Agasthyakoodam

At a distance of 62 Kms from Trivandrum, Agasthyakoodam is a hill range in Western Ghats at an altitude of 6201 feet above sea. It is the second highest peak in Kerala after Anamudi near Munnar (8842 feet).

The mountain is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, as it is believed to be the abode of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara as well as of the sage Agastya, a disciple of Shiva. The hill range is now declared as Agasthya Vanam Biological Park covering an area of 23 sq. kms. Also, it is the source of River Kallar.

There are two routes to trek the peak of Agasthyakoodam, one from Kotoor near Neyyar Dam and other one is Bonacaud. The trek distance is about 28 Kms and takes 2 days. Prior forest pass from the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is required to enter the forest (Ph: 0471-2272182). Guided treks are arranged with overnight stay at camp inside the forest.

Both Kotoor and Bonacaud are accessible by Bus from Trivandrum.