Ponmudi, An Enchanting Hill Station

What Should Adventure Buffs Know About Ponmudi, A Less Crowded Hill Station In
Kerala?
A less crowded hill station in Thiruvanananthapuram district, Ponmudi has gained great
popularity as a tourist destination in recent times and is frequented by tourists from
different parts of India. It is indeed an exquisitely beautiful spot endowed with
enchanting scenic beauty by nature.
Ponmudo peak is situated at an altitude of 1100 meters above sea level, Ponmudi
means golden peak. True to its name, this hill station is a natural beauty where misty
slopes and dewy greenery can refresh your day. Travelers believe that Ponmudi is one
of the few hidden beautiful destinations in Kerala, visiting which will not disappoint any
visitor at all.
The drive from Thiruvananthapuram to Ponmudi is around 60 km long and is one of the
best weekend trips from the capital city of Kerala, offering stunning views of nature on
either side of the winding roads. The pleasant weather and natural surroundings
mesmerize the visitors who come here.
Ponmudi offers a wide range of activities for tourists which include trekking, bird
watching, wildlife tour, and visiting the many nearby tourist places. Mainmutty Falls,
Agasthyarkudam Peak, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Napier Museum, Kanakakkunnu
Palace, etc. are some of the major tourist attractions here where travelers can also spot
rare flora and fauna including mountain flowers, wild orchids, and exotic butterflies. Tree
House View Tower is another great place to visit.
The three-hour drive from the city to the valley takes you through the magnificent Kallar
River where you can stop and listen to the sound of the river that runs parallel to the
road. The picturesque Meenmutty Falls is not far from here, so people passing by the
river never miss enjoying the beauty of this waterfall.
Ponmudi offers its visitors the best opportunity to experience the beauty of nature as
well as experience it up close. Ponmudi will not disappoint a nature lover as well as an
adventure enthusiast. Ponmudi trekking trails can quench the thirst for adventure.

Ponmudi’s Ecotourism packages to enjoy trekking are subject to change depending on
the climate and other conditions.
Trekking Trails of Varayadumotta: The most popular trekking trail in Ponmudi is
located at Varayadumotta. 1100 m high mountain ridge about 40 km from
Varayadumotta town, it is 18 kilometers long. During this journey, trekkers can enjoy the
mesmerizing panoramic view of the hills along with the Nilgiri Tahr. The trekking trails of
Varayadumotta are considered to be among the toughest in Trivandrum. Here the
favorite trek of trekkers passes through the evergreen shola forests which fills the
visitors with a sense of peace. Hence it is also known as Varayudu. There are two
package routes available for this – one via Golden Valley and the other via Ponmudi.
The best season to visit is between November to May.
Trek to Seethatheertham: This 4 km trek from Ponmudi to the streams of
Sitatheertham gives travelers a great opportunity to explore the ruins of the temples.
According to the belief of the local people, the footprints of Goddess Sita also come on
the way which you can see. For those interested in history and mythology, as well as for
nature lovers, there are beautiful views on these roads, which include herds of
elephants and gaurs and birds. Wildlife photographers often come here. Over the years
Ponmudi has become an emerging center of tourist activity. A hill so close to the city,
and the protective arms of the sea attract a large number of people to stay in. The city
has a large number of cottages and resorts to stay in. Manachala Trekking Organized
by Ponmudi Ecotourism, it is a 6 km trek that leads to the base camp of Rayudumota
Peak. A guide also guides you in this short journey.
Trek to Maruthwamala: This is one of the most thrilling treks of Ponmudi in which an
off-season trekking program is organized giving trekkers a chance to go deep into the
forests of the Western Ghats region of Ponmudi Apart from these, there are many
things to do in Pomundi which include visiting the famous attractions, Mankkayam Falls,
Koikkal Palace, Golden Valley, Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, and Sri Krishna
Swamy Temple. Talking about the climate of Ponmudi, the temperature here remains
the same throughout the year
How to reach: If you want to go to Ponmudi by road then Buses are easily available
from Thampanoor Central Bus Terminal. The distance of Ponmudi is 61 km from
Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station and The distance is 67 Km from
Trivandrum International Airport.

(Courtesy : Native Planet, Kerala Tourism)