5 Things To Do In Ponmudi
Show on map
- Filter (5)
- Wildlife (1)
- Boating & Cruises (1)
- Zoo (1)
- Hills & Valleys (1)
1. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
17 km from city center
Wildlife
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, located around 50 km northeast of Thiruvananthapuram, is a lush green reserve within the Western Ghats and part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. Spread over 53 sq km, the sanctuary encompasses tropical evergreen and deciduous forests, Myristica swamps, and the catchment area of the Peppara Dam. It is home to a wide range of wildlife, including Asian elephants, leo (Read More)pards, lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, and over 230 bird species, along with various reptiles and butterflies.
2. Golden Valley
5 km from city center
Hills & Valleys
Golden Valley at Ponmudi, located roughly 60 km from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala’s Western Ghats, is a verdant gorge known for its cascading streams and dense hill‑forest. Visitors can enjoy easy hikes along well-trodden paths that lead to natural pools ideal for cooling dips. The valley is especially lush during and after the monsoon season (June–September), when the waterfalls and foliage are a (Read More)t their most vibrant. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will appreciate the rich biodiversity, including endemic mountain birds and butterfly species. It's a serene and accessible nature retreat, ideal for a half-day or full-day outing from nearby hill stations.
3. Mini Zoo
0 km from city center
Zoo
The Mini Zoo in Ponmudi, situated within the scenic hill station about 60 km from Thiruvananthapuram, houses a small collection of local wildlife such as deer, peacocks, and various bird species. Designed as an educational facility, it offers shaded pathways and informative signage about Kerala’s native fauna and conservation efforts. Visitors can combine a short visit here with nearby attractions (Read More) like Golden Valley or panoramic viewpoints, making it ideal for families and casual nature buffs. The zoo operates year-round and provides a gentle, child-friendly experience without the crowds of larger zoological parks.
4. Trekking in Ponmudi
1 km from city center
Trekking in Ponmudi offers a refreshing escape into the Western Ghats, with serene pine forest trails and gentle hill climbs perfect for beginners and nature lovers. Popular routes wind through misty woodlands and alongside streams, leading to scenic viewpoints such as Meenmutty and Kallar. Treks typically take 1–3 hours, making them ideal for half-day excursions that combine exercise with birdwat (Read More)ching and waterfall spotting. Guided local treks also introduce visitors to regional flora, fauna, and tribal culture. Trekking is best from October to March when the weather is cool and trails are dry.
5. Aaranmula Boat Race
79 km from city center
Boating & Cruises
The Aranmula Boat Race, also known as the Aranmula Uthrattathi Vallamkali, is one of Kerala’s oldest and most revered snake boat festivals. Held annually during August–September along the Pampa River, it coincides with the Onam season and features elaborately decorated Palliyodam boats, each manned by over 100 oarsmen rowing in perfect rhythm to traditional vanchipattu (boat songs). Unlike competi (Read More)tive boat races, Aranmula’s event is a ceremonial procession rooted in legend and devotion, believed to commemorate a sacred journey made to the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple. The boats are adorned with golden lace, silk parasols, and flags, gliding in unison as a mark of respect rather than rivalry.
Things To Do In Nearby Places
FAQs on Ponmudi
Can you suggest an itinerary for Ponmudi?
Day 1- Arrive at Ponmudi, check-in and rest. Then in the afternoon, leave for a walking tour of the golden peak, followed by a visit to the coffee plantation. Day 2- Early morning trek along the hills. Lunch at local food joint and then visit the Meenmutti waterfalls.
How can I commute within Ponmudi?
Car rentals and walking are the best ways to cover Ponmudi.
Read More
Read More