Discover the Beauty of Kerala: Top 10 Ecotourism Destinations you should visit now!
Ecotourism is more than just a trendy term for tourism and travel that values the environment! Kerala has many ecotourism locations that draw tourists because of its peace, picturesque, unspoiled beauty, and breathtaking views of the hills and woods. Ecotourism involves visiting delicate, pristine, and largely untouched natural areas.
Kerala, the southern part of India, commonly known as God’s own country, is a popular travel destination for ecotourism lovers. The place is bestowed with immense natural resources and plenty of eco spots. Kerala is also known as one of the ten paradises of the world!
This blog is all about the important Eco tourist spots of Kerala!
Major ecotourism spots in Kerala
All other things seem unimportant once you step foot in this stunning wonderland with enchanting forest tourist destinations. The numerous but distinctive varieties of flora and fauna present in Kerala’s forests and wildlife sanctuaries serve as an incredible habitat for a wide range of animals and birds. Some of the major attractions of ecotourism spots in Kerala are as follows:
Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National part is a blessed land with a high elevation shola-grassland ecosystem. In the centre of the national park, there is Anamudi, the tallest peak south of the Himalayas. Unusual orchids and pretty wild balsams are just two examples of the area’s abundant rare flora. The sanctuary is home to various animals, including the Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, leopard, tiger, Indian bison, etc. The approved tourism zone is open to trekking and other activities. In the park region, fishing is an exciting activity. There are many rainbow trout in the streams. Stay at the log home, the government guest house, or one of the many resorts in Munnar for the most remarkable experiences of the beautiful surroundings.
Thenmala
Thenmala, also known as the ‘Honey Hills’, are very popular for its Medicinal valued honey. It is India’s first planned site. Located at 1650 feet, it extends to many acres of dense forests. In the park region, fishing is an exciting activity. There are many rainbow trout in the streams. Stay at the log home, the government guest house, or one of the many resorts in Munnar for the greatest experiences of the wonderful surroundings. Many places are designed for cultural art forms in the interest of visitors. Tourists can enjoy traditional Kerala cuisines from nearby restaurants. Descend to the boardwalk that leads to the Dam. A swing bridge entertains visitors in this location, especially kids. Visit the stunning sculpture garden, which has the theme of Man & Nature.
Neyyar
One of the State’s oldest national parks is the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Unique plant and animal species can be found in the wilderness reserve. More than a hundred animals, including Asian elephants, tigers, leopards, and other rare variations, call it home. The wildlife refuge includes the Neyyar Dam. It is a well-liked picnic area. Tourists can also hire boats to explore the site. The crocodile breeding centre and a lion safari are other most exciting things to do in the Neyyar Ecotourism. Many plant species, including rare medicinal plants and vividly colourful orchids, call this region home. Currently, the Agasthyamalai Biosphere is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary was added to Kerala’s list of ecotourism destinations due to its ecological importance. On 53 acres, Peppara is blessed with a mixture of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist mixed deciduous forests. Dense forests, mountainous terrain and diverse wildlife. In the sanctuary, there are roughly thirteen tribal towns. Exploring the fascinating landscape is exciting. Trekking need the Forest Department’s prior approval. Kerala Tourism, the State Forest Department, and the Kerala Water Authority have worked together to improve the dam site and add more entertainment and leisure options. The Ponmudi hill station, the Lion Safari Park, the Kallar, Anappara, and Meenmutty waterfalls are all included in the eco-tours of the region. Enjoy the splendour of nature without endangering the ecosystem or the residents.
Konni
Kerala’s woodland village is a popular ecotourism destination. It is highly known for its natural rubber farms, lush green jungles, and elephant cages. Wild elephants are attracted to the lush green landscape. There is an elephant refuge, museum, and loving home for the gentle animals nearby. The history of the man-forest interface is old and rich, and it is huddled on the bank of the mighty Achencoil River. Tourists can see taming, feeding and bathing the elephants. Konni is renowned for the “Anakoodu”- the elephant cages.
Gavi
Gavi is one of the well-preserved eco-tourist spots in Kerala. This stunning natural area is situated outside of Pathanamthitta. Pathanamthitta, blessed with an abundance of Keralan forest, has earned the distinction of being India’s second least polluted municipality. This location provides one of the best experiences in the world for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers. Visitors can go boating or canoeing in the Reservoir Lake in addition to bird watching. The famed Sabarimala shrine may be seen in the panoramic view that follows the end of the Pullumedu Peak walking trail. Hikers can reach Meenar or Valley View, where they can marvel at the vast gorge below.
Nelliampathy
The only thing that makes the Nelliyampathy hills notable is its gorgeous flora and lush, deep woods. It’s breathtaking to see the beautiful Nelliyampathy hill ranges’ cloud-dappled peaks. The Pothundy Dam is a lovely location with boating amenities and a good picnic spot. There are vistas from where the huge stretches of large paddy fields forming a green carpet are visible, making the trip to Nelliyampathy hills magnificent. Adding to all the beauty, there are many resorts and hotels going up the Nelliyampathy hills at various points. The bio-farms in this area serve as a significant marker as one ascends to the Palagapandi estate’s highest point. A charming cottage constructed on the land during British administration in India has been transformed into a privately owned resort.
Kumbalangi
Kumabalangi is a thriving fishing village in India, now one of Kerala’s favourite eco-spots. This tiny island is being transformed into a model fishing community and a popular destination for ecotourism as part of the Integrated Tourism Village project. Enjoy the area’s diverse natural beauty and exceptional ecological balance, which are essential to a model tourist hamlet. The island offers visitors a glimpse into the indigenous way of life and lifestyle. It is dotted with homestays known for their coastal delights. The Kerala government’s attempts to promote rural development led to the creation of Kumbalangi as the first model tourism village in the State.
Kuruva
Kuruva is a beautiful island in Wayanad. The river delta is the perfect picnic location and a prospective ecotourism site. The island is uninhabited since it is not near any cities. There are two tiny freshwater lakes in Kuruva. Here, several migratory birds can be spotted. These islands offer a distinctive ecosystem that may appeal to those who enjoy the outdoors. When you take a deep trip to Kuruva island, there are many attractive birds and plants. Tourists can hire a boat to row in the streams of Kuruva. The Kerala Tourism Department will provide the boats and rafts, and it will only take a few hours to see all the islands. Thanks to the bamboo rafts, your journey through the streams will be fascinating and adventurous.
Thommankuthu
Thommankuthu has a strange topography as its name. The seven-step waterfall, which falls from 1500m, spreads over 5 km. A cascade and a pool may be found at the bottom of each step. In between are eerie, dark caves. Naturally, tourists go to this location in search of a unique pleasure. Thommankuthu is also an excellent trekking spot that lies 12 km to the top of the mountain. Camp for the night and go boating and bird watching. In Thodupuzha, there are many hotels for tourists who desire a comfortable place to stay.
Epilogue
Kerala’s year-round mild climate and abundance of festivals and activities make it seem like the season never ends. Travel and tourism that values the environment are referred to as ecotourism. Kerala, the “God’s own Country”, has many ecotourism destinations that draw tourists with their tranquilly, breathtaking scenery, unspoiled nature, and breathtaking views of the hills and woods.
Kerala Tourism Department has initiated to development of eco-tourist spots with all the effort. Travelling to nature’s hub rejuvenates oneself. The preservation of these places is the responsibility of each one of us.