Agasthyakoodam the second highest peak in Kerala, having a height of 1890 mts above sea level is a part of the Sahyadri mountain range. Resembling a sharp cone, it is located 70 Kms North East of Thiruvananthapuram.The mountain is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, as it is believed to be the abode of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara as well as of the sage Agastya, a disciple of Shiva.
A haven for rare herbs and medicinal plants, its slopes are a breathtaking sight when they transform into bluish glades of the 'Neelakurinji', a flower which blooms only once in twelve years.
In 1992, an area of around 23 sq kms was established as Agasthya Vanam Biological Park. The intention was to replenish the degraded forests and to use it for educational purposes.
Women are not allowed up the peak. The aboriginals here believe that sage Agasthya, a mythological character who lived here was a confirmed bachelor, hence he dislikes the presence of strange women. 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.
Location
70 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
Getting there
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram central
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport
