Breathtaking Mathikettan Shola Trek Experience
Into the Heart of Munnar’s Hidden Wilderness- Mathikettan Shola Trek
There are few places in Kerala where nature feels as raw, mystical, and untouched as the Mathikettan Shola National Park. Tucked away between Munnar and Thekkady, this lush expanse of shola forests offers trekkers a one-of-a-kind wilderness experience. With mist swirling through ancient trees and the symphony of birds echoing through the hills, the Mathikettan Shola Trek promises adventure, tranquility, and a deep connection with nature.
Curated by Shola Crown Resort, this trek is not just a physical journey—it’s a soulful immersion. Known for crafting authentic nature experiences, Shola Crown invites travelers to explore the beauty, biodiversity, and serenity of this hidden gem. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time explorer, the Mathikettan Shola Trek will leave you breathless—both for its views and its magic.
About Mathikettan Shola National Park
“Mathikettan” in Malayalam translates to “mind-confusing”—a fitting name for a forest maze where winding paths, mist, and dense canopies can easily make one lose direction. Spread over 12.82 square kilometers, this national park lies between Eravikulam and Pampadum Shola, forming a continuous stretch of the Western Ghats ecosystem.
What Makes It Unique
🌿 Biodiversity Hotspot: Home to endangered species like the Nilgiri Marten and the Indian Giant Squirrel.
🐦 Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Over 150 species of birds, including the Nilgiri Flycatcher and Laughing Thrush.
🌄 Panoramic Vistas: Trek routes unveil sweeping views of cardamom plantations, valleys, and forested peaks.
💧 Origin of Streams: Several small rivers and streams that feed Kerala’s ecosystem begin here.
This landscape is a UNESCO-recognized ecosystem that combines ecological richness with untamed beauty, making every Mathikettan Shola Trek a journey through Kerala’s living lungs
The Shola Crown Experience – Guided, Safe, and Spectacular
At Shola Crown Resort, trekking is more than recreation—it’s an experience designed to awaken your senses. The Mathikettan Shola Trek offered here combines adventure, education, and eco-tourism values.
Expert-Guided Treks
Professional naturalists and local guides accompany guests, ensuring safety and enriching the journey with fascinating insights into flora and fauna.
Eco-Conscious Approach
The trek follows strict eco-guidelines. Shola Crown promotes minimal waste, no-plastic trails, and eco-friendly gear, reflecting the resort’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
Customized Trekking Options
Whether you’re seeking a gentle nature walk or a full-day expedition, Shola Crown tailors your trek according to fitness levels and interests.
Flora and Fauna – Nature’s Symphony
The Mathikettan Shola Trek is like stepping into an open-air natural museum. The park boasts a unique combination of evergreen forests, grasslands, and bamboo clusters.
🌸 Flora
Rhododendrons, orchids, ferns, and moss-covered trees create a surreal environment.
Rare medicinal plants used in Ayurvedic traditions grow abundantly here.
🦜 Fauna
Mammals: Nilgiri Langur, Malabar Civet, Indian Gaur.
Birds: Crimson-backed Sunbird, Black Eagle, and White-bellied Treepie.
Reptiles: Forest lizards and endemic frog species found only in the Western Ghats.
Every step of the trail offers something new—a rustle in the leaves, a flash of feathers, or the perfume of wildflowers carried by the wind.
The Magic of the Shola Forest
Shola forests are ancient mountain ecosystems found only in high-altitude valleys of the Western Ghats. They act as natural water reservoirs, regulating rainfall and feeding rivers.
On the Mathikettan Shola Trek, trekkers experience this living ecosystem up close—dense canopies dripping with dew, mossy trunks, and streams trickling through roots. The silence of the forest is profound, broken only by the whisper of wind and birdsong.
Shola Crown’s guided treks often include short nature talks about the forest’s role in maintaining regional biodiversity and climate balance. It’s an adventure with purpose—fun, informative, and transformative.
Adventure Meets Serenity – Why Trekkers Love This Trail
🌄 The Scenery
The view from Mathikettan’s viewpoints rivals any postcard of Munnar—rolling green hills, floating clouds, and the endless embrace of nature.
🧘 Mindful Escape
The trail encourages mindfulness. With limited cell connectivity, it’s an opportunity to disconnect digitally and reconnect emotionally.
📸 Photographer’s Dream
Every frame—whether a spider web glistening in the mist or a panoramic ridge view—is a masterpiece waiting to be captured.
🥾 Ideal for All Skill Levels
Whether a beginner or an experienced trekker, the Mathikettan Shola Trek offers options that balance challenge with comfort.
Responsible Trekking – Shola Crown’s Eco Promise
Shola Crown operates with a vision of travel that heals rather than harms. Each trekking group is briefed on eco-ethics before the journey begins.
No littering—guests carry reusable bottles and eco-bags.
No disturbance to wildlife or plant life.
Local guides are fairly compensated, supporting community livelihoods.
By trekking with Shola Crown, visitors contribute to forest preservation efforts and responsible eco-tourism in Kerala.
How to Book the Mathikettan Shola Trek
Booking your Mathikettan Shola Trek is simple:
Visit Shola Crown’s Trek Page.
Choose your trekking category – easy, moderate, or advanced.
Add it to your resort booking or as a standalone day activity.
Receive your confirmation with instructions, gear list, and timing.
Best Time to Experience the Mathikettan Shola Trek
The ideal trekking season is between October and March, when the air is crisp and skies are clear. However, each season has its charm:
🌧️ Monsoon (June–September): Misty, green, and magical—ideal for photographers.
☀️ Post-Monsoon (October–December): Cool, fresh, and perfect for wildlife sightings.
❄️ Winter (January–March): Clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Conclusion – Where Nature Whispers and Souls Awaken
The Mathikettan Shola Trek is not just a hike—it’s an encounter with the untouched wilderness of Munnar. Here, every breath feels fresher, every sound more meaningful, and every moment more alive.
Through its curated experiences, Shola Crown Resort offers travelers the rare opportunity to explore nature responsibly while staying in luxurious comfort nearby. After the trek, unwind in the resort’s infinity pool overlooking the forest you just conquered—nature and comfort perfectly intertwined.
If you’re looking to rediscover adventure, peace, and connection, this trek awaits.
👉 Start your journey – Book the Mathikettan Shola Trek with Shola Crown today.
FAQs – Mathikettan Shola Trek
1. How long is the Mathikettan Shola Trek?
Depending on your chosen route, treks range from 4 km short loops to full-day 14 km trails.
2. Is the trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, Shola Crown offers guided options for all skill levels with breaks and assistance throughout the route.
3. Can we spot wildlife during the trek?
Absolutely! Common sightings include birds, monkeys, and occasionally deer or giant squirrels.
4. What permissions are required?
The trek operates with official forest department permissions, handled entirely by Shola Crown Resort.
5. Is food provided during the trek?
Yes, packed refreshments and local snacks are provided. Full-day treks include picnic lunches prepared by Shola Crown’s kitchen.
