We visited this trail a few days after a festival. The section around the temple was littered with festival waste, making the area noticeably dirty during our visit. This temporary condition detracted from the otherwise natural surroundings, although the rest of the trail was not similarly affected.
Distance
4.4 km
Elevation gain
318 m
Route type
out-and-back
About this trail#
This trail leads to the Kaali Temple peak from the Tamil Nadu side. The hill has two prominent summits: Kaali Mala, home to the temple, and Kurusu Mala, marked by a large cross. Once you reach Kaali Mala, a short ridge walk connects the two peaks, allowing you to visit both in a single trip. There is also an alternate route from the Kerala side that reaches Kurusu Mala first before continuing to Kaali Mala. The ascent follows a wide jeep track, making the route easy to navigate throughout. Since the path is broad and well-defined, there is little chance of losing your way, making it suitable even for hikers with limited navigation experience. Like many trails in Kerala, the highlight is the lush greenery. Dense tree cover provides shade for much of the climb, creating a pleasant walking experience. Depending on the season, low clouds often drift across the summit, briefly enveloping the peaks and adding a magical atmosphere to the hike. The combination of an easy trail, verdant forest, and two connected viewpoints makes this a rewarding trek for anyone exploring the region.
Trail Information#
Trail Guide
Trailhead to Sastha Temple
The hike begins on a wide jeep track that serves as the main route to the summit. The trail is straightforward and easy to follow, with no confusing junctions or navigation challenges along the way. Depending on the day of the week and the time of your visit, you may find a few small shops operating near the trail, offering refreshments and snacks.
As you approach the summit, you'll find a reliable water source before reaching the Sastha Temple, making it a convenient place to refill your bottles if needed.
Exploring the Summit
The Sastha Temple sits at the heart of the summit area. To the left is the Durga Devi Temple, while a short walk to the right leads to a viewpoint overlooking the valley below. The panoramic views from here are one of the highlights of the hike, especially on clear days when the surrounding hills stretch into the distance.
From the Sastha Temple, continue straight ahead to reach a scenic ridge lined with planted trees. This pleasant walk eventually leads to Kurusu Mala, the second peak of the hill, where a large cross marks the summit. The ridge walk between the two peaks is easy and offers a peaceful finish to the trek.
Getting there#
Trail route
Route flyby#
Preview the terrain before you go — a 3D fly-through of the full route.
Trail reports#
Trail conditions and experiences shared by hikers who've done this route
Kalimala~ Thekkan Kurusumala trek enroute via Pathukani,Nagercoil bordering Kerala.The viewpoints drenched with upslope fog felt heavenly.Wonderful hiking experience,wild enough to rejuvenate the knees 😂 yet worth it
GPX file#
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