Trek to the highest peak in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu

TREK DIFFICULTY

TREK DURATION

AGE LIMIT

PICK UP POINT

Gutirayan Peak trek is not among the best-known treks in the south. However, when our exploration team got the opportunity to go on this one, they were amazed by it. To come across such variety on a day trip close to Hosur was truly remarkable. 

Within a span of four hours, it takes you through dense forest, a lake, and a perfect summit climb. 

Gutirayan Peak is the highest point in the Krishnagiri district. The panoramic view from this summit is a rewarding experience. You get a bird’s eye view of the entire region of Krishnagiri. All your exhaustion from trekking to reach here dies away once you reach the top. 

Apart from this great view, on the Gutirayan Peak trek, trekkers get the opportunity to trek through thick forests. These evergreen forests on this trek are so dense that they can give tough competition to a Western Ghats trek in Karnataka! 

Trekking through the heart of the Denkanikottai Forest in the Krishnagiri district, you will be transported to another world. You'll be in the middle of a natural wonderland with bird calls all around you, butterflies fluttering about, and sunlight magically filtering through the trees.

Hidden inside the sanctuary, you also get a chance to visit Gutirayan Lake, which is quite big and takes you by surprise. The small yet charming lake is a nice place to take a break and relax.

We have designed this trek with all age groups in mind. From energetic youngsters to seasoned trekkers, the Gutirayan Peak Trek is ideal for a memorable day’s adventure near Bangalore, Mysore, Salem, or Erode.

This trek is in official partnership with the Tamil Nadu Wilderness Experiences Corporation (TNWEC)

This fee includes everything from Kodakarai to Kodakarai. 

Please note: The insurance has to be claimed within 7 days from the specific incident for it to be deemed valid.

Gutirayan Peak Trek- Complete Trek Information

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on any trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a surface level experience.

Use this section to learn about the Gutirayan Peak Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into putting down this content for you. Don’t miss the ‘Frequently Asked Questions' section.

➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a photocopy of their photo id along with the mandatory Disclaimer form.

The Gutirayan Peak Trek is rated as 'Easy-Moderate'. 

An easy-moderate rating refers to marginally longer trekking days with a few steep climbs (for example: ascending through the initial forest section or descending from the summit) compared to our easy treks. This makes it a notch more difficult than the easy treks, where fitness is not very important. 

The trek also has easy exits, and there are less technical sections. 

Apart from this, be careful during the ascent and descent during the rainy season. Wearing good quality trekking shoes with a great grip really helps here. (For details, read: How To Choose The Best Trekking Shoes In India)

During the monsoon season, you will have leeches on the trek. Watch this video to understand how to handle leeches on a trek.

The Gutirayan Peak Trek is rated as 'Easy-Moderate' with the day involving 6-7 hours of trekking. 

The best time to do the Gutirayan Peak Trek is from September to March. 

Post-monsoon, from September to December, is one of the best times to go on the Gutirayan Peak Trek. It has greenery all around and is lush everywhere you look. The weather is also very pleasant to trek in this region. 

The weather remains pleasant and cool until January and February. 

End of March and early April is when the summer starts to kick in. Expect temperatures to go up to 33-34 degrees during the afternoons.

Avoid summer: The region is closed in the peak summer months of April and May since there are chances of forest fires. 

The trek next reopens in the monsoon. But rain and slushy trails make the trail slightly more challenging. Go well-prepared.

Day time temperature: Between 19° C and 26° C | Night time temperature: Between 17° C and 24° C

Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.   

Crocin (Paracetamol) – 6 tablets (fever)

Norflox TZ – 3 tablets (diarrhoea/ severe GI issue)

Knee Cap (Optional), if you are prone to a knee injury

Our trek leaders carry a medical kit with them. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.

Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit. 

These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. ID cards of either Aadhar card or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.  

Disclaimer certificate: Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate

Please carry the above document with you. The document needs to be downloaded (PDF), filled in, signed, and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp. Please print these back-to-back on two sheets. Do not print separately and help in reducing paper usage.

Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.

Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek requires trekking shoes that are sturdy, have good grip, have ankle support and can handle snow. Here is a quick video on how to choose your trekking shoes.  

| Buying Tip: Here is a list of other budget shoes that trekkers are using.

And learn the difference between a trekking shoe and a sports shoe here. 

For a trek like Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek, you need a 30-40 litre backpack. Make sure your backpack has good hip support, shoulder support, and quick access pockets. Here is a guide on how to choose a backpack.

| Buying Tip: Wildcraft, Decathlon and Adventure Worx usually make good backpacks. While Wildcraft has more expensive ones, the other two brands have budget-friendly backpacks to choose from.

On a trek, carry fewer clothes than you would normally need. Do not pack for ‘what if situations’. That will only add to the weight of your backpack and not be used on the trek. Once your clothes get warmed up on a trek, you will not feel like changing. Just maintain personal hygiene.

One layer of warm cloth: Carry one fleece sweater/jacket. The evening at Amirthi Forest or while camping at the beach can get chilly. 

Two trek pants: Carry light quick dry trek pants. One trek pant while trekking and an another pant inside the backpack. Denim/jeans and shorts are not suitable for trekking.

Three t-shirts: You will wear one t-shirt while trekking and the rest two t-shirt inside your backpack. Carry light, full-sleeved t-shirts that prevent sunburns on the neck and arms. Let one of these be a dry-fit t-shirt. It will dry quickly in case you are trekking on a rainy day.

You need a pair of either sandals or floaters with straps, or even Crocs will be good. You can use an existing one itself. These will be helpful around the campsite or travelling in between. 

Alternatively, you can even think of getting the Aquashoes from Decathlon, which are very light and easy to carry. Trekkers have found this good during treks that have some stream crossings. 


Sunglasses: Sunglasses are mandatory. This is to protect you from the harsh sun.

Sun Cap: In the jungles, even though there is heavy tree cover, the harsh sun can dehydrate you very quickly. A sun cap comes in handy to prevent the moisture to escape when you are sweating.

Hand gloves: A fleece or woollen glove will do.

woolen cap/ fleece cap: You’ll need this to cover your head, as most of the heat escapes from your head.

Socks (2 pairs): Your normal cotton/ sport socks are good, but make sure they are all high ankle socks

Headlamp/LED torch: Mandatory + extra Batteries.

Trekking pole: Watch this video to understand why you need a trekking pole. 

Ponchos: In a jungle, unexpected rain is possible at any time, and hence it’s mandatory to carry a poncho so that you don’t get wet.

Toiletries: Sunscreen, Vellore Amirthi Forest Treklight towel, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer. Do not carry wet wipes since these are not biodegradable. We do not like biodegradable wet wipes because they take a long time to decompose in the mountains. Use toilet paper instead.

Sanitary waste: Make sure you bring your used sanitary napkins back to the city with you. Carry a zip lock bag to put used napkins. Bring this ziplock bag back with you to the city and do not dispose of sanitary napkins in the mountains.

Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box. We insist on trekkers getting their cutlery for hygiene reasons. We do not allow biodegradable or disposable cutlery on our treks.

Plastic covers: While packing, use plastic bags to compartmentalize things and carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.

We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools. 

To do this trek comfortably, as the Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek comes under easy category and is a 2-day trek, the fitness requirement is different than our traditional Himalayan treks. 

While we suggest running as the best exercise to get fit for the trek, being able to brisk walk 5 km under 50-60 minutes should be sufficient to do the trek comfortably. 

How to achieve this fitness? 

Start with walking at least 4 days a week 

If you cannot brisk walk/jog 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.

Once you’re able to reach 5 km, increase your pace day by day. 

Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 55 mins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek

Trekkers share their experience with Indiahikes

Here are the unedited reviews by trekkers

As industry leaders, we have innovated and set safety standards in the trekking industry. Our people, our processes, and our equipment are what make Indiahikes the safest trekking organisation in India.

Complete the steps below to register for your Goa Netravali Forest Trek

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with certain commitments from your end. 

Eligibility Criteria for Goa Netravali Forest Trek

Complete information on the Gutirayana Peak Trek. Trek details, itinerary, cost, maps, photos, videos and more. 

