Across India, the temperature is rising as the summer is nigh. Colas, ice creams, and cooling summer drinks can keep your body hydrated, but what about your mind and soul? They need a vacation, a hill station getaway – Ponmudi hills!

So if you are looking for an escape this summer, look no further. This time let me take you down to the south of India. You must be thinking about who goes down south when we have beautiful hill stations in the north. Let me tell you; you would not regret it.

How about Kerala? Yes, there are many places to visit in Kerala, but there is a cozy little paradise of Kerala that will mesmerize you with its lush green mountains, gurgling streams, and abundant natural beauty. I am talking about Ponmudi, the Kashmir of Kerala.

Ponmudi, locally translated as the Golden beak, is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. This hill station, located 3600 ft above sea level, offers a breathtaking view of the Western Ghats and is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna. The spectacular views and fresh mountain air will leave you refreshed and invigorated.

It takes 22 hairpin bends to reach the Ponmudi peak. Aside from the pristine charm of wild brooks and tea plantations, one can also enjoy the view from the top. With verdant grasslands and thick forests, Ponmudi hills reflect its alluring beauty.

History of Ponmudi

According to the locals, this small town of Ponmudi is believed to be founded by the great Rishi Parshuram, the 6th avatar of Lord Vishnu. Despite being a quaint little town, Ponmudi has a turbulent past. The region was ruled by the Varma, Venads, and Ays, which frequently brought in the Mughals and the Cholas to disrupt the peace in the region. Nevertheless, despite everything, this lovely town has not lost its luster.

Places to visit when in Ponmudi

Ponmudi has a lot to offer. Near the town of Ponmudi is the Golden Valley. Golden Valley offers panoramic views of the hills and has access to the Kallar River which is teeming with fish. Its cool water flows over rounded pebbles and it is flanked on both sides by lush green trees.

The Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Echo Point, and various trekking spots are among the notable tourist attractions in Ponmudi. The sanctuary extends over 53 square km (20 square miles) and is home to a myriad of wild animals and birds. You can spot giant Asian elephants, Indian sambars, leopards, lion-tailed macaques (pride of western ghats), Malabar grey hornbills, and many other species.

Another point of interest is the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, which includes the sanctuaries of Neyyar, Peppara, Thenmala, Konni, Shendurney and Achencoil, Punalur, and Thiruvananthapuram.

This region is also home to Agasthyarkoodam, one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats, with a height of 1868 m. With its wilderness, this peak is only accessible with the permission of the Forest Department.

One can enjoy the scenic beauty of Ponmudi waterfalls, located about 1.5 km from the hill station. About 3 km from the Kallar Main Road is the Meenmutty Falls, another popular tourist attraction. For all the deer lovers, do not forget to visit Deer Park which is approximately 3 km away from Ponmudi Resort.

How to reach Ponmudi

• By road: A wide network of roads connects Ponmudi to Thiruvananthapuram and Kerala. Periodically, buses depart from the main bus stand in Trivandrum and Vithura. Taxis are also available at the airport and the Central Station at Trivandrum.
• By rail: Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station is the nearest railway station.
• By air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport.

Last Thoughts

Ponmundi might be a lesser-known hill station for many tourists, but it would not fail to amaze you with its beauty and serenity. The climate is pleasant all through the year. Sometimes all you need is a calming and soothing environment to rejuvenate your mind and soul.

So, this summer, plan your getaway and take your family to this hill station. Let us know your experience in the comments if you have already visited this place.