Situated 30km east of Thiruvananthapuram, at the foot of the Western ghats, this popular picnic spot has a lake and a picturesque dam site. Established in 1958, the sanctuary covers an area of 123 sq. km. It occupies the basin of the rivers Neyyar, Mullayar and Kallar. A watch tower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer park are the main attractions of this sanctuary. Dominated by the peak of Agasthyakoodam hill, 1,890 metres high, the Neyyar sanctuary occupies a beautiful wooded and hilly landscape. Wild life includes gaur, sloth bear, Nilgiri Tahr, jungle cat and Nilgiri langur but most commonly seen animals are wild elephants and sambar deer. Trekking and Boating facilities are available at the reservoir. 
A part of the Neyyar Wildlife sanctuary, Neyyar Dam supports a large population of crocodiles and otters. The gardens in the dam area is decorated with larger than life statues. Contact Address
Assistant wildlife Warden,
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary,
Neyyar Dam
Thiruvananthapuram
Ph: 0471-2272182.
Kombaikani and Meenmutti Waterfalls (45 km)
45km from the city, these two splendid waterfalls on the upper reaches of the Neyyar Reservoir area is a favorite location for trekkers and birdwatchers. One can reach Meenmutti waterfalls only after a 2-km trek through the dense forest and a further 2 kms, to the Kombaikani waterfalls. Meenmutti Waterfalls cascades in three tiers, from a height of 500 metres. Trekking facilities are available from the Kallar Vana Samrakshana Samithi (Kallar Forest Protection Group) at Kallar. 
Ponmudi (The Golden Peak) (65km)
Ponmudi is the nearest hill station to Thiruvananthapuram. Located 915metres above sea level in the Western Ghats, it is an idyllic hill resort with narrow, winding path ways and cool, green wooded environments. A panoramic view of mountain ranges, hills, valleys, small rivulets, salubrious climate and the scope of hiking in high trails make the visit to Ponmudi an exhilarating experience.
The hill station also serves as a good base for trekking, hiking and bird watching. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Golden Valley peak, a charming Deer Park and Orchids adds more attraction to this place.
