PALNI HILLS

range of hills, an eastward extension of the Western Ghats, southwestern Tamil Nadu state, southern India. A continuation of the Anaimalai Hills in Kerala state, the Palnis are about 45 miles (70 km) wide and 15 miles (23 km) long. In the south the hills terminate abruptly in steep slopes. The upper Palnis, in the west, consist of rolling hills covered with coarse grasses; dense forests grow in the valleys. Peaks include Vandaravu, 8,376 feet (2,553 m); Vembadi Shola, 8,221 feet (2,505 m); and Karunmakadu, 8,042 feet (2,451 m). The town of Kodaikanal is located in a high basin averaging 7,000 feet (2,150 m) above sea level. Hill villages cultivate vegetables and fruits such as potatoes, beans, root crops, pears, and peaches. There are also bauxite mines. The lower Palnis, in the east, form a confused jumble of peaks averaging 3,0005,000 feet (9001,500 m) above sea level and separated by steep wooded valleys. Teak trees have been extensively planted. Important cash crops include coffee, bananas, cardamom, citrus fruit, and turmeric.