Ponmudi- the Kashmir of Kerala- also known as the Golden Peak, is a hill station located in the Trivandrum District in Kerala. The Ponmudi (Varayadumotta) peak is part of a mountain range paralleling the Arabian Sea along the Western Ghats. There are many hiking trails in Ponmudi, but one of the most popular one is Varayadumotta which offers a panoramic view of Nilgiri Tahrs and the hills. It is one of the toughest treks in Trivandrum, being 18 kilometers on one side. Trekkers will be accompanied by two guides on this trek. The normal temperature of Ponmudi is between 18 and 25 °C (64 and 77 °F) which makes this place tranquil and soothing. It is home to 283 species of birds, many of which are endangered and threatened. And among the 483 bird species in Kerala, 59% are observed at Ponmudi. Also, 195 of the 332 species of butterflies found in the Western Ghats can be found here. The Ponmudi area is also home to many reptile and amphibian species, including some highly endangered species.
Getting there :
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram, about 61 km away
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 67 km away
