Things To Do
in Anamalais
Anamalais, or Anamalai Hills, is a misty span of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu that spans forested ridges, tea estates, and protected reserves. It hosts the Anamalai Tiger Reserve and a network of scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and coffee-and-tea plantation towns. The region offers cooler highland air, wildlife encounters, and tranquil hill-town vibes away from the plains.
Visitors come for nature walks, wildlife safaris, and immersive plantation experiences amidst lush, green landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Anamalais and get settled in your accommodation nestled within the lush green landscape. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while soaking in the serene views of the mountains surrounding you. Take a short walk around the property to familiarize yourself with the area.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture of Anamalais, where you can sample fresh local fruits and buy handcrafted goods. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their daily lives and customs. Spend the afternoon visiting a nearby tea plantation, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy some tasting.
As the sun sets, return to your accommodation to relax and freshen up. Head out for dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in traditional South Indian cuisine. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance under the stars, perhaps accompanied by some live local music.
Set out early for a guided trek in Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, where the crisp morning air awakes your senses. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, deer, and a variety of birds as your guide shares insights about the flora and fauna. The breathtaking views of the reserve will be a highlight of your morning.
Continue your adventure with a picnic lunch amidst nature, enjoying the sounds of the wilderness. After lunch, embark on a boat ride on the Parambikulam Lake, surrounded by beautiful forested hills, where you may spot more wildlife. Capture the stunning scenery and create unforgettable memories.
Return to Anamalais, where you can unwind after a thrilling day of exploration. Dine at your accommodation, perhaps trying some freshly caught fish or local specialties. Spend your evening stargazing, as the clear skies above offer a celestial display.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚌One-way public transport ticket (local) | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and scenic tea-estate landscapes
- Cool climate and tranquil hill-town atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities in remote areas
- Roads can be winding and seasonal closures occur during monsoon
- "வணக்கம்" - Hello
- "நன்றி" - Thank you
- "தயவு செய்து" - Please
- "இது எவ்வளவு?" - How much is this?
- "மன்னிக்கவும்" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Anamalais
Visit one of these nice places.
Popular forest edge viewpoint inside the Anamalai Tiger Reserve with sweeping views of misty valleys and cloud forests.
Serene waters with birds, local fishermen, and sunset reflections; a tranquil place for landscape photography.
Rolling tea terraces and misty horizons; ideal for early-morning photography in golden light.
Lush dam backdrop surrounded by hills; a good spot for sunset silhouettes and calm water shots.
Food in Anamalais
Anamalais Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fermented rice-lentil crepe filled with spiced potato, served with sambar and chutneys.
Must-Try!
Mix of vegetables cooked in coconut and curry leaves, typically served with rice or dosa.
Spiced chicken curry from Tamil Nadu with a bold masala profile; best with steamed rice.
Thinly sliced plantain fried in oil, a popular snack in hill towns.
Strong, aromatic coffee sweetened to taste; a perfect palate cleanser after a long day.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively market area with fresh produce, snacks, and a range of street food stalls; great for tasting local bites and picking up spices.
Small markets near the reservoir offering fruits, roasted snacks, and local beverages; ideal for a quick outdoor lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes when required, and ask before taking photos of people or inside temple premises.
A respectful greeting such as 'Vanakkam' is appreciated; addressing elders with polite language is common.
Do not feed wildlife; keep a respectful distance; stay on marked trails to protect ecosystems.
Bargaining is common in markets, but remain courteous and patient during transactions.
Safety
Tipping in Anamalais
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in rural areas; 5–10% at restaurants where service charges are not included; small tips to guides, drivers, and porters (INR 50–200) are common.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries; some hotels and larger establishments accept cards or digital payments; carry some local currency for tips and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasantly warm in the plains, cooler at higher elevations; carry light layers, sunscreen, and sufficient water; quiet afternoons can bring mist in the valleys.
Heaviest rainfall, lush green scenery, and occasional road closures due to landslides; driver caution and rain gear essential.
Cool to chilly nights, clear days, and brisk mornings; best for wildlife viewing and photography with crisp light.
Anamalais at Night
Hiking in Anamalais
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails within the reserve offering wildlife viewing, guided treks, and forest canopy views; suitable for experienced hikers with a guide.
Scenic trails through estate belts with panoramic hill views and distant valleys; best in early morning or late afternoon light.
Moderate riverside trails with opportunities for photography and a refreshing experience near the reservoir.
Airports
How to reach Anamalais by plane.
Primary nearby international airport; 75–110 km by road to Pollachi and Anamalai gate regions; multiple daily domestic and international connections.
Located in Kerala; alternative gateway for travelers from farther south or west; travel time longer but options can exist via road or rail.
A distant but usable option with broader flight connections; typically a longer road journey to Anamalai from Madurai.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant linguistic group; culture centers on agrarian and plantation livelihoods.
Forest-dwelling communities with traditional livelihoods; interacting respectfully is appreciated when visiting villages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in towns and schools across Tamil Nadu; local matches and informal play are common.
Played in schools and community grounds; maintained fields are common in larger towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anamalais.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; request no ghee or dairy if avoiding butter, ghee, or milk products; opt for sambar, avial, poriyal, and rice-based meals.