Beyond Beaches: Discover Hidden Treks Near Kovalam That Will Take Your Breath Away
Kovalam is a calm seaside town in South India with attractive beaches and verdant sceneries. Visitors have always loved its beaches but these days, it also has a wide range of trekking opportunities for trekkers of all levels. There are varied landscapes here that provide the finest destinations for hiking such as coastal paths, gently rolling hills and thick forests among others. Herein we delve into some of the best trekking spots around or inside Kovalam.
1. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located approximately 30 kilometers from Kovalam and heaven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The sanctuary covers an area of more than 128 square kilometers and houses diverse species of flora and fauna. Trekking here allows one to discover its thick forests, catch wildlife sights and enjoy the calmness of nature.
Amongst many treks within the sanctuary, Agasthyakoodam trek is very famous. This trail leads up to Agasthyakoodam peak which is Kerala’s second highest peak at about 1,868 meters above sea level. Though this trek requires stamina and prior permission from forest department yet once you reach at the summit, you will find that all exertions were well rewarded- it offers panoramic vistas over surrounding areas ranging from different plant types to waterfalls as well as probably wild elephants, tigers or numerous varieties of bird species.
2.Ponmudi Hill Station
Ponmudi Hill Station lies around 60 kilometers distant from Kovalam making it another excellent choice for your hike trip around there. Famous for its lush green slopes covered in mist Ponmudi provides a reprieve from the heat by the coast in Kovalam with its scenic beauty along with cool atmosphere that rejuvenates one’s spirit on tour. It stands at a height of roughly 1100 meters and has a number of narrow winding lanes that are perfect for trekking.
The trek to the Golden Valley near Ponmudi is particularly popular. It takes you through dense tea estates, tropical forests and small streams, ending in Golden Valley where one can relax by the river and enjoy serene surroundings. Another great trek in this vicinity is to Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary which enables trekkers to explore various ecological corridors and wildlife habitats.
3. Karamana River Trek
Karamana River trek is a wonderful choice for those who prefer gentle walks with no difficulties. Karamana River cuts across the heart of Kovalam offering a different view of its beauty as one treks along its banks. This walk requires only moderate effort hence it is suitable for beginners who may want to go out with their families or friends who are not used to hiking.
You will pass through beautiful villages, lush paddy fields and coconut groves lining the river bank during this hike. Another attraction of this trail is that it gives tourists an opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their traditional way of life. The scenic beauty of the river combined with the soothing sound of water flowing makes this hike a calming experience.
4. Veli Tourist Village
Located at a distance of around 18 kilometers from Kovalam, Veli Tourist Village is where Veli Lake meets Arabian Sea making it look like paradise on earth.Travelers love coming here due to beautiful scenery in calm surroundings making it ideal for picnics or just walking around as well. Some well-maintained trails available here are accessible by all levels including beginners
Located in Veli, one of the thrilling tourist attraction is a walking bridge that floats providing stunning sights of the lake and its environs. Here, you can take an adventure around the lake as well as over nearby hills. This path has varying slopes and flatter sections therefore making it suitable for almost all hikers. You will have a chance to see different bird species, beautiful vegetation, and peaceful waters of this lake along the way.
5. Kovalam Beach Trek
For a unique trekking experience, consider exploring the coastal trails around Kovalam Beach. While typically known for its pure sandy beaches and lively atmosphere, there are many great opportunities for hiking on the cliffs and paths located near it. The walk along the beach line offers an amazing view of Arabian Sea as well as secluded bays and cliffy.
A popular route is from Lighthouse Beach to Samudra Beach which can be trekked along a small cliff offering panoramic views across ocean and coastline. It’s quite simple which normally takes about two hours hence suitable for leisurely afternoon hike through it’s lush setting of different points where to take some snapshots with magnificent sceneries.
6. Meenmutty Waterfalls Trek
The Meenmutty Waterfalls is a breathtaking natural paradise situated at approximately 45 kilometers away from Kovalam accessible via somewhat challenging trekking trail. One has to pass through dense woods, jump over tiny rivers or climb rocks when moving towards waterfalls during this journey . The ultimate part encompasses going down steeply to base of falls where water cascades below shining from about three hundred meters high above land level.
This trip lets you encounter rawness that comes with having to negotiate mountains within Western Ghats but only goes up until Meenmutty Waterfalls in which nature lovers also get attracted by their splashes against backdrop created by foliage drapery producing tranquil yet refreshing surroundings.
Conclusion
The trekking experience in Kovalam are varied and cater for all levels of walking skills through its diverse landscapes. Every path from mountainous challenges to gentle streams will bring you close to this enchanting place’s rich biodiversity as well as lovely sceneries. Whether you are an experienced trekker looking for new adventures or a casual stroller just going for a nature walk, there is something for everyone at Kovalam. So, put on your trekking gear and explore the undisclosed treasures of this charming coastal town.
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