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Treks & waterfalls

Banasura Hill

By Arjun, host at Coffee Haven · Last checked Oct 2026
Quick answerThe Banasura hill trek is a guided forest-department trek from the Meenmutty eco-tourism centre near Banasura Sagar Dam, through forest and grassland with views over the reservoir. Expect about 4 hours, report early in the morning, and note the minimum age of 11.

Our tip

A guided trek of about 4 hours above India's largest earthen dam, with one of the finest panoramas in Wayanad. Steep in places, so best for reasonably fit walkers (minimum age 11). The reservoir view from the top is spectacular. Start by 8 AM.From our guest guidebook

Staying nearby? Our coffee-estate homes in Kakkavayal are about 22 km away as the crow flies. Book a stay →

What to expect

A forest guide leads the group up the Kattukunnu route through shola forest and open grassland. The climb is steep in places, with rocky and thorny sections, and the reward is a wide view over the Banasura Sagar reservoir and its islands. The longer Sayippukunnu route takes most of a day.

Plan your visit

  • Book the slot ahead and reach the counter early; late arrivals are turned away.
  • Carry about 3 litres of water each, a snack and sun protection.
  • In wet months take salt or repellent for leeches.
  • Pair it with a walk to the first tier of Meenmutty falls on the way down.

Good to know

Fees and daily caps quoted online differ between sources (caps of 25 to 75 people are reported). Confirm both when you book.

Getting there

Questions

How hard is the Banasura hill trek?

Moderate to strenuous. It is steep in places, so it suits reasonably fit walkers rather than beginners.

Is a guide needed for Banasura hill?

Yes. Forest department permission and a guide are required and included in the fee.

Where does the Banasura trek start?

At the Meenmutty eco-tourism counter near Banasura Sagar Dam.

Pair it with

Sources we checked

At a glance
Start
Meenmutty eco-tourism counter, near Padinjarathara
Report by
Early morning (about 7:30–9 AM)
Fee
Per group of 5 (about ₹4,000–5,000 for Indians), guide included
Minimum age
11
Time needed
About 4 hours round trip
Best season
November to April
From Coffee Haven
About 22 km as the crow flies; allow more by road

Fees, timings and rules change. Last checked Oct 2026; confirm locally before you go.