The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is located in the southern part of the Western Ghats in India. The reserve was established in 2001 and was recognised by UNESCO  in 2016. The reserve is spread in an area of 3,500.36 sq. km which straddles across the two Indian states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It has within its boundaries the Neyyar, Peppara and the Shendurney Sanctuaries and the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.

Being part of the South Western Ghats ecosystem, the reserve has a hilly terrain, with the highest peak rising to a height of 1,868 m above sea level. The area has tropical wet evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, montane rain forests and Shola forests, typical of the Western Ghats. The forests bear a highly diverse and rich plant life, which is composed of 2,254 species of higher plants, including about 400 that are endemic. Nearly 2,000 varieties of medicinal plants grow here, of which at least 50 are rare and endangered. These forests are particularly known for the cultivation of spices such as cardamom, nutmeg, and pepper.

The reserve is home to several birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fishes, many of which are endemic. The wildlife sanctuaries which are a part of this reserve protect a variety of animals such as the Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant and Nilgiri Tahr.

This area is home to the Kani tribe, which has approximately 30,000 members. Being one of the oldest surviving ancient tribes in the world, the Kanis, a traditionally nomadic community, now lead a primarily settled life in the forests. Their traditional occupation includes basket and mat weaving, and cane work. They also collect minor forest produce such as honey and beeswax, cultivate edible plants such as tapioca, banana, millets and cash crops such as pepper, coconut, rubber, areca nut, and cashew nut. Also, about 700 non-tribal inhabitants live on tea estates located in the core area. 

The area also has a connection with India’s cultural life. It finds a mention in the epic, Ramayana. A pilgrimage to the Agastyakoodam peak, lying inside the Reserve, is undertaken by many as it is believed that sage Agastya had offered penance here. The pilgrimage involves trekking through the reserve, which is allowed only between January and March, for which the Forest Department issues only 100 passes per day. 

The conservation needs of this Reserve run parallel with the socio-economic development and preservation of the culture of its human population. For this, a greater role of the local governments has been envisaged. The Panchayats are involved in schemes of land improvement, soil conservation, and social forestry. Ecotourism is being promoted as an alternative source of income to ease off the pressure on forests. The Forest Department has imposed a ban on the lighting of fires for cooking and other purposes inside the reserve. The consumption of liquor has also been prohibited to prevent mischief and vandalism.