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From the mountains to the sea…trek Kerala's grasslands and summit Meesapulimala Peak to take action for the ocean, developing long-term initiatives that benefit the sea and the people who rely on it for survival.

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4-12 February 2025

Travel Dates

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$3,360 $3,210

Trip Cost

Early Bird offer: sign up before 25/05/2024 and save $150! Use code EARLYBIRD
Paid upfront or in instalments

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3/5

Challenge Grade

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$3,500

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

Positive change for Marine Life logo

Positive Change for Marine Life (PCFML) advocates for a shift away from the exploitation of the ocean and towards understanding, education, and respect. Join us on this trek through Kerala and support our initiatives:

Rewilding our Floodplains - restoring critical blue forests, bringing back biodiversity and sequestering carbon.

Waste to Wealth - creating closed-loop solutions to managing solid and organic waste, while creating new economic opportunities through the development of community-led social enterprises.

Fishing for Change - exploring long-term solutions to over-harvesting of marine ecosystems.

By trekking through Kerala's tea plantations and grasslands and summiting Meesapulimala Peak, the second-highest peak in South India, you support our initiatives, which not only benefit marine life but also contribute to the well-being of coastal communities reliant on healthy oceans for survival.

We promote the long-term environmental, social, cultural, and economic value of a thriving ocean. Money raised will fund essential projects such as waste collection facilities and organic composting systems, demonstrating tangible support for sustainable initiatives in regions like India and the Solomon Islands.

In essence, trekking in Kerala becomes more than just an adventure; it becomes a tangible way to contribute to positive change for marine life and coastal communities worldwide.

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How it works

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FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS

Pay upfront or in flexible instalments.
Cancel more than 90 days before departure to receive refund options (excluding deposit).
For more details, see our FAQs.
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Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

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Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1: Tuesday, 4 February 2025 Arrive in Kochi

Day 1: Tuesday 4 February 2025

Arrive in Kochi

Upon arrival in Kochi, make your own way to the hotel. After lunch time, we’ll meet our guides and team for a briefing on the coming days. In the evening, we will have a walking tour of Fort Kochi, and watch the splendid sunset over the Chinese fishing nets and proceed to watch the Kathakali dance performance. We’ll then have dinner at a local restaurant and head back to our hotel to rest.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: D

Day 2: Wednesday, 5 February 2025 Kochi - Munnar

Day 2: Wednesday 5 February 2025

Kochi - Munnar

After an early breakfast we’ll begin our drive to Munnar, initially passing through the city, small towns and villages and then through the foothills of dense forest, winding roads and tea gardens. Once we reach our hotel, there is free time in the evening to explore at your leisure ro visit the local market. 

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Transfer time: 5-6 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 3, Thursday, 6 February 2025 Munnar - Silent Valley (1600m) and Meesapulimala Peak (2637m) - Rodho Valley (2150m)

Day 3: Thursday 6 February 2025

Munnar - Silent Valley (1600m) and Meesapulimala Peak (2637m) - Rodho Valley (2150m)

This morning begins with an early breakfast and a transfer through tea gardens and forests to reach Silent Valley. After walking through grantee plantations, pine trees and rolling grasslands, we will summit the peak Meesapulimala, which is the second highest peak in South India. From the ridge, we’ll see spectacular views of both the low land of Tamil Nadu, the highest tea estate, some lakes and unique grassland valleys. After a short break, we’ll continue trekking through a valley where rhododendrons and pine forests grow as we make our way to our campsite. We’ll be staying overnight by the side of gurgling mountain streams at Rodho-valley with the beautiful natural brooks and meadows of Western Ghats. 

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 13km

Transfer time: 1.5 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 4, Friday, 7 February 2025 Rodho Valley - Yellapatty Valley (2050m)

Day 4: Friday 7 February 2025

Rodho Valley - Yellapatty Valley (2050m)

Today we’ll be passing through more pine forests and rolling grasslands while we take in the scenic beauty of the mountain ranges. We’ll make our way through the dense shoals of camp Malai and shola forest to reach Yellapatty Estate. From here, we’ll begin trekking towards our campsite, which is surrounded by forest and panoramic mountains with wonderful views. 

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 16km

Meals: B L D

Day 5, Saturday, 8 February 2025 Top Station and Vattavada (1750m)

Day 5: Saturday 8 February 2025

Top Station and Vattavada (1750m)

Our camp is situated at the eastern slope of the Western Ghats and offers one of the best views around Munnar for a sunrise, so be sure to wake up early to catch this! After breakfast we’ll start our trek on the mountain ridges of the eastern slopes, which offers fantastic views of tea plantations, Meesapulimalai. the highest tea estate and the low land of Tamil Nadu. We may see some endemic birds and wildlife as the vegetation we pass makes a good habitat for them. We’ll be seeing a variety of nature today, such as the shola forest, evergreen, mountain forest, grasslands, tea plantations and villages. We;ll eventually reach Top Station border village for Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and from here we’ll drive a short distance to camp. 

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 9km

Meals: B L D

Day 6, Sunday, 9 February 2025 Vattavada - Kumarakom (2129m) 

Day 6: Sunday 9 February 2025

Vattavada - Kumarakom (2129m) 

Today we will be transferring to Kumarakom by vehicle. Our drive will pass through tea plantations in the first stretch, followed by other spice plantations, a few waterfalls as well as tranquil countrysides and towns. Once we arrive, we’ll have time to explore the local village and have the opportunity to see the day to day life of the local people. There are some activities we can take part in before we have a small celebration tonight to wrap up our trekking portion of the tour - a job well done!

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Transfer distance: 4-5 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 7, Monday, 10 February 2025 Kumarakom - Kovalam

Day 7: Monday 10 February 2025

Kumarakom - Kovalam. Including a visit to the PCFML marine conservation centre

After some well-earned rest, we set off on our transfer to Kovalam. We’ll have an afternoon visit to the Vizhinjam fishing community, where PCFML’s Waste to Wealth program is actively running. During this visit, community representatives will share their experiences regarding plastic pollution and enlighten us on how they effectively manage plastic waste. We’ll have the chance to interact with artisanal fishermen and learn about the Fishing for Change program. Afterwards, we'll visit the Ocean Innovation Hub to learn about sustainable solutions for marine debris.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Transfer time: 5 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 8, Tuesday, 11 February 2025 Kovalam

Day 8: Tuesday 11 February 2025

Kovalam. Learning about PCFML's programs.

Today we’ll be participating in a beach cleanup at Kovalam Beach and learn about the impact of plastic pollution on the ocean and how we can help to reduce it. Then, we’ll head to the Ocean Innovation Hub to learn about sustainable solutions for marine debris, such as the Waste to Wealth Program, and also the Leave No Trace program and the importance of reducing plastic waste.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: B L D

Day 9, Wednesday, 12 February 2025 Depart Kovalam

Day 9: Wednesday 12 February 2025

Depart Kovalam

Our adventure ends this morning after breakfast. You are free to depart at anytime you wish! 

Meals: B

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in 3-star hotels and camping based on twin-share • Meals as per itinerary • Local English-speaking guide • Entrance fees as per itinerary

Excludes: International Flights • Airport Transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

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Why you'll love this adventure

  • Experience breathtaking natural vistas on Meesapulimala Summit Trek, and spectacular scenery trekking through tea plantations, pine forests, and grasslands, while witnessing sunrise and sunset over the Western Ghats.
  • Explore Fort Kochi's rich history with visits to the Jewish Synagogue and witnessing Kathakali dance performances, offering insights into Kerala's vibrant culture and traditions.
  • Engage in responsible tourism by trekking through pristine landscapes, participating in beach cleanups, and learning about sustainable initiatives.
  • Connect with local communities during visits to the Vizhinjam fishing community, gaining firsthand knowledge of their efforts towards waste management and sustainable fishing practices.

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The India trek is a physically demanding challenge, involving 4 days of trekking. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy the experience. 

You'll be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You’re free to move at your own pace and we’ll take frequent breaks. 

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we’ll connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure? 

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like? 

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3-star hotels, and at comfortable campsites.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability (for hotel nights only).

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we’ll pair you together.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we’ll happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You'll be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You'll have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we’ll also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we’re looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we’ll review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you'll each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Positive Change for Marine Life are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Payments, cancellations and refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $X,XXX (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit).

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,500 (per person) for Positive Change for Marine Life.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

  • Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.
  • Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.
  • Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you'll need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Australian and New Zealand passport holders require a visa on arrival for entry into India. 

Passports are required to be valid for at least six months after the date you return to your home country. You must have a valid passport before you can apply for a visa. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

 

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.