Highest Peak in South India – 7 Powerful Facts You Must Know
South India is known for its rolling hills, lush green forests, and pleasant hill stations. But do you know which is the highest peak in South India?
In this detailed guide, we reveal the highest peak in South India, its exact height, location, how it compares with other high peaks in the region, and everything you need to know as a traveler or geography enthusiast.
Which Is the Highest Peak in South India?
The highest peak in South India is Anamudi.
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Name: Anamudi
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Height: 2,695 meters (8,842 feet)
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Location: Idukki District, Kerala
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Mountain Range: Western Ghats
Anamudi stands tall above all other mountains in South India, earning its place as the highest mountain peak in South India.
Anamudi – The Highest Peak in South India
Basic Facts
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Height: 2,695 meters
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State: Kerala
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District: Idukki
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Range: Western Ghats
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Coordinates: Approx. 9.8428° N, 77.1702° E
Location & Geography
Anamudi is located inside Eravikulam National Park, which is famous for its wildlife, especially the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park’s name literally means the “river of milk,” but Anamudi itself towers proudly above the park’s rolling grasslands.
Wildlife
Eravikulam National Park is a biodiversity hotspot with:
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Nilgiri Tahr (endangered ungulate)
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Nilgiri langur
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Asian elephant
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Numerous bird species
The elevation and protected environment make it ideal for unique high-altitude flora and fauna.
Why Anamudi Is the Highest Peak in South India
South India’s major mountain ranges are mostly part of the Western Ghats, which is older and lower than the Himalayan range. Among all the Western Ghats summits, Anamudi stands tallest.
Unlike the Himalayas or Karakoram ranges, the Western Ghats do not extend to altitudes above 3,000 meters. Therefore, Anamudi’s 2,695 m easily makes it the highest point in the entire southern peninsula.
Other High Peaks in South India
Here’s a list of notable high peaks across South India:
| Rank | Peak Name | Height (Meters) | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anamudi | 2,695 m | Kerala |
| 2 | Meesapulimala | 2,640 m | Kerala |
| 3 | Doddabetta | 2,637 m | Tamil Nadu |
| 4 | Kolaribetta | 2,630 m | Tamil Nadu |
| 5 | Mullayanagiri | 1,930 m | Karnataka |
Even though Meesapulimala and Doddabetta are close in height, Anamudi remains the tallest.
Anamudi vs Doddabetta vs Meesapulimala
People often get confused between these three peaks:
| Peak | Height | State | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anamudi | 2,695 m | Kerala | Eravikulam National Park |
| Meesapulimala | 2,640 m | Kerala | Near Munnar |
| Doddabetta | 2,637 m | Tamil Nadu | Nilgiris |
All three are tall hills of the Western Ghats, but Anamudi tops them all.
How to Reach the Highest Peak in South India
Since Anamudi is inside a protected area (Eravikulam National Park), access is regulated.
By Air
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Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (≈120 km)
By Train
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Nearest Railway Station: Aluva / Ernakulam
By Road
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Buses and taxis are available from:
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Kochi
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Munnar
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Kottayam
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Entry to the park is restricted at times for environmental reasons, so plan ahead.
Best Time to Visit Anamudi (and Eravikulam National Park)
The best seasons to visit the highest peak in South India depend on weather and trail accessibility.
| Season | Conditions | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cool & pleasant | Best |
| Summer (Mar–May) | Mild heat | Good |
| Monsoon (Jun–Sep) | Rainy | Not ideal |
| Post-Monsoon (Oct–Nov) | Clear & green | Best |
Fun Facts About the Highest Peak in South India
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Anamudi means “elephant’s forehead” in Malayalam.
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It is located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site region (Western Ghats).
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The peak is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
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It is a popular trekking and wildlife destination in South India.
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Anamudi is taller than any peak in Peninsular India beyond the Himalayas.
Geography: Why South India Doesn’t Have Very Tall Mountains
The Himalayas were formed by tectonic collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates, which is why they have peaks over 8,000 meters. The Western Ghats are much older and were formed by volcanic and tectonic processes that did not generate extremely high elevations.
Therefore:
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Highest peak in India overall = Kanchenjunga (8,586 m)
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Highest peak in South India = Anamudi (2,695 m)
These are governed by very different geological histories.
What Is the Highest Peak in South India? (Exam-Ready Answer)
If you’re preparing for exams or quizzes:
- The highest peak in South India is Anamudi, located in Kerala, with an elevation of 2,695 meters above sea level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the highest peak in South India?
The highest peak in South India is Anamudi (2,695 m).
Where is Anamudi located?
Anamudi height is located in Eravikulam National Park, Idukki district, Kerala.
Which mountain range does Anamudi belong to?
Anamudi is part of the Western Ghats.
Which is taller, Meesapulimala or Doddabetta?
Meesapulimala (2,640 m) is taller than Doddabetta (2,637 m), but both are lower than Anamudi.
Conclusion
The highest peak in South India is Anamudi, standing tall at 2,695 meters in the verdant hills of Kerala’s Eravikulam National Park. Whether you’re studying geography, planning a hill trip, or preparing for exams, knowing about the highest peak in South India gives you key insight into the unique landscape of the Indian peninsula.