Place Details:
You cannot miss Anamudi peak in Eravikulam National Park near Munnar, Kerala. At a height of 2,695 meters, this is said to be the highest mountain peak in the country outside the Himalayas. Surrounded by forests, the mountain is home to a rich variety of animals and plants. The park itself is home to the largest population of Gaurs and Asian elephants, as well as lion-tailed macaques and Nilgiri Langurs. Covered by forests and with rivers for company, the peak makes for an engaging trek. The route up the mountain gives you amazing views of the Periyar River and the Thamirabarani and Vaigai rivers flowing to the east. In terms of flora, you can find teak and blackwood trees aplenty as well as other evergreen trees like bamboos, Arundinaria densifolia and Gaultheria fragrantissima. ALSO READ: Breathtaking Monsoon Photos of India’s Western Ghats Will Tempt You to Take a Weekend Trip
The big attraction here, though, is the famous Neela Kurinji flower, a species that blooms only once in 12 years. The next bloom is scheduled for 2018, when the mountain turns into a beautiful shade of purple as thousands of flowers blossom together. From the top of the peak, you can get amazing views of the Nilgiri hills, valleys, rivers, spice plantations, tea estates and forests. The peak is best visited in the months between November and May. The base is around an hour away from Munnar by road, and the peak is often called the Himalaya of South India. Anamudi’s name roughly translates to Forehead of an Elephant, which is what the peak looks like from certain angles. The peak is a favorite among adventure enthusiasts, wildlife photographers and nature lovers. The Eravikulam National Park authorities have set up trekking facilities, but you need to take permission to climb to the top, and it is always best to contact them to find out about the weather and trekking conditions at the time of your journey.
BEST TIME TO VISIT MUNNAR
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Munnar is as given below. The best time to visit Munnar is also specified.