Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Munnar, Kerala, the Lachmi Hills trek offers an unforgettable half-day hiking experience. While my initial plan was to ascend Anamudi—the highest peak in Southern India at 2,695 meters—closure by the Forestry Service redirected my adventures to the accessible Meesapulimala, the region’s second highest peak at 2,640 meters. However, updates from the Forestry Office led to a change of plans once again, compelling me to consider alternative hiking options.
One operator, Ajith from Munnar Trekking Tours, truly stood out. Before pitching his standard package, he inquired about my trekking experience and candidly mentioned that the Meesapulimala summit hike might not meet my expectations. The crowded trails, with groups of over 100 hikers, would diminish the serenity I sought. Instead, he suggested the the Lachmi Hills hike, which I accepted.
Lachmi Hills Hike Overview:
- Elevation: 1,793 meters
- Distance: Approximately 11-12 kilometers
- Estimated Time: Around 5 hours.
$ Total Cost Range of this Activity is: 4000Rs
Hotel pickup/return, breakfast and guide service.
Watch The Video
Start the Lachmi Hills Hike
The hike commenced amidst serene tea plantations adjacent to the main road near Old Munnar. We traversed dual-track routes surrounded by thriving Eucalyptus forests, originally planted by the British for tea processing. Ajith enriched our trek with fascinating insights into tea-making history, tea leaf harvesting, and the lives of the pickers and their families.
While enjoying the beautiful landscapes, Ajith warned us of local wildlife, including the evidence of a recent visit by an Indian Gaur (or Indian Bison) and even the elusive wild tiger— (which had killed 3 villagers in the past 12 months).
To illustrate his point about wild animals, he spotted a male elephant grazing on the opposite slope of the valley.
Continuing our hike along breathtaking single-track paths, we were rewarded with panoramic views of distant peaks, including Anamudi and Meesapulimala. About two hours into our journey, we took a well-deserved break on a rocky outcrop, where Ajith treated us to a delightful homemade breakfast made by his mother. Both the food and the stunning vista were nothing short of extraordinary.
We See The Top
Rejuvenated, we pressed forward toward the highest point of the Lachmi Hills, marked by a white cross. The undulating ridgeline path led us through enchanting grasslands weaving between forests and tea plantations. This section culminated in a delightful break for snacks and photos at the summit.
The descent weaved through a denser Shola Forest, showcasing fragrant spices like pepper and cardamom thriving in their natural habitat. Our zig-zag trail eventually led us back to another tea plantation, where we retraced our steps through picturesque villages until reaching the town of Old Munnar.
The hike, views, sunshine, and altitude covered were just what I’d hope for. A good but not exhausting hike that showcased the splendor of nature in the hills and tea estates surrounding Munnar.
I was happy to return to our resort hotel and spend the rest of the day next to the pool.
The Track
Guide Contact Details:
Munnar Trekking Tours
Owner/Guide (and taxi driver) Ajith
+91 854.786.7382
+91 949.742.5889
https://munnartrekkingtours.com/
shadowtrekkersmunnar@gmail.com
Ajith is also a licensed Guide; he operates his own taxi and when we left Munnar he drove us to our next destination (Marari Beach) at a competitive price.