Varayadumotta
Thiruvananthapuram: Varayadumotta (also called Varayadumudi), a mountain ridge located nearly 40 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram city is an abode of Nilgiri Thars in the district as its name refers. The 18-kilometer one-side trek in Varayadumotta at a height of 1100 m above sea level makes it one of the toughest trekking destinations in Thiruvananthapuram.
The period from November to May has been considered the best time to trek here through the shades offered by the shola forests. By exploring the tourism potential of Varayadumotta, the tourism department of the state has set up trekking tourism facilities.
The trek begins from the forest ranges at Brimore in Thiruvananthapuram at 6 am. A maximum of five members will be allowed in a group and the fee for each group is Rs 3500. The trekkers will be led by guides from the forest department. They will reach the hilly regions after a long walk through the forests for nearly 5 kilometres.
As per the reports of the forest department, Varayadumotta is a home for over 400 Nilgiri Thar. Along with the tahrs, wild jumbos, bison, sambar deers, Malabar giant squirrels and several animals and birds can also be spotted during the trekking.
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Once reached on top of the mountain, most of the parts of the city could be seen from there. The return journey will be via the noted Mankayam ecotourism centre, where the Meenmutty waterfall is located The trekkers can have a refreshing bath at the falls giving a perfect end to the journey.
The vehicles will be inspected at the Mankayam check post, situated approximately 46 kilometres away from Thiruvananthapuram city. The entry fee has to be paid here and the trekkers will have to obtain prior permission from the forest department for trekking.
The visitors are not allowed to wear colourful dresses for trekking. Carrying spices, liquor or plastic bottles during the journey is also restricted.
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