Agasthyarkoodam

Agasthyarkoodam, standing at an elevation of 1,868 meters, is the second-highest peak in Kerala and one of the most revered trekking destinations in the Western Ghats. Located within the Neyyar–Peppara forest range, the peak is part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-listed ecological hotspot known for its incredible biodiversity and rich repository of rare medicinal plants. The mountain is named after Sage Agastya, a revered figure in Hindu mythology, believed to have meditated here.

Trekking to Agasthyarkoodam is a unique experience that blends adventure, nature, and spirituality. The 20+ km trail begins from the Bonacaud base camp and takes trekkers through dense forests, gurgling streams, and rugged terrain. The region is home to over 2,000 species of flora and fauna, many of them endemic. The trekking season is usually open from January to March, and entry is restricted and regulated by the Kerala Forest Department to protect the fragile ecosystem.

At the summit, a small idol of Sage Agastya offers a spiritual touch to the journey. The panoramic views of the Western Ghats from the top are truly awe-inspiring. For trekkers, botanists, and spiritual seekers, Agasthyarkoodam is a destination that offers both challenge and serenity.

🚗 How to Reach

By Road: Drive or take a KSRTC bus from Thiruvananthapuram to Bonacaud Forest Station (≈ 60 km via Vithura–Kallar); this is the trek’s start‑point .

By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central is the nearest major railhead (≈ 58 km to Bonacaud)

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) lies about 60 km from Bonacaud

🎟️ Trekking Permit & Entry

Season: Mid‑January – March (≈ 45 days/year) only

Daily Quota: 100 trekkers (75 online, 25 offline); passes booked on Kerala Forest Dept’s portal and collected at Bonacaud check‑post

Permit Fee: ~₹1,500 per person (includes guide, camp stay, basic food); extra fees for DSLR/video cameras.

Check‑in Window: 06 : 00 AM – 09 : 00 AM at Bonacaud Picket Station; late arrivals are not allowed on the trail

🌄 Highlights of Your Trek

→ UNESCO Biosphere: Part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, famed for >200 endemic medicinal plants and 300 bird species

→ Sage Agastya Shrine: A small idol atop the 1,868 m summit adds a spiritual flourish to the expedition

→ Two‑Stage Route: 14 km forest walk to Athirumala base camp (Day 1), then a steep 6 km climb to the peak and back (Day 2), returning to Bonacaud on Day 3

→ Rare Wildlife: Watch for Nilgiri langur, Malabar giant squirrel, and colourful butterflies along the misty montane paths.

📞 Contact Information

Wildlife Warden: Department of Forests, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram – Phone +91 471 236 0762

Bonacaud Forest Station: Eco‑Tourism Cell – Phone +91 472 289 2344

Address: Agasthyarkoodam Trek Start Point, Bonacaud Picket Station, Thiruvananthapuram Dist., Kerala 695551.

🌟 Nearby Attractions

• Ponmudi Hill Station: Misty viewpoints and tea gardens, 25 km uphill from Bonacaud.
• Meenmutty & Kalakkayam Falls: Forest cascades on the Kallar–Ponmudi road for a cooling dip post‑trek.
• Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary: Crocodile farm, lion safari, and boat rides set amid tranquil backwaters.