Top Tourist Places to Visit in Ponmudi

Ponmudi is a beautiful hill station hidden in lush green Western Ghats of Kerala, in Thiruvananthapuram district. Misty and curvy roads, beautiful overlooks make this small but magical hill station a dreamland of nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Ponmudi offers something to remember be it your escape to a weekend nearby or a relaxing holiday in the arms of the nature.

In this blog, we will discuss the 5 best places to Visit in Ponmudi, fun activities to do, the best travel time, and everything to know about an awesome trip.

Why Visit Ponmudi Hills in Thiruvananthapuram?

Ponmudi is a component of magnificent Western Ghats and it means Golden Peak in the local language. It lies merely 55 kilometers in Thiruvananthapuram town and thus it is an easily approachable tourist destination to the natives and the tourists also.

Unlike other congested hill stations, Ponmudi is a less-explored nature-blessed hill resort with beautiful rolling tea plantations, tropical forests and serene nature walk routes. Located on the Southern slopes of the Western Ghats, Ponmudi is where one fondly longs to go during the winters, to take in the coterie of scenic road trips, and to experience a climate that is as friendly as it is eco tourism.

Best Places to Visit in Ponmudi

When planning your trip, make sure you don’t miss these top attractions in Ponmudi:

1. Ponmudi Hill Viewpoint

This is one of the most visited places where one gets a panoramic view of the valleys and hills that are seen covered with mist. It is the ideal place to take photographs and sunrise admirers.

2. Golden Valley

Golden valley is a mystical location that contains beautifully clear streams, waterfalls, and lush environs that nestle beside the Kallar River. It is an ideal spot of relaxation and picnics.

3. Meenmutty Waterfalls

A small hike further at the foot of Ponmudi takes you to Meenmutty Waterfalls which is a well hidden beauty with flowing waters that classes through some thick forest cover. The adventure trek is worthwhile.

4. Agasthyakoodam Peak

Agasthyakoodam is one of the highest peaks of Kerala; it belongs to the Western Ghats and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is a paradise of hikers and bird observers.

5. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is a place of interest to any nature lover. A home to the elephants, leopards, lion-tailed macaques, and various birds species establish it to enjoy an adventurous day.

Things to Do in Ponmudi

Apart from sightseeing, Ponmudi offers exciting activities for travelers.

1. Trekking and Hiking

Ponmudi is known to have trekking trials that vary, to easy basic walking to the difficult ones. The journey to the Agasthyakoodam Peak is one of the most sought out ones.

2. Nature Walks and Birdwatching

The area is characteristic of biodiversity. Nature enthusiasts can take serene strolls across plantations of tea plantations and bird-lovers can find some of the rare and exotic species here including the Malabar hornbill.

3. Photography

Ponmudi is paradise to any photographer. The sceneries here are magical in mist covered hills to golden valleys particularly during the early mornings.

4. Picnics by the River

Hiking, beachcombing and family picnics can be enjoyed in Kallar River and Golden Valley. You may rest and cool yourself by putting your feet in the cool waters and savour the cool environment.

5. Adventure Sports

Whereas Ponmudi is a nature and serenity dominated place, adventure lovers can also have fun in the form of rock climbing and camping in selected places.

Ponmudi Hill Station – Timings and Best Time to Visit

Ponmudi opens to visitors all through the year but it is the time, season and timing that will increase or decrease your satisfaction.

• Hours Tentative: the times during which the hill station is considered reachable are about 7:00-7:00. But be sure to investigate local times, in case you intend trekking or going to a particular place such as Meenmutty Waterfalls.

• When to Visit: During November -March the weather is pleasant cool and ideal to carry out activities outside like sightseeing. Avoid the height of monsoon season which is between June to September because of heavy rains.

How to Reach Ponmudi Hills

Ponmudi is in great connectivity and is a short drive away to the capital city of Kerala.

• By Road: Ponmudi is 55 km away from Thiruvananthapuram. A scenic drive and 2hours on winding roads will lead you to there.

• By Train: The most convenient Railway Station is the Thiruvananthapuram Central that is situated 61 km away.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (67 km), and it has regular flights both domestic and international.

Travel Tips for Ponmudi Visitors

• Be comfortable with the shoes that you will use in case you plan to trek or walk long distances.

• Stay hydrated and bring snacks and water, there are not many places to eat at.

• Respect nature- be mindful of not littering around in the hill station.

• Book your accommodation prior to the visit especially when planning to stay over the night.

Why Ponmudi is the Perfect Hill Station Getaway

Ponmudi is pure and lovely with the litterations of artistic developments than other commercialized areas. Be it an adventure enthusiast or a photographer, or someone who wants to seek solitude out of the hustle and bustle of the city, Ponmudi has it all. It is an ideal destination that has beautiful viewpoints, waterfalls, trekking trails, and wildlife, thus forming a good retreat destination for a short yet refreshing vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions