The Anaimalai Hills, also known as the Elephant Mountains, are a prominent mountain range located in the southern part of the Western Ghats in southern India. This range straddles the border between the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Geographically, the hills span across several districts including Palakkad, Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur in Kerala, and Coimbatore and Tiruppur districts in Tamil Nadu. The Anaimalai Hills lie south of the Nilgiri Hills and are distinct from them due to the Palakkad Gap, a mountain pass that separates the two ranges. These hills form a key part of the southern Western Ghats and are nestled between other hill ranges such as the Cardamom Hills and the Palni Hills.
The name “Anaimalai” is derived from the Tamil and Malayalam words for elephant (aana or yaanai) and mountain (malai or mala), which translates to “Elephant Mountain,” reflecting the presence of elephants in the region and the shape of some of the hills. The highest peak in the Anaimalai Hills is Anamudi Peak, which rises to 2,695 meters (8,842 feet) and is the tallest peak in southern India. The terrain includes a series of terraces about 1,000 meters high, formed through geological fault-block movements during the Holocene Epoch.
The Anaimalai Hills are known for their rich biodiversity and dense forests, with major forest types including South Western Ghats moist deciduous forests and the South Western Ghats montane rain forests. The region receives heavy monsoon rains, with rainfall varying from 2,000 mm to 5,000 mm annually, supporting lush vegetation. Forests here consist of commercially valuable trees such as teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and sago palms. Additionally, the lower slopes of the hills are interspersed with coffee, tea, and teak plantations, mainly around areas like Valparai in Tamil Nadu.
Ecologically, the Anaimalai Hills support a diverse range of flora and fauna. The area is home to wildlife sanctuaries and tiger reserves, which include species like elephants, tigers, and various birds. The Anaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary and Anamalai Tiger Reserve are notable protected areas within the hills, attracting tourists and nature enthusiasts. These sanctuaries are integral to conserving the biodiversity of the Western Ghats, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Human habitation in the Anaimalai Hills region includes indigenous tribes such as the Kadar, Maravar, and Pooliyar, who traditionally rely on hunting, gathering, and shifting cultivation. The economy of the region is also supported by agricultural plantations and small-scale industries like coir production, basket weaving, and bidi (cigarette) manufacturing.
The Anaimalai Hills are also a popular destination for trekking and eco-tourism. The scenic landscape, diverse wildlife, and the presence of attractions like Monkey Falls and crocodile breeding centers make it an appealing location for adventure seekers and nature observers. The hills are accessible via Pollachi in Tamil Nadu and neighboring towns, offering opportunities for hiking and exploration from September to June, which is the best time to visit.
Overall, the Anaimalai Hills hold great ecological, cultural, and economic importance in southern India. Their prime location at the intersection of the Eastern and Western Ghats, along with their rich natural heritage, makes them a significant part of India’s mountainous landscape and biodiversity conservation efforts.
