Anamudi
Anamudi, towering at a majestic height of 2,695 meters, proudly stands as the highest peak in South India and a crown jewel of Munnar's natural beauty. Named "Elephant's Forehead" due to its distinctive shape, Anamudi is a haven for trekkers, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers.
The trek to Anamudi is a mesmerizing journey through dense forests, mist-kissed valleys, and rocky terrains. The Eravikulam National Park, home to rare and endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr, serves as a backdrop for this exhilarating trek. As you ascend, the panoramic views of the Western Ghats and surrounding landscapes unfold, leaving trekkers awestruck.
Apart from trekking, Anamudi offers opportunities for birdwatching, with various avian species inhabiting the lush forests. The diverse flora and fauna make the region an ideal destination for wildlife photography and nature walks.
Visitors can explore the nearby Rajamala, where the Nilgiri Tahr population thrives. It's a chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
The allure of Anamudi extends beyond its heights. It's a destination that beckons travelers to immerse themselves in the raw grandeur of the Western Ghats, experience the thrill of trekking, and connect with nature's untamed beauty in a way that is both invigorating and humbling.
Things to do in Anamudi Peak Munnar
Trekking to the peak: The 2 hours' trek to Anamudi Peak from Eravikulam National Park is a memorable experience for the thrill-seekers. You’ll also find camping sites in the area if you want to enjoy the views of the peak during the early hours of the morning or late evening.
Enjoying the safari: It takes a short bus ride from the national park entrance to reach the viewpoint of Anamudi Peak. And during the ride, you can enjoy watching the beautiful forest cover. Eravikulam National Park is home to many animals, birds, and amphibians. And Nilgiri Tahr, the wild mountain goat, is the main attraction. If you’re lucky, you will also come across Neelakurinji flowers, which cover the slopes once in 12 years.
Checking out the plantations: On the way to Anamudi Peak, you’ll come across tea and spice plantations along the slopes, spread like a green carpet. You can stop, check the plants, and know more about them from the farmers.
Planning a picnic on the greens: The area surrounding the peak is a preferred picnic spot among the local people. So, if you aren’t interested in climbing Anamudi Peak or exploring the wildlife, you can settle on the green meadows and have a fun time with your friends and family.
Clicking photographs: Anamudi Peak and the surrounding scenic views of the national park delight many nature photographers. And you shouldn’t miss capturing those green mountain slopes, evergreen forests and the native flora and fauna of the area.
Nyayamakad Waterfalls
Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The enchanting surroundings makes an excellent picnic spot and trekking point. Gravel Banks, a delightful trout fishing site, is tucked away in a remote corner of Nyayamakad Estate.
At a distance of 10 km from Munnar, Nyayamakad Waterfalls is a picturesque waterfall on Munnar - Udamalpet road close to the entrance of Eravikulam National Park. It is one of the highest cascading waterfalls in Kerala, and among the must-visit places of sightseeing in Munnar.
The water here drops from a height of more than 1500 meters cascading through rocks over several steps. The water is collected into a big pool at the bottom which is great place to spend some time during Munnar trip. This waterfall Is close to the Rajamalai entrance and can be visited along with Rajamalai / Eravikulam Park. It needs about 10 minutes walk from the main road.
Trekking is a popular activity here. One can enjoy the marvelous views of surrounding valleys of Western Ghats including Anamudi and other peaks. Trekking to some of the upper levels of the falls is possible through rock climbing though it's little risky in Monsoons. Best time to visit Nyayamakad Waterfalls is post monsoon season between October and December.
Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National Park, located near Munnar, is a sanctuary of biodiversity and natural splendor that beckons tourists with its unique offerings. This park is renowned for being the habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat species. Visitors can witness these majestic creatures amidst the picturesque landscape of rolling hills and meadows.
The park's landscapes change with the seasons, with vibrant blooms of Neelakurinji flowers blanketing the hills once every twelve years, creating a breathtaking spectacle of blue hues. The Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India, stands tall within the park's boundaries, providing a challenging trekking route for adventure enthusiasts.
The park offers well-laid-out trails for nature walks, ensuring that visitors can experience the lush shola forests, grasslands, and clear streams while enjoying encounters with various bird species and other wildlife.
A visit to Eravikulam National Park provides a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the Western Ghats, witness unique floral phenomena, and spot rare animal species in their pristine habitats. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the richness of Kerala's wildlife and landscapes.
Marayoor
Marayoor, nestled on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats near Munnar, is a captivating destination that promises a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. You might have seen traces of prehistoric times in museum or in history books. But imagine a place where you can walk amid the remnants of these bygone times, where you can feel the sighs of a long-gone civilization, where you can touch the oddments of those departed times. Come to Marayoor, a small piece of land in Kerala 42 kilometers north of Munnar, where you can relive the nuances of a distant past.
The etymology of the name Marayoor itself takes us back to two millennia. One of the most accepted observations is that the name owes its origin to Maravars, a tribal community who lived here during the turn of Christian era. ‘Ooru’ means village. So Marayoor is the village of Maravars. Maravars were the traditional members of the army of tribal chiefs, and the Maharajas of Chera, Chola and Pandya.
Marayoor is also famous for its sugarcane farms, producing a special variety of sugarcane known as "Marayoor Sarkara." The processing of this sugarcane into jaggery is a sight to behold, and visitors can purchase this traditional delicacy as a souvenir.
The Thoovanam Waterfalls, cascading through rocky terrain and surrounded by lush greenery, offer a rejuvenating experience for those seeking a nature retreat. The nearby Kanthalloor region is known for its apple orchards and breathtaking landscapes, providing ample opportunities for leisurely strolls and photography.
The region's prehistoric rock paintings, found in the Marayoor Sandalwood Forest, provide a glimpse into the ancient history of the area. These paintings offer insights into the lives and artistry of early inhabitants, adding a layer of intrigue to the visit.
Marayoor has a history that dates back to the Stone Age civilization that is as old as 10,000 B.C.E. At Marayoor you are welcomed by the silent tombs of primeval times - the dolmens. The dolmenoids (burial chambers made of huge stones), also known as muniyaras, belong to the Iron Age. There are a dozen numbers of such dolmens near the old Thenkasinathan Temple on the banks of the River Pambar at Marayoor. Several Stone Age dolmens can also be found on the left side of River Pambar. The Dolmens of Marayoor, ancient burial chambers, are fascinating archaeological sites that provide a glimpse into the region's historical significance.
For bird enthusiasts, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven with diverse avian species and the chance to spot wildlife.
Ancient rock paintings are another feature that adds to the rich heritage of Marayoor. Attala, Ezhuthu Guha, Kovilkadavu and Manala in Marayoor panchayath are some of the places where one can find these abstract art works of ancient times. More than 90 painted motifs can be seen in Attala where these paintings are situated in a colossal east facing rock shelter some 1,500 meters above mean sea level.
This quaint town is renowned for its vast expanse of sandalwood forests, making it one of the only places in Kerala where sandalwood trees grow naturally.
In essence, Marayoor is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. From its sandalwood forests and rock paintings to its sugarcane farms and scenic waterfalls, Marayoor offers a captivating journey into the heart of Kerala's natural and historical richness.