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Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, is famous not only for its coastal beauty and cultural heritage but also for being a gateway to some of the most picturesque hill stations in South India. Placed amidst the Western Ghats, they display an ideal blend of lush green surroundings with cool climates and breathtaking landscapes. The hill stations near Trivandrum offer a perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, or those eyeing calm and serenity.
10 Hill Stations Near Trivandrum
Here are ten enchanting hill stations near Trivandrum that beckon travellers seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.
1. Ponmudi
Photo: Ajay V Nair / Wikimedia Commons
Ponmudi is a serene hill station characterised by green landscapes and a warm climate. It offers excellent tea gardens and valley views. Some of the main draw cards include the Golden Valley, characterised by meadows and streams of water, and the nearby Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, suited for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers. With a cool climate throughout, Ponmudi seems just right for a getaway from the coastal heat of Trivandrum; during the monsoon season, it transforms this region into a green paradise.
Distance From Trivandrum: 61 KM
Suggested Read: Malappuram Beach
2. Thenmala
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Thenmala is the first planned eco-tourism destination in India. This small hill station at the foothills of the Western Ghats is an unblemished setting amidst dense forests teeming with a wide variety of wildlife. ‘Thenmala’ means Honey Hill, reflecting its sweetness and natural beauty. Visitors can visit the renowned Thenmala Eco-Tourism Project, the facilities providing nature trails, boating and trekking opportunities, a butterfly safari, the Deer Rehabilitation Center, and a Musical Dancing Fountain.
Distance From Trivandrum: 72 KM
3. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Rajiv R Nair / Wikimedia Commons
The Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. It is home to multiple species of animals like elephants, sambar deer, wild boar, and birds. It has guided trekking trails that provide opaque wildlife spotting and birdwatching opportunities. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary combines serene beauty with eco-tourism initiatives that offer peaceful retreats from the urban bustles of Trivandrum.
Distance From Trivandrum: 50 KM Northeast.
Suggested Read: Munnar Adventure parks
4. Agasthyakoodam
Photo: Dr.Harikrishna Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
One of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats and a favourite among trekking enthusiasts, it stretches up to a height of 1868 metres and forms part of the Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve, which UNESCO identified as rich in biodiversity. Though highly exhausting, the trekking path to Agasthyakoodam is worth going up for the stunning views of the dense forests, some of the rare medicinal plants, and varied wildlife. This peak is named after Agastya Muni, the revered sage in Hindu mythology.
Distance From Trivandrum: 70 KM
5. Bonacaud
Photo: Muhammed Suhail / Wikimedia Commons
Bonacaud is a hill station located at a distance of about 50 kilometres northeast of Trivandrum. It is a quiet place with green surroundings and a fresh atmosphere. Being 1,560 metres above sea level, it commands views of the surrounding valleys and forests. Bonacaud is famous for its trekking routes, especially the one commencing here that leads to Agasthyakoodam Peak. The area comprises a rich biodiversity area and illuminates glimpses of endemic flora and fauna to the trekkers. Bonacaud is an apt location for nature enthusiasts and people searching for adventure amidst the Western Ghats in Kerala.
Distance From Trivandrum: 50 km.
Suggested Read: Vellayani Temple
6. Neyyar Dam
Photo: Martinartz / Wikimedia Commons
Neyyar Dam is situated at a distance of about 32 km southeast of Trivandrum. It is a beautiful dam and the entrance to Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve. The dam is situated amidst lush green hills, and its reservoir lends boating facilities that command an Autoscale view of the countryside. These trekking trails offer scenes from Meenmutty Waterfalls and the opportunity for birdwatching and nature walks up to the Neyyar Dam. It is a serene retreat for the nature-lovers and a base camp for the Western Ghats’ rich natural treasures in detail.
Distance From Trivandrum: 32 KM
7. Vithura
Photo: Georgekalathoor / Wikimedia Commons
Vithura is a lovely hill station surrounded by dense forests and tea estates. An elusive destination that exudes serenity, the gateway to Tamil Nadu’s Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. It includes every form of outdoor activity, from visiting the nearby Bonacaud region to trekking, bird watching, and spotting wildlife. The town, being a peaceful place and close to wildlife sanctuaries, becomes an ideal destination for nature lovers to spend loneliness amidst the beauty of nature.
Distance From Trivandrum: 36 KM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Thodupuzha
8. Aryankavu
Photo: Vimalnair9744 / Wikimedia Commons
Aryankavu is famed for its beautiful green surroundings, waterfalls, and religious importance. The most famous place in the region is the Aryankavu Sastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, which has been continuously pulling pilgrims and tourists alike. Dense forests surround this place and offer tremendous scope for trekking, nature walks, and exploring nearby waterfalls like Palaruvi. Aryankavu is moulded with serene settings and rich culture, making it one of its kind for travellers searching for spirituality and those keen on exploring Kerala’s natural and cultural paradigm.
Distance From Trivandrum: 75 KM
9. Palaruvi Waterfalls
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Palaruvi is one of the finest waterfalls in Kerala. Dense forests and rocky terrain surround the place, attracting many nature lovers and photographers to this serene beauty of nature. Indeed, visitors can trek a little to reach the waterfall and swim in the pool at its base. The landscape around the falls provides an opportunity to spread cloth for picnicking, sitting, and enjoying nature’s peace.
Distance From Trivandrum: 75 KM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Munnar With Family
10. Thenpara
Photo: Noblevmy / Wikimedia Commons
Thenpara is one of the lesser-known hill stations, surrounded by dense forests and tea plantations. It is about 1000 metres, with a cool climate and lovely landscapes, making it a quiet retreat for nature lovers. The area has much biodiversity, and there is scope for trekking, watching birds, and studying the flora and fauna. Thenpara offers a very peaceful environment away from the tourist crowds, hence perfect for people who want to spend time in seclusion amidst nature’s beauty.
Distance From Trivandrum: 85 KM
The hill stations around Trivandrum roll out a carpet of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure activities set against the Western Ghats of Kerala. These places are the entryways to the jewels of pristine wilderness across Kerala. Plan your journey to these hill stations near Trivandrum today with TripXL and let the beauty of the natural landscapes of Kerala bewitch you.
Cover Photo: Binoyjsdk / Wikimedia Commons
