
Bonacaud Bonaccord Tea Estate
An offbeat escape into nature's embrace, featuring abandoned colonial tea estates, serene waterfalls, and adventurous forest trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Lush greenery & clear skies

Bonacaud Bonaccord Tea Estate
Best Time
Lush greenery & clear skies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An offbeat escape into nature's embrace, featuring abandoned colonial tea estates, serene waterfalls, and adventurous forest trails.
"A hidden gem with stunning nature and a touch of eerie colonial charm."

🚗 Private Vehicle Entry
Get prior permission at Kanithadam Checkpost for private vehicles. KSRTC buses are an easier alternative.
🎒 Pack Essentials
Carry water, snacks, and first-aid. Limited facilities are available. Be prepared for an offbeat journey.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abandoned Tea Plantations
Bonacaud Estate
Explore remnants of colonial bungalows, old factories, and churches amidst lush greenery. A step back in time.
Cascading Waterfalls
On the way to Vazhvanthol
Discover serene waterfalls and a river, perfect for a refreshing dip and picturesque views.
Dense Evergreen Forests
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Trek through thick woods and grassy plains, experiencing the raw beauty of nature.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Permissions & Access
Offbeat Adventure Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
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How to go to Vazhavanthol?
🚗 Private Vehicle Entry
Get prior permission at Kanithadam Checkpost for private vehicles. KSRTC buses are an easier alternative.
🎒 Pack Essentials
Carry water, snacks, and first-aid. Limited facilities are available. Be prepared for an offbeat journey.
Agastyarkoodam Trek on 26th Jan 2025- Need a Buddy and Transportation Advice
Which part of TVM has the best stretch of road?
👟 Trekking Gear
Wear comfortable shoes for trekking through forests and uneven terrain.
📸 Capture the Charm
The abandoned structures and natural beauty offer unique photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Private Vehicle Entry
Get prior permission at Kanithadam Checkpost for private vehicles. KSRTC buses are an easier alternative.
🎒 Pack Essentials
Carry water, snacks, and first-aid. Limited facilities are available. Be prepared for an offbeat journey.
👟 Trekking Gear
Wear comfortable shoes for trekking through forests and uneven terrain.
📸 Capture the Charm
The abandoned structures and natural beauty offer unique photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bonacaud is praised for its stunning natural beauty, lush green landscapes, and serene waterfalls, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors appreciate the unique charm of its abandoned colonial tea plantations and the adventurous journey through the forest. However, the limited facilities and the need for prior permission for private vehicles are noted drawbacks.
"Bonacaud is like, wow. The nature here is super green and fresh. It's a nice escape from the city and you feel so calm. The waterfalls and the old tea plantations are really cool to see. It's a great place if you like to trek and just be in nature. The whole vibe is very peaceful and a little bit wild."
AYISHA S
"A hidden and offbeat destination about 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram, located deep inside the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. The last 15 km is through thick forest, which makes the journey adventurous. If you are travelling by private vehicle, you’ll need prior permission and clearance at the Kanithadam Checkpost, but KSRTC buses go directly without the need for permission.
The estate itself is an abandoned tea plantation, with only a few families still living there. You can still see the remains of the old tea factory, colonial bungalows, and churches, which give the place an old-world charm. From the bus stop, it’s another 2–3 km of off-road travel to reach the 25 GB Bungalow.
On the way, you’ll find a river and a small waterfall, which later extend down to Vazhvanthol. Deep inside the forest is the Bonacaud Picket Station, but this route is not recommended unless you are well-prepared, as wild animals are common in the area.
Overall, Bonacaud is quiet, scenic, and slightly eerie because of its abandoned history. Worth visiting if you love offbeat travel, but plan carefully and carry essentials."
ASHARU JAMAN
"A sacred place blessed by God. It is special in many ways, including beautiful mountains, dense forests, grassy plains, waterfalls, and rope climbing...."
THARUN PRAKAASH CARRIERS
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bonacaud is about 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram. You can take a KSRTC bus directly to Bonacaud, which is the easiest way as it bypasses the need for prior permission. If traveling by private vehicle, you'll need to obtain permission and clearance at the Kanithadam Checkpost for the last 15 km through the forest.
Yes, KSRTC buses go directly to Bonacaud without requiring prior permission, making it a convenient option for travelers relying on public transport.
The last 15 km of the journey to Bonacaud is through thick forest and can be considered off-road, making the travel adventurous.
If you are traveling by private vehicle, prior permission and clearance are required at the Kanithadam Checkpost. KSRTC buses do not require this permission.
