Top 5 Tourist Places in and Around Ponmudi
Ponmudi isn’t just a hill station.
It’s the mood.
A quiet, golden-tinted escape where the mountains roll like waves, and the mist slips between them like a secret. If you’re planning a peaceful getaway, this small hill town – just a few hours from Thiruvananthapuram – offers some of the most breathtaking experiences in Kerala.
Here’s a fresh and exciting guide to the top 5 tourist spots in Ponmudi and the surrounding area, designed to help you explore the hills like a local, not just a tourist.
1. Ponmudi Hilltop – Where the Clouds Touch You First
If there’s one place that defines Ponmudi, it’s the Hilltop Viewpoint. But instead of saying it’s “beautiful,” let’s be honest – this place is dramatic.
Every minute, the weather rewrites itself:
- Mist rolls in
- The sun lights up the valley
- Then suddenly, a drizzle greets you
What makes this one of the best attractions in Ponmudi?
- 22 hairpin bends to reach the top
- Layers of green hills stretching as far as you can see
- A trekking-friendly landscape
- Perfect spot for sunrise seekers and photographers
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and catch the golden glow that gave Ponmudi its name.
2. Kallar River – The Calm Before the Hills
Before Ponmudi rises, Kallar welcomes you. This sparkling river cuts through rocks, forming small pools where you can dip your feet and instantly feel lighter.
Why it’s a top pick among tourist places in Ponmudi:
- Natural stone formations
- Crystal-clear shallow water
- A peaceful escape for families
- A nature spot perfect for slow travel lovers
The hanging bridge adds a touch of adventure and makes your photos look like they belong on a travel magazine cover.
3. Meenmutty Waterfalls – The Trek Everyone Loves
Not to be confused with Wayanad’s Meenmutty – this one is closer, quieter, and surrounded by raw forest beauty.
What makes this waterfall unforgettable?
- A scenic 3 km trek through thick greenery
- Bamboo bridges, streams, and forest trails
- A roaring waterfall that feels untouched
This is where you realise Ponmudi isn’t just a hill station – it’s an experience carved out of nature.
Ideal for: Adventure lovers, trekkers, and photographers.
4. Golden Valley – The Heart of Ponmudi
Golden Valley is the place locals secretly love, and tourists slowly discover.
Picture this:
Soft sunlight, gentle river flow, golden grasslands, and a landscape that feels like a postcard come alive.
Why you will love it:
- Perfect picnic spot
- Clean streams are ideal for a refreshing dip
- A stunning mix of open meadows and forests
- Great for families, couples, and solo travellers
It’s one of the most peaceful tourist places in Ponmudi, best enjoyed during the late afternoon when everything turns warm and magical.
5. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary – Where the Forest Tells Stories
A short drive from Ponmudi, Peppara connects you straight to Kerala’s wild side.
Expect:
- Herds of deer
- Elephants wandering deep inside the forest
- Rare bird species
- A scenic reservoir
- Thick evergreen forests
For those who love nature, Peppara is not just an attraction – it’s an emotion.
Tip: Book forest entry early and go with an authorised guide for the best experience.





Why Ponmudi Should Be Your Next Weekend Trip
Ponmudi is perfect for travelers who want:
- Peace instead of crowds
- Fresh air instead of city noise
- Nature instead of screens
- Curvy mountain drives
- Soft trekking trails
- Clean rivers and waterfalls
If your heart is craving a break, Ponmudi gives you one – beautifully.
Planning a Trip? Travel With GM Tours & Travels
From comfortable cab services to well-planned Ponmudi day trips, GM Tours & Travels ensures your journey is smooth, safe, and memorable.
Whether it’s:
- Hilltop sunrise trips
- Waterfall trekking
- Family sightseeing
- Couple getaways
- Customized Ponmudi packages
We’ll plan everything for you.