PONMUDI HILL STATION

About Ponmudi Hill Station

Located in Kerala, Ponmudi hill station is a beautiful tourist spot to unwind in the midst of nature. Literally meaning the Golden Peak, this hill station is situated in the Western Ghats and offers a memorable experience for all the tourists. Known for its green hills, zig zag roads and picturesque cottages, Ponmudi Hills allows everyone to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Moreover, the place is an ideal getaway if you are interested in trekking the hills and like to enjoy long solitary walks in lovely landscapes.

Replete with lush green valleys, gushing waterfalls, sparkling streams and verdant tea plantations, Ponmudi hill station is a just a delight for all the nature lovers. One can experience the surreal mountain life and take back some cherished memories of the rolling hills of Western Ghats. There are many popular places to visit here like Golden Valley, Meenmutty Falls, Agasthyakoodam etc. There are a number of places where you can make memories with your loved ones and make it a vacation to remember in Ponmudi.

The tranquil hill station of Ponmudi is an attractive destination to add to your bucket list and explore the pristine natural beauty that is present here. Read below, to find out more information about Ponmudi Hills for planning an exciting vacation.

Best time to visit Ponmudi hill station:

The best time to visit Ponmudi hill station is during the winter season that is witnessed here from the month of November to March. This is when mist covers the landscape and it looks magical with the lush green trees covering the hills and the glistening waterfalls making their way through the valleys. With the winter chill surrounding the air, Ponmudi becomes a delightful getaway in this season with breathtaking views to treat your eyes.

The postcard perfect backdrop of Ponmudi hill station emerge out in the most picturesque way during the winter season. Moreover, visiting Ponmudi hill station during the winters also satisfies the adventure lovers as one can indulge in various activities here. Some of the popular activities available during the winter season in Ponmudi are mountain climbing, paragliding, trekking and rafting. Also, one must not miss spotting the flora and fauna during the winter season in Ponmudi.

Things to do at ponmudi hill station:

Trekking to the north of Ponmudi Crest: Gear up for a memorable adventure by trekking to Ponmudi Crest for having a wonderful getaway on your vacation. Starting from Kallar, trekking here allows one to pass through the most picturesque paths. Passing through the mini zoo that comprises of many barasinghas, this trekking tail will entice you with many sights. This trek is a pleasure for birdwatchers and offers one the luxury to just soak in the simple delights of nature.

Visit Mini Zoo: Have a great time enjoying wildlife when you pay a visit to Mini Zoo in Ponmudi hill station. Renowned for having a big population of barasinghas, this mini zoo can be visited with friends and family in Ponmudi. The zoo can be reached easily by trekking to the top of Ponmudi crest and makes for an adventurous and fun-filled getaway if you are travelling with kids.

Picnic at Golden Valley: Known for its picturesque surroundings, picnicking at Golden Valley is one of the top things that you must look forward to when you are in Ponmudi. Located along the banks of Kallar river, Golden Valley boasts of verdant valleys, sparkling waters and golden sands. This captivating spot in Ponmudi is a delight for nature lovers and for those who wish to escape the chaos of the cities.

Aaranmula Boat Race: Also called the Kerala Boat Festival, Aaranmula Boat Race is one of the top attractions of Ponmudi. A sight like a carnival, Aaranmula Boat race attracts a number of tourists to watch the snake boats racing together while traditional songs are played in the background. This vibrant spectacle can be witnessed in Ponmudi during the month of August or September.

Going Back to History: For the history lovers, there are numerous activities to relive the history and enjoy learning about the past of different things in Ponmudi. The science enthusiasts in Ponmudi must visit the Science and Technology Museum Complex. This place is known for hosting galleries on electricity, mechanics, mathematics, solar energy, automobile, computer and biomedical engineering. Another popular museum is Napier Museum which is known for having a collection of archaeological and historic artefacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. There is also the Natural History Museum which has galleries on skeletal, bird, animal and taxidermy.

Adventure with Jungle Safari: Ponmudi is a great destination for wildlife aficionados as one gets to catch a sight of numerous animals at Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This picturesque place has a dam and serves as a renowned picnic spot in Ponmudi. Some popular things not to miss here are crocodile far, lion safari park, deer park and elephant rehabilitation center. For the adventure lovers, there is also boating activities to indulge in.

How to reach:

The mesmerising hill station of Ponmudi can be reached in the following ways:

By Train: One can travel to Ponmudi via train by journeying till the nearest railway station that is Trivandrum Railway Station. Easily connected to different cities of the country, Trivandrum railway station is easily accessible through trains.

By Air: Tourists can reach Ponmudi by taking a flight to the nearest airport which is Trivandrum International Airport. It is situated at a distance of 65 km from Ponmudi and is easily connected to different cities like Chennai, Delhi and Bangalore via regular flights. From the airport, one can easily take a taxi to reach Ponmudi hills. There are both AC and non-AC taxis to choose from at Trivandrum Airport.

By Road: For reaching Ponmudi via road, tourists can opt for KSRTC buses that are available from Trivandrum. The price for a bus ticket is also very nominal as it is just INR 100 for a one way ticket. Many regular buses ply from the main bus terminal to Ponmudi and easily available for the tourists.