Gutirayana Peak Trek 2024 - Treks In Tamil Nadu - Indiahikes

Explore the wonders of Amirthi Wildlife Sanctuary

Not many people know that there are treks in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. 

The Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek takes you through the middle of the Amirthi Wildlife Sanctuary. Connecting the most tribal villages in the region, this trek has been designed in collaboration with the Forest Department. 

You camp in the remote village of Keelkollai, untouched by the modern world. Here, we have the unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in their culture and traditions, learning firsthand about their way of life. 

During the evening, you can explore the village and just sit down on one of the big boulders to witness a magical sunset happening across the horizon. Watch the sky change its colour with a setting equivalent to the Himalayan villages.

Amirthi has the biggest forest in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. This sanctuary is bounded by the Tellai Range Forest towards the north, while the South-Eastern side, is covered by the Puthur Range Forest. 

When you wake up in this forest setting, a melodious dawn chorus of birds blossoms up the forest. As the sun rises and the rays of light pass through the trees, you descend to engulf the setting of Amirthi Forest. 

Hidden inside the sanctuary, you also visit the Amirthi waterfalls. The small yet charming waterfall is a nice place to take a break and listen to the water trickling down, tumbling serenely. 

Along with this, trekkers get the opportunity to camp in the remote village of Keelkollai. The setting of the village, with the farmlands, a big valley, and green hillocks, is a sight to experience and witness. The straw huts, hay for cattle, and wooden fences take you to a land that we have often forgotten to observe and experience. 

This trek is designed considering all age groups in mind. From energetic youngsters to seasoned trekkers, the Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek welcomes all ages (7-70) for a memorable weekend adventure near Chennai or Bangalore.

This fee includes everything from Keelkollai to Amirthi

Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek - Complete Trek Information

Use this section to learn about the Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into putting down this content for you. Don’t miss the ‘Frequently Asked Questions' section.

➤Stay facility: Please note that you will be staying in tents for the trek. Trekkers need to make their arrangements for a stay in Vellore on Day 0 or after the trek. 

Suhas is the head of the DIY and Documentation Team. He has been working at Indiahikes for the past 8 years. Nature, adventure, and wildlife are the top things that get his heart racing. He has done more than 14 Himalayan treks. Along with that, he has done explorations in the Himalayas, the Western Ghats, and around Bengaluru. And it was he who explored the grand Phulara Ridge trek. Suhas was also involved in the exploration of other treks like Ranthank Kharak, Pir Panjal Lakes, the Goa Netravali Forest Trek and the Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek. 

Highlights of the Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek

An easy rating refers to a trek that can be done by any age group. Even though the trek is rated as easy, this is still a trek and involves a long day of trekking (Descending the forest section of Amirthi from Keelkollai or towards the waterfall). You still need to be an active person who follows some sort of fitness in their daily lives. 

The trek also has easy exits and there are less technical sections. Therefore, Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek is rated as 'Easy'. 

Apart from this, be careful during the ascent and descent during the rainy season. Wearing good quality trekking shoes with a great grip really helps here. (For details read: How To Choose The Best Trekking Shoes In India)

During the monsoon season, the streams and waterfalls will be in full force. Also, you will have leeches on the trek. Watch this video to understand how to handle leeches on a trek. 

The Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek is rated as 'Easy' with the second day taking about 6 hours for trekking 

The best time to do the Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek is from September to February. These months are worth it if you are going for the trek. 

Post monsoon, the forests are vibrant. You have greenery all around, and its lush everywhere you look. This is one of the best times to go on the trek of Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek. 

Early March is when the summer starts to kick in, and the exposed regions will be very warm. You can expect temperatures to go up to 33-34 degrees during the afternoons.

The peak of the summer season at the end of March is closed for trekking. There are chances of forest fires because of the heat, and the forest department does not allow trekking. 

During the monsoon season, the difficulty level and the challenges will rise one level higher.

Day time temperature: Between 21° C and 28° C | Night time temperature: Between 18° C and 24° C

Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek requires trekking shoes that are sturdy, have good grip, have ankle support. Here is a quick video on how to choose your trekking shoes.  

| Buying Tip: There really isn’t any necessity to buy the higher-priced models for this particular trek. Here is a list of other budget shoes that trekkers are using.

