Ramakkalmedu, a hill that stands tall in the Western Ghats at a height of around 3,500ft above sea level bordering Kerala and Tamil Nadu meet, can be aptly described as a slice of paradise. Situated in the spice district of Idukki at a distance of 15 kilometres from Nedumkandom, Ramakkalmedu is a vantage point from where one gets a panoramic view of the villages below.

Ramakkalmedu, a heavenly hamlet in Kerala's Idukki district with mystical mist, wind-swept rolling green hills and breathtaking views can give a surreal experience to travellers. Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan
Ramakkalmedu, a heavenly hamlet in Kerala's Idukki district with mystical mist, wind-swept rolling green hills and breathtaking views can give a surreal experience to travellers. Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan

The journey to the peak begins at the Ramakkalmedu Junction, where Kerala and Tamil Nadu split paths.

Ramakkalmedu is one of the windiest places in Asia. Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan
Ramakkalmedu is one of the windiest places in Asia. Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan
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There are multiple paths leading to the base point of the rocky hill. The one that leads to the side overlooking the Tamil Nadu valley offers one of a kind experience. The entry to the rock is embraced by a beautiful bamboo forest that gives a sense of peacefulness and a warm welcome to nature. The immediate change one would notice here is how the sounds from nature calm one's mind. Take time to notice the little things that nature has spread out for you.

Legend has it that Lord Rama visited this place on the way to Lanka in search of his 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 his feet on this land.

Situated in the spice district of Idukki at a distance of 15 kilometres from Nedumkandom, Ramakkalmedu is a vantage point from where one gets a panoramic view of the villages below. Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan
Situated in the spice district of Idukki at a distance of 15 kilometres from Nedumkandom, Ramakkalmedu is a vantage point from where one gets a panoramic view of the villages below. Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan
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It is worth noting that Ramakkalmedu is one of the windiest places in Asia. The winds can blow at an average speed of 32.5km/h and sometimes the speed can go up to 100km/h. The Kerala Government has set up wind energy farms in the region in a bid to tap wind energy.

The natural caves found at Ramakkalmedu are one of its major attractions. Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan
The natural caves found at Ramakkalmedu are one of its major attractions. Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan

Apart from the natural caves found at Ramakkalmedu, the statue of 'Kuruvan' and 'Kuruthi' located at the top to attracts tourists. Its proximity to famous tourist spots such as Periyar Tiger Forest of Thekkady, Kuttikanam, Munnar and Parunthumpara makes it frequented by tourists.

Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan
Photo: Onmanorama/Alex Pappachan
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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.  

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