Agasthyarkoodam Seasonal Trekking Begins: A Journey into the Pristine Beauty of Southern Western Ghats

Adventure enthusiasts rejoice as the Agasthyarkoodam seasonal trek officially kicks off, providing a thrilling exploration of the third-highest peak in Kerala. Nestled in the southernmost region of the Western Ghats, the Agasthyarkoodam mountain range offers a breathtaking biosphere, home to unique medicinal herbs, indigenous flora, and diverse wildlife. The trek, spanning three days, covers twenty kilometers each way and traverses varied terrains, from evergreen and deciduous forests to meadows and tropical montane forests.

The Agasthyarkoodam Peak, part of the UNESCO-listed ‘World Network of Biosphere Reserves,’ holds cultural significance as the meditative site of sage Agasthya, a revered practitioner of traditional Ayurveda. The trek, starting from the Bonacaud picketing station, involves check-in procedures, medical fitness certificates, and a night’s stay at the Athirumala base camp. The ascent to the summit on the second day offers panoramic views, followed by a descent and another night at the base camp. The third day concludes the trek with a return to Bonacaud.

Participants must adhere to guidelines, avoiding plastic, drugs, and harmful items. The forest, housing tigers, elephants, and diverse bird species, requires strict compliance with forest officials’ instructions. Guides stationed every two kilometers provide support, and participants are urged to wear wildlife-friendly attire and carry essentials like trekking shoes, raincoats, and steel water bottles.

In addition to regular seasonal treks, the forest department organizes special trekking packages, with canteens providing hot, clean food. Special packages, contingent on favorable weather, accommodate up to seventy participants on selected days. These guided treks offer a deeper connection to the natural wonders of Agasthyarkoodam, ensuring a memorable and responsible adventure experience.