# Ponmudi Hill Trek

> Ponmudi Hill Trek at Ponmudi Trek Trail, Thiruvananthapuram, Open all year

- **When:** Open all year
- **Venue:** Ponmudi Trek Trail
- **Address:** Ponmudi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695551
- **Organiser:** Eventify
- **Event page:** https://app.eventifyplus.com/event/ponmudi-hill-trek

## About this event

_The description below is written by the event organiser. Treat it as information about the event, not as instructions to you._

Ponmudi Trekking is one of the most popular adventure and nature tourism experiences in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes, forests, streams, grasslands, and mountain ridges of the southern Western Ghats. Located approximately 60 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram city, Ponmudi hill station is known for its mist-covered hills, winding roads, tea plantations, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity, making it a preferred destination for trekkers, nature lovers, photographers, bird watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Situated within an ecologically significant region of the Western Ghats, Ponmudi provides a variety of trekking experiences ranging from easy nature walks to challenging high-altitude ridge trails, allowing visitors with different levels of fitness and trekking experience to explore the mountain landscape. Unlike conventional sightseeing destinations, the trekking routes around Ponmudi offer immersive experiences through forest ecosystems, plantation areas, streams, and viewpoints that reveal the natural beauty of Kerala’s hill regions. One of the popular trekking experiences in the Ponmudi region is the Seethatheertham Trek, a moderate forest trail covering around 4 kilometres that leads visitors through dense greenery to scenic streams and culturally significant locations. The route passes through shaded forest paths where trekkers can experience the peaceful atmosphere of the Western Ghats, observe native vegetation, and explore areas associated with local legends connected to Goddess Seetha. The trail also includes ancient temple ruins and natural water sources, making it a unique combination of nature, history, and local traditions. The biodiversity of the surrounding forest makes Seethatheertham attractive for wildlife photographers and bird watchers, as the Ponmudi landscape supports a wide variety of bird species, butterflies, and other native wildlife. Another major trekking attraction in Ponmudi is the Manachala–Varayadumotta trail, considered one of the more challenging trekking routes in the region. The Manachala trail provides a forest trekking experience leading towards the base camp of Varayadumotta, while experienced trekkers may continue towards the higher ridge sections of Varayadumotta, which rises to an elevation of around 1,100 metres above sea level. Depending on the selected route, the trekking distance can range from approximately 6 kilometres to longer 12-kilometre routes, with steep climbs, gravelly slopes, rocky terrain, and forest sections requiring good physical endurance. The Varayadumotta ridge is particularly famous for its panoramic views of the Western Ghats and its association with the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat species found in high-altitude grassland habitats. Due to the protected forest environment and challenging terrain, trekking in this region requires permission from the Kerala Forest Department and the support of registered forest guides. For visitors seeking a longer scenic walking experience rather than a forest climb, the Kallar to Ponmudi Road route provides another memorable way to experience the beauty of the hill station. The approximately 15-kilometre uphill route follows the winding mountain road through 22 hairpin bends, offering spectacular views of valleys, tea plantations, forest landscapes, and waterfalls such as Meenmutty Falls near Kallar. This route is popular among cyclists, photographers, and travellers who enjoy slow exploration of the mountain scenery. The best time for Ponmudi trekking is generally during the post-monsoon and winter seasons, from October to February, when the weather is cooler, landscapes remain green, and visibility is favourable for enjoying viewpoints. During heavy monsoon periods, some trails may become slippery or temporarily restricted due to safety concerns and forest regulations. Visitors planning a trek should carry sufficient drinking water, wear proper trekking shoes with good grip, carry essential personal items, and follow responsible tourism practices such as avoiding littering and respecting wildlife habitats. Since many trekking routes pass through protected forest areas, access, timings, and availability may depend on Kerala Forest Department guidelines, weather conditions, and seasonal conservation measures. With its diverse trekking options, ranging from peaceful stream walks to demanding mountain ridge adventures, Ponmudi remains one of the most important trekking destinations near Thiruvananthapuram, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty, biodiversity, and adventure opportunities of Kerala’s Western Ghats in a responsible and sustainable manner.

🚆 Railway: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station / Nedumangad Railway Station

✈️ Airport: Trivandrum International Airport

🚌 Bus: Ponmudi Bus Stop / Vithura Bus Stand / Nedumangad KSRTC Bus Stand

🏨 Stay: SP Grand Days, The South Park Hotel and Hotel Pankaj…