- Grade
- Tough
- Distance
- 10 km there and back
- Walking time
- 6 hours
- Altitude
- 1280 m
- Best months
- Oct – May
- Start point
- Top Slip Reception Centre
- District
- Coimbatore
- Nearest station
- Pollachi, ~34 km
- Nearest airport
- Coimbatore, ~85 km
About this trail
Pandaravarai Peak rises above Top Slip in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. From the reception centre the trail enters Karian Shola, a well-known patch of evergreen forest, then climbs across grassland and rocky slopes to the summit. From the top, the views stretch across the Anamalai range in every direction, with unbroken forest rolling away below.
The trek is about 10 km and takes around six hours. It is rated tough because of the steep, rocky climbs and the chance of meeting large animals such as gaur and elephants. Only fit, experienced walkers should sign up. Follow the guide at all times and do not leave the group.
Highlights
- Pandaravarai Peak in the Anamalai range
- Karian Shola evergreen forest
- Grassland and rocky slopes
- Wildlife country
- Wide views from the top
How the day goes
- ReportingCheck in at the reception centre in Top Slip.
- BriefingComplete formalities and meet the guide.
- Karian SholaWalk through evergreen forest.
- PeakClimb over grassland and rock to the top.
- DescentReturn to Top Slip.
Getting there and staying over
- By train: Pollachi, ~34 km
- By air: Coimbatore, ~85 km
- Stay: Not included; hotels in Pollachi, Top Slip or Valparai.
What to carry
- Photo ID
- 3 litres of water
- Trekking shoes
- Rain jacket
- Energy snacks
- Binoculars
Good to know
These are guided trails run with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, and each has a daily limit on walkers. Book a few days ahead, carry the same photo ID you booked with, and expect a trail to close at short notice after heavy rain or when elephants are active nearby. We book the permit, arrange the car to and from the start point and, if you want, a hotel nearby for the night before.
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Send us your date and group size. We will confirm the slot with the forest team and share the reporting time, car and total cost.
