Anamala or Anaimalai Hills are range of mountains located on the Western Ghats passing through the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. The natural beauty of these hills is what tourists find attractive. The hills have also been known to possess a rich wildlife that includes wild boars, panthers, elephants etc. A wide range of birds like black headed oriole, tree pie, spotted dove etc is also widely seen in this region. Historically speaking the Annamalai Hills are considered to be a part of the eight sacred Jaina Hills. There is a natural cave in the hills that contain a number of berths both inside and outside. The Brahmi inscription made on the outside of the wall belongs to the 1st or 2nd century. So if you are a nature lover as well as a student of history then a visit to these hills also known as the “Elephant Hill” is an absolute must.
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How to reach Anaimalai Hills?
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Anaimalai Hills Map
By train:
The closest railway station to the Anamalai Hills is the Coimbatore railway station which is connected to most of the major railway stations in India.
By road:
There are number of state owned buses in Chennai that provide frequent service to Anamalai Hills. While there a number of private bus services available for Anamalai Hills from cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Cochin.
By flight:
The nearest airport to the Hills is the Coimbatore Airport. Taxi facility from the airport can then be used to reach Anamalai Hills.
Climate and the best time to visit Anaimalai Hills
The climate found in this region is generally moderate. During the summer months from March to May, the temperature ranges from 35 degree Celsius to 40 degree Celsius. The rainfall received during the monsoon season that begins from June and ends in September ranges from medium to heavy. During winter which begins in December and ends in February the temperature ranges from 15 degree Celsius to 20 degree Celsius. As a result of a significant drop of temperature during winter and a moderate to heavy monsoon, the best time to visit the Anamalai Hills is from June to March.
Places To Visit Around Anaimalai Hills
Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary: It is also known as the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park which is spread over a wide expanse of land. It is home to several wild animals like sloth bear, civet cat, elephant, gaur, tiger, etc. One can tour the sanctuary on the elephant’s back or in a van.
Amaravathy reservoir: This reservoir houses a large number of crocodiles and is a fantastic site for the tourists.
Monkey Falls: Located on Pollachi-Valparai highway, the Monkey Falls is a wonderful natural waterfall that has a unique beauty. It rushes down with a gurgling sound.
Varagaliar Elephant Camp: Varagaliar Elephant Camp is home to several elephants. However, for entry over here, one has to seek permission from the Deputy Conservator of Forests. It can be toured only in a forest jeep.
Other places of interest nearby: Krishnagiri, Cuddalore, Yelagiri, Kanchipuram, Dharmapuri, Vedanthangal, and Alangudi are some superb weekend getaway destinations from Anamalai Hills.
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