Agasthyakoodam
The conical peak of Agasthyakoodam is situated in the Western Ghats, Thiruvananthapuram District of Kerala, India. The Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve, more commonly known as Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, is located at the southernmost tip of the Western Ghats between 8 degrees 8 minutes and 9 degrees 10 minutes north latitude and between 76 degrees 52 minutes and 77 degrees 34 minutes east longitude.
ABR covers Tirunelveli District and Kanyakumari District in Tamil Nadu and Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta in Kerala. The abiding Tamiravarani River originates from the eastern side of the mountain range and flows into the Tirunelveli region of Tamil Nadu. Of the total covered area of ​​5432.72 km2 BRs, 2561.72 km2 is included in Tamil Nadu and 2871 km2 in Kerala. The part is also home to the Kani people, who belonged to the Dravidian tribe.
The concentration of endemic species in this core is much richer than in other endemic hearts of the Western Ghats. The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve was established in 2001, and it encompasses multiple wildlife sanctuaries such as Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve became part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2016.
Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve is a mesmerizing place to visit. The deep silence of the woods, coupled with the sudden chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the roar of nearby creeks and rivers, puts travellers in a blissful state. Additionally, the air in this area is so clean that it is believed to have healing properties that help trekkers continue their ascent to the summit. A visit to this magnificent place is truly cathartic, so folks who love to hike in adventurous places must visit the Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve at least once in their lifetime.
Agasthyakoodam is also a pilgrimage centre for Hindu sage Agastya's followers, regarded as one of the Hindu Puranas' seven rishis (saptarishi). In Tamil tradition, Agastya is considered the father of the Tamil language and the compiler of Agattiyam or Akattiyam, the first Tamil grammar. There is a small stone statue of Agatiar on the top of the peak, and devotees can worship. Until November 2018, women were prohibited from climbing Agasthyakoodam.
The Kani tribal community members consider the presiding deity of the Agasthyarkoodam mountain peak, Agasthya Muni, a celibate. Hence, women were being denied permission to trek the mountain. It culminated in 2019 when a woman named Dhanya Sanal, an Indian intelligence service employee, became the first woman to climb, following a court ruling overturning the ban successfully. Since the law was amended, more than 100 other women have registered for climbing licenses.
Agasthyakoodam is a medium-difficult trek that requires you to travel about 28 km one way from the starting point of Bonaco to the summit. The total distance is 56 km. The hike usually takes 2-3 days, depending on your fitness level. The walk takes only from January to March yearly and usually lasts about 40 days. The Ministry of Forestry allows supervised pilgrimages/treks during these months.
It starts on the day of the auspicious Makaravilakku festival at Sabarimala Temple and ends at Shivaratri. Only 100 tickets are issued daily and on a first-come, first-served basis. A hike at the Agasthyakoodam peak is a must, as its true beauty lies in its volatile landscape. As one approaches the summit, you will pass through transitory and evergreen forests, grasslands, and rock formations.
Places To Visit Near Agasthyakoodam:
Neyyar Dam:
Neyyar Dam is located near Agasthyakoodam and is a popular destination for picnics and boating. The dam is surrounded by lush green vegetation and is an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary:
The Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Agasthyakoodam and is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. The sanctuary is home to various species, including elephants, tigers, and birds.
Palode Botanical Garden:
The Palode Botanical Garden is located near Agasthyakoodam and is known for its collection of rare and exotic plants. The garden is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in botany.
Bonacaud:
Bonacaud is a small hill station near Agasthyakoodam known for its stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere. The hill station is surrounded by lush green vegetation and is ideal for picnics and relaxation.
Neyyattinkara:
Neyyattinkara is a small town near Agasthyakoodam known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful temples. Visitors can explore the local temples, including Sri Krishna and Padmanabhaswamy.
Agasthyakoodam is an ideal destination for those who love nature and want to explore the beauty of Kerala. With so many places to visit near the peak, there is something for everyone: exploring the rich biodiversity, admiring the stunning scenery, or discovering the region's rich cultural heritage.
Agasthyakoodam, also known as Agastya Mala, is a majestic peak in the southern part of the Western Ghats in Kerala, India. With an elevation of approximately 1,868 meters, it is the second-highest peak in Kerala and holds great significance in mythology, ecology, and adventure tourism.
Visiting Agasthyakoodam in Kerala is not just an adventure but a journey to connect with nature, spirituality, and cultural heritage. It offers a unique blend of thrilling experiences, natural beauty, and a chance to immerse oneself in the tranquillity of the Western Ghats.
