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Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, is a city of many wonders, and Bonacaud (Bonakkad) is undoubtedly one of its hidden gems. Escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and experience a serene and scenic destination at Bonacaud (Bonakkad), a quaint village at the foothills of the Agasthya hills of the Western Ghats. This hidden gem in Thiruvananthapuram offers a multitude of experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Exploring Bonacaud: A Gateway to Nature and Adventure
Bonacaud is a tranquil destination nestled amidst lush greenery, featuring remnants of old tea plantations and abandoned factory structures that hold historical significance. Access to the area requires special permission for private vehicles, while KSRTC buses are permitted. This vast expanse of greenery was once a tea plantation established by the British more than a century ago. It features structures that offer glimpses of life in the past and serves as a starting point for trekking to Agasthyarkoodam Peak, one of Kerala’s tallest peaks.
This scenic locale is best experienced during rainy or foggy days, adding to its atmospheric charm. It’s an ideal spot for trekking enthusiasts, serving as the starting point for the Agasthyarkoodam trek, one of Kerala’s popular treks. From Bonacaud, one can trek to Agasthyarkoodam Peak, visit Bona Falls, explore Vazhvanthol Waterfalls, and witness history at Bonacaud Estate.
From the watchtower, you can admire the awe-inspiring vistas of the Peppara dam reservoir, mountain ranges, and Bonacaud estate. The abandoned tea factory serves as a reminder of the prosperous commercial activity that once dominated the area. Besides being a favored location for filming, Bonacaud is also a well-known destination for birdwatching. The region boasts a variety of avian species, including the grey wagtail, forest wagtail, greenish leaf warbler, and Asian brown flycatcher, which can be readily observed.
Plan Your Visit to Bonacaud
To reach Bonacaud, one can take a bus or hire a taxi from Thiruvananthapuram city. Thiruvananthapuram is home to both the closest railway station, located 51 kilometers away, and the airport which is located 54 kilometers away from Bonacaud. The best time to visit is between November and March, and there is no entry fee for most attractions.
Photo credit: Smrithul S
FAQs
Entry Fee for Bonacaud
There is no entry fee to visit Bonacaud, but visitors need to obtain permission from the forest department to enter the area with their vehicle.
Best Time to Visit Bonacaud
The ideal time to visit Bonacaud is from November to March.
Things to Do at Bonacaud
At Bonacaud, you can enjoy various activities such as trekking, camping, wildlife and bird watching, photography, and more. The area offers a diverse range of experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
How to Reach Bonacaud
To reach Bonacaud, you can take a bus or hire a taxi from Thiruvananthapuram city. Thiruvananthapuram is home to the nearest railway station, which is located 51 kilometers away, and the airport, which is situated 54 kilometers away from Bonacaud.
