Ramakkalmedu – Idukki

Ramakkalmedu is a border tourist spot and hill station in Karunapuram panchayath ( Around 15 kms from Nedumkandam). Its a hill station and a hamlet in Idukki district. Rolling green hills and the fresh mountain air make Ramakalmedu and enchanting retreat. The hilltop also offers a panoramic view of Tamil Nadu towns of Cumbum, Theni, Kombe, Thevaram, Uthamapalayam, Bodinaykannor and Vaiga. The ecosystem of the area largely comprises of grass land Shola forest type which is laced by sporadic bamboo forests. Constant wind is another factor which makes Ramakkalmedu unique.

The sight is even wonderful at dusk when all these towns lighted.Ramakkalmedu is a Special Historic place with a Monument of Kuravar and Kurathi Statue, which depicts the Sangam Period and Sangam landscape of Kerala and Tamil Nadu . Rama – kal – medu literally means “Land of Rama’s Stone” (Rama the Hindu God ) or “Land where Rama kept his leg” , as per many interpretations available. One story says that Lord Rama kept his feet at the tip of Ramakkalmedu to search Ravana the King of Lanka who abducted his wife Sita.

Ramakalmedu stands tall in the western ghats at a height of 3560 ft above sea level. Trekking through the rocks in Ramakkalmedu would be a memorable for you .Here the Wind blows at a speed around 35 km per hour at Ramakkalmedu throughout the year irrespective of the season and time. Ramakkalmedu is the second place in Kerala where a wind energy farm is installed. Currently the capacity is at about 12.5 MW. Although Ramakkalmedu has a good potential for it to become a fine tourist destination, not much is done for the improvement of basic facilities nearby.

The scenic beauty of Ramakkalmedu has attracted thousands of people,The  Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio has reportedly said about this place that “If there is a paradise on earth, it is here”

Safety Tips

• Try to trek down to the base with the guidance of locals.

• Don’t show over enthusiasm at viewpoint and on rocks.

• Don’t go near to cliffs

• Avoid using Dhothies as the wind may embarrass you

• Since here is no guards, its not advisable to keep your family there after sunset

Best season:   September  – May