Attractions in Ponmudi

Adventure

The hill town of Ponmudi is relatively a new holiday destination but the opportunity of adventure activities that it has to offer every year attracts a good number of tourists. Situated near Thiruvananthapuram at a distance of 61 km, Ponmudi stands at a height of 3,200 feet above the level of the sea. Since the weather is pleasant all round the year, one can indulge in hiking and trekking but not in the monsoon season. The journey from Trivandrum to Ponmudi through the winding roads is itself an adventure. Take a leisure walk on the clean roads or the tea plantation. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you can spot wildlife at the Deer Park, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the Mini Zoo or the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary.

Hill Station

Located at a distance of 61 km north-eastwards of the Trivandrum or Thiruvananthapuram city, Ponmudi is a beautiful hill station in south Indian state of Kerala. A newly found destination, it is every year visited by a decent number of tourists every year who come enchanted by its natural beauty. The picturesque beauty and tranquil surroundings of Ponmudi are complimented by its lakes, crystal clear streams, beautiful locations, tourist attractions, floral meadows, tea-plantations and more.

Shopping

It is not wrong to say that Ponmudi is not much of a shopping destination but  it is popular for indulging in adventure activities and admiring the natural beauty. However, there are a number of shops in the local market near the beach. You can buy junk jewelry, blankets and other Knicks-knacks, which here from other parts of the country. You can also shop for aromatic spices from here.

Ponmudi Falls

Located at a distance of 1.5 km from the hill station of Ponmudi, the Ponmudi Falls are extremely popular for its crystal clear water falling from a height. This beautiful spot is popular amidst picnickers.

Varkala

Varkala, the quaint seaside town is not only popular for its scenic beauty but is also popular as an important Hindu center of pilgrimage. A relatively new tourist destination, the unspoilt beauty of the Varkala beach is perfect for those who like spending their vacation in seclusion. This town is also dotted with a number of tourists as well as religious attractions.

Agasthyarkoodam

Standing tall with a height of 1868 m, Agasthyarkoodam is not only the highest peak in the Thiruvananthapuram district but also one of the highest ones in the Western Ghats. The wilderness around this place has a restricted access and prior permission from the authorities is required.

Kallar

About 50 km from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kallar is a well-known tourist destination that lies on the way to Ponmudi. This place gets its name from the Kallar river, flowing through the region. This place is popular amongst tourist who are angling enthusiasts and those who like indulging in bird watching. Kallar is also famous as a picnic spot where the Golden Valley and the Meenmutti Falls are the nearby tourist attractions.

Golden Valley

Lying on the way to Ponmudi, Golden Valley is just the perfect place to indulge in fun activities at the waterfall and take a dip in the crystal clear waters. This is a perfect picnic spot for both adults as well as children, just pack for food and water.  Absorb the sights and sounds of the region and spend some enjoyable moments here with your loved ones. Admire the beautiful scenery sprinkled all around.

Meenmutty Falls

Located in Thiruvananthapuram, around 45 km from the city center , Menmutty Falls are placed on the main road leading to Kallar, 3 km away. Pass through a long trek trail to Agasthyarkoodam (prior permission of the authorities is required) reach these beautiful waterfalls with small natural pools. Your trekking facilities can be met at Kallar Vana Samrakshana Samithi, which is a forest protection group in Kallar.

Orchids and Deer Park

Just a few kilometers away from the hill station of Ponmudi, the Orchids and Deer Park, is a very well-known tourist attraction. Admire the beautiful colorful flowers and spot the Barasingha, roaming freely in his natural surroundings. The tea plantations in Ponmudi form a beautiful sight for the onlooker’s eyes.

Aaranmula Boat Race

Organized every year in the months of August – September, Aaranmula Boat race is the prime attractions amidst the tourists. This boat race is a part of the Aaranmula temple festival. This boat race is a great time to observe the rich culture of the region. This boat race takes place on the banks of River Pampa, near the Aaranmula temple, around 1700-yrs old.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

The Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, situated at a distance of 50 km northeast of Thiruvananthapuram, is located in the catchment area of the Peppara Dam on the River Karamana.  Visit this wildlife reserve to spot animal species like Elephant, Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, Leopard, Sloth Bear and more.  The park also has 27 fish species and 13 amphibian species. The best time to visit the sanctuary is from January - March. This sanctuary is quite close to a number of trekking routes.