subject: Kerala And Eco-tourism [print this page] Bordered by the sea in the west and the Ghats in east, Kerala is an awesome strip of land blessed with diverse scenic topographies. While the 650km long coastline results in beaches, the Western Ghats helps it rain throughout the year, making the place a green paradise with pristine water bodies.
The most famous hill station in Kerala is Munnar. Munnar is named so because three rivers Mudrapuzha, Nallathani and Kundala flows through the place. Munnar is one of the cleanest hill stations of Kerala and a walk through the tea gardens or between the tall eucalyptus trees on this green station invokes the romantic in each and every human being. The erstwhile summer resort of the British officials is now one of the worlds highest tea plantations. The Iravikulam National Park which protects the Nilgiri Tahr also has a vast expanse of Neelakurinji flower which bloom every twelve years, the next probable blooming being in 2018. Anamudi, the highest peak of South India is also located near Munnar. Munnar is also known as the honeymoon capital of the state. There are many scenic beauties situated near Munnar like Mattuppetty, which is a famous picnic spot because of its lake and dam, Rajamalai, where Iravikulam National Park is situated, Marayoor famous for its Muniyara- the ancient caves, the sandalwood forests and Thoovanam waterfalls, The top station from where one can see the valleys of the Nilgiris far away.
Apart from these, there are numerous eco-tourism setups in Kerala. The state was the first in South Asia to materialize the concept of eco tourism with great success. Three of the most beautiful eco tourism setups are Akkulam, Thenmala and Kumbalangi Model village for sustainable tourism. Akkulam is famous for its floating bridge and beautifully landscaped gardens. The tourist village is home of many sculptures by famous sculptors including Kanayi Kunhiraman. Thenmala is the first eco-tourist village in India. You will understand how much focus has been given on the natural environment once you visit the place. 27 rare trees, a butterfly garden, A natre trail, a deer park, lotus garden, jasmine garden and a large musical fountain makes this place worth a visit. There is an opportunity for adventure also. Trekking, boating and fishing are also possible in Thenmala. In Kumbalangi, there are many small homestays where visitors can stay with the locals to understand their lifestyle and recipes.
There are a number of hotels in the nearby locality according to the budget.
