Agastyakoodam (Agastya Malai (20km)

 Believed to be the abode of sage Agasthya, Agasthyakoodam (20 km from the city) at a height of 1890mts above sea level is the second highest peak in Kerala.  A part of the Sahyadri range of mountains, the forests of Agasthyakoodam is rich in rare medicinal herbs and plant, and hued orchids. The medicinal herbs found at Agasthyakoodam are more than 2000 in number. 

Animals like elephants, tigers, leopard, wild boar, sloth bear, jungle cat and spotted deer can also be seen in the forests. In 1992, an area covering around 23 sq kms was established as Agasthya Vanam Biological Park. The intention was to restore the degraded forests and to use it for educational purpose. A trekker's delight, December to April is the best time for trekking. 

Forest pass has to be obtained from the 
Wildlife Warden, 
Forest Department, 
PTP Ngr, Thiruvananthapuram.

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Neyyar Dam (30 km)

Situated 30km east of Thiruvananthapuram, at the foot of the Western ghats, this popular picnic spot has a lake and a picturesque dam site. Established in 1958, the sanctuary covers an area of 123 sq. km. It occupies the basin of the rivers Neyyar, Mullayar and Kallar. A watch tower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer park are the main attractions of this sanctuary. Dominated by the peak of Agasthyakoodam hill, 1,890 metres high, the Neyyar sanctuary occupies a beautiful wooded and hilly landscape. Wild life includes gaur, sloth bear, Nilgiri Tahr, jungle cat and Nilgiri langur but most commonly seen animals are wild elephants and sambar deer.  Trekking and Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.  

A part of the Neyyar Wildlife sanctuary, Neyyar Dam supports a large population of crocodiles and otters. The gardens in the dam area is decorated with larger than life statues. 

Contact Address
Assistant wildlife Warden, 
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary,
Neyyar Dam 
Thiruvananthapuram
Ph: 0471-2272182.

Kombaikani and Meenmutti Waterfalls (45 km)

45km from the city,  these two splendid waterfalls on the upper reaches of the Neyyar Reservoir area is a favorite location for trekkers and birdwatchers. One can reach Meenmutti waterfalls only after a 2-km trek through the dense forest and a further 2 kms, to the Kombaikani waterfalls. Meenmutti Waterfalls cascades in three tiers, from a height of 500 metres. Trekking facilities are available from the Kallar Vana Samrakshana Samithi (Kallar Forest Protection Group) at Kallar.  

Ponmudi (The Golden Peak)  (65km)

Ponmudi is the nearest hill station to Thiruvananthapuram. Located 915metres above sea level in the Western Ghats, it is an idyllic hill resort with narrow, winding path ways and cool, green wooded environments. A panoramic view of mountain ranges, hills, valleys, small rivulets, salubrious climate and the scope of hiking in high trails make the visit to Ponmudi an exhilarating experience.

The hill station also serves as a good base for trekking, hiking and bird watching. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Golden Valley peak, a charming Deer Park and Orchids adds more attraction to this place. This hill resort is  developing fast with new hotels, cottages and home stays coming up. KTDC has also arranged accommodation for tourists here. 

Contact Address
The Divisional Forest Officer
Trivandrum – 14 
Phone: 0471 2320637