Ponmundi Hill Station Kerala

The ancient land founded by the legendary mythological figure Rishi Parashuram, blessed with emerald backwaters and gold and silver beaches is Kerala- God's own country. With the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats on its east, Kerala is a treasure trove of indigenous cultural practices and art forms that have mesmerized people all over the world. Be it the age old Kathakali or the newly rediscovered Mohiniattyam or the knowledge of Ayurveda. Basking in the generosity of the sun and rain the climate of Kerala supports a lush vegetation including the famous spices and a wide array of wildlife unlike anywhere else in the country. This miraculously unspoiled serene wilderness is all nature lovers' paradise and rapidly gaining momentum as a popular tourist hub in and around the country. Though shadowed by the fabled beauty of the beaches and backwaters, the hill stations in Kerala on the Western Ghats are the repository of a different kind of wealth displayed in oblivion and irrespective of human interest. Hidden amidst the exotic spices on the misty slopes of the Western Ghats is Ponmudi alias tranquility lost in a quiet slumber on the lap of nature.

About Ponmudi

Rolling at an altitude of 610 m, Ponmudi (meaning the Golden Peak in Malayalam) is the least haunted by tourists and therefore the most peaceful of all Kerala hill stations. Embellished with rapids flowing over the road, and misty peaks thronged by an exotic vegetation, Ponmudi is a hiker's and trekker's paradise. At a distance of 61 km (1 ½ hrs drive) from Thiruvanthapuram, Ponmudi offers to soothe your work worn mind and body to rejuvenation. Hike through the slopes of tea gardens to watch the pickers at work or fish in the emerald waters of the Kallar River to make the most of Ponmudi.

Tourist Attractions

* Spice plantations
* Tea plantations
* Echo Point
* Agasthyarkodam peak (2000 m)
* Aranamula temple
* Golden Valley
* Deer Park
* Meenmutti Waterfall
* Mini zoo to the north of Ponmudi Crest (Barasinghas can be spotted)
* Accommodations Available

A small tourist guest complex perched among picturesque green slopes ensures comfortable stay at Ponmudi. Duke's Forest Lodge located between Thiruvanthapuram and Ponmudi amidst rubber plantations is also available.

How to Reach

Ponmudi is at a distance of 61 km north east of Thiruvanthapuram which house the nearest rail and air terminal. On the Thiruvanthapuram-Nedumangad-Chenkotta Highway after Agasthyakoodam and Golden Valley comes Ponmudi.

Travel Tips

* Beware of leeches, carry common salt
* If you want to witness the Aranamula boat race, visit during Aranamula festival (August- September)
* Trek to the tea plantations to watch the expertise of the pickers at close quarters
* Carry warm clothing as the nights are chil