Peermede

Peermede in the state of Kerala, has all the attractions of a typical hill station - coffee, tea and cardamom plantations, a pleasant climate, scenery and an abundance of flora and fauna. Situated 915 metres above sea level on the western fringe of Idukki, it is a choice break for tourists en route to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the famous wildlife reserves in Kerala. It is 85 km east of Kottayam on the way to Thekkady.

Situated in the lap of the Western Ghats, surrounded by the evergreen Shola forests, the lofty hills of Peermade were, cut down a century ago by the British settlers, convert the hills into beautiful tea plantations. The legacy of the Raj can still be seen in colonial buildings such as Ashley, Henwoods and Green Woods.

Peermede was the summer retreat of the Maharajas of Travancore. The hillstation boasts, Ammachikkottaram, the summer residence of Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bai (Regent Maharani of the royal family of Travancore in 1930-40s). Surrounded by lush greenery, it is a guest house run by the Department of tourism. The corridors, underground passages, halls, stables recall the grandeur and glory of a bygone era.

It's history is also closely linked to Peer Muhammad,a Sufi saint who lived in Peermedu. He is believed to be the first trader of spices in the region and it was after him the place earned the name Peermedu or the Peer’s valley. A mausoleum, dedicated to him is located at Peeru hills. The hill station also played host to Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of Independent India.

Beautiful scenery and a pleasant year-round climate of Peermede makes it suitable for holidaying. Natural grasslands, gorgeous greens of the plantations of Coffee, tea, coconut, pepper, cardamom, rubber, eucalyptus, pine forests and a salubrious climate make this an enchanting and picturesque destination. This hillstation is just ideal for long walks also.

Attractions in and around Peermede

Waterfalls are the major tourist attraction in Peermede. Madamkulam, Meloram, Nallathanni, Panchalimedu and Valanjamkanam are all worth visiting while at Peermade. There are lots of tea factories on the way where one can visit. Peermede hills is a delight for visitors who would love adventure tourism. Trek to Plakkathadam, a tribal settlement is a also worth. Another major trekking trail is the Grampi also known as Paruthumpara.

Peermede also has an Ayurvedic center - Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre which offers great rejuvenating therapies (Ph: 04869- 232297/497). It also offers well appointed treatment and accommodation facilities. They also have a comprising a unit for producing ayurvedic medicines. A well-maintained raw drugs museum is there, which houses more than two hundred types of rarified and rare herbs.

Pattumala

Pattumala or Hill draped in silk is located 17 km from Peermade and 27 km from Thekkady. Situated in the midst of tea plantations, the Velamkanni Matha Church and the flower garden are the other must visits at Pattumala. In Pattumala, several of tea estates and tea factories are located.

Parunthumpara (Eagle Rock)

It is actually a large, nearly circular piece of rock spread across half a kilometre. The shape of the hills resembles an eagle flying with its wings stretched and hence it got its name. One of the plastic free zone area, from its top, one can enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside - rocky plains, lush green hillsides and verdant forests. It sky is clear one can view the distant view of sabarimala hills. Note : It is a remote area without nearby residence, so be careful especially women traveling alone.

Panchalimedu

It is a breezy meadow flanked with clouds that offers tourists a panoramic view of valleys and hills. It is near the Mundakayam Valley. The largely unexplored areas depicted in the great epic Mahabharata. During their exile, the five Pandava brothers are believed to have spent sime time here on this mountains. The name 'Panchalimedu' is derived from 'Panchali', the wife of the Pandavas.

A cave, about six feet high, bearing the footprints of Bhima. There is small temple dedicated to Bhuvaneshwari. Panchali is said to have used the nearby pond, and hence it is named Panchalikulam or Panchali‘s pond. It has water even during the dry summer season.

The remnants of Shivalingas, thrishul and idols of naga idols can be seen here. The Makarajyothi can be witnessed from Panchalimedu during Makarasankranthi days.

Pallikunnu CSI Curch (St.George's Church)

It was built in 1867 by the early English settlers. Believed to be the first church of the High Ranges, it reflect a European style. It is situated on a 17 acre land in Pallikkunnu, surrounded by groves of cypress and pine trees. Embellished with decorative arches and carved teakwood beams, there are tombs of many English men in its churchyard.

Kuttikanam

Kuttikanam is an ideal place for all people who have a nose for adventure tourism. From Peermede one needs to trek only a short distance of 3 km to reach the destination.

Thrissanku Hills

It is jsut half a kilometre from Kuttikkanam Junction. Nestled within undulating hills, fiery sunsets and spectacular views which beckon nature lovers to these hills.

Vagamon

It is located at a distance of only twenty-five km from Peermede. Also known as the Scotland of Asia, Vagamon remained hidden till the British discovered it nearly a century ago, and they used the place for tea plantations, followed by Christian missionaries who built here their abode of service. Vagamon remains cool during most part of the year. There is a dairy farm, which is managed by the Kurisumala monastics. Tourists visit this place also.