Layer up
Mornings at Ramakalmedu can be chilly and misty — a light jacket makes a big difference.
Viewpoints · Waterfalls · Mountain walks
Hill Towns & Viewpoints
15 – 40 km from the hotel
Overview
Hill Towns & Viewpoints.
The Periyar landscape rises into the Western Ghats — a series of viewpoints, waterfalls and quiet hill towns within easy day-trip distance. Cool mountain air, sweeping views over Tamil Nadu's plains and a slower pace of life await.
Ramakalmedu, about 40 km east, is the classic destination — rolling green hills, huge sculptures at the ridge, and clear views over the villages of Bodi and Cumbum on the eastern slopes. On windy days it feels like standing on the roof of the region. The sunset light here is exceptional.
Closer to Kumily, Chellarkovil (15 km) sits at the western edge of a plateau overlooking Tamil Nadu, with cascading waterfalls and quiet plantation walks. Kurisumala is a shorter local trek with panoramic views over Kumily town and Periyar's forests below.
Pandikuzhi, 5 km from Kumily, is the pick for a picnic — streams, boulders and varied flora make it a lovely half-day. And for the more adventurous, Pullumedu (43 km, permission required) offers restricted-zone forest views towards distant Sabarimala.
Plan this tripTraveller tips
Practical notes for the visit.
Hire a jeep
Some hill roads are narrow. A local driver-guide knows the routes and the timings.
Check permits
Pullumedu needs a Forest Department permit — our travel desk can help.
Time for sunset
Ramakalmedu at sunset is the best-known experience. Leave with time to spare.
Things to do
Ways to spend your day.
Our travel desk arranges these on prior request — availability depends on the season and Forest Department programmes.
- 01Ramakalmedu viewpoint & sunset
- 02Chellarkovil waterfalls trek
- 03Kurisumala hilltop walk
- 04Pandikuzhi picnic
- 05Vandiperiyar tea estate stop
- 06Pullumedu forest drive (permit)
Plan with our team
Turn a good trip into a great one.
Our travel desk helps with permits, transport, guides and timings — arranged on prior request.