Ponmudi: Discover The Ooty of South Kerala!

Ponmudi literally translates to a golden peak, which gives people the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and peace. This serenity and the green lustrous beauty of this region in Trivandrum have captured the hearts of so many Indian tourists. The hilltop view along with tropical vegetation in its richest form is the pure essence of this place. Wildlife exists here in variety and the scenery is filled with water, fish Peebles, and tall thick trees.

The specialty of Ponmudi maintains the perfect ecological balance with a touch of rivers making up the totality of its serenity. The place has established itself as a flora and fauna-centric place of Kerala. It is located 62km in northeast Trivandrum and it is formerly known as the extension of Western Ghats. The place offers the opportunity to explore a wide range of activities such as Boat Racing, Cottage Hunting, and Wildlife Sanctuary attractions.  

Here are the most popular and visited places to visit and enjoy in the beautiful hill station of Trivandrum.

Koyikkal Palace

Located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, India, Koyikkal Palace is a beautiful palace that dates back to the 16th century. It is now a museum that showcases the traditional arts and crafts of Kerala, including paintings, sculptures, and musical instruments.

Mankkayam Falls

Mankkayam Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. It is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular spot for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. The place was recently claimed as an eco-tourism point by the authorities.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area and It is home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, and leopards, as well as numerous bird species.

Golden Valley

Golden Valley is a picturesque valley located in the Ponmudi hills of Kerala, It is surrounded by lush green forests and has a small stream running through it, making it a popular spot for picnics and sightseeing.

Agasthyakoodam

Agasthyakoodam is the highest peak in the state and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. It is also home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, and leopards.

Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary

Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, and leopards, as well as numerous bird species. Visitors are allowed to watch from a distance and experience the raw wildlife of the south-Indian state.

Varayattumotta

Varayattumotta is another scenic hill station similar to Ponmudi. It is known for its lush green forests, tea plantations, and beautiful waterfalls. It’s recommended by travelers as one of the best places for sightseeing and relaxing.

Kallar

Kallar is a small village located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, India. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for picnics and sightseeing.

Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve

Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is a protected area located in the Western Ghats of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, and leopards, as well as numerous bird species. It is also home to several tribal communities that have lived in the region for centuries.

Best time to visit Ponmudi 

The best time to visit Ponmudi is from September to May, which is the winter and summer seasons in the region. During this time, the weather is pleasant with cool temperatures and occasional showers, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, and sightseeing. The hills are also covered with lush greenery during this time, adding to the beauty of the place.

However, it is advisable to avoid the monsoon season, which lasts from June to August, as heavy rainfall can make it difficult to engage in outdoor activities and the roads may be slippery and dangerous. The rains in south India are conventionally heavy and must be prepared and pre-planned in advance just to avoid the hassle

How to reach Ponmudi 

Ponmudi can be reached via different modes of transportation. Here are some options:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Ponmudi is the Trivandrum International Airport, which is located about 60 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ponmudi.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Ponmudi is the Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station, which is located about 61 kilometers away. From there, you can get a taxi or take a bus to reach Ponmudi.
• By Road: Ponmudi is well connected by road to major cities in Kerala. Regular buses and taxis are available from Thiruvananthapuram and other nearby cities to Ponmudi. The road journey to Ponmudi is scenic, passing through lush green forests and winding roads. The best option when you choose this method is to book an online bus or take buses from the KSRTC itself
• Self-Drive: If you are planning to drive to Ponmudi, you can rent a car or bike from Thiruvananthapuram or other nearby cities. However, be prepared for winding roads and narrow passes, which can be challenging for some drivers. The traffic in Kerala especially in Trivandrum is hectic for the new drivers or people visiting this area

Overall, the best option to reach Ponmudi depends on your location, budget, and travel preferences also it is way easier to reach out to several places in this region since Trivandrum is the capital state of Kerala.

Ponmudi located in Trivandrum is also a place of cultural and historical artifacts and relevance. Ponmudi is the right choice for people who are nature lovers, sightseeing enthusiasts, and for people who want to enrich a calm and peaceful environment. Trivandrum is home to popular temples and other historical places so it is also a bonus for people to visit here.

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