Planning to trek in Coorg in the monsoon? You're in for a healthy dose of adventure, mud, mist, and some surprises. Monsoon in the Western Ghats isn't merely rain and foliage. It's crazy, random, and strangely addictive… if you go in the right mindset.

Here's the no-nonsense guide on what to actually look forward to, what to bring, and how not to return with leeches in your socks (yes, it happens).

First Things First – It's Wet, Slippery & Not Instagram-Friendly

Let's get real, this is not one of those dry season treks wherein you climb to the top, take 50 photos, and then descend for breakfast. During monsoon, your shoes will be waterlogged, trails can disappear under fog, and you're bound to slip at least once.

But here's the thing: rain brings out the best in the forest. It's alive. You'll get to hear unfamiliar birds, sniff out wet soil like you never experienced before, and trudge through clouds.

What to Pack (and What Everyone Forgets)

You can find packing guides online, but here's the stuff that works:

  • Poncho > Raincoat – Covers your backpack as well.
  • 2 quick-dry socks – One for trek, one as a backup. No cotton.
  • Trek shoes with traction – Ditch sneakers.
  • Leech socks or ankle socks – You won't regret it.
  • Salt or Dettol spray – Local tip to ward off leeches. More effective than any high-end repellent.
  • Mini towel + ziplock bags – Wet wipes are useless in this climate.
  • Small power bank – Rain and cold quick drain phone batteries quicker than you can imagine.
Where to Trek – Not All Trails Are Safe in Monsoon

Some of the popular treks like Tadiandamol, Nishani Motte, and parts of Brahmagiri are still doable, but with caution.

Here’s what locals usually suggest during monsoon:

  • Go early in the morning – Rains are lighter, and you’ll avoid dark slippery descents.
  • Avoid solo treks – One misstep, and help’s hard to find.
  • Check for forest permissions – Some areas are off-limits in monsoon.
  • Local guides know the terrain – Seriously, don’t go by Google Maps.
  • Leeches are included. Harmless, but pesky. Don't panic. Salt = issue fixed.
  • Phone connection is spotty – Download maps in offline mode. Inform someone before you head out.
  • Dry snacks make a big difference – Peanuts, jaggery, banana chips. Light, energy-rich, and do not become soggy.
  • Don't apply strong perfumes or lotions – Insects adore that.
Honor the Land – You're in Someone Else's Garden

All of these hikes go through coffee plantations, tribal regions, or forest reserves. So:

Don't litter, don't harvest, don't stray off the path. Don't play music on Bluetooth loudspeakers. No one goes to the hills for your playlist.

If you notice a local walking with salt packets or barefoot, tag along, don't judge. They know what they're doing. You won't be running to the top. In monsoon, everything is slow. And that's really the magic. You walk slower, notice more, breathe easier, and feel things you normally scroll through. 9

Bottom Line: Should You Trek Coorg in Monsoon?

Yes. But get it for the experience, not the bucket list. If you're someone who loves dirty adventures, misty trails, and nature at its most uncivilized, you'll adore it. Don't show up without planning, though, or you'll end up wet, grumpy, and leech-bitten.

Need a Trek That's Actually Worth It?

Aster Holidays doesn't do copy-paste holidays. We match you with local specialists, untrodden paths, and take care of all the things you shouldn't have to bother about - permissions, guides, stay, security.

Care to stroll the untamed path of Coorg this monsoon? Contact Aster Holidays and we'll do it the right way. avels, we are experts in designing transformational travel experiences, not mere tours. Whether a leadership retreat to the mountains or a deep-dive culture experience in South America, we take every detail with care, comfort, and significance.

Ready to book an incentive trip your team will never forget? Let's co-design something amazing. Contact Aster Travels now.