Bonacaud is an offbeat destination located approximately 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific entry fees aren't widely mentioned, private vehicles require prior permission. The focus is more on the journey and the natural experience rather than a formal ticketed entry.
Bonacaud is an open natural area, and there are no fixed operating hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the scenery.
If you are traveling by private vehicle, a pass or prior permission from the Kanithadam Checkpost is generally required. KSRTC buses allow entry without this specific pass.
Bonacaud is located deep inside the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, indicating it's a protected natural area.
For private vehicles, the process involves obtaining clearance at the Kanithadam Checkpost. There's no online booking system mentioned for general entry.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the abandoned tea plantations with colonial bungalows and factories, beautiful waterfalls, dense forests, and grassy plains. The journey itself through the forest is also an experience.
Yes, Bonacaud is an excellent destination for trekking, offering trails through thick forests and scenic landscapes. Be prepared for off-road conditions.
Yes, there is a river and a small waterfall on the way to Vazhvanthol, which is a significant natural attraction in the area.
Bonacaud features remnants of the British era, including old tea factories, colonial bungalows, and churches, giving it an old-world charm and historical appeal.
While the abandoned areas add to the charm, caution is advised. The deep forest areas are known to have wild animals, so it's best to stick to marked paths and avoid venturing too deep alone.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
Bonacaud is an offbeat destination with limited facilities. It's advisable to carry your own food and water as dining options are scarce.
Given the limited facilities, there are no specific local cuisines to expect. Carrying packed meals is the most practical approach for visitors.
It's highly recommended to carry sufficient bottled water with you, as availability might be unreliable in this remote location.
The scenic natural beauty, including the river and waterfalls, makes it a good spot for a picnic. Just ensure you carry out all your waste.
For group trips, it's best to pre-arrange catering or pack meals for everyone, as on-site food services are not a prominent feature of Bonacaud.
📸 📸 Photography
The abandoned colonial bungalows, old tea factory ruins, cascading waterfalls, and the dense forest trails offer excellent photographic opportunities. The overall serene and slightly eerie atmosphere is also captivating.
Absolutely. Bonacaud's lush green tea estates, dense evergreen forests, and natural waterfalls make it a paradise for nature photographers.
Photography focusing on landscape, nature, abandoned architecture, and the unique offbeat vibe of the place is very popular among visitors.
No specific restrictions on photography are mentioned for general areas. However, always be respectful of any private property or local customs.
Early mornings often provide soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Golden hour in the evening can also be magical.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours and sticking to the more accessible areas around the estate. The peaceful atmosphere can be a great escape from city life. While the wild animals are a concern in deeper forests, the main estate areas are generally safe for exploration with children, provided you maintain vigilance.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Be prepared for limited amenities and embrace the rustic charm. It's a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. While generally safe, it's always wise for solo travelers to inform someone of their itinerary and stay aware of their surroundings, especially when exploring the more remote parts of the forest.
📸 Photographers & History Enthusiasts
Explore the remnants of the British era and imagine life in the past. The natural beauty, including waterfalls and dense forests, adds another layer for landscape and nature photography. Visiting during the softer light of early morning or late afternoon can enhance the photographic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey Through the Forest
For those opting for public transport, KSRTC buses offer a direct route, bypassing the need for individual vehicle permissions. This makes it a more accessible option for many travelers. The road conditions can be challenging, so be prepared for an adventurous ride that truly immerses you in the natural surroundings before you even reach the estate.
Exploring the Abandoned Estate
While the estate is largely deserted, a few families still reside there. The journey from the bus stop to the 25 GB Bungalow involves an additional 2-3 km of off-road travel. This exploration is part of the adventure, allowing you to soak in the peaceful and slightly eerie atmosphere that Bonacaud is known for.
Nature's Bounty: Waterfalls and Wildlife
It's important to note that Bonacaud is situated within the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, and wild animals are common in the deeper forest areas. While the main estate is generally safe, venturing into the Picket Station route is not recommended unless you are well-prepared and accompanied by experienced guides. Respecting the wildlife and maintaining a safe distance is crucial for a responsible visit.






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