A trip to the picturesque hill station of Munnar in Kerala will be complete only after a trekking spree at the pristine Meesapulimala Peak. It is always invigorating to step into a place embraced by laid-back mist and expansive greenery. Why not hit the road to Meesapulimala, which is on the Idukki district in Kerala and Theni district in Tamil Nadu border, like actor Dulquer Salman in Malayalam flick ‘Charlie’.
The enchanting peak
Meesapulimala is the second highest peak in the Western Ghats and the trekking path is through the Rhodo Valley. One can reach the base camp of Meesapulimala after driving 24km from Munnar via Mattupetty and has to board a jeep to go to Rhodo Valley from there. The 4km journey from the base camp to Rhodo valley is replete with breathtaking sights including the scenic Pandava cave. The overnight stay at the valley in a tent under the star-studded sky can only be ethereal.
The descent from the top of Meesapulimala is extraordinary as the hikers have to trek through the coniferous pine trees. The nature rolls out a red carpet decked with Rhodo flowers from the point the row of pine trees ends. Rhododendron, which is the national flower of Nepal, blooms abundantly in Meesapulimala. The peak is threaded with streams and it is indeed a great sight to see the milky waters cascading down the rocks. The top of the peak is close to 12km away from the Meesapulimala base camp and it is noteworthy that one would not get bored of trekking as the whole terrain is captivating.
Base camp
The Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) has put in place all facilities for the tourists at the base camp, which is situated 6,000ft above sea level. Forty people can stay at a time at the base camp and the travellers can sit around the camp fire and enjoy the night on the lap of Meesapulimala.
Sky Cottage
The holidaymakers can also stay at Sky Cottage run by KFDC. The facility overlooks a waterfall and the view of the Anamudi peak from the cottage is simply breathtaking. If the night sky is not cloudy, one would be able to see the stars through the ceiling of this magnificent retreat.
Rhodo Mansion
If you want to be at touching distance of the stars, then Rhodo Mansion is the right place for you. The stay at Rhodo valley is free of danger as there is an elephant trench to ward off jumbo menace. Camp fire and food are part of the holiday package.