Anamudi (Malayalam: ആനമുടി) is the highest peak in the Western Ghats and South India, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. Standing at an elevation of approximately 2,695 metres (8,842 feet) above sea level, it is a prominent geographical feature within the southern Indian subcontinent.
The peak is situated at the confluence of the Anamalai, Cardamom, and Palani Hills, which are sub-ranges of the Western Ghats. It forms the highest point of the Anamalai Hills and is a significant landmark within the Eravikulam National Park, a protected area renowned for its biodiversity, particularly the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The surrounding region is characterized by shola forests (tropical montane forests) and grasslands, contributing to a unique high-altitude ecosystem.
The name "Anamudi" literally translates to "elephant's forehead" in Malayalam, referring to the resemblance of the peak to an elephant's head, or perhaps the large elephants that once roamed its slopes. The area around Anamudi is a vital watershed for several important rivers in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Due to its ecological significance, access to the peak itself is restricted, primarily allowed for research and conservation purposes. It remains a major point of interest for geographers, environmentalists, and trekkers, though the ascent often requires special permission.