Complete Guide to Trekking at Anamudi Peak-The Everest of South India

At an altitude of 2695 meters, Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in India outside the Himalayan Karakoram Peak and is called the Everest of South India. Anamudi means Elephants Forehead, received its name because it has the largest population of Asian Elephant Gaurs and Nilgiri Tahr. Anamudi Peak is 20 km from Munnar, is part of the Western Ghats, and is in the southern part of Eravikulam National Park.

The mountain is covered by an evergreen forest with a rich variety of flora and fauna. Several medicinal plants like Wintergreens, Impatiens, and Anaphalis are found here. It is famous for the Kurunji flower that blooms once in 12 years. The mountains look spectacular when the purple flower blooms. A few lucky people have been fortunate to witness the transformation.

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Anamudi Peak is a popular destination for trekking and mountaineering enthusiast. Nature enthusiasts and travel photographers love visiting the peak.

Entrance Fees and timings

There is no entry fee to visit Anamudi Peak, but you need to pay a nominal fee to enter Eravikulam National Park. The entrance fee for Indians is Rs. 65 and Rs. 245 for foreign nationals.

The peak is open to visitors from 7.30 am to 4.00 pm. The visit duration is generally 2 to 3 hours.

How to reach Anamudi?

Anamudi Peak is 10 km from Munnar and takes 25 minutes to reach Eravikulam National Park. You can take buses or cabs from Munnar to the park.

You can begin your trek from Eravikulam National Park. If you want to view the peak, you can opt for a guided minibus tour of the Eravikulam National Park. The bus takes you to a viewpoint that offers a fantastic view of Anamudi and the surrounding peaks. You can explore and walk around in a closed path.

You can also hire a car to take you directly to Anamudi Peak from Munnar. It takes an hour to reach the peak from Munnar.

Trekking at Anamudi Peak 

Trekking at Anamudi Peak is currently banned and is  quite challenging, and you need prior experience to handle the trek even if you get the special permit from forest authorities.  The 2 hours’ trek to Anamudi Peak from Eravikulam National Park is a memorable experience . You will be trekking inside the jungle to the top of the mountain. You can enjoy the unique sights and sounds of the jungle and unique camping areas.

You get a panoramic view of the Western Ghats, rivers, valleys, spice, and tea plantations from the Anamudi Peak. You can spot beautiful rivers Vaigai and Thamirabarani flowing into the east, and the majestic Periyar river flowing into the Arabian Sea.

The trek takes 2 to 3 days to complete and starts at the foothills of Eravikulam. At night, trekkers stay at hamlets. There is also a shorter trek for 2 hours  to Anamudi Peak from Eravikulam National Park

You need permission from wildlife authorities before you start your trek. We recommend you take a guided tour from a travel agent, who provides a guide, pick-up, and drop facilities and takes care of food, accommodations, and permits.

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Best time to plan your trek

Try to plan your trek to Anamudi Peak is between November and May. The weather is pleasant and ranges from 18 to 25 C. The peak looks beautiful with flowers blooming all around, natural mist envelopes the peak.

It is unsafe to trek during the monsoon as the roads become slippery.

Things to see around Anamudi Peak

There are many tourist attractions around Anamudi Peak. Munnar is a beautiful hill station with rolling tea plantations and grasslands. Some of the top places to visit around Anamudi Peak-

• Attukad waterfall is a multiple cascading waterfalls that is a must-visit.
• Mattupetty Dam is a gravity dam near Munnar that is picturesque. Boating facilities and horse riding are available near the dam.
• Kundala Lake is at an altitude of 1700 m and looks majestic surrounded by green valleys. The lake looks spectacular at sunrise.

Tips

• Keep a track of weather conditions before your trek.
• Consult forest officials before you begin your trek, you need prior permission.
• Leeches are common in the region and you should wear leech socks to protect yourself.
• Always carry a first aid kit with basic medicines with you while trekking.
• Carry a detailed guide to the peak with you before you start your trek.
• We recommend each person should carry a 2-liter bottle of water and some food while trekking.
• Carry sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a torch.
• Avoid trekking between February and March as it is the calving season of Nilgiri Tahrs.
• Do not expect network coverage during your trek. BSNL has weak coverage at the peak.

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