Meesapulimala is also a very beautiful and ecologically endowed mountain peak in South India. It is the second highest peak in Kerala and the third-highest in the whole of Western Ghats with an elevation of approximately 2.640 meters 8 .661 feet above sea level. It is a spectacular tourist spot located on the border of Idukki district Kerala and the Theni district Tamil Nadu and is just close to the well known hill station location Munnar.
Meesapulimala has been named after the Malayalam and Tamil word .Meesa. meaning moustache, Puli meaning tiger. and Mala.meaning mountain. As seen in distance. the peak is supposed to look like a tiger face with prominent moustache-like ridges that gave it its special name.
Climate and Geographic Location.
Meesapulimala belongs to the range of the Western Ghats, Anamalai mountain range. There are rolling hills, deep valleys, grassland and dense shola forests surrounding the region. Climate in this area is usually cool and humid particularly in the early mornings and evenings. Winter temperatures can also be very low reaching as low as below zero degrees Celsius thus being one of the coldest regions in Kerala.
Rainfall is heavy in the area especially in the monsoon season that fertilises the forests and makes the landscape lush green. The mountain usually appears mysterious and magic, because of the common mist and clouds.
Rich Biodiversity
The biodiversity of Meesapulimala is one of the most notable aspects of Meesapulimala. It is located at the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO world heritage site and among the eight highly hotspots of biological diversity in the world. There are shola forests, high altitude grasslands and rare medicinal plants that cover the mountain.
The area has numerous wildlife species such as Nilgiri tahr, elephants, gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, wild boar and infrequently leopards. One is able to view many endemic and migratory bird species and unique butterflies, insects and reptiles are also found in the forests.
The number of plant species in the region is a large number of endemic species, that is, species that are not found anywhere in the globe. Due to this ecological significance, Meesapulimala has been conserved and travelling in the area is highly controlled.
Trekking Experience
Meesapulimala is a heaven of trekkers and adventure lovers. The hike up the mountain is rated as a moderately difficult one and takes one or two days to go up. Visitors can only do trekking with the permission of the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC), and this oversees that there is no harm to the fragile ecosystem by tourism.
The hiking path cuts across tea bushes, rhododendron trees, mountainous brooks, and open meadows. Trekking will consist of trekkers being rewarded with breathtaking panoramic scenery of the valleys and mountain ranges far away. During the clear day, one can even see some of Tamil Nadu on the peak.
It is enchanted to get to the summit at sunrise. It is impossible to forget the view of the sun coming out of the clouds of various colors, and tinting the sky in the forms of orange and pink.
Cultural and Importance in Tourism.
Meesapulimala is a special place in the tourism industry of Kerala. It is also a quieter and more untouched commercial hill station unlike the commercial ones which are often crowded with people. Most of the visitors base on the nearby town of Munnar to provide accommodation and other tourist facilities.
Local communities also use the mountain culturally as they have been coexisting with nature over the years. Their folklore expertise regarding plants. climate. and wildlife is helpful in conservation efforts.
Responsible and conservation tourism.
Conservation is now very significant because of growing interest of tourists. The government has introduced stiff policies whereby there are restrictions on the number of trekkers. guided trekking only and no plastic policy to safeguard the environment. Tourists are advised to embrace responsible tourism which entails showing respect to the wildlife and leaving behind no footprints.
Conserving Meesapulimala is also important in preserving the ecological balance besides biodiversity because the Western Ghats significantly contribute to the climatic and water balance of South India.
Conclusion
Meesapulimala is not only a mountain, but a representative of natural beauty and ecological prosperity of Kerala. Its high mountains, foggy valleys, abundant wildlife, serene environment all make it an ideal vacation spot when one wants to flee the stress of the fast-paced life. Whether it is an adventure enthusiast, someone who loves nature or prefers tranquility. Meesapulimala is an experience that is refreshing and inspirational.
It is the duty of all people visiting this untouched place to ensure that future generation will be able to see the same beauty of Meesapulimala.