Peermade is a small hill station located in the south of Idukki district of central Kerala. It has various aliases including Perumade, Peerumed, Peerumade and Peermade. It is located at 915 meter above sea level in Western Ghats. It is 85 km east of Kottayam and comes on the way to Thekkady. The name takes its origin from Sufi Saint, Peer Mohammed or means “hill of the Peer”. The picturesque place has spectacular waterfalls, open grasslands plantation of tea and pine forests. Beauty canvas of this cool hill resort gets expansion with green grasslands and tall and beautiful pine forests that cover the complete area. The area is very fertile and is suitable for tea, coffee, cardamom and coconut plantation. It has a long history of spices but it now majorly concentrates on producing organic black pepper, white pepper, ginger, turmeric, vanilla beans, nutmeg, mace, cloves, vanilla powder and herbs like oregano, sage, thyme, rosemary etc.

History

Peermade was once the summer retreat of the Kings/Maharajas of Travancore. It is said the place is named after Peer Mohammed so it is also known as Hill of Peer and hence the name Peermade. Henry Baker Senior was among the first missionary who arrived to this region in the period between 1819-1866. He played very important role in the socio economic development of this place.

How to Reach Peermade

By Air

Kochi is the nearest airport.

By Train

Peermade is 85 km from Kottayam, the nearest railway station. Route from Kottayam to Peermade can be covered by road.

By Road

SRTC provides very efficient public transport to Peermade. Busses are available from Kottayam, Kochi and even from Bangalore.

Getting Around

Cycle/car can be hired to roam about the place. Even the public transport is very efficient. Busses of Kerala SRTC are very efficient.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Peermade has a pleasant climate ranging between 15 degrees to 1 degree in winters and 15 degrees to 6 degrees in summers. April-June and September-November are the best months to enjoy this beautiful place.

Attractions

Plantation Area

Peermade has the most fascinating plantation area with cash crops like tea, cardamom and other spices. The area is rich in greenery and natural beauty such that all passersby are mesmerized with the aroma of these plantations.

Trekking Trails

The beautiful landscapes and hills at Peermade offer numerous options for trekking and walking to visitors. Hills like Kalthotti, Vagamon, Karandakapara and Grampi offer excellent trekking trails for adventure-seeking travelers.

Waterfalls

Meloram, Panchalimedu, Valanjamkanam and Nallathanni waterfalls are located nearby and are true escapes for nature lover.

The Palace

This was the summer residence of kings of Travancore. Therefore, this palace is of great historic importance.

Shopping at Peermade

A variety of spices like nutmeg, black pepper, ginger and vanilla powder etc can be bought. Also, a variety of aromatic tea and coffee can be purchased from this hill of spices.

Activities to do in Peermade

• Visit Tea Estates: Take an aromatic stroll in the tea estates here for a truly splendid time.
• Soak into Flower Gardens: Enjoy the beauty of these flowers in gardens that are rich in fauna. It’s delightful to see vivid colors in their natural splendor.
• Walk around the Pine Forests: Beautiful stretches of pine forests cover this hill station and walking here is delightful.
• Nature walk/trekking Trails: There are some wonderful trekking trails identified in the region, which are a must visit. They range from easy to tough and one can choose according to personal liking.
• Horse Riding: If you enjoy horse riding, it is a great way to explore this place.
• Cycling: Cycles can be hired to go and roam about the hill station.

Nearby Places

Kuttikkanam

Kuttikkanam is known for its trekking. This beautiful plantation town flourishes with the aroma of cardamom, surrounded as it is by beautiful green hills.

Thrissanku Hills

These hills located 4 km from Peermade. The beautiful landscape, cool breeze make it a lovely place for long, romantic walks. One can also get some exciting views of the sunrise and sunset from here.

Peeru Hills

Located 4 km from Peermade, these hills are an ideal spot for trekkers. These hills are names after a Sufi saint who went by the name Peer Mohammed. He is said to have spent the later part of his life here. His mausoleum also lies in proximity and it is a must visit.

Summer Palace

The summer palace of the royal family is at Peermade and it is also a must for the historical relevance and ancient architecture. Diwan residence is also located closeby and another good visit.

Grampi

Grampi is located 5km from Peermade and it offers some stunning views of the hills. Grampi is also known as Parunthupara (meaning eagle rock). Lush green hillsides, forests, trekking trails and picturesque view add beauty to this awesome place. The roads are bordered with the stretches of cardamom, tea and coffee plantations.

Pattumala

It is 17km from Peermade and 28km from Thekkady. Pattumala means hill draped in silk. This small town has some popular tea plantations that are a must visit. There is a famous Velankanni Matha Church that has been built with granite. It lies at the hill top, which is a famous pilgrim centre.

Vegamon

Vegamon is located at a distance of about 25 km from Peermade. This hill station is covered entirely with grass, has huge green lawns and above all the cool air makes this place a perfect holiday destination. The chain three hills namely Thangal, Mudugan and Kurisumala hills is a symbol of religious harmony.

Sahyadri Ayurvedic Hospital

It is a well-established hospital that is managed by Peermade Development Society in Pallikunnu and is well known for its rejuvenating treatment packages. The centre has well-appointed staff and accommodation facilities. It has a manufacturing unit and also a drug museum where more than 200 varieties of rare and endangered herbs are preserved and used for medicines.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

It is located about 40km from Peermade. It has tiger and elephant reserve which are a must watch.

Eating Out

Many restaurants are found in Peermade. There is abundance of good quality food outlets. Peermade

Festival

Onam is the major festival celebrated in Peermade.

Hotels

Hotels are in abundance in Peermade. Few are as follows:

• Rose Garden Resort
• Betsy Hotel
• Sunraj Hotel
• Pappachain’s Castle Homestay

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