Top 10 Highest Peak of Western Ghats

The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Mountains, are one of India’s most ecologically significant mountain ranges. Stretching over 1,600 km along the western coast of the Indian Peninsula, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a hotspot of biodiversity, home to unique flora and fauna as well as some of the tallest peaks outside the Himalayan range.

Here’s a deep dive into the top 10 highest peaks of the Western Ghats, blending geography, trekking value, cultural context, and ecological importance. The rankings are based on the most up-to-date mountain elevation data available.

1. Anamudi (2,695 m) – Kerala

Anamudi stands tallest not just in the Western Ghats but across all of Peninsular India. Located within the lush Eravikulam National Park in Kerala’s Idukki district, this majestic peak reaches 2,695 meters above sea level, dominating the skyline and offering spectacular views over rolling forests and grasslands. The name “Anamudi” translates to “elephant’s forehead”, a nod to its unique shape. It is also a significant habitat for the endangered Nilgiri tahr, a mountain goat endemic to the Western Ghats, and is surrounded by rare montane flora including neelakurinji that blooms once every 12 years.

2. Meesapulimala (2,640 m) – Kerala/Tamil Nadu

Close on the heels of Anamudi is Meesapulimala, standing at about 2,640 meters. It lies on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and forms part of the picturesque Rhodo Valley and the Western Nilgiris. This peak is a popular trekking destination — famous for its switching trails and panoramic views of the valleys below. The trek to Meesapulimala requires a guide due to its steep gradients and rich wildlife, including leopards and gaur (Indian bison).

3. Doddabetta (2,637 m) – Tamil Nadu

Situated near the hill station of Ooty in the Nilgiri Mountains, Doddabetta is the highest peak in Tamil Nadu and the third highest in the Western Ghats at 2,637 meters. A paved road leads to its summit, where an observatory allows visitors to take in 360-degree views of the surrounding hills, making it one of the most accessible peaks in this region. The area is also known for its cool climate, shola forests, and tea estates that blanket the lower slopes.

4. Kolaribetta (2,629 m) – Tamil Nadu

Kolaribetta rises to about 2,629 meters within the Mukurthi National Park, near the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border. The peak lies in a relatively pristine and less-visited section of the Western Ghats, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts who prefer solitude and biodiversity over paved viewpoints. The region is also important for conservation of the Nilgiri tahr and other endemic wildlife.

5. Mukurthi Peak (2,554 m) – Tamil Nadu/Kerala

Also located in Mukurthi National Park, Mukurthi Peak stands at around 2,554 meters. It is characterised by rugged terrain, mist-covered grasslands, and deep gorges — a dramatic landscape that supports sholas (highland evergreen forests) and rare grass species. This peak is less frequented by tourists, making it a hidden gem for serious trekkers.

6. Vandaravu (2,553 m) – Tamil Nadu

Next on the list is Vandaravu, rising to about 2,553 meters in the scenic Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. The Vandaravu plateau offers expansive views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Frequently blanketed in mist, it’s beloved by hikers and nature photographers looking to capture the ethereal beauty of the high ranges during sunrise.

7. Kattumala (2,552 m) – Kerala

Kattumala climbs to approximately 2,552 meters and lies within the same Eravikulam National Park that houses Anamudi. This peak is one of the longest ridges in the Western Ghats, offering sublime views of adjacent peaks and the rolling tea gardens of Munnar below. Its relatively high elevation contributes to the cool montane climate typical of the region.

8. Snowdon (2,530 m) – Tamil Nadu

Interestingly named after the well-known UK mountain, Snowdon in the Nilgiris rises to about 2,530 meters. Despite sharing a name with its Welsh counterpart, this Indian Snowdon is celebrated for its own distinct biodiversity — from dense forests to grasslands that attract endemic birds and mammals, adding a special character to its slopes.

9. Devimala (2,523 m) – Kerala

Devimala stands around 2,523 meters in the Devikulam area of Kerala. The peak is a favourite among adventure seekers and pilgrims alike, partly due to its name which translates as “Mountain of the Goddess.” Its slopes are dotted with shola forests that harbour a range of wildlife, including elephants and deer.

10. Kumarikkal Mala (2,522 m) – Kerala

Rounding off the top ten is Kumarikkal Mala, with an elevation of approximately 2,522 meters within Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala. This peak not only adds to the scenic skyline of the Anamalai Hills but also marks the origin of the Chinnar River, which flows through dry deciduous forests that contrast with the wetter slopes higher up.

Why These Peaks Matter

The Western Ghats are more than just a chain of mountains — they are a critical ecological backbone of peninsular India. These high elevations intercept monsoon winds, creating heavy rainfall on the western slopes and nurturing dense forests. These forests act as watersheds for major south Indian rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri.

Moreover, the range’s diverse altitudes — from low hills to these towering peaks — support distinct ecosystems, many of which are home to endemic and endangered species, from the Nilgiri tahr to rare amphibians and butterflies. The peaks also form cultural symbols in local folklore and are focal points for trekking tourism that sustains rural economies.

Conclusion

From the lofty summit of Anamudi to the shadowed ridges of Kumarikkal Mala, the Western Ghats’ highest peaks are geological marvels, ecological treasures, and human inspirations. Whether you’re a trekker seeking challenge, a biologist studying endemic species, or a travel lover chasing scenic vistas, these mountains are living testaments to the ancient beauty of the Indian landscape. Each peak tells a unique story — of rock, rain, forest, and life — that continues to shape the heart and soul of western India.