KALPETTA: With tourist numbers soaring in Wayanad, the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) is receiving praise for positioning Cheengeri Hills as a sustainable and scenic alternative to the fragile Chembra Peak. The shift comes as Chembra, a hotspot especially among international visitors, now restricts daily trekking permits to fewer than 100 to protect its delicate ecosystem.
Located between Sultan Bathery and Kaduvakuzhi, Cheengeri Hills—also known as Cheengirimala—has emerged as a popular option, thanks to its gentle inclines, panoramic dawn views, and easy accessibility. At just ₹50 per person, it offers a wallet-friendly experience compared to the ₹1,000-plus Chembra trek.
“Cheengeri was already open, but we decided to promote it after tourists reported overcrowding and high costs at other spots,” said Binosh Kunjappan, DTPC secretary. “Now, on peak season days, up to 300 trekkers visit daily. It’s safe, family-friendly, and strictly follows eco-protocols—no plastics allowed, glass bottles provided, and trained guards escort visitors.”
Adding to its allure, the KSRTC Budget Tourism Cell launched a night trekking package in May. Priced at ₹450 per head, the 4 PM–9 PM trip includes sunset views and stargazing. Though monsoon rains temporarily halted the package, it’s set to resume post-season.
Meanwhile, tour operators have criticized steep fee hikes at Chembra—₹8,000 for foreign groups and ₹5,000 for domestic tourists—prompting a shift toward promoting Cheengeri as a more viable, enriching alternative.
📞 For KSRTC’s night trek bookings: 9895937213