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ECO TOURISM IN KERALA

                    

      
Eco Tourism Packages    

ECO TOURISM: WHAT IS IT ?

Ecotourism primarily means marketing the serene natural habitats as tourism 'product' with an inherent element of nature education. It is aimed at making the visitor aware of the protective, productive and regulatory functions of the forests.

"It is a purposeful travel to natural areas to understand the cultural and natural history of environment, taking care not to alter the integrity of the ecosystem, while producing economic opportunities that make conservation of natural resources beneficial to local people.
Within international tourism, it is a fast growing segment ".

For ecotourism to be truly a form of environmentally conscious tourism and not just pursuit of remote pristine locations, it has to be sustainable with the continuous capacity to:
- safeguard natural environment, the very basis of tourist attraction.
- provide and maintain the quality of tourist experience and satisfaction, and
- benefit the local people in the area.

Any number of definitions are available for ecotourism, each focusing on a different aspect. An analysis of the developments in this sphere over a period of past one and a half decade helps to discern certain important parameters emerged in common to all eco tourism developmental initiatives. This understanding leads to conceptualise ecotourism as:

Any tourism programme that is:
• nature based ,
• ecologically sustainable,
• where education and interpretation are major components and
• where local people are benefited,
can be called ecotourism.

If it does not satisfy any one of these components then it cannot be called a real ecotourism venture.

WHY WE NEED IT ?

Tourism, when managed in the absence of well thought-out plans and programmes, may spell doom to natural habitats. Apart from this, the cultural shock imparted the tourism on the local communities may put their very survival in danger. Though awareness campaigns and stipulation of certain standards among stakeholders such as tour operators and travel agents may help in reducing this impact, it cannot be completely averted. This is because the primary motives of all commercial endeavours are more profit and more business. It is in this context that ecotourism is considered as a solution for tourism related environmental problems.

The Western Ghats of Kerala with its tropical forest ecosystem provides a natural advantage for the development of this segment of tourism.In order to facilitate the fast growth of tourism sector in Kerala, we have to diversify our tourism products. The Western Ghats region of Kerala can be projected as an Ecotourism Zone in true sense. Eco tourism projects the concept of sustainability in tourism. That is, the needs of today’s visitor should not be met at the expense of future generations. Such an ecotourism project based on internationally accepted principles, will help infuse the sustainability concept to other tourism ventures outside the realm of ecotourism.

PRESENT SCENARIO

The major tourism destinations are broadly classified into beaches, backwaters, hill stations, wild life sanctuaries and culture including festivals. The major thrust is to upgrade the quality of these products and to provide basic infrastructural facilities.

At present there is no institutionalised system/channel through which public can see the forest and have a quality and lasting experience. The quick visit to sanctuary, as being practiced now cannot be called ecotourism. It is only mass tourism into a sanctuary. What is needed is a more focused strategy which is supply driven and small group oriented.

Tourism, which is an ecologically sensitive area, needs close and careful monitoring. Tourism in these nature based areas should be ecologically sustainable. There should also be provision for learning process for a visitor. The economic benefit of such an activity should accrue to local population to ensure sustainability.

Strength

1. Kerala has 12 Wild life Sanctuaries and 2 National parks.
2. It is rich in biological diversity.
3. The water bodies formed within the forest areas due to construction of dams/hydel projects provide scope for recreational facilities.
4. Scope for mountaineering, trekking., bird watching etc.
5. Locational advantages due to well developed road network up to the forest area.
6. Availability of trained forest staff in wildlife, ecology etc.
7. Well-informed public and conservation groups who are always watchful of the adverse impacts of eco tourism initiatives.

