Discover Kerala’s Natural Beauty

Agasthyarkoodam: Kerala's Eco-Spiritual Sanctuary of Medicinal Wonders and Pristine Beauty

Image Courtesy: Department of Tourism, Kerala

If one beholds Agastya, the crown of sages, atop the mountain,
And meets the light of his gaze as bright as celestial glow,
A sacred calm awakens in the heart’s depths,
Bringing healing and renewed vitality to the fevered body.

These lines are from Agastya Hridayam, a beloved poem by noted Malayalam poet V. Madhusoodanan Nair. Like many of his compositions, this one resonates deeply with Malayalis and is often recited in schools and cultural gatherings. The poem draws inspiration from an episode in the Aranyakanda of the Ramayana, where Sri Rama and Lakshmana visit Sage Agastya during their exile in the forest. Traditional belief holds that even a single glimpse of the sage—or a moment under his gaze—could bring calm to the mind and healing to the body.

While the Ramayana locates Agastya’s ashram somewhere in the Dandaka forest, often linked to regions in present-day Madhya Pradesh, folklore in Kerala and Tamil Nadu identifies Agasthyarkoodam—a towering peak in the Western Ghats—as the sage’s southern abode. This association is not just spiritual but ecological: Agasthyarkoodam is known for its rich flora, especially its rare and potent medicinal herbs.

As one prepares to ascend this sacred mountain, the journey offers more than scenic views. The trail through Agasthyarkoodam is a passage through healing air, thick forest, and living tradition. It stands today as one of Kerala’s most cherished eco-tourism destinations, inviting travelers to witness nature’s quiet power, step by step.

Agasthyarkoodam, rising from the forested highlands of Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram district, stands as more than just a mountain. At 1,890 meters above sea level, it is Kerala’s second highest peak and a prominent feature of the Western Ghats, one of the most ecologically significant mountain ranges in the world. It forms the heart of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, which was recognized by UNESCO in 2016 and added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. This global recognition highlights not only its natural significance but also the ongoing commitment to protecting its fragile ecosystem through sustainable tourism and conservation practices.

What sets Agasthyarkoodam apart is the way it seamlessly brings together natural landscape, medicinal richness, and spiritual legacy. This is not a place for mass tourism. Its eco-tourism model is thoughtfully managed to protect the mountain’s delicate ecology, ensuring that every visit remains a low-impact and high-value experience. Trekkers, nature researchers, and those drawn to the deeper rhythms of the wild find in Agasthyarkoodam a place that offers more than scenic views—a sense of renewal.

The Green Pharmacy: Agasthyarkoodam's Medicinal Richness

For centuries, Agasthyarkoodam has been known as a mountain of healing. Its slopes host over 2,000 species of medicinal plants, many of which are foundational to Ayurvedic treatment. This includes not only wild herbs but also rare plant varieties that support agriculture and medicine alike—such as cardamom, nutmeg, pepper, jamun, and plantain. These species form a living archive of botanical knowledge, deeply connected to India’s traditional systems of healing.

Among its most remarkable plant species is Arogyapacha (Trichopus zeylanicus), a rare herb with rejuvenating properties, often referred to as the 'Plant of Eternal Health'. This plant gained global attention when its benefits were documented and studied by modern researchers. The scientific interest in this herb shows how the mountain continues to serve as a site of discovery, where ancient knowledge meets present-day inquiry.

The hills are also home to the rare Neelakkurinji, a plant that blooms only once every twelve years. When in bloom, the landscape changes completely, creating a moment that draws nature lovers who wait years to witness its flowering.

Much of this medicinal heritage is sustained by the Kani tribe, the indigenous community that has lived in harmony with the forest for generations. Their knowledge of herbal medicine, passed down orally, is closely tied to the spiritual legacy of Sage Agastya. A key example of this was the tribe’s involvement in a benefit-sharing agreement in the 1990s, when they partnered with researchers and a pharmaceutical company to develop a wellness product based on Arogyapacha. This was a rare case where tribal knowledge was acknowledged and shared ethically.

