The short answer
Banasura Hill Trek: what visitors should know first
Go if you are fit for a long, steep day with a forest guide, and book with the forest office in person. Start very early, as entry closes by late morning. Older parents are better off at the Banasura Sagar Dam itself, which the climb looks down on.
History and context
The story behind Banasura Hill Trek
Banasura Hill rises to about 2,073 m and is named after the asura king Banasura. The forests at its foot, home to Kurichiya settlements, sheltered Pazhassi Raja during his guerrilla war against the British.
Useful facts
Banasura Hill Trek facts at a glance
- Location
- Banasura Sagar side, Wayanad, Kerala
- Altitude
- About 2,073 m (6,801 ft)
- Experience type
- Summit trek
- Known for
- Views over Banasura Sagar reservoir and islands
- Time or schedule
- Full day; morning entry only
Why it matters
Why Banasura Hill Trek is worth your time
Banasura is one of the tallest peaks in Wayanad and, after Chembra, one of the few in the Western Ghats north of the Nilgiris to pass 2,000 m. The climb gives an unusual view straight down on India's largest earth dam and the drowned valley around it.
The forest on its slopes holds wild elephants, deer and monkeys, and four Kurichiya settlements sit at its foot. The Kurichiya are remembered for helping Pazhassi Raja fight the British from these hills. Guided, limited access helps protect both the forest and the people who live with it.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Reservoir view
From the upper slopes the reservoir and its islands look like a map below you.
- 02
Grassland ridges
The middle of the climb crosses open grassland with wide views.
- 03
Summit
The top is one of the highest points in Wayanad.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Trekking passes are issued at the Meenmutty ticket counter near Banasura Sagar Dam, where the compulsory forest guide is also arranged; DTPC Wayanad lists the route as Meenmutty–Kattukunnu–Aanchola. Entry is in the morning only, so aim to be at the counter when it opens. Sources put the round trip at up to about 18 km, and most groups take six to nine hours.
The first stretch climbs steeply through thick, sometimes thorny vegetation, where leeches are common after rain. The middle section crosses tall grassland with small boulders, and the final kilometre is very steep with almost no shade. From the summit, at about 2,073 m (6,801 ft), the reservoir and its scattered islands lie spread out below.
Carry at least two to three litres of water, food, a hat and sun cream; streams on the way are not reliable in the dry months. Eat breakfast before you start and plan to be back at the base by late afternoon.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Book in person at the trekking counter; no online booking
- Be at the counter when it opens
- A forest guide is compulsory
- Carry 2–3 litres of water and a hat
- Wear shoes with grip for the steep descent
- Check for weather or safety closures before travelling
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Near Banasura Sagar Dam; passes from the Meenmutty counter
- Time needed
- A full day
- Best time
- September to January; summer is humid and the monsoon makes the trail slippery
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- The trail is steep at the start and very steep in the last section, with grass, loose stones and little shade, and the descent is hard on knees. Older travellers should not attempt it. The gentle option is the dam and reservoir at the foot of the hill, with boat rides and level walks, while fitter family members climb.
- Tickets and access
- Forest Department permission and a forest guide are required. DTPC Wayanad lists offline booking only, at the trekking counter, with a group rate for up to five people, a daily limit of about 75 trekkers and entry between 7.30 am and 11 am. It advises the trek for ages 11 and above. Confirm current fees, opening and any closures locally before travelling.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Banasura Hill Trek
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The trail is steep at the start and very steep in the last section, with grass, loose stones and little shade, and the descent is hard on knees. Older travellers should not attempt it. The gentle option is the dam and reservoir at the foot of the hill, with boat rides and level walks, while fitter family members climb.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is the Banasura Hill trek the same as the dam visit?
No. The dam is an easy visit at the foot of the hill. The trek is a separate, steep full-day climb to the summit.
Do I need a guide for Banasura Hill?
Yes, the Forest Department requires a guide for the whole climb, arranged with the permit.
Can I book online?
DTPC Wayanad lists offline booking only, at the counter on the day. Arrive early, as numbers are limited.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
