tent stays require at least two people. If you’re traveling alone, you can join organized trekking groups.
- One such group, Social Forestry and Environmental Studies, arranges treks every month.
- Contact: +91 994745 0000(WhatsApp available).
The Meesapulimala base camp is 25 km off-road, and the camp fee is ₹3,500 (including transport, food, stay, guide, and return travel).
Happy trekking!
