Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
A Trekking Into the Heart of the Western Ghats
Hidden deep within the Western Ghats, Agasthyarkoodam rises like a misty sentinel, drawing trekkers with its sacred aura, dense forests, and breathtaking peaks. Known also as Agasthyamalai, this trek blends adventure with spirituality, where every step along mossy trails and winding streams feels like entering a living, breathing world. For 2026, here’s the latest travel update covering trekking dates, online booking, fees, and essential requirements.
When to Trek — 2026 Agasthyarkoodam Dates
The official trekking season is limited to protect this fragile ecosystem:
Phase 1: 14 January 2026 – 31 January 2026
Phase 2: 01 February 2026 – 11 February 2026
Only a small number of trekkers are allowed daily, so advance planning is essential.
Trekking Fees and Requirements
The total Agasthyarkoodam trekking fee is ₹3,000, split as follows:
Trekking fee: ₹2,420
Ecosystem management special fee: ₹580
A medical fitness certificate is mandatory for all trekkers. It must be issued within 7 days of the trek date by a registered medical practitioner of modern medicine and presented at check-in. This ensures participants are fit for steep ascents, uneven trails, and long hours of walking. Trekkers without a valid certificate will not be allowed to join.
How to Book?
Online Only in 2026
All permits are handled fully online this year via:
www.forest.kerala.gov.in
onlineservice.kerala.gov.in/trekking
Booking opens at 11:00 AM on 9 January 2026 for the first phase and 11:00 AM on 23 January 2026 for the second phase. Slots fill rapidly, so early registration is essential. Offline booking is not available in 2026.
Who Can Trek
The trek is physically demanding. Minimum age: 14 years. Women are allowed to trek this year, but no special considerations are provided. Historically, in UPYP 2018, women were not allowed to participate. Guides are provided to ensure safety and ecological compliance.
Trek Experience — A Living Forest
The ascent immerses trekkers in the forest’s quiet beauty. Birds flit through dense canopies, medicinal herbs scent the air, and streams trace winding paths through moss-covered rocks. Agasthyarkoodam trekking 2026 is as much about experiencing nature’s serenity as it is about reaching the summit.
Why This Trek Leaves a Mark
Even after descending, the forest lingers in memory. Agasthyarkoodam offers more than a peak; it is a journey of reflection, endurance, and connection with nature. The 2026 season continues to be a chance to witness this sacred wilderness while respecting its fragile beauty.
