Ramakkalmedu

Ramakkalmedu is a hill station and a hamlet in Idukki district in the Indian state of Kerala. The place is noted for its panoramic beauty and numerous windmills.LocationIt is located about 15 km from Nedumkandam on the Munnar-Thekkady route. Nearby towns are Thookkupalam (5 km), Kattappana (25 km), and Kumily (40 km).GeographyRamakalmedu stands tall in the western ghats at a height of above sea level.Flora and faunaThe ecosystem of the area consists largely of grass land Shola forest type which is laced by sporadic bamboo forests.ClimateConstant wind is another factor which makes Ramakkalmedu unique. Wind blows at a speed around 35 km/ hour at Ramakkalmedu throughout the year irrespective of the season and time.Wind EnergyVillages like Pushpakandam and Kuruvikanam near Ramakkalmedu is the second place in Kerala where wind energy farm is installed,though it is private holdings. Currently the capacity is at about 14.25 MW of NEG MICON Make Wind Mills.This electricity is distributed to Kerala State Electricity Board.even though Ramakkalmedu has potential to produce much electricity,as it is said to be one of Asia's largest wind blowing area.TourismAlthough Ramakkalmedu has potential for it to become an international tourist destination, and already attracts more than 100,000 visitors. However, as of 2015 not much had been done for the improvement of basic facilities nearby. The government of Kerala has announced plans to develop this tourist station by improving transportation facilities with buses, upgrading of the Kerala police and other measures.