Nestled in the lush Western Ghats of Kerala, Thenmala is India’s first planned eco-tourism destination. Known for its pristine forests, cascading waterfalls, and sustainable tourism initiatives, Thenmala is a haven for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers.
If you’re looking for eco-tourism tour packages in Thenmala, this guide covers everything—best activities, wildlife encounters, trekking trails, and eco-friendly stays that make Thenmala a must-visit for sustainable travel enthusiasts.
Why Choose Thenmala for Eco-Tourism?
Thenmala is a model of responsible tourism, offering:
✔ Dense Forests & Wildlife – Home to deer, elephants, and exotic birds
✔ Adventure Activities – Trekking, mountain biking, and river crossing
✔ Sustainable Stays – Eco-lodges and treehouses
✔ Scenic Landscapes – Waterfalls, rubber plantations, and serene lakes
✔ Cultural Experiences – Tribal village visits and traditional art forms
Unlike commercialized hill stations, Thenmala focuses on conservation and low-impact tourism, making it perfect for eco-tourists.
Best Eco-Tourism Tour Packages in Thenmala
Here are some curated eco-tourism packages for a sustainable Thenmala experience:
1. Thenmala Nature & Wildlife Package (3 Days / 2 Nights)
💰 Starting Price: ₹8,500 per person
Highlights:
✔ Guided nature walks in Thenmala Deer Park
✔ Butterfly safari at the Butterfly Safari Park
✔ Visit to Palaruvi Waterfalls (One of Kerala’s tallest waterfalls)
✔ Stay in eco-friendly cottages with organic meals
2. Adventure & Trekking Tour (4 Days / 3 Nights)
💰 Starting Price: ₹12,000 per person
Highlights:
✔ Trekking through Thenmala’s forest trails
✔ Rock climbing & rappelling at Adventure Zone
✔ Bamboo rafting in Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
✔ Camping under the stars with bonfire & local storytelling
3. Thenmala Backwater & Culture Tour (5 Days / 4 Nights)
💰 Starting Price: ₹15,000 per person
Highlights:
✔ Boat ride in Thenmala Reservoir
✔ Visit to tribal villages to learn indigenous crafts
✔ Ayurvedic wellness sessions using organic herbs
✔ Stay in a treehouse with panoramic forest views
Top Eco-Tourism Activities in Thenmala
1. Explore Thenmala Deer Park
- Spot spotted deer, sambar, and peacocks in their natural habitat.
- Enjoy a guided eco-walk with forest department experts.
2. Butterfly Safari Park
- Witness rare butterfly species in a protected enclosure.
- Learn about pollination and conservation efforts.
3. Palaruvi Waterfalls Trek
- A 1.5 km trek leads to this stunning 300-ft waterfall.
- Swim in the natural pool (seasonal).
4. Bamboo Rafting in Shendurney
- A unique eco-friendly rafting experience through dense forests.
- Chance to spot wild elephants, Malabar hornbills, and kingfishers.
5. Mountain Biking & Zip-lining
- Ride through rubber and tea plantations.
- Try zip-lining across forest canopies for an adrenaline rush.
6. Tribal Village Interaction
- Visit Kani tribal settlements to learn about their sustainable lifestyle.
- Buy handmade bamboo crafts as souvenirs.
Best Time to Visit Thenmala
- October to March – Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking & wildlife spotting
- April to June – Hot but great for waterfalls & rafting
- Monsoon (July-Sept) – Lush greenery but some trails may be closed
Pro Tip: Book eco-tourism packages in Thenmala between November-February for the best experience!
How to Reach Thenmala?
✈ Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (72 km away)
🚆 Nearest Railway Station: Kollam Junction (66 km away)
🚗 By Road:
- From Thiruvananthapuram – 2.5 hrs drive
- From Kollam – 1.5 hrs drive
Eco-Friendly Stays in Thenmala
1. Thenmala Heritage Resort
- Mud cottages with solar-powered amenities
- Organic farm-to-table dining
2. Green Tree Eco Lodge
- Treehouse stays with minimal environmental impact
- Rainwater harvesting & waste recycling
3. Shendurney Eco Camp
- Tented stays inside the wildlife sanctuary
- Guided night safaris
Sustainable Travel Tips for Thenmala
✔ Avoid Plastic – Carry reusable bottles & bags
✔ Respect Wildlife – Maintain distance, no feeding animals
✔ Support Local – Buy handicrafts directly from tribal artisans
✔ Follow Eco-Trail Rules – Stick to marked paths to prevent erosion
✔ Use Eco-Friendly Transport – Opt for bicycles or electric buggies
Conclusion
Thenmala is a hidden gem for eco-tourism, blending adventure, wildlife, and sustainability. Whether you choose a wildlife safari, trekking tour, or cultural immersion, Thenmala’s eco-tourism packages promise an unforgettable green getaway.
Ready to explore Thenmala’s eco-paradise? Book a sustainable tour package today and travel responsibly!
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