Brahmagiri Hills

Brahmagiri Hills is a mountain range in the Western Ghats situated on the border between Wayanad district in Kerala and Kodagu district in Karnataka. Rising to 1,608 meters, it is the highest peak in the region and offers a popular 10-kilometer trek starting from the Thirunelli forest camp. The hills are well-forested with rich wildlife including elephants and gaurs, providing scenic views and a moderately challenging trekking experience through streams and grasslands.

Visitors can expect a moderately challenging 10-kilometer trek through dense forests, streams, and grasslands leading to the 1,608-meter summit. The trail begins at the Thirunelli forest department camp and takes more than three hours of intense climbing to reach the peak. Trekkers may spot wildlife such as elephants and gaurs grazing in the valleys, especially from watchtowers along the route. The landscape features lush Western Ghats vegetation with regular stream crossings providing relief during the climb.

The hills are named after Lord Brahma, the creator in Hindu mythology, who is believed to have laid the foundation stone here. The nearby ancient Thirunelli Temple dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu sits on the side of Brahmagiri Hills and is considered one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams in Vaishnavite tradition.