Kerala is known as God’s own country for its misty hills, quaint backwaters, lush fields and dense forests teeming with rare plants and exquisite wildlife. But did you know that there is a place in Kerala nicknamed as God’s Own Hill Station?
Yes you heard it right. Ramakkalmedu situated in the spice district of Idukki is called as God’s Own Hill Station for its cool, green hills and the fresh mountain air. Ramakkalmedu is truly an enchanting retreat for a discerning traveller. Ramakkalmedu, a hill that stands tall in the Western Ghats at a height of around 3,500ft above sea level where Kerala and Tamil Nadu meet, can be aptly described as a slice of paradise. Located at a distance of 15 kilometres from Nedumkandom, Ramakkalmedu is a vantage point from where one gets a panoramic view of the villages and towns below.
Legend has it that Lord Rama visited this place on the way to Lanka in search of Sita who was abducted by Ravana. It is believed that the decision to select Rameshwaram for ‘Sethubandhanam’ (construction of the Adam’s Bridge) was taken here. The place got its name Ramakkalmedu as it is believed that Lord Rama had set foot on this land.
A lesser known fact is that Ramakkalmedu is also one of the windiest places in Asia. The wind can blow at an average speed of 32.5 km/h and sometimes up to 100 km/h. So the government has set up wind energy farms in the regions to generate electricity.
Upon trekking the Ramakkalmedu hills, one can find the statue of ‘Kuruvan’ and ‘Kurathi’ located at the top. The statue, a historical monument by sculptor C B Jinan, depicts a ‘Kurava’ family. The story goes that the Kuravan and Kurathi were the guides for the architects of the Idukki Dam. There is also a mandapam behind the statue, which has been built for tourists to take rest.
Another attraction of Ramakkalmedu is the east facing pillar-like rocks that are close to 300 m tall.
Best time to visit Ramakkalmedu is from September to May. Rainy season can be avoided.
How to reach
Ramakkalmedu is 15km away Nedumgandam on the Thekkady-Munnar route. This wonderful tourist spot is 150km and 43km away from Ernakulam and Thekkady respectively. If you can drive 20km from Kattpana and 70km from Munnar, you can reach Ramakkalmedu. The nearest railway station is Kottayam.
Comments