Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak in Kerala, at a height of 1890 m above sea level and is a part of the Sahyadri range of mountains. It is 60 km north east of Thiruvananthapuram. The mountain is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, as it is believed to be the abode of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara as well as of the sage Agastya, a disciple of Shiva.
The forests of Agasthyakoodam are rich in rare medicinal herbs and plant, and hued orchids. In 1992, an area covering around 23 sq km was established as Agasthya Vanam Biological park. The intention was to restore the degraded forests and to use it for educational purpose. The season from December to April is advocated for trekking and is a distance of 28 km to the top. It takes approximately two days and trekking is permitted only between December and April.
How to Reach
Nearest railway station : Thiruvananthapuram central.
Nearest airport : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
