You might have heard that Kerala is one of the best states in India to visit if you wish to get close to nature. But, the God’s own country has many cities, villages and hill stations to visit. Which one to choose might be your question. If you want to visit a hill station in the state, you can consider Ponmudi. It is located around 57 km from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. You can understand the attractiveness of the hill station from the fact that it is called “Kashmir of Kerala”.
Ponmudi – An Introduction
You might have heard that Kerala is one of the states through which the Western Ghats passes. Ponmudi is part of these ghats in the state. This hill station is popular for its winding roads, mist-covered peaks and lush green landscapes. The name of the hill station, when translated to English, is Golden Peak.
Ponmudi attracts not only nature lovers but also trekkers in large numbers. Even if you are seeking a tranquil retreat from the busy city life, you can plan a visit to this hill station. With its cool climate, tea plantations and mesmerizing landscapes, this hill station will impress you for sure.
How to Reach Ponmudi?
You can reach the hill station by bus from different parts of Kerala. If you are travelling from other cities, you can choose other modes like train and flight trips. You can gain more insights here:
By Bus
If you are travelling from other parts of Kerala, you might find direct KSRTC buses to Ponmudi. If you are travelling from other nearby states like Tamil Nadu and AP, you can reach Thiruvananthapuram first by bus. From this capital city, you can find direct KSRTC buses to Ponmudi. From the main bus terminus in this city, you can find regular buses operated to the hill station. Apart from Trivandrum, the other nearest bus station to Ponmudi is in Nedumangad.
By Train
Indeed, Trivandrum Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the hill station. You know that this city is connected by regular trains from different parts of South India and even North India. From this railway station, the distance to the hill station is around 57 km. You can travel this distance by hiring a taxi from the railway station. Otherwise, you can travel by a KSRTC Bus to reach the hill station from this railway station.
By Flight
Similar to the railway station, the Trivandrum Airport is the nearest to the hill station. You can find taxis outside the airport to take you to the hill station. Many flight operators operate regular flights from different cities in India to Trivandrum.
By Car
If you are travelling from nearby towns and cities, you can drive to Ponmudi. Driving to the hill station will be a delightful experience as the route is beautified by dense forests, waterfalls and scenic landscapes. The roads are well maintained, and when you choose the ideal season, you will experience a scenic drive to the hill station.
Key Attractions & Things to Do
Kallar
One of the best things to do when you are on your way to Ponmudi is to cover Kallar. This spot is best suited for trekking enthusiasts. It is located on the way to Ponmudi from Trivandrum. If you are driving your car to Ponmudi from Trivandrum, you can make sure to stop at this place. Kallar is home to the popular Meenmutty Falls.
Visit the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you should not miss out on a visit to this wildlife sanctuary. To reach this sanctuary, you will have to travel for around 35 km. As you can reach the sanctuary within a one-and-half km drive from Ponmudi, you can spend the rest of your day there.
Visit the Koyikkal Palace
By travelling around 18 km from Ponmudi, you can reach this palace located in the Nedumangad Village. From this village, there are also direct buses to take you to Ponmudi. The palace was built for the queen of the Venad Royal Family. Presently, the palace is popular for its museum set up by the Archaeological department of the state. You can gain insights into the remarkable art form of Kerala when you visit this palace. If you are a history buff, you will love a visit to this palace.
Agasthyakoodam Visit
If you can travel around 21 km from Ponmudi, you can reach this popular pilgrimage site. It should be stated that it is a paradise for trekkers as well. It has the pride of being the second highest peak in Kerala. You will have to trek by a forest area to reach this peak.
Golden Valley
When you visit Kallar, apart from Kallar River, you can visit the Golden Valley. It is a picturesque location known for its lush green valley, golden sand and crystal clear water. This is a relaxing picnic spot that you should not miss out on during your visit to Ponmudi.
Mini Zoo
The Mini Zoo is located within the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. This mini zoo has many Barasinghas. In addition, you can see other animals as well in this zoo. Do not forget to include this place in your Ponmudi itinerary.
Tea Plantation
You can just walk around Ponmudi to see many tea plantations. You will find many workers collecting tea in the plantations. Capturing some stunning pictures amidst the tea plantations is a thing not to miss out on.
Apart from these things, a stay in Ponmudi itself is one of the best things you can do here. Many people visit this hill station mainly to spend a day or two in a relaxed atmosphere away from the busy city life. If you are more into exploration than relaxation, you can visit the places mentioned above. The pleasant climate itself will provide you with a relaxing experience in the hill station. This is why it is rightly called the Kashmir of Kerala.
Best Time & Season to Visit
The best season to visit Ponmudi is during the winter months, from November to March. You can experience misty landscapes, lush greenery and pleasant weather during this season. Above all, the ideal climatic conditions will let you participate in adventure activities as well. Avoid visiting during the monsoon months of June to September. The reason is that the hill station gets a lot of rainfall during these months.
Duration to See the Place
To explore the major attractions in Ponmudi, a day trip is sufficient if you are from Trivandrum. But, if you would like to experience the climate of the hill station, you can consider a two to three-day stay. When you have two to three days, you can cover places that are located a bit away from the hill station as well.
Best Restaurants and Cafes Around
- Mullapanthal Restaurant
- Mimosa Restaurant
- Kattile Kada
- KTDC Golden Peak
- Vazhiyorakkada
- The Hungary Heaven
- Ponmudi River Restaurant
Where to Stay? Best Resorts
- River County Resort
- Thenmala Heritage
- Revathy Tourist Home
- KTDC Golden Peak
- The Forrest Inn
- View Point Cottage
- BKR Resort
- Ponmudi Rainbow Resort
Entry Fee & Ticket Prices
As Ponmudi is a forest area, the forest department might collect a meagre fee of around ₹20 if you drive your vehicle to the hill station. If you travel by bus or hired vehicle, you will not be charged any fee to enter the hill station.
Indeed, to enter some attractions, you will have to pay a small fee. These fees are collected to properly maintain the attractions for tourists to explore safely.
FAQ
Can I Find ATMs in Ponmudi?
No, remember that Ponmudi has limited banking facilities. So, when you are travelling, make sure that you have sufficient cash in hand. Indeed, some shops in the hill station accept digital payments. However, it is better to carry cash so that you can spend comfortably.
Can I Visit Ponmudi in the Summer?
Yes, you can visit. However, people avoid visiting the hill station in the summer season as it will be slightly warm. Tourists mainly visit the hill station during winter so that they can enjoy comfortable weather to engage in adventure activities.
Is Ponmudi Suitable for Family Trips?
Yes, the hill station is safe for family trips. You can take your family and can spend a few days in a relaxed manner.
Are There Medical Facilities in Ponmudi?
Yes, basic medical facilities are available in the hill station. However, for advanced facilities, the locals visit Trivandrum.
Conclusion
It would not be an overstatement to say that Ponmudi is a hidden gem in Kerala. It offers an unforgettable experience to visitors with its serene atmosphere, rolling hills and lush landscapes. You might be a nature lover. Otherwise, you might be an adventure seeker. You might even be a person looking for a peaceful getaway. In all these cases, Ponmudi has something to offer to you. From wildlife sanctuaries to trekking trails, the hill station has something for everyone.
Check out my other blog posts on Kerala
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