The Anamudi peak which is the highest peak in South India, known as Himalayas of south stands tall at 2695 meters, and can be found in the core area of the Eravikulam National Park. Many streams intersperse through these hills and merge to form the tributaries. The peak is called “Anamudi” as it resembles an elephant’s head.
The vegetation in these hills comprise of grasslands, shrublands, and forests. There are twenty six different species of mammals found in these hills and Eravikulam National Park. In addition to the Nilgiri Tahr, elephants, langur, martens, jackal, tigers, wild dogs, leopard, stripe-necked mongoose and sambar deer are found in this park. For a bird watcher enthusiast, the hills are abode to almost one hundred and twenty different varieties of birds. Nilgiri pigeon, flycatcher, nilgiri pipit and laughing thrush can be found here. The largest moth in the world which is known as the Atlas moth can be spotted here.
Trekking is a rejuvenating experience by itself; imagine if you were surrounded by breathtaking beauty too. The answer lies in the Anaimudi peak. This is one of the most beautiful spots in the world. Prior permission must be sought from the forest official to trek up the Anaimudi peak.
No entry fee is required to go up the hills. The Anamudi hills on the north and south are easier to trek while the hills are steep in the eastern and western part of the peak. It is important to carry ample water, trekking shoes and equipment and some salt to throw over the leeches that cling on to you.
The best time to visit these hills is from January to March and from October to December as it is slightly dry during this season. While trekking, there are certain rules that one needs to know to keep yourself and the group you are traveling with safe. It is important to note that one can spot animals while on the trek. Care must be taken to not harm these animals. Do not startle the animals or take initiative to go towards them. Also, please do not attempt to feed them. This might prove harmful to both you and the animal. Trekkers must keep in mind to not pollute the hills. All garbage must be carried back after the expedition and disposed off appropriately. Wear appropriate clothing and also in colors like brown and green that can merge well with your background. Wearing Darker shades may draw attraction from the animals. Eco-tourism trekking like these is always no smoking zones. It is also important to understand that it is wise to trek in groups than going off individually. Try as much as possible to take flash-less photography. The lights may harm the vision of the animals of infuriate them into attacking. Do not carry food with too much odour in it. Animals have acute sense of smell in them. It is also advisable to wear strong perfumes or deodorants. Try and keep your camping gear to fifteen kilograms only. Keep the trail area as clean as possible. Be on constant alert while trekking.
The Eravikulam National Park is a must see for all the tourists that visit Anamudi. It’s a paradise for animal lovers. The blue Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom only every twelve years is found here too. These flowers are next set to bloom in the year 2018. The Eravikulam National Park is open on all days of the week from eight in the morning until four thirty in the evening. The best time to visit Eravikulam National Park is from April to June and from September to November. The park is closed for visit during the monsoon season.
The nearest railway station to Munnar is in Aluva or Angamaly which are one hundred and eight and one hundred and nine kilometres respectively. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport. The KSRTC and private bus services are also available.