Cardamom Hills are the part of the Western Ghats located in the south Indian states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The average elevation of the Cardamom Hills is 2637 meters or 8652 feet. Anai Mudi is the highest peak in the Cardamom Hills. Some of its eastern peaks are 1,370 meter high. The Cardamom Hills produces tea, coffee, teak, bamboo and cardamom. Pristine environment, scented tea gardens and spectacular mountain valleys is what makes Cardamom Hills the most sought after destination. The hills are under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for the selection as the World Heritage Site.
Tourists
Activities :Wildlife Adventure :
Tourists can make a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary located in the Cardamom Hills range. The main attraction of the park is the Periyar Lake, which is an artificial lake, around which you may spot herds of elephants, sambars, tigers, gaurs, lion tailed macaques, and nilgiri langurs. Visitors can enjoy the exciting elephant ride which is the best way to explore the park. It gives you the opportunity to watch the wilds and take their photographs at the close quarters. You can also take cruises on the lake and trek to the ruined Mangala Devi temple. The park is the also the great birding site. You may carry with yourself the pair of binoculars to spot some of the birds such as Darters, Kingfishers, Great Malabar Hornbill, Cormorants and Racket tailed Drongoes.
Trekking at Cardamom Hills :
For more curious tourists there is also the facility of trekking at the Cardamom hills. Before going for the trekking trip take care that you are medically fit and fine. As the trails are sleepery you are advised to carry a good pair of shoes. Trekking at Cardamom hills takes you through the beautiful valleys, wildlife parks, spice villages, dense forests and through the fragrant tea plantations. You are recommended to take the tourists guide along with yourself who can give you the better insight of the area.
Tourists Attractions :
Munnar :
Another worthwhile destination in the Cardamom Hills is the Munnar, the picturesque hills station. It is a popular holiday spot among the tourists coming on the tour to the Kerala. The lush tea gardens, tranquility and peaceful environment is what makes Munnar a must visit destination among the tourists. On the tour to Munnar you can venture into the acres of magnificent tea gardens. You can even take a bicycle ride exploring the area.
Cardamom Hills Tribal Population :
The Cardamom hills are home to many tribal people, settled on its eastern and western area. The most common among them are the Mudugan, Urumban, and Irulan. These indigenous people work in the tea gardens to earn their livelihood. Till today they are dependent on the forest produce and haunting for their survival.
