Home > Eco Tourism in Kollam – Thenmala, Shendurney & Nature Experiences

Eco Tourism in Kollam – Thenmala, Shendurney & Nature Experiences

🌿 Eco Tourism in Kollam

India’s first planned eco-tourism destination — Thenmala, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, and the lush forests of the Western Ghats

🌲 Thenmala
🦋 Shendurney Reserve
🐘 Wildlife
🏕️ Trekking
🌊 Kallada River
Kollam is home to Thenmala — India’s first planned and officially designated eco-tourism destination, established in 1996. Nestled in the Western Ghats foothills, 68 km from Kollam city, it offers a remarkable range of nature experiences. The adjacent Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary protects some of Kerala’s most biodiverse forest ecosystems.

🌲 Top Eco-Tourism Destinations

Thenmala Eco-Tourism Zone

India’s first planned eco-tourism destination. Divided into 3 zones: Leisure Zone (sculpture garden, lake), Adventure Zone (rock climbing, archery, boating), and Cultural Zone (tribal performances, medicinal plant trails).

Indian elephant in forest wildlife sanctuary Kerala

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

A 171 sq km forest reserve harbouring tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur, lion-tailed macaques, and over 200 bird species. One of the last natural habitats of the rare Travancore Flying Squirrel.

Kallada River & Palaruvi Falls

The Kallada River flows through dense forests before feeding the Thenmala Dam reservoir. Palaruvi Falls (91 metres), just 75 km from Kollam, is one of the tallest waterfalls in South India — ideal for swimming in natural pools.

Aryankavu Forest Treks

Trek through ancient forest passes along the Western Ghats. The Aryankavu–Shencottah route follows an old trade path between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Rich biodiversity and stunning hill views throughout.

🏃 Eco Activities & Adventures

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Mountain Biking

Thenmala forest trails, 10–25 km routes

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Rock Climbing

Guided sessions at Thenmala Adventure Zone

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River Boating

Paddle boats on Kallada Reservoir

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Bird Watching

200+ species in Shendurney Sanctuary

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Forest Camping

Overnight stays in eco lodges and tents

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Nature Walks

Medicinal plant trails with forest guides

🌿 Eco Tourism Tips: Best season for Thenmala is November–February (post-monsoon, cooler, clearest). Entry fee: ₹50 adults, ₹25 children. Guided treks must be booked at the eco-tourism centre (0474-2520800). Leeches are common during monsoon — carry salt. Stay at KTDC Nature Camp, Thenmala for authentic forest lodging (book in advance).

🌲 Explore Kollam’s Wild Side

Book your eco-adventure in the forests and hills of southern Kerala

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Jatayu Park