Nelliyampathy

The Agasthya forest believed to have been the abode of Agasthya,a sage from mythology. Agasthyarkoodam, the spectacular peak in the Western Ghats rises to a majestic 1890 m in the form of a sharp cone. It is the second highest peak in Kerala. There are trekking trails through thick forests. A haven of rare herbs and medicinal plants, its slopes are a breathtaking sight when they transform into colourful glades of the 'Neelakurinji', a flower which blooms only once in twelve years.

Women are not allowed up the peak. The aborigins here believe that sage Agasthya, who lived here was a confirmed bachelor, hence they dislike the presence of strange women. The season from December 2'nd week to February is advocated for trekking for which a forest pass has to be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Forest Dept., P.T.P.Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram.

Attractions :Rare herbs, medicinal plants and brilliantly hued orchids. It is a bird watcher's paradise too.