Spread across the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Agasthyarkoodam is a 1,868 meter tall peak in the Western Ghats. The mountain range is a part of Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve and is a pilgrimage centre for Hindus who consider sage Agastya to be a symbol of religion austerity.

History

Agasthyarkoodam has immense historical significance as the peak is considered to be the home of Siddha medicine. It was at Agasthyarkoodam peak that sage Agasthya developed the Siddha medicine system. A distinct specialty of Agasthyarkoodam is that over eighty percent of the herbal flora found in the region is endemic to the place.

Infact, Agasthyarkoodam was known as the hub of medicine development during the days of sage Agasthya and Buddhist scholars from the world over visited the place for learning basics of ayurveda.

How to Reach Agasthyarkoodam

By Air

Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airlink to Agasthyarkoodam and is located at a distance of 61 km from Agasthyarkoodam. Taxis can be hired from the airport until Bonacaud in Kerala which is the base point for a trek to the Agasthyarkoodam peak.

By Train

Ambasamudram railway station located in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu is the nearest junction from Agasthyarkoodam. 

By Road

Those desirous of planning a trek to Agasthyarkoodam can reach Bonacaud in Kerala by road. State transport buses are available in Trivandrum and you can opt for a private taxi which is also available in Trivandrum.

Buses are also available from district headquarter throughout Kerala until Bonacaud.

Getting Around

Agasthyarkoodam can be considered as an option only if you have the instinct for exploring wildlife in its natural form. The second highest peak in Kerala, Agasthyarkoodam is an 8-9 hour trek and one needs to carry essential supplies to last the trek.

Pilgrims also visit the peak from January till late March and special permits have to be procured from Kerala forest department to undertake this trek.

Best Time to Visit

January to March is a pilgrim season in Agasthyarkoodam and annual passes are issued by Kerala Forest Department for visiting the peak. The Agasthyarkoodam peak can only be visited during the months spanning from January to March and access to the region is not allowed at other times of the year.

What to See

Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve

Established in 2001, the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve spreads across the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. On the way to Agasthyarkoodam, one is likely to pass through the biosphere reserve and come across 2,000 varieties of medicinal plants. In addition, the biosphere reserve is home to animals as tiger, Nilgiri Tahr and Asian Elephant.

One of the ancient surviving tribes across the world, Kanikaran can also be seen on the way. For security reasons, it is advisable to take a local guide along and venturing alone is not a good idea unless you know the region well.

Tea Gardens

Brimore, Bonacaud and Ponmudi which are among the base camps for a trek to the Agasthyarkoodam peak are home to some tea gardens. These gardens are in existence since the time of the British and offer an opportunity to those travellers to explore nature from close quarters who do not wish to proceed on the tough trek to the Agasthyarkoodam peak.

Manjolai Hills

Enroute to Agasthyarkoodam peak you will come across Manjolai hills which lie on top of Manimuthar Dam. The area has three tea estates and some human settlements exist in the region.

Where to Stay

Basic boarding and lodging facilities are available at Bonacaud and you will need to carry a sleeping bag and basic tent accommodation if you wish to camp at Agasthyarkoodam for the night.

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