Text and Photos : K.G.Mohanal Nair
Miles and miles of endless serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, pristine valleys and mountains, exotic species, of rare flora and fauna in innumerable wild life sanctuaries, enchanting art forms, magical festivals and cultural monuments are all unique to Kerala and has given it the sobriquet of (Gods own country).
Thenmala Ecotourism is India’s first planned ecotourism destination. The most important ecotourism resource is Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary. A sanctuary established for the conservation of an endemic and endangered tree species called Gluta travancorica.
To ensure the long-term sustainability of the ecotourism resources a conscious management strategy has been evolved to manage the soft ecotourism component so as to have less impact on the ecotourism resources and the real ecotourism products will remain supply driven..
Eco-friendly General Tourism products developed in the periphery of the sanctuary reduce the pressure due to tourism. The real ecotourism programmes takes place in sanctuary and only ecotourists opt for that. Others can experience the eco-friendly products like nature trails, elevated walkway through canopies, mountain biking etc. which gives them a feeling of what awaits as ecotourism in the sanctuary. Facilities like boating in Sanctuary Reservoir, Boardwalk, Sculpture Garden, Musical Dancing Fountain, etc. adds visitor experience.
The sustainability issues are addressed through the conduct of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and by practicing sustainable management techniques.
Environmental education is provided to students, celebrating various environmental days etc.
The local community participation is ensured through supporting the local women self help groups, training local youth as guides, supporting community led ecotourism products etc. The local community support for ecotourism products are institutionalized through the committees of the local dependent community called the Eco-Development Committees (EDCs).
Thenmala Ecotourism is a unique synergy among Government, private Sector and the local community and has won acclaims from various bodies including WTO for its best practices.
Location
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. 3 Kms from Thenmala. 66 Kms from Kollam.
Contact
Chief Executive
Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society.
Gokulam, TC 15/1170
Krishnavilasom Road,
Vazhuthacaud, Thiruvananthapuram
695013, Kerala, India
Tel : 91-471-2329770
Fax : 91-471-2337037
E-mail : info@thenmalaecotourism.com
Internet : www.thenmalaecotourism.com