Nestled amongst the Sahyadri mountain range of the Western Ghats stands the peak of Agasthyarkoodam, the second highest peak in God’s Own Country. At an impressive height of 1890 metres above sea level does it stand, topped with the richest of biodiversity, and it continues to this day to be a favoured destination of locals and tourists. It is located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, 61 kilometres north-east of the city.

The peak can be seen from Neyyar Dam, 32 kilometres away from it, or Bonacaud, 22 kilometres away from it. Trekking up the hill is restricted to only a few people. One must ensure that they get themselves a forest pass from the wildlife office in Thiruvananthapuram before they make the journey to see this picturesque peak for themselves and take in the treasures of nature. Digital permits have now made this process easier for tourists to enjoy the sights themselves.

Importance of the peak
Agasthyarkoodam is named after the revered sage Agasthya, one of the saptarishis, or the seven celestial sages, who made his way to the south and brought with him the knowledge of many arts which have been imbibed into the very tradition of the south, including the powerful and calming yoga as well as the martial art style ‘Kalari’ dedicated to not only defending oneself but also exercising the entire body. He made his mark in many places in the south and this peak is also a mark that he left behind. There is shrine that was made in his memory which sits atop this peak and the ’Kani’ tribe residing on Agasthyarkoodam are, till date, loyal followers of his teachings. The people of the Kani tribe were once the only ones who could help people navigate the peak. They continue to work as guides in this day and age to help guide the tourists.

Historically, the paths through the peak have been often used as trade routes for the ancient Tamilian kingdoms. The peak was well-known amidst the doctors of the ancient times for the large variety of medicinal herbs available. Tourism here is, comparatively, much more recent, due to the increasing interest in eco-tourism and bird watching.

Tourist attractions
From a tourist’s point of view, it is not only the religious importance, but also the beauty of the gifts endowed by Mother Nature that attract people.

Agasthyarkoodam is a paradise for bird watchers. Exotic species of birds can be spotted with ease on this peak. Rare species like the Broad-tailed Grassbird and the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon are found here. The species of flora here are also no less magnificent. Medicinal herbs surround the area and the opulent greenery carpets the peak quite beautifully. Over 2000 different species have been identified, including different species of mosses, lichen, orchids and ferns. Those visiting the hill station of Ponmudi Hills also often add a visit to the peak on their itinerary amongst other things.

Efforts for conservation are being taken with great care and dedication, including encouraging the tourists to be mindful and reduce their carbon footprint, restricting the number of trekkers and banning plastic. Hence the lack of commercial tourism and the enforced stringent rules to keep the negative impacts to the environment here to the bare minimum. The peak is part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, recognised by UNESCO and added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2016.