About
Anakulam, a serene village tucked away in Idukki, Kerala, is best known as the “Elephant Village.” True to its name — which means “Pond of Elephants” in Malayalam — this little hamlet has become famous for the herds of wild elephants that come down from the forests every evening to drink from its fresh streams. Unlike other wildlife experiences, there are no enclosures or artificial attractions here; the elephants arrive naturally, creating a rare chance to witness these majestic creatures in their own rhythm of life. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and spice plantations, Anakulam is a hidden gem that blends raw wilderness with the simplicity of rural Kerala.
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Anakulam (Aanakkulam)
Located at an altitude of about 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) above sea level, Anakulam is a quiet village in the Idukki district of Kerala, roughly 40 kilometers from Munnar. Surrounded by dense forests, hills, and streams of the Western Ghats, it is best known for its unique elephant gatherings by the river.
The climate in Anakulam remains cool and pleasant throughout the year. Summers, from March to May, are mild with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 28°C (64°F to 82°F), offering a refreshing escape from the heat of the plains. The monsoon season, from June to September, transforms the landscape into a lush green paradise but brings heavy rainfall, which may limit outdoor activities. The best time to visit is from October to February when the weather is crisp and comfortable, with temperatures between 12°C and 22°C (54°F to 72°F), creating ideal conditions for elephant sightings and nature exploration.
Location Climate
What Makes Anakulam Special: The Land Where Elephants Roam Free
The Elephant Magnet: Why Wild Elephants Love Anakulam
Anakulam isn't just another wildlife destination – it's a natural phenomenon. The village is blessed with the Nallatanniyaar river, whose mineral-rich waters have a slightly salty taste that acts like a magnet for wild elephants. This unique characteristic has been drawing elephant herds to this spot for generations, creating one of Kerala's most reliable wildlife viewing experiences.
The elephants arrive in large social groups, including playful calves and magnificent tuskers, creating a spectacular sight that visitors remember for a lifetime. Unlike many wildlife destinations where animal sightings are hit-or-miss, Anakulam offers the rare guarantee of witnessing these gentle giants in their natural element.
A Landscape Painted by Nature
Anakulam's beauty extends far beyond its famous elephant visitors. The village is cradled by two tributaries of the mighty Periyaar River – Idacholayaar and Nallatanniyaar – which nourish this land and create a lush, green paradise. The area is adorned with breathtaking waterfalls, pristine streams, and dense forests that harbor an incredible diversity of wildlife.
Wildlife Wonders: What You'll See in Anakulam
The Star Attraction: Wild Elephant Herds
The main draw of Anakulam is undoubtedly its wild elephant population. These magnificent creatures visit the village regularly, especially during the dry season, arriving in herds that can include anywhere from 10 to 30 elephants. You'll witness:
Family groups with protective mothers and playful calves
Majestic tuskers displaying their impressive size and strength
Social interactions as elephants communicate and care for each other
Natural behaviors like bathing, drinking, and foraging
Best viewing times: 4 PM to 11 PM during the dry season
Beyond Elephants: Anakulam's Rich Wildlife
While elephants steal the show, Anakulam's forests are home to a diverse array of wildlife that makes every visit exciting:
Gaur (Indian Bison): The largest wild cattle species in the world
Wild Boar: Often spotted foraging in the early morning hours
Spotted Deer: Graceful creatures that add elegance to the landscape
Peacocks: India's national bird displaying their magnificent plumage
Sambar Deer: The largest deer species in India
Various bird species: Making it a paradise for birdwatchers
Experiences That Will Leave You Spellbound
1. Wild Elephant Watching Tours
The highlight of any Anakulam visit is the structured elephant watching experience. Professional guides ensure your safety while positioning you at the perfect vantage points to observe these magnificent creatures. The tour includes:
Safe viewing from 50-meter distance
Educational insights about elephant behavior
Photography opportunities with stunning backdrops
Cultural stories about the village's relationship with elephants
2. Forest Walks and Nature Trails
Explore Anakulam's pristine wilderness through guided forest walks that reveal the area's incredible biodiversity. These trails wind through:
Dense tropical forests
Cardamom and spice plantations
Scenic viewpoints overlooking the valley
Traditional village areas
Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your chosen trail
3. Waterfall Adventures
The Nallatanniyaar river creates several stunning waterfalls throughout Anakulam. These natural pools offer:
Refreshing dips in crystal-clear water
Perfect spots for nature photography
Peaceful meditation areas
Picnic opportunities surrounded by nature
4. Cultural Immersion
Experience authentic village life in Anakulam, where tradition meets wilderness:
Local Cuisine: Try the village favorite - tapioca with fish curry
Pure Honey: Purchase high-quality honey collected from local honeycombs
Traditional Lifestyle: Learn about sustainable living practices
Village Hospitality: Experience the warmth of Kerala's rural communities
Best Time to Visit Anakulam
Dry Season (October to May) - Peak Wildlife Season
This is the optimal time for elephant sightings, as the animals regularly visit the water sources. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife activity is at its peak.
