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Ramakkalmedu - Land of Winds

Step foot on Ramakkalmedu and you'll be greeted by the ever fascinating immutable 25 km/h wind and a magnificient view of the settlements and townships in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, thanks to its location bordering Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The swaying green slopes and the unwilted mountain air of Ramakkalmedu has attracted many a traveler, including the Oscar winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio who reportedly said "If there is a paradise on earth, it is here." 
 The name "Ramakkalmedu" has quite an interesting backstory to it. It is believed that the Hindu god Sree Rama had set foot on Ramakkalmedu while in search of his beloved wife Sita, who had been abducted by Ravana- the king of Lanka. Hence the name "Ramakkalmedu," or Land of Rama's stone.Taking advantage of the high velocity wind that blows across Ramakkalmedu, a wind energy farm with a capacity of 12.5 mW has been installed. It is only the second of its kind in Kerala.However, tourists are not allowed access to the farm grounds. Ramakkalmedu is also an ideal location for paragliding.   

Ramakkalmedu is also a place of historical significance with the monuments of 'Kuravan' and 'Kurathi', twin statues that depict the 'Sangam' period in the history of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Legend has it that Kuravan and Kurathi determined the location for constructing the acclaimed Idukki dam. Whether the stories are to be believed or not, the Idukki dam, with a capacity of 780 MW, harnesses a major portion of the power potential of the Periyar, Kerala's largest river. The dam has also found its place in the tourist map of Kerala.                                                                                                            
Ramakkalmedu is at an atlitude of 3500 ft. above sea level, so the drive upto the place will be an enthralling experience (if you're afraid of heights just look up and enjoy the view of the mountains). It is easily accessible from Thekkady and it would be an injustice trying to describe in words the view from the top of Ramakkalmedu's hills. Some experiences simply do not translate, you have to go to know. Suffice to say that you will be elated at your decision to include Ramakkalmedu in your itinerary. Stay around for a view of settlements below at dusk, and it'll feel like Diwali. Vast patches of Shola (tropical montane) and bamboo forests are part of Ramakkalmedu's marvelous ecosystem. 
It isn't surprising that Ramakkalmedu has become one of the most visited Leornado DiCaprio on Ramakkelmedutourist attractions around Thekkady, given that it's tourism potential has not been fully realized. Understandably, facilties available may not be on par with the other attractions but nature more than makes up for it with Ramakkalmedu's visual splendor. While some may have a hard time believing DiCaprio actually said what he is claimed to have about Ramakkalmedu, the heart of every visitor to Ramakkalmedu will reverberate with the words - "Heaven on earth."
An insider tip for you - Considering the uninterrupted winds in Ramakkalmedu, it would be unwise to don a dhothi unless you have risen above embarrassment!