Places to visit in & around Ponmudi hill station:

Kallar-Meenmutty Fall: Treat your eyes with a wonderful spectacle at Kallar-Meenmutty Fall when you are in Ponmudi hills. Situated near the Neyyar Reservoir area, Kallar-Meenmutty Fall can be accessed only after a trek of 2 kilometres covering the forest. The wonderful waterfall is a great place to escape in the midst of nature and enjoy some moments of peace and tranquillity on your vacation. An ideal getaway for family and friends, Kallar-Meenmutty Fall doesn’t boast of a very high-water level but known for its serene surroundings.
However, one should be cautious before planning to visit here as the rocks could be slippery and the path to the falls maybe a little difficult for the elderly people. It is best visited during the rainy season.

Golden Valley: If you fancy a quiet stroll by yourself or enjoy spending some quality time with your loved ones, Golden Valley is one of the best places to go in Ponmudi hill station. Boasting of beautiful rivers, chilling waters and verdant valleys filled with trees, Golden Valley ticks all the boxes to make it a tranquil holiday for all the tourists. One can play in the river and just enjoy the surroundings as there the air is filled with calm vibes and there is no trace of commercialisation.
Golden Valley in Ponmudi is one of the best places to visit for those who like to trek and hike to places in the middle of nowhere. One can look forward to have a great time in Golden Valley when going with family or on a honeymoon.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary: A paradise for wildlife lovers, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is a place where you can have a pleasant respite from the usual tourist attractions. The most popular species which can be spotted here are Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-bellied Treepie, and the Small Sunbird. The sanctuary derives its name from the famous Peppara Dam and here one can also undertake an amazing trek to witness the most panoramic views of the valley. With evergreen forests and immaculate natural beauty, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is a great visit if you are looking for a quaint picnic spot in Ponmudi.

Bonacaud: Renowned for its serene valleys and waterfalls, Bonacaud is a beautiful hill station located near Ponmudi. The place is a delight for birdwatchers and promises a glimpse of many birds like Grey wagtail, forest wagtail, greenish leaf warbler, Asian brown flycatcher etc. The place is isolated and a good pick if you wish to escape the crowds and enjoy a pleasant time among the ruined tea plantations present here.

Agasthyakoodam: One of the most enchanting places to see in Ponmudi, Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak in Kerala. It will blow your minds if birdwatching is something you take delight in as some of the most exotic avifauna can be spotted here. It offers an exciting trekking experience with a spectacular sight of the Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve. One can visit here after obtaining a permit and being accompanied by a guide from the Forest Department.

Places to stay in Ponmudi hill station:

Duke’s Forest Lodge: Cherish a peaceful getaway in the midst of nature by staying at Duke’s Forest Lodge in Ponmudi. Tucked beautifully between the rubber plantations and forest, Duke’s Forest Lodge is where you can enjoy staying at traditional Keralite villas with all the modern amenities. Some of the popular amenities available here are ayurvedic spa, trekking, plantation visit, bird watching, visits to tribal settlement, etc.

KTDC Golden Peak: Treat your eyes with the panoramic views of Ponmudi by staying at KTDC Golden Peak. Offering 14 well appointed guest rooms, KTDC Golden Peak is one of the favourite places in Ponmudi to take a break from your mundane life. Guests here can enjoy multiple amenities like on site conference hall, multi cuisine restaurant, etc. Moreover, the place also arranges trekking and campfire if requested.

Saaral Resorts: Featuring an outdoor pool, spa and fitness centre, Saaral Resorts is one of the top places to stay when you are vacationing in Ponmudi. It is located just a kilometre away from Kuttralam Waterfalls and offers a pleasant stay equipped with all the modern amenities. The budget hotel is a good pick if you are visiting with family and wish to have a pleasant time in Ponmudi.

Orchard Valley Resort: Stay at Orchard Valley Resort to soak in the natural beauty and behold the most breathtaking views of the mountains on your vacation. Equipped with modern conveniences, Orchard Valley Resort is a nice place to have a good time in Ponmudi hill station. Some of the popular amenities available at Orchard Valley Resort are games room, bicycle rental, garden, terrace etc.

Windsor Rajadhani: Retreat into luxury with a memorable vacation by a stay at Windsor Rajadhani in Ponmudi. The place is known for offering a royal stay to the guests with various amenities. The hotel boasts of having a health club with yoga amenities, well equipped gym, on site coffee house and a rooftop restaurants that offers serene views of the surroundings.

Beersheba Apartments: Located in Trivandrum, Beersheba Apartments is a great place to stay when you are with your friends and family. This self catering accommodation is a good pick if you want to enjoy a vacation with privacy and have some lone time with your loved ones.

Krishna Tourist Home: Located in Tenkasi, Krishna Tourist Home offers a nice accommodation with its 37 rooms on offer. The rooms here come along with modern amenities like Wireless internet access, sofa beds and 24 hour room service. The place is conveniently located near the bus stand and also offers easy access to Coutrallam falls.

Hotel Aquarock: Offering a pleasant and comfortable stay, Hotel Aquarock is a great place to crash with your bags when you are in Ponmudi. It promises a picturesque view of the mountains and has a terrace and fitness centre for the guests. With multiple amenities, guests can look forward to have an enjoyable getaway at Hotel Aquarock.