At the summit of Agasthyarkoodam stands a small shrine dedicated to Sage Agastya, a figure of deep reverence in Indian tradition. Believed to be one of the Saptarishis and the father of Siddha medicine, Sage Agastya represents the union of spiritual insight and healing practice. Pilgrims visit the peak not just to complete a trek, but to pay homage to a sage whose legacy continues to shape holistic traditions in both Ayurveda and Tamil literature. Many believe that the very air around the peak carries healing energy, adding to the sense of well-being that visitors often describe.

The Kani community also plays a vital role in the present-day trekking experience. As local guides, they not only assist trekkers but also help preserve and pass down their rich botanical knowledge. Though much of their understanding remains undocumented, their participation in eco-tourism ensures a connection between cultural heritage and sustainable travel. In this way, each journey through Agasthyarkoodam becomes part of a larger story—where conservation, healing, and tradition are deeply interwoven.

A Canvas of Nature's Masterpiece: Beauty and Biodiversity

Agasthyarkoodam presents a breathtaking canvas of nature's artistry, where stunning vistas unfold across hills and valleys blanketed in dense forests. Mist-covered valleys, winding rivers, and cascading waterfalls offer serene interludes along trekking routes. This lush greenery thrives due to its unique advantage—receiving rainfall from both the southwest and northeast monsoons, leaving a very brief dry season.

The mountain's diverse ecology is evident in its forest stratification. Below 600 meters, the terrain supports mixed deciduous and semi-evergreen forests. Between 600 and 1200 meters, tropical evergreen forests dominate, and at higher elevations above 1200 meters, southern hilltop evergreen forests and reed brakes emerge. This gradient supports a wide variety of plant and animal life, enriching the region's biodiversity.

Agasthyarkoodam also functions as a crucial watershed, feeding major rivers such as the Thamirabarani, Karamana, and Neyyar. Its importance extends far beyond its peaks, affecting water availability for communities downstream and emphasizing the need for stringent conservation.

Part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, the region boasts over 2,000 documented species of flora—mosses, orchids, ferns, and lichens included. With 2,254 higher plant species (over 400 endemic and 239 stenoendemic), the area is a critical biodiversity hotspot. Its geological isolation—bordered by the Shenkottah Gap and proximity to the sea—has fostered unique evolutionary lineages.

Birdwatchers will find Agasthyarkoodam to be a paradise. In Neyyar and Peppara sanctuaries alone, 197 bird species have been recorded, including several on the IUCN Red List: one Endangered, two Vulnerable, and nine Near Threatened. Rare birds include the Broad-tailed Grassbird, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Great Hornbill, Grey-headed Bulbul, and Kerala Laughingthrush.

The area also shelters many rare mammals like the Lion-Tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Marten, and Malabar Spiny Dormouse, as well as tigers and elephants. The Western Ghats support about 50% of India's amphibians and 67% of its fish species as endemic—making Agasthyarkoodam one of the planet’s most significant ecological zones.

Trekking with Purpose: Embracing Eco-Tourism at Agasthyarkoodam

Trekking here is a conscious and regulated activity designed to minimize environmental impact. The trekking season is limited to January–April, with January to March being optimal due to mild weather. Each day, only about 100 permits are issued, booked online through forest.kerala.gov.in or serviceonline.gov.in. These permits sell out rapidly—often within minutes—highlighting the growing demand for responsible travel experiences.

Permit requirements include online registration, a photo ID, a Medical Fitness Certificate (issued within 7 days), and a COVID certificate or negative RT-PCR report. Trekkers aged 14–18 need parental consent; children under 14 are not allowed. In a progressive move, women have been allowed to trek since 2019, ensuring inclusivity while upholding ecological rules.

Strict environmental guidelines are enforced. Plastic, alcohol, intoxicants, religious items, smoking, cooking, and noise are all prohibited. All non-biodegradable waste must be carried back. Violators face fines—emphasizing that preservation takes precedence over even religious practices. This strong stance showcases the Kerala Forest Department's commitment to conservation.

