Tea, Treks and Wildlife - Nature at its best!

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Nearing the top of the peak - Meesapulimalai trek


 When you think of treks and India what comes to mind are the towering Himalayan ranges and not the mountains in Southern India. However people have been pleasantly surprised by the variety and terrains that are on offer to the nature lovers in Southern India. The highest peak south of the Himalayas is in Kerala, the Anamudi Peak. At a height of  2696 meters ( 8842 feet ) it might not seem as imposing as the peaks in the Himalayas but it is still a spectacular mountain. Sadly all access to the peak is now out of bounds to the general public as it falls in the core zone of the Eravikulam National Park and is necessary to ensure the well being of the wildlife and highly fragile ecosystem. If the sheer numbers of tourists who visit the tourism zone of the park is an indication of popularity of the region it would indeed be a disaster to allow any tourist activities anywhere in the vicinity of Anamudi. The good news however for keen nature lovers and people looking for a long trek up a high mountain is that the second highest peak in South India that stands just  few meters below Anamudi is open to visitors. The Meesapulimalai Peak at a height of 2640 meters ( 8661 feet ) is also an equally spectacular peak with amazing vistas all around. The peak though in Kerala also has access from the Tamilnadu side through the tea estate at Kolukkumalai. For people who plan to visit please note that it is illegal to walk up the peak from the Kolukkumalai and Suryanelly and you could be prosecuted if caught. Best to do it the proper way to enjoy the walk with peace of mind. KFDC, a government organisation is the body that controls all tourist activities in the area and you and book your walk either online or through their booking office. You can also book through private operators if you cant be bothered with the hassle of organizing the transport and getting all the logistics in place. Also the guides from KFDC are not that great when it comes to knowledge of the area and communication skills. If you can afford it best get this organised through a reputable company. KFDC also operate accommodation units, in either tents with shared toilet facilities or slightly more comfortable private accommodation with en-suite facilities. They are basic but adequate if you are not fussed with the quality of accommodation and food served.

 The walk is truly spectacular with undulating hills and sharp peaks. One has to be reasonably fit to undertake the walk and the duration of the walk will depend on your fitness. Do ensure that you have a good guide for your walk as the mountain can be treacherous with the swirling mists adding to your woes at times. If you have a sunny clear day then you will certainly be rewarding with breathtaking scenery all along the walk.If you are lucky you also get to see some wildlife. Truly bliss! For people who love walking and the outdoors this is an activity to add to the list of things that you should do. For more details you can contact info@rithudmc.com 
Walking up the slope to the top of Meesapulimalai

The Meesapulimalai Trek
The peaks about the clouds..morning in he hills.

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