Agastyarkoodam (agastyar kudam or agastya malai) is a 1,868 meter (6,129 ft) peak in the Western Ghats of South India. The mountain is located on the border between the Indian states of Kerala (in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram district) and Tamil Nadu (in Tirunelveli). The perennial river Thamiarabarni originates from this hill and flows into the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
Agastya Malai is a pilgrimage center for devotees of the Hindu sage Agasthya, who is considered one of the seven rishis (Saptarishi) of the Hindu Puranas. The Tamil language is considered a blessing from Agasthya. There is a full-size statue of Agasthya at the top of the peak and devotees offer pujas there.
This evergreen rainforest is home to two hundred different plant species. From the grass to the huge sky-kissing trees and countless species of animals, including elephants, lion-tailed monkeys, bears, leopards, etc. Tiger spider, rare species of frogs are also found in Agastyarkudam. Rich in many species of orchids (such as Druri) rare medicinal plants, it is an invaluable treasure of nature. From the pristine purity of the vegetation originate Karamanayar, Thamaraparni and Kothayar, three major rivers of the Trivandrum district.
A haven of rare herbs and medicinal plants, its slopes offer a breathtaking sight as they transform into colorful glades of the ‘Neelakurinji’, a flower that blooms only once every twelve years.
Herbs and Medicinal Plants of Agasyar Koodam
The lower elevations of this peak are also known for their abundance of rare herbs and medicinal plants. Here are around 2,000 medicinal plants used in Ayurvedic treatments. Europeans, particularly those from England, were the first to establish tea gardens around the Agasthyarkoodam base stations at Brimore, Bonacaud, and Ponmudi. The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is home to rare flora and fauna.
Agastyar Koodam Adventures
The agastyar koodam is a popular place for hiking. The mountain is shaped like a sharp cone and the hiker can enjoy climbing it more spiritually. The ideal time for trekking is from December to January.
The hiking trail is surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Meadows and streams, groves of reed beds, ‘bonsai’ trees hanging from the slopes, the lonely walkway in the forest … The only sounds heard during the walk are the rustling of the trees, the gurgling of water in the streams , the sudden chirping of a thousand crickets in unison and the sweet chirping of birds!
How to get to Agastyar Koodam
Agastya Malai is 32 km from Neyyar Dam. The main city and the closest airport to Agastya Malai is Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) and its international airport Trivandrum, about 61 km away. The nearest railway station is Ambasamudram in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu.
Kerala Forest Department Pass is required for hiking.
