Ponmudi is a beautiful hill station in Kerala which is located at a distance of 61kms from Trivandrum. This awe-inspiring hill station is at an at an altitude of 1100 m and forms a part of the Western Ghats mountain range. Because of its scenic beauty this hill station is aptly named Ponmudi, meaning ‘The Golden Peak’.
This hill station is at a short distance drive from Thiruvananthapuram and is marked by luxuriant green hills, narrow winding pathways, natural springs and vast expanses of spice and tea plantations. This mesmerising hill station is home to many beautiful mountain flowers and exotic butterflies. The drive itself is very thrilling experience with twenty-two hair pin curves. One can find thick tropical forests at the foothills of Ponmudi and on the way uphill you are welcomed by the extensive tea plantations which are treat to the eyes. Pleasant weather and scenic surroundings and adventurous Trekking options make Ponmudi an ideal holiday destination.
Trekking
This hill station is the right place for Trekking and Hiking in the lush mountains. Trekking in the Ponmudi hill terrains provides trekkers a pleasurable experience. One can enjoy the variety of flora and fauna through pleasant walks and treks. A leisurely walk inside the tea plantation allows the tourists to absorb the intoxicating natural beauty of the place. Mountain climbing and trekking are a major attraction among the tourist. Various trekking routes are available for the visitors to enjoy trekking. Must-visit place for trekkers is Agasthyarkoodam that is one of the tallest peaks in the Western Ghats as well as in the district.
Aaranmula Boat Race
Major attraction in Ponmudi is Aaranmula boat race which takes place on River Pampa. It is a part of Aaranmula temple festival which is dedicated to Lord Sri Parthasarathy which is located on the banks of the river. It is held during August- September in the great scenic village of Aaranmula.
Golden valley
Located amid the verdant green of the jungles is the Golden Valley. It is a small yet popular scenic viewpoint of Ponmudi. With rivulets, streams, ice cool water and green trees this valley leaves the visitors spell blinded.
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
It is spread across sprawling 53 square kilometres. This place attracts many wildlife enthusiasts and ornithologists. Located on the catchments of the Peppara Dam on the Karamana River this sanctuary is home to a variety of animals like Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Elephant, sambar, lion-tailed macaques, Malabar grey hornbills, Sambar (deer), Bonnet Macaque, Nilgiri Langur and Nilgiri Tahr. The hilly terrain is constitutive of several peaks and is ideal for trekking. For the trekking enthusiast many trekking routes are present here.
Mini Zoo
Mini Zoo is located in close proximity to Ponmudi and a major attraction here is the Barasingha or Swamp Deer. This Zoo is abundant in exotic fauna and travellers can also indulge in Trekking.
Kallar River
Kallar River is another attraction which is in the middle of the way to Ponmudi. Agasthyarkoodam, one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats at a height of 1868 above sea level is another worth visiting place. Meenmutty Falls is also appealing spot in the area known for its scenic beauty.
The nearest airport to Ponmudi is Trivandrum International Airport which is situated 67 km away. Trivandrum Central railway station is the nearest station to Ponmudi at a distance of 61km. Ponmudi is easily accessible by road with frequent bus services from several state run and private owned buses and private taxis from most of the cities of Kerala.
Hotel Golden Peak is the only hotel available for stay at Ponmudi managed by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC). Since it is the only hotel it is advisable to stay in Thiruvananthapuram city and make a day trip to Ponmudi.