Altitude: 915 - 1100 m above sea level

Peermade, the famous plantation town, takes its name from Peer Mohammed, Sufi saint and close associate of the erstwhile royal family of Travancore. Wide vistas of tea, cardamom, rubber and coffee plantations interspersed with silver cascades, sculptural rocks, meadows and mist-cloaked hilltops make Peermade an unforgettable experience. The most delightful trekking trails complement the panoramic landscape. Monuments like the summer palace and summer residence of the royal family add to the splendour of the land. The summer residence now converted into a government guest house under the Department of Tourism, offers comfortable accommodation.

In and around Peermade

Kuttikanam: A place for adventure tourism and trekking, or even a langourous, tranquil break. This picturesque plantation town washed in the fragrance of cardamom is surrounded by lush, green hills.

Thrissanku Hills (4 km from Peermade, 1/2 km from Kuttikanam): The rolling hills, the lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this an ideal spot for long walks. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset.

Peeru Hills (4 km from Peermade; 1 km from Kuttikanam): This idyllic hill station is a favourite haunt of trekkers and picnickers. The hill is named after Peer Mohammed, the Sufi saint, who spent his last days here. The Mausoleum of the saint, the summer palace of the royal family and the residence of the Diwan situated nearby are all worth a visit.

Grampi (5 km from Peermade; 10 km from Vandiperiyar): Grampi is also known as Parunthupara (eagle rock) because of the panoramic view from its high peaks. Rocky plains, lush hillsides, forests, trekking trails and picturesque views lend charm to this destination. The road to Grampi is flanked by unending stretches of cardamom, tea and coffee plantations.

Pattumala (17 km east of Peermade; 28 km west of Thekkady): Lofty peaks, little streams and ever expanding tea plantations are the attractions of this place. Pattumala (which literally means hill draped in silk) is home to the two most famous tea plantations - Harrisons Malayalam and AV Thomas & Co. The Velamkanni Matha Church, built entirely of granite, at the top of the hill is a famous pilgrim centre. The flower garden nearby is a fascinating riot of colours, of roses, orchids and anthurium.

Vagamon (25 km from Peermede): Grass covered hills, velvet lawns and the cool mountain air make Vagamon a perfect holiday retreat. A curious blend of religious mysticism and European legacies, this hillside village is a haven of tranquility. The chain of three hills - Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala - is a mark of religious harmony. The dairy farm managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth a visit.

Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre: A well-established Ayurvedic Hospital, Sahyadri, managed by the Peermede Development Society in Pallikunnu, is well known for its curative and rejuvenating treatment packages. The centre has well-appointed treatment accommodation facilities, a unit for manufacturing Ayurvedic medicines and a well-maintained raw drugs museum where more than 200 varieties of rare and endangered herbs are preserved. More than 400 herbs used for medicines are grown in the hospital's own garden spread over 35 acres.

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