Agasthyarkoodam,the spectacular peak in the Western Ghats rises to a majestic 1890 m in the form of a sharp cone, is located 70 km from Thiruvananthapuram (Bonacaud is the nearest village).It is the second highest peak in Kerala. There are trekking trails through thick forests. A haven of rare herbs and medicinal plants, its slopes are a breathtaking sight when they transform into colourful glades of the 'Neelakurinji', a flower which blooms only once in twelve years.
Agastyarkoodam gets its name from the legend and the Great Sage Agastyar who meditated from this peak, where a small temple stands in remembrance and devotion to this great saint.Women are not allowed up the peak. The aborigins here believe that sage Agasthya, who lived here was a confirmed bachelor, hence they dislike the presence of strange women.
Agastyar bio-reserve is a natural herbal garden, home to thousands of rare herbal plants. Agastyar Munni, considered as the father of Siddha system of medicine, the first Siddhar(Siddha Practitioner is also known to have contributed highly to martial art forms like Silambam and Kalarippayattu, both oldest forms of martial arts that are still practiced.
Best Season:
The season from December 2'nd week to February is advocated for trekking for which a forest pass has to be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Forest Dept., P.T.P.Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram.
How to Reach: Nearest Railway Station : Thiruvananthapuram central, about 61 km from Bonocaud.
Nearest Airport : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 69 km from Bonocaud.
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