Varayadumotta

Varayadumotta is rated the third most adventurous trek in South India after Meesapulimala and Agasthyarkoodam. Named after the Nilgiri Tahr (Varayadu in Malayalam) that inhabit this rare habitat, the ridge at 1100m includes 13 peaks — the second peak being the highest. The terrain is extremely steep with dangerous 80-degree descents, slippery gravel sections, and no natural water sources on the ridge. Two main routes exist: from Mankayam checkpost (11km full traverse to Kallar Valley) or from Ponmudi checkpost (10 hours round trip). Trekking starts at 7:30 AM sharp. Guides from the Forest Department are mandatory. This is a full-day 12-hour programme — not suitable for beginners.