Anamudi is the highest peak in the Western Ghats in southern India standing at an elevation of 2,695 meters. The Anamudi Peak is the largest mountain in Kerala and is located in Ernakulam and Idukki districts.
Anamudi literally means elephant’s head as the shape of the mountain looks like that of a broad forehead of an elephant. The peak is known as the Everest of South India as it is the highest point in southern India.
The peak is covered with evergreen forest, rich flora and fauna, and beautiful rivers add to its breathtaking views. Anamundi along with Eravikulam National Park is home to the largest surviving population of the Asiatic elephant, Nilgiri tahr, Gaur, Bengal tigers, and the Nilgiri marten.
It is also home to a critically endangered species of frog called Raorchestes Resplendens. The peak is famous for the Neela Kurinji flower, which blossoms every twelve years.
The peak is a paradise for trekkers, nature lovers, and wildlife photographers. Trek to the top of the peak has a mindblowing view of the rivers Vaigai, Thamirabarani, and Periyar. On the way to the top, there are lush green tea and spice plantations on the slopes of the mountains.
Major attractions at Anamudi Peak are Eravikulam National Park, Lakkam Waterfall, Nyayamkadu Waterfalls, Punarjani Traditional Village, Mattupetty Dam, Kannan Devan Tea Museum, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Pothamedu Viewpoint.
General Douglas Hamilton of the Madras Army made the first recorded ascent of Anamudi on 4 May 1862.
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Best Time to visit Anamudi Peak
The best time to visit Anamudi Peak is during the winter or spring season between the months of November and May. During the spring season, the blooming flowers and lush green mountains make the views breathtaking.
One should avoid trekking during the monsoon season as the trek becomes wet and slippery.
How to Reach
Munnar town is just 13 km from the Eravikulam National Park and the Anamudi Peak is located within the park. Munnar is well connected by roads from Kerala and the nearby state of Tamil Nadu.
Local buses and private taxis are easily available from the Munnar bus stand.
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FAQs
The park is managed by the Department of Forests and Wildlife, Government of Kerala, and a permit is needed from the authorities before trekking or hiking to the Anamudi Peak
The trek from the Eravikulam National Park to the Anamudi Peak takes about 2 hours to reach the top and another 2 hours backward. You will be trekking inside the jungle to the top of the mountain.
Anaimudi with a height of 2695 metres is the highest peak in Annamalai hills. The peak is located at the southwestern end of the Annamalai Hills.
Meesapulimala is the second-highest peak in South India and has an elevation of 2,640 meters in the Western Ghats at the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Kanchenjunga is the highest mountain peak in India standing at an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 ft). It is the 3rd highest peak in the world after Mount Everest and K2.
