How to Reach Top Station & Kurangani from Theni? Trekking & Jeep Guide (2026)

The Twin Jewels: Kurangani & Top Station
If you are in Theni, the mist-covered peaks of Kurangani and Top Station are visible from the plains, calling out to every adventure lover. But reaching them can be confusing because the trekking route and the driving route are completely different.
This guide clarifies how to reach Top Station from Theni, whether you want to sweat it out on a trek or relax in a luxury 4x4 Jeep.
The Kurangani to Top Station Trek (For Adventurers)
The historic path used by tea planters.
This is one of South India’s most scenic treks, taking you from the foothills of Theni district straight up to the clouds of Kerala.
Trek Distance: 12 km (One way).
Difficulty: Moderate (Steep climb).
Time Required: 4 to 5 Hours.
Route: Kurangani Village ➝ Central Station ➝ Top Station.
Vital 2026 Trekking Rules:
Following the 2018 forest fire incident, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has strictly regulated this route.
Permit is Mandatory: You cannot trek without prior permission from the Forest Department check post at Kurangani.
No Night Camping: Camping inside the forest is banned. You must reach Top Station by evening and stay in approved campsites or hotels.
Guide Required: You must hire a local tribal guide authorized by the forest department.
Pro Tip: Book your trekking package via Theni Tourism. They arrange the Forest Permit + Guide + Food, so you don't get stopped at the check post.
The Jeep Route (For Families & Luxury Travelers)
The "Comfort & Class" Way.
Myth Buster: There is NO direct motorable road from Kurangani Village to Top Station. You cannot drive a car up the trekking path.
To reach Top Station by vehicle, you must take the scenic Ghat road via Bodimettu.
Route: Theni ➝ Bodinayakanur ➝ Bodimettu (Checkpost) ➝ Poopara ➝ Munnar ➝ Top Station.
Total Distance: ~85 km (3 Hours Drive).
Road Condition: Excellent scenic winding roads through tea estates.
Why Hire a Rengha Travels Jeep/Van?
Driving on these steep hairpin bends requires skill. Rengha Travels offers specialized "Hill Safari Packages" using high-power vehicles:
Mahindra Thar / Jeep: For that open-air off-road feel.
Force Urbania (Luxury Van): If you are a group of 10-12, this is the ultimate luxury. It features sofa seats and huge windows for viewing the Kolukkumalai Sunrise.
The "Kolukkumalai Jeep Safari" Add-On
Since you are visiting Top Station, you must experience the World’s Highest Tea Estate at Kolukkumalai.
The Experience: A thrilling off-road jeep ride on a bumpy boulder track that standard cars cannot handle.
Sunrise View: Watch the sun rise below you from the tiger-head rock.
Booking: Rengha Travels arranges the connection from Theni. They will drop you at the base (Suryanelli) in luxury comfort, where a dedicated 4x4 Jeep will pick you up for the final climb.
Recommended Itinerary (2 Days / 1 Night)
Day 1: The Scenic Drive
08:00 AM: Pickup from Theni by Rengha Travels (Innova Crysta / Urbania).
09:30 AM: Stop at Bodimettu View Point.
12:00 PM: Check-in at a resort in Chinnakanal or Munnar.
04:00 PM: Visit Top Station to see the view of Theni district from the top.
Day 2: The Adventure
04:30 AM: Early morning Jeep Safari to Kolukkumalai for Sunrise.
11:00 AM: Visit Kurangani Village at the foothills on your way back to Theni.
01:00 PM: Refreshing bath in the Kottakudi stream near Kurangani.
How to Book?
For Luxury Transport & Jeep Safaris:
Rengha Holidays & Tourism
Phone: +91 94430 04141
Website: www.renghatravels.com
Specialty: Force Urbania, Luxury Caravans, and Permit assistance.
For Trekking Info & Local Guides:
Theni Tourism
Website: https://thenitourism.com/
Focus: Eco-tourism, Bird watching guides, and Forest entry rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I drive my own car to Kurangani?
A: Yes, the road to Kurangani village is decent. However, you cannot drive from Kurangani up to Top Station. You must park there and trek.
Q: Is the Kurangani trek safe for beginners?
A: It is a moderate trek. If you are fit, you can do it. Avoid trekking during the peak summer (March-May) due to forest fire risks and monsoon (June-Aug) due to leeches. Nov-Jan is the best time.
Q: What is the cost of a Jeep Safari?
A: Costs vary based on the season. Contact Rengha Travels (94430 04141) for the latest rates on Theni to Top Station drop and Kolukkumalai Jeep packages.
Keywords: Kurangani to Top Station trekking package, Theni to Top Station jeep route, Rengha Travels jeep safari, Kolukkumalai sunrise jeep booking, Theni tourism trekking guide.
Our tour packages - https://thenitourism.com/package/North-Theni-One-Day-Trip