Tucked away in the lush Western Ghats of Kerala, Peermade (also known as Peerumedu) is a charming hill station brimming with scenic beauty, spice plantations, pine forests, waterfalls, and colonial heritage. Located about 915 meters above sea level in Idukki district, this tranquil retreat is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Thekkady—but that’s exactly what makes Peermade a hidden gem.You can Read 9 Underraged Hill Stations In South India

The town gets its name from Peer Mohammed, a Sufi saint who is believed to have lived here. Once a summer retreat for Travancore kings, Peermade still carries remnants of its royal past through colonial architecture and sprawling tea and coffee estates. The climate is cool and refreshing year-round, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, trekkers, photographers, and anyone seeking peaceful rejuvenation.

Unlike crowded hill stations, Peermade offers authentic Kerala charm—unspoiled trails, misty mornings, spice-scented air, and traditional hospitality. It’s a perfect weekend getaway or an offbeat destination for slow travelers. Whether you want to explore plantations, visit waterfalls, hike through pine forests, or simply relax in nature’s embrace, Peermade promises a soulful escape from the ordinary. You can read Top 5 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Heat and Find Peace

📅 Best Time to Visit Peermade

• October to March: Best time to enjoy the cool weather and misty landscapes.
• June to September: Ideal for monsoon lovers; lush greenery and waterfalls are at their best.
• Avoid April–May: It’s warmer but still manageable compared to plains.

🌿 Winter is perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and plantation tours.

🚗 How to Reach Peermade

• By Air: Nearest airport – Cochin International Airport (140 km).
• By Train: Nearest station – Kottayam (85 km), with good rail connectivity.
• By Road: Well-connected via NH183 from Kottayam, Thekkady (35 km), and Kumily.

🛣️ The drive to Peermade is scenic, passing through spice hills, forests, and tea estates.

📍 Top Tourist Attractions in Peermade

🌊 Valanjanganam Waterfalls

A stunning roadside waterfall ideal for quick stops, photos, and monsoon beauty.

🌲 Pine Forests

Beautiful walking and photography trails amidst tall pine trees with birdsong and mist.

🏡 Tea, Coffee & Spice Plantations

Walk through aromatic estates of cardamom, pepper, and coffee; some offer guided tours.

🏞️ Grampi (Parunthupara)

A rocky cliff with panoramic views of the valleys and plains below—great for sunsets.

🛕 Pattumala Church

An elegant hilltop Roman Catholic church made entirely of granite—peaceful and scenic.

🧭 Things to Do in Peermade

• 🌿 Guided plantation walks through spice, tea, and coffee farms.
• 🥾 Trekking in pine forests and to viewpoints like Grampi.
• 📸 Nature photography of landscapes, mist, and waterfalls.
• 🧘 Wellness and Ayurvedic retreats offering holistic healing.
• 🚶 Leisure strolls through quiet colonial lanes and village paths.

💡 Travel Tips for Peermade

• 🎒 Pack light jackets and rain gear if visiting during monsoon.
• 📷 Early mornings are best for photography—mist and golden light.
• 🍲 Try local Kerala cuisine, especially at homestays and plantation resorts.
• 🚗 Prefer a private cab or self-drive as local transport is limited.
• 📶 Mobile signal may fluctuate; download offline maps beforehand.