The trekking route, considered moderately difficult, covers 50–56 km roundtrip. Starting from Bonacaud, trekkers first cover 20 km to the base camp, where basic facilities like a canteen and dormitory are available. The final 8–10 km ascent to the summit is steeper and often requires ropes for support.

Groups of 10 are assigned a guide—usually from the local Kani tribe, who possess deep knowledge of the area’s ecology and heritage. Recommended gear includes: trekking boots, quick-dry and warm clothes, insect repellent, sunscreen, water, high-energy snacks, first-aid kit, and a blanket or mat. Flip-flops are useful at the campsite.

Echoes of Ancient Wisdom: Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Agasthyarkoodam is imbued with a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual narratives, deeply intertwined with the legend of Sage Agastya. This revered figure in Hindu mythology is considered one of the seven celestial sages (Saptarishis) and holds a prominent place in ancient Indian traditions. Legend has it that Sage Agastya journeyed to the south, bringing with him profound knowledge of various arts, including yoga and martial arts. He is also widely recognized as the father of Tamil literature and the progenitor of Siddha medicine.

The peak itself is believed to be his sacred abode and a place where he meditated, making it a significant pilgrimage site where devotees visit his shrine at the summit. This spiritual connection elevates Agasthyarkoodam beyond a natural attraction, suggesting that its beauty and medicinal richness are imbued with centuries of spiritual reverence and traditional wisdom.

The Kani tribe, an indigenous forest-dwelling community, are the living custodians of this heritage. They maintain a deep connection with the land and are followers of Sage Agastya’s teachings. For the Kani people, Agasthyarkoodam is a living entity and a revered deity. Their oral traditions include unique beliefs, rituals, and customs. Historically, they were the sole navigators of the peak and today serve as guides for trekkers, sharing their deep ecological knowledge.

Involving the Kani tribe in eco-tourism is a model of responsible tourism that promotes cultural preservation and social justice. Facing past challenges like displacement and marginalization, the tribe now benefits from collaborative conservation efforts. As guides and partners, they gain sustainable livelihoods and recognition of their traditional knowledge.

Guardians of the Green: Conservation and Sustainable Future

Agasthyarkoodam's designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2016 laid the foundation for a structured conservation strategy. The reserve is divided into core, buffer, and transition zones, allowing for habitat protection, education, research, responsible tourism, and sustainable economic activities for local communities.

The Kerala Forest Department plays a central role, focusing on biodiversity, forest protection, wildlife research, and eco-development. Initiatives like the Agasthyavanam Biological Park (est. 1997) aim to regenerate and reintroduce extinct endemic species, reflecting a forward-looking conservation approach.

A comprehensive study for safe trekking is underway, reflecting adaptive management. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has directed surveys to identify illegal encroachments, reinforcing legal oversight in conservation. However, the ecosystem faces challenges from pilgrim pressure, poaching, cattle grazing, and climate change. Species like Chenkurinji are affected by altered flowering cycles due to environmental shifts.

To build resilience, strategies like crop diversification are promoted among locals. Protecting the Neyyar River and other watershed sources further highlights Agasthyarkoodam’s critical environmental role.

Community Empowerment through Eco-Tourism

A hallmark of Kerala’s eco-tourism model is community-driven conservation. Programs like Participatory Forest Management (PFM), involving the Vana Samrakshna Samithi (VSS) and Eco-Development Committees (EDC), empower local and indigenous communities.

These programs generate employment, support women’s empowerment, and aid rural development. Notably, initiatives have eliminated fuelwood removal and drastically reduced cattle grazing. Through micro-credit schemes and social awareness, women-led efforts have also curbed poaching and forest fires.

The integration of conservation with community welfare demonstrates a holistic and adaptive model where ecological and human systems support each other. Agasthyarkoodam stands as a leading example of how sustainable eco-tourism can achieve both environmental preservation and socio-economic development.