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One of the highest peaks of Kerala, the Agasthyarkoodam trekking trail is a bird watcher’s paradise. The mountains are especially famous for being home to many rare and exotic species of birds. Several rare medicinal herbs have also been found here along with over 2000 species of lichens, orchids, ferns and mosses. There is a shrine dedicated to Sage Agastya on the peak giving spiritual importance to this place too. Only a few people every year are allowed to go up the peak by the local forest department every year. This trek offers an enchanting journey into the beautiful and rare flora and fauna of the region to all.
Who Can Trek?
Photo: Athulvis / WIkimedia Commons
Since this trek is a difficult one extending through arduously dangerous paths, it can be undertaken only by people with considerable physical strength. Kids below 14 years of age are not allowed. Applications are accepted from both men and women. The trek starts from the forest picket station of Vithura- Bonacud. A self-declaration form and original photo ID proofs are submitted to the department before starting the trek. There are 10 members in every group guided by an eco-development committee guide.
Location Of Agasthyarkoodam
Photo: Athulvis / WIkimedia Commons
Located inside the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Agasthyarkoodam is one of the many mountains in Trivandrum, Kerala. It is also considered to be one of the most well-known mountains in the region. In addition to the clear misty air and pure water, the peak is home to several medicinal herbs and plants.
Quick Details
Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum Airport
Best Time To Visit: It is ideal to go trekking in Agasthyaarkoodam during January or February as the weather is pleasant for visiting the mountains
Top Places To Visit Near Agasthyarkoodam
There are several tourist places located near the Agasthyarkoodam Peak that one can visit when in the area. Some of the popular ones may be listed as follows:
1. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Ranjith Siji / WIkimedia Commons
Located near the Peppara dam in Kerala, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is fast becoming a wildlife enthusiast’s favourite. One can see herds of elephants, sambar deer, gaur, barking deer and wild boars roaming about amidst the greenery. There have also been instances of endemic species sightings like White-bellied treepie, Malabar Grey Hornbill, and Small sunbirds. The place is also becoming an exciting destination for Agasthyarkoodam trekking as the 5 km trail is not so hard and can be done by beginners too.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
2. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Martinartz / WIkimedia Commons
Located near the Neyyar Dam in Thiruvananthapuram, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary spans an area of over 12000 hectares. The place offers a rare chance of viewing several endemic flora and fauna species along its trekking trails. The flat meadows and fragile slopes make this a picturesque area for families and solo travellers. The place also boasts a deer park, a watch tower, a crocodile rehabilitation and research centre and a lion safari park. The place is also home to hundreds of wildlife species like slender loris, tiger, Asian elephant, King Cobra, leopards and Travancore tortoise.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Monday closed)
3. Aruvikkara Dam
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in Aruvikkara in Kerala, Aruvikkara Dam is a masonry and gravity dam built across the Karamana river and used for supplying drinking water to the Thiruvananthapuram city as well as irrigation. The length of this dam is 83.21 metres and the height is around 14.01 metres. The place is maintained under the Trivandrum Water Works was named by Lord Willingdon and was founded in 1933. The water is pumped from the dam reservoir after treatment to the observatory tanks located in the city. Recently, even a bottling plant was established along the dam shores to utilize and provide bottled filtered water for consumption.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
4. Courtallam Main Falls
Photo: Aronrusewelt / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the western Ghats in Tenkasi district, Cortallam is a famous waterfall that sprinkles tiny droplets in the air. The water is said to have medicinal value it runs through the local herbal plants and forest before descending from the rocks. This is the reason the place is also known as the “Natural Spa of South India”. There are seven different falls located in Courtallam namely- Main Falls, small Falls, Tiger Falls, Five Falls, Old Courtallam Falls, SenbhaDevi Falls, and Honey Falls. Each of these falls has its own unique beauty and local lore associated with it.
Timings: Open 24 hours
5. Arulmigu Nellaippar Temple
Photo: Ajeeshkumar4u / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located in Tirunvelli, the Arulmigu Nellaippar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered to be Abhimana Kshetram of Vaishnavism. Covering an area of 5.9 hectares, the place is built on the northern shores of the Thamirabarani River. The place has also been mentioned in several Tamil saint poets’ works too. The most prominent festival celebrated at the temple takes place during the Tamil month of Aani and is known as the Brahmotsavam festival. The temple complex is believed to have been built by the Pandyas and later structures were added by Madurai Nayaks, Cheras, Pallavas, and Cholas.
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Where To stay
Photo: ArchKarl / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are several nature resorts and homestays located near the Agastyakoodam trekking trails. One can enjoy a luxury stay at resorts likeAnantya by the Lake, KTDC Golden PeakPonmudi, The Forest Inn, Dandeli Kali River ResortRiver County Resort or KTDC Tamarind or stay at cosy homestays like Amritham Holidays Homestay, SKJs Farm Stay and several others.
Where To Eat
Photo: Arunvrparavur / Wikimedia Commons
Since Agastyakoordam, there are no restaurants located in the jungle or along the trekking trail. However, one can taste delicious local fare in the nearby Thiruvananthapuram city like Villa Maya, Paragon Restaurant, O Cafe, BLND Restrobar, Garden Grille Bar Restaurant and Baker’s Arch.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons
- The average cost of trekking costs around INR 2500-3000 which includes the transportation cost and the trekking pass. One can also purchase food coupons for the trek from the forest department canteens.
- You must have good endurance to complete this trek.
- Always carry water to stay hydrated during the trek.
- Always carry sunscreen, hat, mosquito repellant and an extra pair of clothing for the trip.
- Do not carry any plastic items as it may attract additional fines or charges from the forest department.
The Agasthyarkoodam trekking trail of Kerala is one of the best, winding through the grasslands, waterfalls, forests, meadows, gigantic trees, tiny springs and rocky outcrops. In addition to testing your endurance levels, the trip is sure to be a memorable experience with its impressive views and clear misty air. Plan your trekking trip with TripXL and embark on an adventure that will take you on a unique visit to this nature treasure trove.
Cover Photo: PlaneMad / Wikimedia Commons
