Kerala is also sometimes called, the Kashmir of South. The scenic spots in and around it remain covered in mist throughout the year. Surrounded by tall mountains on one side and deep valleys on the other, this town has a picturesque look to it. Kerala has so many amazing places to see but among all these, Ponmudi holds its own special place. There are so many beautiful places to see in and around it but here I bring to you the five best places to see in Ponmudi.
Ponmudi has so much to offer that you will always feel that you have not had enough of it. The most thrilling part is that it runs parallel to the Arabian sea. So, you can have the best of both worlds. The tall mountains as well as the deep sea. Small and serene villages, large tea gardens and rubber plantations complement the beauty of Ponmudi. There are plenty of sightseeing options and those of you who love adventure will find many opportunities here. While in Kerala, you can’t afford to miss Vagamon.
So, here is my list of the 5 best places to see in Ponmudi:
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Located at the outskirts of Ponmudi is the home to many wild animals, named Peppara wildlife sanctuary. Situated in the Western Ghats and spread over an area of 53 sq. km, this sanctuary was established in the year 1938 and is surrounded by thick forests. Its beauty is enhanced by tall hills, deep valleys and freshwater swamps which themselves are big attractions as nature’s gifts to Ponmudi. One of the most amazing places to see in Ponmudi, Peppara wildlife sanctuary boasts of wild animals such as Asian elephants, Sambhar, Leopard, lion-tailed Macaques, etc. And if you are lucky, you could spot a lion also. And then there are unheard of bird species like White-bellied Treepie, Small Sunbird, Malabar grey hornbills, etc. The flora and fauna around this place are simply eye-catching.
If you are a nature lover or a wildlife enthusiast, Peppara wildlife sanctuary is the place for you. You will surely enjoy seeing the wild animals in their natural habitat doing their own things. And add to it the natural beauty surrounding it, you have a complete package. Peppara wildlife sanctuary is open from 10 am to 6 pm on all days. There is an entry fee of INR 50 for adults and INR 35 for children.
Supposed to be the second-highest peak of Kerala, Agasthyakoodam is situated at an altitude of 6200 ft. The nature lovers and trekkers among you will find it as a paradise. And if you are a wildlife lover also, there is an additional incentive as this area is surrounded by thick forests and has a healthy amount of wildlife. One of the must-see places around Ponmudi, Agasthyakoodam is a part of Sahyadri ranges. The whole trek is 28 km long and you will find thick forests and rich grasslands on the way. The trek cannot be completed in one day. So prepare yourself well with all the essentials before embarking on this trek.
Around 30 km from Ponmudi there is a place called Bonacaud. The actual trek starts from here and goes to right at the top of the peak. You will find a lot of herbs in the forest on the way. These herbs have medicinal qualities. There are around 2000 varieties of these medicinal herbs in the forests leading to Agasthyakoodam. You can reach Bonacaud you can hire a cab or can travel by bus. So if you love trekking or are a nature lover, you can’t afford to miss this beautiful peak called Agasthyakoodam near Ponmudi.
If you are looking for a picture-perfect place, Meenmutty waterfalls is the place to go. This is a pristine beauty that will leave you mesmerized. Located between Thiruvananthapuram and Ponmudi, Meenmutty waterfalls fall from an amazing height of 1000 m and form a three-tiered look. And they end up making a big pool on the ground. The musical sound of the water falling from such great height is to be seen to be felt. The water here falls the top through big boulders and collects in the big pool formed underneath. The foamy water and the jagged rocks present a beautiful view. To reach Meenmutty waterfalls, you have to go through a 2 km trek that passes through dense forest. But at the end of the trek what you see is an unbelievable work of nature.
With water falling from such a height with great speed, it is not an ideal place for fish to swim. So you will not find any fish here. Meenmutty waterfall is a kind of place where any moviemaker would love to shoot a romantic song or a movie. In short, it is among the most exotic places in and around Ponmudi and the 2 km trek through the forest is all worth it.
This is a picturesque place along the banks of the river Kallar. Situated at a distance of 13 km from Ponmudi, you can reach this place through Kallar bridge and it does not involve any trekking. The name Golden Valley is supposed to have come from the pebbles and golden-hued stones present here. One of the most enchanting spots in the whole of Kerala, Golden Valley is a treat to the eyes. The gushing waters of the river Kallar invite you to take a dip in it. And if you are not willing to do that, quietly admire the crystal clear water.
You will feel reenergized breathing the clean air of the lush green valley. And the golden sand of the valley adds to its scenic beauty. You can have a relaxed picnic on the banks of the river Kallar in the midst of lush green surroundings. Definitely a must-see place in Ponmudi.
Located on the banks of the river Kallar, this ethereal village gets its name from the river. This is one of the most beautiful and scenic places to visit in Ponmudi. Situated at a distance of around 20 km from Ponmudi, Kallar is known for its beautiful aesthetics. The bright colored pebbles add charm to this place. The large swaths of green all around present a picturesque view. If you are a trekking enthusiast or an adventure seeker, you would be glad to know that Kallar is home to many trekking trails and provides numerous opportunities for trekking. However, you need to take permission from the forest department before starting any trek.
And nature lovers among you also don’t need to be disappointed as this small hamlet is home to many species of birds. So you can spend hours bird watching. And the best part is it is very close to Meenmutty falls and Agasthyakoodam.
Once you have enjoyed the nature in Ponmudi, go to the adjoining seashore of Varkala, for an amazing seaside experience.
By Air – The nearest airport is Trivendrum International airport which is 65 km away. There are regular flights from and to all the major cities from here. You can hire a taxi from here to reach Ponmudi.
By Train – Again, the nearest railway station is Trivendrum or Thiruvananthapuram, which is its current name. It is well connected to cities across India by the railway network. You will easily get a taxi from here to reach Ponmudi.
By Road – Ponmudi is well connected by road to major cities of Kerala. State-run buses are available from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram to reach Ponmudi. You can drive in your own vehicle or hire a taxi also.
There are hotels and resorts available here. You can choose as per your budget and preference. Apart from this, Kerala Tourism also runs a hotel right on the peak which offers services at reasonable prices.
Weather is usually pleasant in Ponmudi throughout the year. However, November to March is the best time to visit this place as its beauty is at a peak during this time. The greenery all around, the glistening waterfalls and bright hills, all add to the charm of it’s scenic beauty.
Ponmudi is not about natural beauty only. There are many activities to be enjoyed in Ponmudi which include mountain climbing, river rafting, paragliding, and trekking.
So, get set to visit and enjoy a very less explored, naturally beautiful and serene hill station that is Ponmudi.
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