Eco tourism Centers in Kerala

AGASTHYAVANAM BIOLOGICAL PARK (ABP)

The ABP, extending over an area of 23 Sq. Km, Is a center of ex-situ and in-situ conservation efforts. The park is named after the Agasthyarkoodam, the second highest peak in the state.
• Attractions
The peak looms over the park in regal wist-wrapped splendour. A major center for conservation and nature education, ABP offers recreational facilities such as trekking in the wilderness, videography and bird watching.
• How to reach:
Head quarters: Kottur. 35 KM from the Trivandrum city, 45 Kms from the International Airport, Trivandrum. Trivandrum Central Railway station and the state owned interstate, interdistrict, and local bus station are lying closely on the two sides of the National Highway NH. 47 .Kottur is accessible by road from Triandrum via Pangode, kattakada, Paruthipally (35 Km.)

ARIPPA

Basically, a forest officers training center, Arippa offers excellent opportunities for trekking bird watching, photography, and living with nature in the evergreen and semi evergreen forests
• How to reach:
From Trivandrum town, 60 km. From the international airport, Trivandrum and the Railway Station, Trivandrum, the place is accessible via Nedumangad – palode – Madathara

KULATHUPUZHA , ARYANKAVU, ACHENCOIL – PALARUVI WATER FALLS.

Area is known for marvelous evergreen forests. kulathupuzha is also famous for the temple of Lord Ayyappa. In kulathupuzha the fresh water swamps, harbouring fishes, are ideal bathing ghats. The temple at Kulathupuzha, Aryankavu, and Achencoil, attracts many Ayyappa devotees. The perennial waterfall at Palaruvi, near Aryankavu attracts a lot of visitors.
• How to reach:
From Trivandrum by road via palode. Kulathupuzha-60 km
Aryankavu - 75 Km.
Palaravi - 73 km.
Achencoil - 104 km.

KONNI

A major center of forest activities in Pathanamthitta District, Konni elephant Kraal used for training wild elephants is the major attraction. Pampa, on way to Sabarimala temple, Kochu pampa, are also tourist destination endowed with the sylvan beauty.
• How to reach:
From Pathanamthitta town – 5 Kms (road)

PAMBA

A major center of forest activities in Pathanamthitta District, Konni elephant Kraal used for training wild elephants is the major attraction. Pampa, on way to Sabarimala temple, Kochu pampa, are also tourist destination endowed with the sylvan beauty.
• How to reach:
From Pathanamthitta town – 5 Kms (road)

KUMARAKOM

A backwater resort with rich bird population in the mangrove forest.
Backwater cruise in the houseboat is an attraction. Boating and bird watching are the attractions for visitors.
• How to reach:
15 Km from Kottayam town and railway station.

MANGALAVANAM

A green belt located in the heart of Eranakulam city, adjoining the backwaters and the sea. Mangalavanam is a well known bird sanctuary. The area is a roosting place for many varieties of birds both resident and migratory.
• How to reach:
In the heart of Eranakulam city behind the Hon. High Court building.
• Nearest Rail head and Air port : Ernakulam(Cochin)

KODANAD

Kodanad, the head quarters of Malayattur forest division, is known for the ‘Elephant Kraal’ the mini zoo and Malayattur church. The sylvan set up in the locality attract visitors. Trekking to the Malayattur church, situated on the hilltop is novel experience for the visitors.
• How to reach:
By road from Eranakulam.

ATHIRAPPALLY

A popular picnic spot and water falls of the Sholayar Ranges of the Vazhachal Forest Division. The waterfalls in the Chalakkudy river attract a lot of visitors. Vazhachal forest areas are attraction of the place.
• How to reach:
63 kms from Trissur
Nearest rail head – Trissur
Near Air port-Kochi – 170 km

Anothor Eco tourism centers in Kerala:

• Purakkad
• Thenmala
• Peerumedu
• Kuttikanam
• Vazhachal
• Nelliyampathy
• Malampuzha
• Nilambur
• Tholpetti
• Peruvannamuzhy
• Kuruva Islands
• Thirunelli
• Kottiyoor

