The Tamil Nadu forest department has temporarily suspended online booking for trekking on two popular routes in the picturesque Yercaud Hills due to ongoing rainfall in the region. This decision impacts adventure enthusiasts planning to explore the hills during the current monsoon season.
Affected Trekking Routes
The department has specifically suspended online booking for two key routes: the Kurumbapatty zoological park to Guntur route and the Kondappanaickenpatty to Guntur route. Both paths have become inaccessible during the rainy season, prompting authorities to prioritize visitor safety.
An official from the forest department explained, "Kurumbapatty zoological park-Guntur Mountain Path and Kondapanaickenpatty-Guntur Mountain Path are not accessible during the rainy season. Online booking will be open once the rains are over."
Available Alternative Route
Despite the temporary closures, trekking enthusiasts still have one option available. The 1.6 kilometer Nagalur-Sannyasimalai route in the Yercaud hills remains open for booking. This shorter trail provides a safer alternative during wet weather conditions while still offering the natural beauty of the region.
Trekking Fee Adjustments
The two suspended routes had initially carried significantly higher fees before recent reductions. The Kurumbapatty-Guntur route was originally priced at Rs 2,799, while the Kondappanaickenpatty-Guntur route cost Rs 1,699. Both were subsequently reduced to below Rs 1,000 to make trekking more accessible to visitors.
These three routes in Yercaud are part of a larger network of 40 locations across Tamil Nadu where the forest department grants permission for trekking activities. The department maintains a careful balance between promoting eco-tourism and ensuring visitor safety, particularly during challenging weather conditions.
The temporary suspension demonstrates the department's commitment to responsible tourism management in the Western Ghats region. Trekking enthusiasts are advised to monitor weather conditions and official announcements before planning their visits to Yercaud Hills during the monsoon season.
