Take an overnight train or Volvo sleeper bus from Bengaluru to Thiruvananthapuram (TVC); overnight travel saves a day and arrives early for permit formalities. Trains typically take ~12–14 hours; buses similar depending on stops.
Arrive TVC station (morning). Store big luggage at station/hotel and prepare small trek pack. If arriving earlier, check into a day room or luggage storage to refresh.
Have a hearty South-Indian breakfast (dosa/idli/uttapam) to fuel the journey; both places open early (Indian Coffee House typically from ~07:00, Sree Gokulam from ~07:00) and are near the station.
Visit the Agasthyavanam/Forest Department office in Thiruvananthapuram to confirm the permit, hand in documents and get briefing from guides. NOTE: Trekking season is seasonal — typically opens in the winter window (January–February) and is closed during the monsoon; confirm exact dates online well before travel.
Buy packed lunches, water and any extra dry snacks in Chalai market or near the station; eat a light lunch in town (local vegetarian or seafood options). Markets and eateries usually open by 10:00–11:00.
Private taxi or government bus to Bonacaud (the gateway to the Agasthyakoodam trail). Road journey is typically 2.5–3.5 hours depending on vehicle and traffic; you will reach forest checkpost/Bonacaud by late afternoon.
Check into a homestay or forest rest house in Bonacaud, meet your registered guide and go through the trek plan and safety briefing. Forest offices/checkposts are normally operational during daylight hours; allow extra time if permit collection required.
Dinner prepared by your homestay or camp caterer, usually simple Kerala-style meals — carb-rich and warming for the trek day. Confirm dietary needs in advance with the host.
Have an early nutritious breakfast at your homestay (porridge/roti/eggs/tea) — kitchens normally serve early for trekkers; aim to start the trail by 07:00 after registration at the local forest checkpost.
Official sign-in, gear check and short orientation by forest staff and your guide. Forest checkposts are active during the permitted trekking season (confirm opening times with authorities).
Begin the trek along marked trails through shola forests and grasslands. Expect steady uphill sections, river crossings and rich biodiversity; this day is a long hike (typically 5–7 hours) to reach the Kottur camp or forest rest house.
Stop on the trail for a packed lunch your guide arranges — light, high-energy food (rice, chapati, fruit); carry water filtration/extra bottles as refill points are limited.
Reach the forest rest house or authorised camping spot at Kottur; settle in, hydrate and rest. Mobile connectivity is often limited here — use this time to conserve batteries and enjoy the surroundings.
Simple hot dinner prepared by the camp crew or local staff (dal, rice, vegetable curry). Eat early and get a good night's rest because the summit push starts pre-dawn.
Wake early (typically 03:00–04:00) for a light tea/snack and to leave with headlamps for the summit attempt — summit timing is arranged to reach for sunrise. Note: summit timings depend on season and permit rules.
Climb 3–4 hours for most groups to reach the Agasthyakoodam peak — the trail is steep in parts and requires steady pace. The landscape is spectacular at dawn with panoramic views; respect restricted zones and avoid straying from the marked trail.
Spend 20–40 minutes on the summit for photos and a quick rest; carry out all non-biodegradable waste. Many permits restrict time at the peak — follow guide instructions.
Finish the remaining descent back to Bonacaud (2–3 hours). Expect to reach the road/Bonacaud checkpost by late afternoon, then transfer to Thiruvananthapuram.
A comfortable dinner in TVM (Villa Maya for a treat or a trusted local restaurant for Kerala cuisine). Most restaurants open through the evening (many from 19:00).
Arrive back in Bengaluru (next day depending on service). Unpack, rest and recover from the trek; allow a buffer day if you have important commitments.