Cheengeri Mala Trekking

About this place

Cheengeri Mala, also known as Cheengeri Hills or Phantom Rock, is a popular trekking and viewpoint destination located near Ambalavayal in Wayanad district, Kerala. The site is well known for its unique natural rock formation that resembles a human skull, which is why it is widely referred to as Phantom Rock. Unlike some other trekking spots in Wayanad that require special permits or restricted access, trekking at Cheengeri Mala is publicly accessible and open to visitors daily, making it a convenient and beginner-friendly adventure destination. Visitors typically pay a small entry fee at the entrance before starting the trek. The trail to the top is relatively short and manageable compared to longer mountain treks in the region, making it suitable for casual trekkers, photographers, and travelers looking for a quick outdoor experience. The path passes through open grasslands, rocky slopes, and patches of vegetation, offering scenic views of Wayanad’s hills and surrounding countryside along the way. As trekkers climb higher, the landscape gradually opens up to reveal panoramic views of valleys, plantations, and distant Western Ghats hills, making the summit a rewarding viewpoint for visitors. The skull-shaped Phantom Rock formation itself is a major highlight, attracting photographers and nature lovers who come to capture the unusual geological structure against the backdrop of the green Wayanad landscape. The area around Cheengeri Mala also offers a peaceful natural environment where visitors can enjoy fresh mountain air, scenic sunsets, and quiet hilltop views away from crowded tourist attractions. Because the trek is short and accessible, it is often included in travel itineraries alongside nearby attractions such as Ambalavayal heritage sites, viewpoints, and other natural landmarks in Wayanad. The best time to visit is usually during the morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the lighting enhances the beauty of the surrounding hills. During the monsoon season, the landscape becomes particularly green and misty, although trekkers need to be cautious because the rocky surfaces can become slippery. Overall, Cheengeri Mala (Phantom Rock) stands out as an easy and scenic trekking destination in Wayanad, offering visitors a short adventure hike, unique rock formations, and sweeping hilltop views that highlight the natural beauty of Kerala’s Western Ghats region.

🚆 Railway: Kozhikode Railway Station (~93 km)

✈️ Airport: Calicut International Airport (~125 km)

🚌 Bus: Ambalavayal Bus Station (~2 km)

🏨 Stay: Mount Xanadu Resorts / The Wave by Citrine / Willow Resorts

✅ Notes: Cheengeri Mala is an authorized trekking destination near Ambalavayal with a gentle open-rock ascent, rope-assisted sections and panoramic views of Karapuzha Dam, with early morning particularly recommended for sunrise views.