Agasthyarkoodam located at an height of 1868 metres is the second highest peak in Kerala as well as jewel in the Western Ghats. It is located within the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve UNESCO World Heritage site it is an unbeatable landscape that is rich in natural diversity spiritual history and unspoiled nature beauty. for nature and adventure lovers the annual Agasthyarkoodam trekking season is considered to be one of the most anticipated dates in the Indian trek calendar.
The trek season for 2026 is official announced from The Kerala Forest Department offering an exclusive opportunity for those to experience this wilderness that is restricted. This article provides thorough review of the 2026 trekking season. The guide includes specific dates the step by step registration process medical requirements as well as comprehensive plan for this legendary trip.
Official Trekking Dates for 2026
It is reported that the Kerala Forest Department has scheduled the Agasthyarkoodam trek for 2026 which will run beginning January 14th 2026 through February 11th 2026. It is typically during the tradition of pilgrimage although it is presently operated as an eco tourism venture.
As opposed to many other treks across India which are accessible for long time Agasthyarkoodam is accessible for the duration of just about 29 days each year. The strict restriction is put implemented to safeguard the fragile ecosystem that is The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve which hosts more than 22000 medicinal plant species as well as rare orchids and numerous wildlife species including leopards elephants as well as the Nilgiri Tahrs.
Online Booking Schedule and Phases
The process of securing place for Agasthyarkoodam is notoriously challenging which is sometimes described as being “digital race.” The limit is 100 participants can be admitted to the forest every day. To handle the high demand this year Forest Department has introduced phased booking system. Forest Department has introduced program of booking in stages to 2026:
- Phase 1 Reservation: Reservations for trekking dates that fall between January 14 January 31 will be available in the first week of January 2026.
- Phase 2 Reservation: Reservations for trek dates from February 1 to the 11th of February will be accepted during the third week of the month of January 2026.
Tickets can only be purchased via on the website of the Kerala Forest Department website or the Service Plus portal. Due to the high demand for the trekking seats during the whole month generally go on sale within moments of the window for booking being opened.
Step by Step Guide to Official Booking
For successful booking of your pass You must prepare yourself with all the required information prior to when the website is launched. Use these steps to guide you through the process of booking your 2026 pass:
1. Registration on Service Plus Before you can apply for trekking pass you must register as user on the Service Plus website (serviceonline.gov.in/trekking). It is recommended that you finish this registration few days prior to the dates of your booking so that you can avoid delays due to technical problems.
2. Create Participant Information You are able to purchase 5 people in one ticket. To book each participant you have to fill in:
- Full Name (as per ID document)
- Age (Must not be less than 14 years old)
- Gender
- Type of Photo ID (Aadhar Voter ID Passport etc.)
- ID Proof Number
- Mobile Number
3. The booking process begins once the booking window is open you need to log into the portal and then select “Online Reservation for Agasthyarkoodam Trekking 2026.” Pick the preferred time and fill in the required information of all participants. After you have submitted the information then youll be directed to payment processor.
4. Fees and Payments For the season of 2026 The fee for trekking is determined at Rs3000 per person. This total includes the base trekking fee of Rs2420 and an eco tourism/management fee of Rs580. You can pay via net banking debit Card or Credit Card.
5. Printing the ticket and affidavit After successful the payment pass for entry is generated. Print this pass promptly. Alongside the pass the affidavit which is mandatory for all participants is provided. All participants must sign this affirmation stating their understanding of the dangers involved and their commitment to follow the forest rules.
Mandatory Documents and Entry Requirements
A ticket is just the beginning. To pass through Bonacaud Forest Picket Station Bonacaud Forest Picket Station you need to carry these papers:
- printed entry pass: Digital copies on phones are not generally used as proof of primary use.
- Original ID Photo The ID card you used to register online registration process must be shown to verify.
- Medical Fitness Certificate: This is the most important document. It should be provided by an Registered Medical Practitioner (Modern Medicine/MBBS) within seven calendar days prior to your trek date. The certification must prove that the hiker is fit enough physically to take on an intense 48 km trek on rough terrain.
- An Affidavit Signed by the Author: Every trekker has to sign the affidavit signed by the trekker when making reservation.
- Parental Consent Form: for those between 14 and 17years old the signature of an adult or legal guardian is requirement.
Physical Fitness and Health Precautions
Agasthyarkoodam isnt beginners walk. Its categorized as an intense high endurance trekking. It involves walk of 48 50 kilometers in three days. It is characterized by high inclines rock patches along with dense forest tracks.
Vertical Climbs and Vertigo The last section up to the summit is especially demanding. The trekkers have to navigate almost vertical rock walls employing ropes provided by the department of forest. This can be challenge to those who are afraid of the heights (vertigo).
Cardiac as well as Respiratory Health Due to the elevation as well as the physical strain that is required those who are prone to asthma heart disease or other respiratory conditions are advised to stay clear of taking part. Medical certificates are rigorously enforced to stop illnesses in the forests where medical evacuation can be very challenging.
The Trekking Itinerary: Three Day Journey
The Agasthyarkoodam trekking route is designed as three day trek that begins at the Bonacaud Forest Office situated approximately 60km away from Thiruvananthapuram.
