The Anaimalai Hills, also known as the Elephant Mountains, are a mountain range located in the southern part of the Western Ghats in India. They geographically span the border regions between the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Specifically, the hills extend across parts of central Kerala—covering districts like Idukki, Ernakulam, Palakkad, and Thrissur—and the western region of Tamil Nadu, especially in Coimbatore and Tiruppur districts. This region is notable for its ecological diversity, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty.
Location and Geography
The Anaimalai Hills lie roughly between latitudes 10°13′ and 10°31′ N and longitudes 76°52′ and 77°23′ E. They form the southern border of the Western Ghats mountain range and are situated south of the Palakkad Gap—an important low mountain pass that separates the Anaimalai Hills from the Nilgiri Hills to the north. To the east of the hills lie the Palni Hills, while the Cardamom Hills border them to the southeast and the bamboo-rich Idamalayar-Pooyamkutty valley lies to the west. The hills rise in a northwest-southeast orientation, creating terraces around 3,300 feet (1,000 meters) high.
The Anaimalai Hills are geologically composed of metamorphic gneiss rocks interspersed with feldspar and quartz veins. Their geological formation dates to the Holocene Epoch, about the past 11,700 years, shaped predominantly by fault-block movements. The region experiences heavy monsoon rains with annual rainfall varying from 2,000 mm to 5,000 mm, supporting dense forests and plantations.
Natural Environment and Biodiversity
The Anaimalai Hills are ecologically significant, hosting a variety of forest types including South Western Ghats moist deciduous forests and montane rain forests. These forests are home to a rich diversity of flora such as rosewood, sandalwood, teak, and sago palms. The hills serve as a habitat for many animal species, including elephants—which influenced the hills’ name (Anaimalai means “Elephant Mountain” in Tamil and Malayalam)—and the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat.
The hills encompass the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, a protected area well-known for tiger conservation efforts, located largely in Tamil Nadu’s Pollachi and Coimbatore districts. The reserve is a vital ecological hotspot with wildlife shelters, including a crocodile breeding center, and attractions like Monkey Falls that draw many tourists.
Human Settlements and Economy
Sparsely populated, the Anaimalai Hills are home to indigenous communities such as the Kadar, Maravar, and Pooliyar peoples, whose economies traditionally revolve around hunting, gathering, and shifting cultivation. Over time, lower slopes of the hills have been cleared for extensive tea, coffee, and rubber plantations, especially on the Tamil Nadu side near Valparai. Teak plantations also have significant economic value. Local industries include basket weaving, coir production, metal articles, and bidi (traditional cigarettes) manufacturing.
Tourism and Recreation
The Anaimalai Hills are a popular destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife enthusiasts. One of the notable peaks is Anamudi, at 8,842 feet (2,695 meters) in height, located at the southwestern end of the hills in Kerala. Anamudi is the tallest peak in southern India and part of the Eravikulam National Park, which is famous for the Nilgiri Tahr population. The hills’ natural beauty combined with scenic waterfalls, dense forests, and wildlife sanctuaries make it a favored spot for trekking and eco-tourism.
In Tamil Nadu, the hill station of Valparai is well known for its tea estates and panoramic views. Visitors to the area can explore the Anaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy trekking routes with stops at attractions such as Monkey Falls, Manjampatti, and Kullipatti. The area’s biodiversity and relatively untouched wilderness provide a serene experience for tourists.
Summary
In summary, the Anaimalai Hills are a prominent mountain range located on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu in southern India. They form part of the southern Western Ghats and are marked by significant ecological, geographical, and cultural importance. Spanning multiple districts in both states, the hills feature diverse forest ecosystems, rich wildlife habitats, and plantations that contribute to the local economy. The area is also a favored destination for trekking, wildlife tourism, and nature exploration, with the highest peak in southern India, Anamudi, located within this range.
This unique region, with its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, continues to be an important landmark and a treasured part of India’s Western Ghats landscape.
