Bonacaud
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Bonacaud Bonaccord Tea Estate

4.4
·970 reviews·Vithura, India

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Post-monsoon mornings

Lush greenery & clear skies

CrowdLow
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Bonacaud

Bonacaud Bonaccord Tea Estate

Best Time

Post-monsoon mornings

Lush greenery & clear skies

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.4
(970 reviews)

"A hidden gem with stunning nature and a touch of eerie colonial charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abandoned Tea Plantations

Abandoned Tea Plantations

Bonacaud Estate

Explore remnants of colonial bungalows, old factories, and churches amidst lush greenery. A step back in time.

Cascading Waterfalls

Cascading Waterfalls

On the way to Vazhvanthol

Discover serene waterfalls and a river, perfect for a refreshing dip and picturesque views.

Dense Evergreen Forests

Dense Evergreen Forests

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Trek through thick woods and grassy plains, experiencing the raw beauty of nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Permissions & Access

Private vehicles need prior permission and clearance at Kanithadam Checkpost. KSRTC buses bypass this, offering direct access. Plan your transport to avoid entry hassles.

Offbeat Adventure Awaits

This hidden gem offers a wild, adventurous escape. The last 15km through thick forest is a journey in itself. Pack essentials and be prepared for an offbeat experience.

Best Times

When
Post-monsoon mornings
Why
Lush greenery & clear skies
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

How to go to Vazhavanthol?

🚗 Private Vehicle Entry

Get prior permission at Kanithadam Checkpost for private vehicles. KSRTC buses are an easier alternative. Reddit

🎒 Pack Essentials

Carry water, snacks, and first-aid. Limited facilities are available. Be prepared for an offbeat journey. Reddit

reddit.com

Agastyarkoodam Trek on 26th Jan 2025- Need a Buddy and Transportation Advice

reddit.com

Which part of TVM has the best stretch of road?

👟 Trekking Gear

Wear comfortable shoes for trekking through forests and uneven terrain. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The abandoned structures and natural beauty offer unique photo opportunities. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Private Vehicle Entry

Get prior permission at Kanithadam Checkpost for private vehicles. KSRTC buses are an easier alternative. Reddit

🎒 Pack Essentials

Carry water, snacks, and first-aid. Limited facilities are available. Be prepared for an offbeat journey. Reddit

👟 Trekking Gear

Wear comfortable shoes for trekking through forests and uneven terrain. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The abandoned structures and natural beauty offer unique photo opportunities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(970 reviews)

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

Stunning natural beauty
Abandoned tea plantations
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Permission needed for private vehicles

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. Reddit

Yes, KSRTC buses go directly to Bonacaud without requiring prior permission, making it a convenient option for travelers relying on public transport. Reddit

The last 15 km of the journey to Bonacaud is through thick forest and can be considered off-road, making the travel adventurous. Reddit

If you are traveling by private vehicle, prior permission and clearance are required at the Kanithadam Checkpost. KSRTC buses do not require this permission. Reddit

Bonacaud is an offbeat destination located approximately 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Bonacaud is located deep inside the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, indicating it's a protected natural area. Reddit

For private vehicles, the process involves obtaining clearance at the Kanithadam Checkpost. There's no online booking system mentioned for general entry. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

Yes, Bonacaud is an excellent destination for trekking, offering trails through thick forests and scenic landscapes. Be prepared for off-road conditions. Reddit

Yes, there is a river and a small waterfall on the way to Vazhvanthol, which is a significant natural attraction in the area. Reddit

Bonacaud features remnants of the British era, including old tea factories, colonial bungalows, and churches, giving it an old-world charm and historical appeal. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍎 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. Reddit

Given the limited facilities, there are no specific local cuisines to expect. Carrying packed meals is the most practical approach for visitors. Reddit

It's highly recommended to carry sufficient bottled water with you, as availability might be unreliable in this remote location. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Absolutely. Bonacaud's lush green tea estates, dense evergreen forests, and natural waterfalls make it a paradise for nature photographers. Reddit

Photography focusing on landscape, nature, abandoned architecture, and the unique offbeat vibe of the place is very popular among visitors. Reddit

No specific restrictions on photography are mentioned for general areas. However, always be respectful of any private property or local customs. Reddit

Early mornings often provide soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Golden hour in the evening can also be magical. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bonacaud offers a unique blend of nature and history that can be engaging for families. The trekking opportunities through the forest and the sight of waterfalls can be exciting for children. However, the journey involves rough roads, and the abandoned structures require supervision. It's best suited for families with older children who can appreciate the offbeat nature and are comfortable with a bit of adventure. Ensure you pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

Bonacaud is an ideal destination for solo travelers and backpackers looking for an offbeat and authentic experience. The journey through the forest and the exploration of the abandoned estate offer a sense of discovery. Opting for the KSRTC bus is a budget-friendly and convenient way to reach the location without needing private vehicle permissions. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 Photographers & History Enthusiasts

Bonacaud is a photographer's and history enthusiast's dream. The abandoned colonial bungalows, old tea factory ruins, and the atmospheric landscape provide endless opportunities for capturing unique shots. The blend of decaying architecture and lush nature creates a compelling visual narrative. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey Through the Forest

The final 15 kilometers to Bonacaud are an adventure in themselves, winding through thick forest. This part of the journey is often described as thrilling and sets the tone for the offbeat experience. If you're traveling by private vehicle, remember that prior permission and clearance are mandatory at the Kanithadam Checkpost before you can proceed. This ensures a smoother entry and adherence to wildlife sanctuary regulations. Reddit

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. Reddit

Exploring the Abandoned Estate

Bonacaud is characterized by its abandoned tea plantation, a relic of its colonial past. Visitors can explore the remnants of old tea factories, charming colonial bungalows, and even churches, which lend the place a unique, old-world charm. These structures, set against the backdrop of lush greenery, offer a glimpse into a bygone era and are a significant draw for history buffs and photographers alike. Reddit

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. Reddit

Nature's Bounty: Waterfalls and Wildlife

The natural beauty of Bonacaud is undeniable, with dense evergreen forests, rolling grassy plains, and cascading streams. On the way to Vazhvanthol, you'll encounter a river and a small, picturesque waterfall, perfect for a refreshing break and some stunning photos. This natural setting makes Bonacaud a haven for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. Reddit

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. Reddit

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