Chembra Peak, at 2100m, is the highest point in Wayanad and one of the better day treks in northern Kerala. The trail starts from Meppadi and climbs through grassland and shola forest to a heart-shaped lake at around 1800m — the most photographed feature of the trek — and then continues steeply to the summit with panoramic views over the Wayanad plateau and into Karnataka on clear days.
The trek takes about 4-5 hours return and is manageable for reasonably fit walkers. A guide is mandatory (hired at the forest office at the trailhead) and permits must be obtained there before setting out. The trail is open from early morning; start by 7am to have the mountain mostly to yourself. The forest office is about 12km from Kalpetta.