TRAVEL TIPS
DO'S AND DON’TS IN ECO TOURISM DESTINATIONS
1. Do not expect to see animals as a matter of routine. Be patient.
2. Silence and discipline pay. Control children
3. Small groups are ideal.
4. Early mornings and late afternoons are best suited to visiting forests
5. Do not travel alone, especially in Elephant Reserves.
6. Do not wear colorful clothes and perfumes
7. Carry drinking water, tea /coffee, snacks etc.
8. Seek the assistance of a forest guard while going into the forest
9. Do not disturb or tease animals.
10. Trekkers must use jungle boots for safety
11. Carry medicines for common ailments
12. Avoid smoking
13. Radios and tape-recorders are better be avoided
14. Do not litter around.
15. Respect animals and their habits.
16. Do not take away anything from the sanctuary
17. Carry a notebook, flashlight, roadmaps, compass.
18. Do not swim in unfamiliar waters
19. Be careful during boat rides. Don't do anything that can rock the boat .Don't bend to touch the water.
20. Travel light and do not carry any valuables except cameras and binoculars.

Thenmala Eco Tourism

Located about 72kms from Thiruvananthapuram, the State Capital of Kerala, God's Own Country, the southern most State of India. Thenmala is a small village at the foothills of Western Ghats and predominantly a forest area. The famous Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is the most important eco tourism resource of Thenmala Eco tourism. This Wildlife Sanctuary is of about 100 sq. km. and harbors large varieties of flora and fauna.

Thenmala : "Then + Mala" , i.e. in local parlance "Then" means honey and "Mala" means hillock i.e. it mean honey hills. The honey collected from Thenmala forest region is of good quality and of high medicinal value because of the unique floristic composition of the forests.

               General Information
(Thenmala Grama Panchayat: the local self Government)

Total population	24,212,
Altitude	Between 100-600 m above MSL
Climate	The hottest months are March to May and the coldest, December and January. The maximum temperature during daytime in the hottest month is about 39oC. The daily temperature varies from 17oC to 35oC.
Rainfall	Southwest Monsoon: May to August extends up to September Northeast Monsoon: late September, October and November Average rainfall 2600 - 3000 mm
Languages spoken	Malayalam, Tamil & English
Season	Throughout the year
Clothing	Tropical

CULTURE ZONE

This zone accommodates various activities, which favors Eco friendly General Tourism. Restaurant, Shop court, Amphitheatre etc help the tourists understand the Kerala cuisines, Kerala crafts and natural wealth and Kerala's Art, Culture etc. An open air Musical Dancing Fountain which is considered, as "Natures Dance" is another major attraction here.

Tourism Facilitation Center

Accommodates
Well-conceived information center explaining the wide range of Tourism products available at Thenmala.
Shop Courts - Run by Local Women Self Help Groups.
Toilet facilities
Well-informed staff to provide personal attention
Functions from 09.00 am to 7.30 pm on all days

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Musical Dancing Fountain

 

A synchronized rhythmic ballet of water, sound and light located in the natural surroundings. Such a natural ambience is very rare and hence provides a unique and authentic experience.

Eco Tourism Sector:

The forest areas that has entered into the promotion of eco tourism are:-

1. Thusharagiri: Thusharagiri waterfalls which literally means snow capped mountains , has the presence of three majestic waterfalls and is the ideal destination to unwind your spirits and spend a nostalgic holiday.It is at a distance of 55 kms from kozhikode.

2. Kalaman Para Maruthilavu Tourist Spot: A beautiful forest area .
Location- 50 kms away from Kozhikode City in the Kozhikode-Wynad National Highway at Chippilithodu.

3. Kakkad Eco Tourism Centre:
Location- 40 kms away from Kozhikode City in the Kozhikode-Wynad National Highway at Eangapuzha.
Attractions: Variety of birds, animals and butterflies, Medicinal plants, Rivers .Treking facility is an added attraction of this palce.

4. Kolamala Eco Tourism:
Location- 40 kms away from Kozhikode City in the Kozhikode-Wynad National Highway at Eangapuzha and travel 2 kms West to reach this centre .
Attractions: Variety of birds, animals and butterflies and Medicinal plants. Trucking facility to Kolamala, Koompan mala and Choyiyodu mala. Services of experienced guides are available.

