Thenmala is located near Kollam (66kms) covered by dense forests, rubber and coffee plantations. |
Thenmala Ecotourism" has been conceived as a first planned ecotourism destination in India . World Tourism Organisation selected Thenmala as one of the words best eco-friendly projects. It has a leisure zone with winding pathways, a sway bridge, a sculpture garden and boardwalk, culture zone with an amphitheatre.
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Attractions |
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Nakshatravanam |
This is an example of unique system to popularize tree planting. The predictions forecasted for a man are based on the Nakshthra (star or the constellation in which one's Moon was placed at ones birth. The entire Zodiac comprises of 360 degrees. Therefore, there are 27 Nakshthras(star) or constellations in the Zodiac. |
Each of these Nakshthra is associated with a tree. These trees are of medicinal, social, aesthetic or economic value. There is a belief that it will bring good fortunes if one plants one's own tree (pertaining to his star) in his home. In this proposed programme a nursery of these 27 trees are established. Visitors are encouraged to buy and plant the same. Definitely people will see that these plants survive once they purchase it. That way ecotourism contributes to the greening and ultimately protecting the nature.
Palaruvi Water Falls . Palaruvi (means steam of milk) make its way down the rocks from a height of 300ft. An idle location for a days out, the scenic beauty of the place is enhanced by hills, valleys and water falls.
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Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary . |
The name Shenduruney* has been derived from a tree species locally called, "Shenkuruny" or "Chenkuruny" (Gluta travancorica) an endemic tree mainly confined to this area. The Government declared Shenduruney as a Wildlife Sanctuary on 25th August 1984 . The construction of the Parappar Dam across the confluence of the Shenduruney Kazhuthurutty, and Kulathupuzha rivers had resulted in the creation of an artificial lake of about 26 Sq. Km. which spreads along the middle of the sanctuary.
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Accommodation : |
KTDC Motal Aaram
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Activities |
Trekking, canopy walking, mountain biking, rock climbing, rappelling etc at Thenmala. |
Check out these light house at Thangasseri, built in 1902. The beacon can be seen 13 miles out into the sea.
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Visit the Hanging bridge built across the kallada River at Punalur. This protected monument was constructed in 1877. |
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