586 DR HUGH CLEGHORN’S ACCOUNT OF AN EXPEDITION TO THE 
rattan, which, being secured to a point above, drops down the face of the rock. 
We observed some of these chains full 50 and 80 feet in length. The upper 
ranges are in undisturbed possession of wild beasts. We saw a large herd of 
bison, with deer and ibex in numbers, and also traces of wild elephants. 
“‘ The best period to prosecute inquiry into the upper ranges of the Anamalai 
Mountains would be after October, or in the hot season. From their position, they 
are considerably under the influence of the south-west monsoon, but less so than 
the Kundahs at Sisipara; and I think it is worthy of inquiry to ascertain 
whether here also may not be found a climate as bracing and welcome to the 
enervated constitution of the European invalid as exists on our better-known 
hill stations. The soil on the summit of these fine mountains is deep, and 
covered with rich pasture. Streams of water are numerous, and appear as if 
they flowed throughout the year. From the extent of forest, the resemblance of 
the flora to that of Ceylon, and the corresponding altitude of these hills, I 
believe they are suitable for the cultivation of coffee on a large scale, and for 
colonization of small communities of Englishmen, a measure which would be 
attended with the happiest results, as it adds at once to our military strength, 
and in course of time would give us the means, to a certain extent, of recruiting 
our army.” 
It will thus be seen that the result of our excursion was not without interest. 
Some curious botanical novelties were found; the timber resources of the district 
were ascertained; and a large tract of country suitable for coffee culture was 
traversed, which will doubtless be the scene of future colonization. 
Description of Plates. 
Pirate XXXII. 
High Range from the Lower Valley of the Torakudu. 
View of the whole range from the lower valley of the Torakudu. The Tangachi and the Akka being 
nearer than the level range on the right, they look higher than they really are, 
Pruate XXXII, 
Panorama of the Anamalat Mountains from the Village of Anamatai. 
We ascended the valley seen to the left, which is the lower valley of the Torakudu River. The Tan- 
gachi, or younger sister, is that curious peak seen to the right of the valley. The Akka, 
or elder sister, the highest peak, does not stand out clear, because a spur beyond it is visible from 
Anamalai. We proceeded round the other side of the Tangachi, and our highest encampment 
was between the further spur and the ridge joining the Tangachi and Akka. MuicHart?s 
Valley is two miles beyond, and to the right of the further ridge. The Anamalai Teak Forest 
is beyond the low saddle to the right of the Kader women. The mountains on the extreme 
right overlook Palghat. The small detached hill is the Anamalai Droog. 