The important rivers of the district are the following:

1. The Mahe river

The Mahe river, also called the Mayyazhippuzha, originates from the forests on the western slopes of the Wayanad hills. This river flows through the villages of Narippetta, Vanimel, Iyyancode, Bhekiyad, Iringanoor, Tripangathur, Peringalam, Edachery, Kacheri, Eramala, Kariyyad, Olavilam; Kunnamakkara, Azhiyoor and Mahe, before emptying into the Arabian Sea at the former French Settlement of Mahe, about 6 kms. South of Thalassery. The length of the river is about 54 kms. And it flows through an area of 394 sq.kms.

2. The Murad (Kuttiady) river

The Murad river, also known as the Kuttiady river, takes its origin from the Narikkotta ranges on the western slopes of the Wayanad hills, a part of Westerm Ghats. This river flows through Vadakara, Koyilandy and Kozhikode Taluks. It empties into the Arabian Sea at the historical Kottakkal fort, 7 kms. South of Vadakara. This river has a length of 74 kms. And along with its tributaries it lows through an area of 583 sq.kms.

The Onipuzha, the Thottilpalampuzha, the Kadiyangad puzha, the Vamathil puzha and the madappallippuzha are the major tribtaris of Murad river. It passes through oorakuzhi, Kuttiady, Tiruvallur, Muyipoth, Maniyur and Karuvancheri.

3. The Korapuzha

The Korapuzha river is formed by the confluence of two streams called Punnurpuzha and Agalapuzha, this river and it is main tributaries are tidal in their lower reaches. The Agalapuzha is more or less a backwater, while the Punnurpuzha originates from Arikkankunnu. The Agalapuzha forms a part of the important West Coast Inland Navigation System. There is heavy traffic through this river connecting all important industrial towns lying in the coastal areas such as Vadakara, Kozhikode, Kallai, beypore etc. The total length of the river is 40 kms. With a drainage area of 624 sq.kms.

4. The Kallai river

The river has its origin from Cherukulathur village and it is connected to the Chaliyar on the south by a man-made canal. The river passes through Cherukulathur, Kovur, Olavanna, Manava and Kallai before finally joining the Arabian Sea at Kozhikode. The length of the river is 22 kms. And it has a drainage area of 96 sq.kms.

Though small in size, the kallai is one of the most important rivers in the entire State from the commercial point of view, Kallai, a main centre of timber trade, is situated on its banks.

5. The Chaliyar river

Known in the lower reaches as the Beypore river, this is one of the major rivers of the State. The lower reaches form part of the West Coast Inland Navigation system.

It originates from the Illambalari hills in Gudalur taluk of Nilgiri district in Tamil Nadu. The Chalippuzha, the Punnapuzha, the Pandiyar, the Karimpuzha, the Vadapurampuzha, the Iringipuzha and the Iruthilpuzha are its important tributaries.

As an interstate river, this has a total drainage area of 2923 sq.kms, of which 2535 sq.kms. lie in Kerala and the rest, 388 sq.kms. in Tamil Nadu. With a length of 169 kms., the Chaliyar river flows through Nilambur, Mambad, Edavanna, Areecode and Vazhakkad in Malappuram district and Feroke in Kozhikode district before it joins the Arabian Sea near Beypore.

6. The Kadalundi river

The Kadalundi river, also known by the names, Karimpuzha and Oravanpurampuzha is formed by the confluence of its two main tributes, the Olipuzha and the Veliyar. The Olipuzha takes its origin from the Cherakkombanmala and the Veliyar from the forests of Erattakombanmala. The total length of this river is 130 kms, with a drainage area of 1,099 sq.kms. The river flows towards the Chaliyar and joins the Arabian Sea at about 5 kms. south of the Chaliyar river mouth.

The Pooraparamba river, a small stream, is also included in this basin, as its length is only 8 kms. With a drainage area of 23 sq.kms. The total drainage area of the basis is thus 1122 sq.kms.