A RiSa Astronomy Experience
Stargazing at The Highranges
A premium hilltop farmstay in Panchalimedu, Idukki - where the Milky Way meets the Western Ghats. Telescope nights, campfires, and skies you forgot existed.
The Night Sky at Panchalimedu
At 3,000 ft, the sky changes
With minimal light pollution and elevation, Panchalimedu's skies are among the darkest in southern India. The Milky Way core is visible to the naked eye from about February through October.
The Milky Way, Naked Eye
On clear moonless nights, the galactic core rises over the eastern hills - the dark lane, the Sagittarius star clouds, all of it visible without optics. Photograph it with your phone on a tripod, or just lie back and watch satellites silently cross the band.
8-inch Dobsonian On Site
We have an 8-inch Dobsonian telescope at the property. If the Moon or planets are up during your stay, we'll show them to you - Saturn's rings, Jupiter's moons, lunar craters. You're welcome to use it responsibly yourself too.
The Soundscape After Dark
Step outside at night and the hill comes alive. Crickets pulsing in rhythm from the coffee bushes. The occasional bark of a barking deer from the valley. A Jerdon's nightjar calling from somewhere downhill. This isn't silence - it's the Western Ghats talking.
Dawn at 3,000 Feet
Before the sun clears the ridgeline, the Malabar whistling thrush starts up - that unmistakable ascending whistle. Bulbuls join in. Mist rolls through. It's the kind of morning that makes the overnight bus worth it.
🔭 Astronomy Experience
Included With Your Stay
Telescope access, staff-assisted viewing, and the sky itself - all baked into your booking. No separate ticketing.
The Property
The Highranges, Panchalimedu
A premium farmstay perched on a dramatic hilltop in Panchalimedu, about 1 km off the Kottayam-Kumily state highway. Coffee plantations, spice gardens, and the evening chorus of cicadas in every direction.
What's On Site
What Guests Are Saying
"Exclusivity, privacy, silence with luxury hospitality. Enjoyed luxury at Highranges - slow morning, good night's sleep, freedom to choose, time for fun and play, listening to birds singing..."
Guest via TripAdvisor
"They provided us dinner around an open bonfire with star gazing using telescopes. The staff were helpful and courteous. Overall it's a peaceful, quiet and serene place."
Guest via TripAdvisor
"What sets this place apart is its unique blend of luxury and nature-friendliness. The resort seamlessly integrates with its beautiful surroundings. Thoughtful details and impeccable service."
Guest via MakeMyTrip
Getting There
How to Reach Panchalimedu
Located in Murinjapuzha, Panchalimedu - 1 km off the Kottayam-Kumily (KK) Road
From Bangalore
~500 km · 8–10 hrsOvernight sleeper bus to Kumily/Thekkady (₹750–₹3,000 AC sleeper on RedBus). Departs 7–10 PM, arrives early morning. From Kumily, take KSRTC bus along KK Road toward Kottayam and alight at Murinjapuzha - or hire an auto (₹1,100–₹1,300).
From Chennai
~514 km · 10–11 hrsOvernight sleeper bus to Kumily (Vetri Travels, KRS, JP Tranz - ₹800–₹1,100 AC sleeper). Same last mile as Bangalore route via Murinjapuzha.
From Kochi / Cochin
~115 km · 3–3.5 hrsDrive or taxi via Muvattupuzha → Thodupuzha → Mundakkayam → Kuttikkanam → Murinjapuzha. Alternatively, KSRTC bus from Ernakulam toward Peerumedu/Kumily - alight at Murinjapuzha.
From Kottayam
~75 km · 1.5–2 hrsKottayam is the nearest major railhead. Take KK Road toward Kumily via Mundakkayam → Kuttikkanam → Murinjapuzha. Frequent buses and taxis on this route.
Ready to Look Up?
Book your stay at The Highranges
Book directly through the property. Mention RiSa Astronomy for the stargazing experience with the 8-inch Dobsonian.