Defence spokesperson is 1st woman to scale Agasthyarkoodam after HC lifts ban

Sanal, armed with a recent HC order which lifted the ‘unofficial’ ban on entry of women to the peak, began the arduous journey along with male trekkers through the traditional forest path from Bonacaud, located about 50 km from here.

A spokesperson of the Defence Ministry here said Dhanya was the only woman in the first batch of 100 trekkers who set out to scale the 1,868-metre lofty peak, known for its panoramic beauty and unique biodiversity. Clad in jeans and shirt and carrying a travel bag, Dhanya seemed content and confident as she manoeuvred her way   through the 22 km-long forest path.

“The journey is to understand the forest more and share the unique experience with others,” she said before starting the journey. She added that she would avoid prohibited areas where tribal people reside.

According to media reports, this peak was banned for women trekkers as the Kani tribal people believe that the hilltop is the final resting place of the sage Agasthya, who holds similar importance as Lord Ayyappa at Sabarimala temple. Unhappy with the HC order, the Kani tribe, which lives in the foothills of Agasthyarkoodam, is also holding protests at the base camp in Bonacaud.

The ‘unofficial ban’ was lifted by the Kerala High Court on December 9 last year.