Complete information on the Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek. Trek details, itinerary, cost, maps, photos, videos and more. 

Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek 2024 - Treks In Tamil Nadu - Indiahikes

A Weekend Trekking and Camping Experience in the Avocado Hill of Kodaikanal

HIGHEST ALTITUDE

SUITABLE FOR

We are happy to announce the opening of treks around Kodaikanal. With a vision that everyone must trek, we have always wanted to find a campus around the lovely folds of Kodai. This gives our trekkers in the Southern part of our country a chance to take a weekend off and trek in the lovely Shola forests and grasslands of Kodai. 

You’ll love our campus in Kodaikanal. It is surrounded by hills on all sides — hills that climb right out of our camping grounds. There are some lovely trekking trails within walking distance of our campus. One can hike to the summit of a nearby hill, watch the sun rise from behind the mounds or take a dip in a nearby waterfall. You can also savour a cup of fresh coffee grown in the nearby plantations as you take in a panoramic view of the Elephant Valley.

Located in a remote area of Kodaikanal, just 20km from the main town of Kodai, the campus is easily accessible by road. It’s just an overnight journey away from most metro cities.

The Avacado Hill trek is an ideal addition to the experience. It is suitable for any age group and especially for families, friends, and colleagues to start trekking. 

See what's Included and Excluded in the Trek Fee

Kodaikanal Avocado Hill Trek: Complete Trek Information

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a surficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Kodaikanal Avocado Hill Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Don’t miss the 'Frequently Asked Questions' section at the end. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

➤ All trekkers will be staying in tents (3-sharing tents) with foldable mattresses for the overnight stay. 

➤ Parking personal vehicles around the campus is at your own risk. 

➤ Pack Light for the trek: There is a sharp climb of about 300 ft from the parking location to the campus (which is almost 1 kilometre). So do not get any trolley bags or heavy bags with you. You will have to carry your own luggage to the campus area. 

➤ There is no offloading facility for this trek. Keep your bag as light as possible.

➤ Please note that there is almost no network in the area.

➤ Carry 2 bottles of water. This is important and required for the trek. (Though there is a waterfall on the trail, the water is not drinkable.) 

➤ Carry a pair of flip-flops to use around the campus. But for the trek, use shoes with good grip only.

➤ Carry a small notebook and pen/pencil.

The average temperature between March to July lies between 21-23 °C
During the nights, the minimum temperature one can expect would be around 16-18 °C

The period between August to February is when the average temperature lies between 18-20°C and the night temperature can drop to 14-16 °C.

Carrying 1 warm layer and a raincoat/poncho for rain is very much required. 

Kodaikanal is a hill town. So expect the weather to be slightly chilly and have that additional nip compared to the cities. 

The average temperature between March to July is around 21-23 °C. During the night, the minimum temperature is around 16-18 °C

The period between August and February is when the average temperature lies between 18-20°C and the night temperature can drop to 14-16 °C

Carrying 2 warm layers and a raincoat/poncho for rain is mandatory. 

Original and photocopy of identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.  

Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record.  The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read it carefully, fill and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download Disclaimer certificate

Note: Fitness and medical certificates are not required for the Kodaikanal Avocado Hill trek. 

Given that this is just a one-night weekend outdoor program, with very comfortable weather, we advise you to travel light.

Here’s a list of things you must bring along with you: 

A 30L backpack – A small comfortable backpack will suffice. (Available for rent)

2 full sleeves t-shirts – Expect to get sweaty, you will need a change of clothes after your trek

An extra pair of trekking pants – Avoid shorts at all costs, there are thorns along all the trails.

Shoes with good grip – Even sports shoes will work, as long as they have a good grip

2 pairs of socks (for the trek) + 1 extra pair

Two 1-litre bottles (reusable) (Available for rent)

Your lunch box, coffee mug, and spoon (Available for rent)

Note: Trek pole, tiffin box and spoon, 800 ml water bottle, 30L backpack, headlamp and mug are all available for rent. Once your registration is completed, click on this link and fill out the form to rent the required gear.