Advantages:
Guaranteed elephant sightings
Pleasant weather conditions
Clear forest trails
Excellent photography conditions
Monsoon Season (June to September) - Not Recommended
While the landscape becomes incredibly lush during monsoons, wildlife sightings are less predictable, and accessing the area becomes challenging.
How to Reach Anakulam: Your Journey Options
Route 1: Munnar → Kallar → Kurisupara → Mankulam (42 km)
Distance: 42 km from Munnar
Duration: 1.5 hours
Road Condition: Easy access
Public Transport: Available from Kallar (no direct bus from Munnar)
Route 2: Munnar → Leksmi → Viripara → Mankulam (37 km) - Recommended
Distance: 37 km from Munnar
Duration: 1.5 hours
Road Condition: Medium-grade road (4WD vehicles recommended)
Bonus Attractions: Tea plantations, cardamom estates, Viripara waterfall, Tiger cave
Public Transport: Available with jeep services
From Adimaly: Adimaly → Kallar → Viripara → Mankulam (41 km)
Duration: 1.9 hours
Services: Public buses and trip jeeps available
Pro Tip: We recommend Route 2 for tourists as it offers more scenic attractions and tourist points along the way.
What to Pack for Your Anakulam Adventure
Essential Items:
Comfortable walking shoes for forest trails
Neutral-colored clothing to blend with nature
Insect repellent for forest exploration
Camera with good zoom for wildlife photography
Binoculars for distant wildlife viewing
Water bottles to stay hydrated
Snacks for energy during long tours
Photography Tips:
Bring extra batteries and memory cards
Use telephoto lenses for elephant photography
Respect the 50-meter distance rule
Capture both wide landscapes and detailed shots
Safety Guidelines for Anakulam Visits
Wildlife Safety:
Always maintain the recommended 50-meter distance from elephants
Follow your guide's instructions at all times
Avoid sudden movements or loud noises
Never attempt to feed or touch wild animals
Forest Safety:
Stay on designated trails
Travel in groups
Inform someone about your itinerary
Carry first aid supplies
Local Cuisine and Cultural Experiences
Must-Try Local Dishes:
Tapioca with Fish Curry: The village specialty
Fresh Honey: Sourced directly from local honeycombs
Traditional Kerala Meals: Served on banana leaves
Spice-infused Dishes: Using locally grown cardamom and pepper
Cultural Highlights:
Learn about traditional honey collection methods
Understand elephant-human coexistence practices
Explore sustainable living techniques
Experience authentic village hospitality
Why Choose Anakulam for Your Kerala Adventure
Anakulam offers something truly special in Kerala's tourism landscape. While the state is famous for its backwaters, beaches, and hill stations, Anakulam provides an authentic wildlife experience that's both thrilling and educational. It's perfect for:
Wildlife enthusiasts seeking guaranteed elephant sightings
Photography lovers wanting unique shots of elephants in their natural habitat
Nature lovers who appreciate pristine wilderness
Families looking for educational and exciting experiences
Adventure seekers wanting to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations
Your Anakulam Adventure Awaits
Anakulam isn't just a destination – it's an experience that connects you with nature in its purest form. Where else can you witness wild elephants in their natural habitat while enjoying the pristine beauty of Kerala's wilderness? This hidden gem offers memories that last a lifetime and stories you'll share for years to come.
Content courtesy: Kerala.au
Places to go
The scenic villages of Viripara Waterfalls, Kainakary Hills, Lakshmi Tea Estate, Kunchithanny, Hanging Bridge, surrounds Mankulam.