Day 1. Bonacaud from Athirumala Base Camp The trekkers should report to the Bonacaud checkpoint between 7:15 am and 8:00 am. Following verification of documents as well as briefing from forest officers the trek starts at around 9 am. The initial day is walking for 16km across variety of terrains including semi evergreen forest and grasslands. There are several streams to cross such as one called the Karamana River. Your goal is to get to Athirumala Base Camp. Athirumala Base Camp by late the afternoon. The camp offers basic dormitory lodging and cafeteria run through the regional Eco Development Committee (EDC).
day 2 The Ascent the The Peak It is the most difficult day. It is the day that trekkers leave Athirumala at very early hour (around 6 am) to start the 8 km hike to the top. The path becomes steeper and passes by an area known as the “Pongalapara” rest point. The last climb up towards the top is one of the well known rope assisted climb. After some time on the top to take in breathtaking views of Peppara and Neyyar Wildlife sanctuaries hikers return into Athirumala Base Camp. Athirumala Base Camp for second nights accommodation.
Day 3 Return to Bonacaud The last day will involve trekking back 16 kms from Athirumala towards Bonacaud Forest Office. Bonacaud Forest Office. Many trekkers make it to the Bonacaud Forest Office in the early afternoon. From which they are able to take local transportation or KSRTC buses to Thiruvananthapuram.
Rules and Regulations in the Biosphere Reserve
The Kerala Forest Department maintains “Zero Tolerance” policy toward environmental infringements. Being an UNESCO heritage location the following guidelines must be strictly adhered to:
- Plastic Free Zone The carrying of disposable plastic bottles and food wrappers as well as bag bags is prohibited. If you are carrying reusable plastic objects (like for instance Tupperware container) then you could have to pay for security deposit through the post office and then get refund once youve shown the item when you return it.
- There is no Alcohol or Tobacco: Consumption of alcohol or tobacco along with using any alcohol related substances are prohibited. Bags are searched thoroughly upon entry.
- Elimination of Rituals Although the summit has an historical significance and is associated with religious beliefs to Sage Agastya The performance of “Poojas” or any religious ceremony that involves incense fire or offering is prohibited on the journey.
- Keep on the Trail: Straying from the marked trekking route is risky and is illegal. The forests are home to wild animals and the chance of being lost or even encountering wildlife is very high.
- Noise Control The trekkers must remain quiet to prevent disturbing the animals. The use of loud speakers or music is not permitted.
Women and the Agasthyarkoodam Trek
Over the years women have been prohibited from hiking to the Agasthyarkoodam summit because of local customs as well as claims of Kani tribe members. Kani tribe. But after historic Kerala High Court ruling in 2018these restrictions based on gender were loosened.
In the year 2019 the participation of women has been increasing at higher number. It is the Forest Department ensures safe setting for female trekkers by having female forest guards as well as separate facilities in Athirumala Base Camp. Athirumala Base Camp. There is no specific gender quotas but women are required to go through the same procedure for booking as male trekkers.
Essential Gear and Packing List
As youll traversing long distances and being in basic forest campsite your backpack must be light and contain the most essential items:
- Shoes: Sturdy trekking shoes with great grip are not negotiable. The rocks are slippery especially when there is light drizzle. Bring an extra pair of socks.
- clothing: Lightweight moisture wicking clothes are the most suitable. You should bring warm jacket and sweater as temperatures at Athirumala and peak temperatures can fall significantly in the evening and early in the morning.
- Leech Protection Forest paths are notoriously contaminated with leeches particularly in moist zones. Take the salt and tobacco powder or leech socks that are specially designed to safeguard yourself.
- Hydration Take refillable 1 liter bottle of water. You can fill it up with natural springs on your route. They are clean mineral rich and safe.
- Personal Hygiene Essential items for toiletries small towels and all medication for your personal needs. It is important to note that there arent bathrooms with luxury amenities at the base camp.
- Food: While the canteen in Athirumala serves the basics of food items (usually the rice and gruel and basic vegetables) Bring high energy snacks including nuts dates and glucose biscuits on the trek.
How to Reach the Starting Point
The hike begins at Bonacaud in the state of Kerala just 60km away from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram.
- by air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) is the closest airport. There you are able to get taxi from the airport to Bonacaud or get an auto.
- by Rail: Thiruvananthapuram Central is the nearest to major railway station.
- by Road: KSRTC operates handful of bus routes from to the Thiruvananthapuram Central Bus Station (Thampanoor) as well as Nedumangad towards Bonacaud. But bus schedules are not always consistent. lot of trekkers opt to rent the services of private car to make sure they get to the office before 7:00 am.
The Ecological Significance of Agasthyarkoodam
The Agasthyarkoodam trekking is an honor and carries responsibility for the planet. The summit is the point of origin for several rivers such as the Tamraparni as well as the Karamana. It is crucial transportation route for animals as well as the ultimate “hotspot” for evolution including plants that are not found anywhere elsewhere anywhere else on Earth.
The Forest Departments decision to restrict the number of people who visit and time of season is an essential conservation initiative. The trekkers are urged to adhere to this “Leave No Trace” principle and ensure that the only items they carry away are memories and photos that they cherish and all that they leave behind are footprints.
Final Thoughts for the 2026 Season
The 2026 Agasthyarkoodam adventure promises to be an unforgettable event for those fortunate enough to earn permit. This is an adventure that challenges your physical capabilities and calms your soul with peace and tranquility in the wilderness and humbles you by the beauty that is The Western Ghats. If you follow the guidelines of the government and preparing your body for challenge while respecting the sacredness of the forests you will be sure of rewarding and successful trip to one of the most beautiful and sacred mountain ranges.
