Agasthyakoodam, also known as Agasthyamalai, is one of the tallest and most revered peaks in Kerala, standing at about 1,868 meters (6,129 ft) in the majestic Western Ghats. Nestled within the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mountain is famous for its mythological aura, ecological richness, and adventurous trekking trails.
For trekkers, pilgrims, and nature enthusiasts, Agasthyakoodam is more than a destination — it is a journey of endurance, spirituality, and discovery.
Location of Agasthyakoodam
Agasthyakoodam lies inside the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. The mountain also extends into Tamil Nadu, marking the boundary of two culturally rich states.
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Nearest City: Thiruvananthapuram (61 km)
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Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (69 km)
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Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram Central (63 km)
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Entry Point: Bonacaud, a small forest village near Ponmudi
Trekking to Agasthyakoodam
The Agasthyakoodam Trek is one of the most exciting in South India, but it is tightly regulated to protect its fragile ecosystem. The trek is open only for a limited time, usually January to March, under the supervision of the Kerala Forest Department.
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Trek Distance: 20–22 km one way
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Duration: 2 days (uphill trek, overnight stay, and return)
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Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
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Permits: Issued by the Kerala Forest Department, available online in advance
Trekkers pass through dense forests, river streams, steep climbs, and rocky paths before reaching the summit, making it both challenging and rewarding..
Flora and Fauna
Agasthyakoodam forms the heart of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, a hotspot of biodiversity.
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Plants: Over 2,000 species, including rare medicinal herbs used in Ayurveda.
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Birds: More than 200 species, including great hornbills, flycatchers, and rare endemic birds.
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Animals: Nilgiri langurs, lion-tailed macaques, Malabar civets, elephants, and more.
This abundance of life makes Agasthyakoodam a paradise for birdwatchers, botanists, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Spiritual Significance
Agasthyakoodam is considered the abode of Sage Agastya, one of the seven revered rishis (Saptarishis) in Hindu tradition. Local legends say Sage Agastya meditated here, spreading Vedic knowledge and Ayurvedic wisdom to South India.
For centuries, women were not allowed to trek the peak due to tribal beliefs about the sage’s celibacy. However, this informal restriction was overturned in 2018 by the Kerala High Court, marking a historic change.
Dhanya Sanal: First Woman to Summit Agasthyakoodam
The new chapter of Agasthyakoodam’s history was written on January 15, 2019, when Dhanya Sanal, a 38-year-old defence spokesperson, became the first woman to reach the summit.
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She was the only woman among about 100 trekkers that day.
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Tribal protests were held at Bonacaud to express cultural concerns, but the trek continued under forest department supervision.
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Her climb symbolized breaking barriers and inspired many more women to attempt the trek in subsequent years.
Dhanya’s ascent turned Agasthyakoodam into not just a trekking challenge, but also a landmark of inclusivity and progress.
Best Time to Visit
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Ideal Season: January to March (when trekking is officially open)
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Avoid: June–September (heavy monsoons make the trail risky)
Travel Tips
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Book trekking permits well in advance.
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Carry essentials like trekking shoes, water, snacks, and rain gear.
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Respect local customs and tribal traditions.
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Stay overnight only in designated forest department camps.
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Plastic, alcohol, and smoking are strictly prohibited.
Nearby Attractions
Make your Agasthyakoodam trip more memorable by visiting nearby spots:
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Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary – boating, lion safari, and herbal garden
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Ponmudi Hill Station – rolling tea gardens and misty hills
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Meenmutty Waterfalls (Kallar) – a scenic stopover en route to Bonacaud
FAQs about Agasthyakoodam
Q1. How to book permits for the trek?
Through the Kerala Forest Department’s official portal during the trekking season.
Q2. Is the trek suitable for beginners?
The trek is moderately difficult; beginners can attempt it with preparation.
Q3. Are women allowed to trek Agasthyakoodam?
Yes. Since 2019, women are officially permitted after the Kerala High Court’s ruling.
Q4. Can I camp at the summit?
No. Camping is only allowed at designated forest department sites.
Q5. Why is Agasthyakoodam famous?
For its mythological significance, biodiversity, and challenging trek, along with its landmark history as the first peak in Kerala where a woman summited against tradition.
Conclusion
Agasthyakoodam is more than a mountain — it is a fusion of myth, ecology, adventure, and history. Trekking to its summit offers breathtaking views, encounters with rare flora and fauna, and a chance to walk in the footsteps of legends.
The historic summit of Dhanya Sanal transformed Agasthyakoodam into a symbol of equality, reminding us that nature belongs to all who respect it.
✨ Whether you seek adventure, spirituality, or inspiration, Agasthyakoodam promises an unforgettable journey in the heart of Kerala’s Western Ghats.
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