As the trail is exposed, with very little tree cover, make sure you cover yourself well while trekking. Carry a full-sleeve t-shirt/shirt and full trekking pants for this trek.  

Keep a pair of sandals to walk around the campsite. 

Along with this, smoking, drinking and taking drugs are strictly prohibited.

Complete the steps below to register for the Kodaikanal Avocado Hill Trek

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with a few commitments from your end. Here are our eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria For The Kodaikanal Avocado Hill Trek Trek

It’s really a life-changing experience doing trekking with India Hikes

Complete information on the weekend trek from Indiahikes Kodaikanal Campus. Trek details, experiences, maps, photos, videos, when to go, what to take, how difficult is the trek etc. 

Kodaikanal Avocado Hill Trek 2024 - Weekend Trek - Indiahikes

Kodaikanal campus Kodai kanal Kodai trek Kodaycanal Avocado Hill kaht kat kht kt

Please note that this is a special trek designed for stargazing enthusiasts. The trek fee is slightly more than the regular fee. Know more about the trek here. 

This is a trek specially designed for trekkers above 58 years. The itinerary is specially designed to be different from a regular trek. The trek fee is also Rs 3000 more than the regular fee (Please note this is only for Himalayan treks) Know more about the trek here.  

Please note that this is a special trek. The trek fee is Rs 5000 more than the regular fee. Know more about the trek here. 

Please note that the family treks are meant for families with a child/children under 14 years of age. If you do not fit this criteria, you can register for any of our regular groups. Read more about family treks here.

You are joining our waitlist. Here are a few guidelines that you should keep in mind:
1. Your chances of getting a confirmation are high, but not certain. 
2. You don't have to pay right now. You will receive a notification upon confirmation of your slot. You will have 24 hours to pay and confirm your booking.
3. We close the movement of WL 15-20 days before the start of the trek.

When we brought out new trails in Indian trekking, safety came with us. Back in 2012, we were the first to introduce microspikes, and two years later, pulse oximeters became standard thanks to us. Nobody does safe treks like Indiahikes. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with – everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes.

We are India’s safest trekking organisation

We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have brought out treks that have become India's most famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Brahmatal, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023 alone, we brought out five new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone. This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own.

We are pioneers of treks in India

More than 25,000 people trek with us every year. We are the largest trekking organisation in India. 24% of our trekkers come back to trek with us every year. Over 4,000 students from the top educational institutions trek with us every year. Aside from this, families with children choose to trek with Indiahikes knowing that our treks are the safest. We have taken over 8000 children trekking so far, and the number continues to grow. 

We are India’s largest trekking organisation

We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey. 

Our treks are transformative

Since 2012, we have pioneered sustainable practices that have become standard in trekking. Using eco-bags, our trekkers have cleared over 120 tonnes of litter from the mountains. We do not carry packaged foods; instead, we serve freshly made food. We do not light campfires; we carry coal to light angethis to keep you warm. Our bio-toilets not only keep our toilets odour-free but also enrich the soil. When you trek with us, you leave mountains better.

We are India's most sustainable trekking organisation

5 Reasons Why Indiahikes

If you are unable to complete a trek, or if you love a trek, you can repeat it with us anytime. You don’t have to pay us for it. See our thoughts behind this here.

You’re guarded with our trek again philosophy

Our thrice-a-day oxi-metre checks keep altitude sickness at bay, never allowing you to reach a point where you need evacuation.

Daily 3-time health checks keep you safe at any altitude

With around 30% of our trekkers being women, all women, including those travelling solo are comfortable to join any of our groups.

Join any group, they are all women-friendly groups 

Our kitchen teams understand your needs as a vegan (or a Jain). We will take special care of your food, even in the remote Himalayas. 

We have specially designed bio toilets to ensure you have no sight or smell in toilets, at the same time making sure the toilets cause no harm to the fragile ecosystem we trek in.

Be comfortable and sustainable with bio toilets

We’ll admit it. Our love for food surpasses our love for minimalism. Expect freshly cooked, multi-cuisine food at all camps, designed to meet your nutritional requirements and keep your taste buds happy!

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