The short answer
Ramakkalmedu: what visitors should know first
Worth it if you are passing Kattappana or Nedumkandam and want open, windy hill country with a Tamil Nadu view. It is not a quick stop from the dam area, so plan it as part of a longer day, ideally late afternoon.
History and context
The story behind Ramakkalmedu
The twin Kuravan and Kurathi statue was sculpted by C. B. Jinan and erected on the summit in 2005. The wind farm at nearby Pushpakandam and Kuruvikanam is described by Wikipedia as Kerala's second, with about 14.25 MW of installed capacity.
Useful facts
Ramakkalmedu facts at a glance
- Location
- Near Nedumkandam; about 25 km from Kattappana
- Elevation
- About 980 to 1,100 m (sources differ)
- Experience type
- Hilltop viewpoint, statue and wind-farm views
- Known for
- Kuravan and Kurathi statue; view over Tamil Nadu
- Time
- Best late afternoon
Why it matters
Why Ramakkalmedu is worth your time
Ramakkalmedu shows another side of Idukki district: not reservoirs and forest but a high, open, windy edge where Kerala meets Tamil Nadu. It sits on the eastern frontier of the district, and the view east is of plains, not ranges.
The Kuravan and Kurathi figures link the place to the story of the two hills beside the dam, and the nearby wind farm, Kerala's second, is a reminder of the state's energy story from the other direction. For a traveller, it is a simple place with a big sky, and a good contrast to the dam-and-lake tour.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The statue
The Kuravan and Kurathi statue, sculpted in 2005, stands on the ridge.
- 02
The Tamil Nadu view
Towns across the border are visible, with lights at dusk.
- 03
Wind and rock
Windy ridges, Tortoise Rock and wind turbines shape the landscape.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Come in the afternoon so you can see the open landscape and still be there for the evening light. Walk up to the Kuravan and Kurathi statue, which looks over the plains of Tamil Nadu, and take in the long view east. The statue was sculpted by C. B. Jinan and put up in 2005, according to Wikipedia.
From the summit, towns such as Cumbum, Theni and Kombai on the Tamil Nadu side can be seen, and the view is said to be best at dusk when their lights come on. Nearby spots include Tortoise Rock and the wind farm viewpoint, and the hills around are windy even in the dry season.
Keep time for the drive, because the area is some distance from the Idukki dams. Many visitors combine it with Kattappana, Kumily or Thekkady.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go late afternoon and bring a light jacket for the wind
- Carry water; facilities are limited
- Confirm gate hours and fees locally
- Keep a safe distance from rock edges
- Allow extra time for the drive from the dam area
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Near Nedumkandam, about 25 km from Kattappana, Idukki district
- Time needed
- 1.5 to 2.5 hours on site
- Best time
- Late afternoon for light and wind; dusk is said to show the lights of Tamil Nadu towns
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The summit area is open with uneven rock and steps, and the wind can be strong. There are paths and a viewpoint, but shade is limited. Older travellers can stay near the entrance and statue area.
- Tickets and access
- The tourism council lists a ticketed entry with daytime hours, but fees and timings change; confirm at the gate. Wind farm areas and rocks have limited facilities, so carry water.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Ramakkalmedu
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The summit area is open with uneven rock and steps, and the wind can be strong. There are paths and a viewpoint, but shade is limited. Older travellers can stay near the entrance and statue area.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Ramakkalmedu near Idukki dam?
No. It is on the eastern side of the district, near Nedumkandam and about 25 km from Kattappana, so allow a separate outing.
What is the Kuravan Kurathi statue?
A twin statue sculpted by C. B. Jinan and erected in 2005 on the hilltop, linked to the Kuravan and Kurathi legend of the hills.
When is Ramakkalmedu best?
Late afternoon to dusk, when light is soft and the view over Tamil Nadu may show town lights.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
