An Introduction To Ponmudi
Ponmudi (meaning ‘Golden Crown’ in
Malayalam), is a picturesque hill station accessible by a one and half
hour’s drive from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram. A trekker’s
paradise housing tea gardens, spice plantations, gurgling brooks and
wildlife, it’s the perfect getaway for a peaceful weekend….
The hill station of Ponmudi is located at a distance of 61 km north east from the 
city
of Thiruvananthapuram. Situated at an altitude of over 1,100 m above
sealevel, the winding streams with their cool green waters and the
verdant woods set in the midst of serene surroundings, is sure to
attract any visitor to Ponmudi Hills. It forms part of the Western Ghats
mountain range that runs parallel to the Arabian Sea.
city
of Thiruvananthapuram. Situated at an altitude of over 1,100 m above
sealevel, the winding streams with their cool green waters and the
verdant woods set in the midst of serene surroundings, is sure to
attract any visitor to Ponmudi Hills. It forms part of the Western Ghats
mountain range that runs parallel to the Arabian Sea. Ponmudi is connected to Thiruvananthapuram by a narrow winding road which offers a scenic view all along the way. The climate is invigorating and remains pleasant throughout, and the place serves as a base for trekking and hiking for adventure enthusiasts. The tea-gardens here are also famous. As you drive along the hilly road, it passes under a canopy of thickly matted foliage. The forest recedes gradually giving way to neatly clipped tea bushes.
Other attractions near Ponmudi include the scenic Golden Valley offering a wonderful view of the hills, and a number of rivulets and rapids, some even flowing across the road. Located in a rich forest area, this whole place offers lot of scope to those who are interested in tropical vegetation. There is also plenty of wildlife found around these hills. Golden Valley is an access point to the river Kallar which abounds in rounded pebbles. Lush green trees, the cool crystal-clear water, scurrying fishes and the sheer wilderness of the park - all go to enthrall the traveller. Leisurely strolls, fishing in the Kallar river and bird/butterfly watching can also be indulged in..
Another attraction in the area is Agasthyarkoodam which is one of thehighest peaks in the Western Ghats and the highest peak in the district. This peak is famous for its wilderness offering much scope for trekking and hiking, and can be accessed only with permission from the Forest Department. Meenmutty Falls is a popular tourist spot in this range.
The places of interest around Ponmudi are the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, the plantation estates, the Deer Park and the orchids blooming in the wilderness all around. Towards the north, one can come across a mini zoo where barasinghas leisurely stroll about.
Ponmudi is yet an unexplored destination, especially for travelers from outside the state, and is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of city life where one can relax without being disturbed, amidst tranquil surroundings in the lap of nature.
For the adventure seekers, Ponmudi hill station offers many adventure sports like trekking, rock climbing, mountaineering, etc. One can go on long leisurely walks along the meandering roads that wind up the hill. This beautiful hill station offers a pleasing view and it has natural springs that help in keeping the valley lush green. The hill station also has tea gardens that make it a picture perfect location. The view down the valley from the cottages and resorts up the hill is breathtaking and it feels as though time has left this place untouched.
1 comments:
Click here for commentsPonmudi...a perfect hill station ..Shola grassland...tea garden...