Ecotourism in Kerala

The state of Kerala has the distinction of being one of the greenest places in India. Blessed with natural bounties from one corner to the other, it boasts a landscape which is so varied. Coconut-palm-laden coastal areas, expansive paddy fields and numerous tea plantations – all contribute towards making Kerala an important ecotourism destination. To the furthest limit of your eyesight, you can witness the unending blanket of the tea gardens across the hill ranges of the state. There are hordes of ecotourism destinations that feature abundant natural beauty and an exquisite landscape. Whether, you are a naturalist, a wildlife lover or a researcher, you will be forced to appreciate the value of ecotourism in Kerala.

Wildlife

More than ten thousand sq km of the total area of Kerala is under forest cover. Out of this, 1/5th has been turned into national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. These wildlife destinations are not only home to rare wildlife species but also shelter some of the most endangered species. In terms of vegetation as well, there is a pristine floral population that makes Kerala a fine example of eco-tourism. Wildlife lovers from all across the globe head towards Kerala to watch animal species like tigers, elephants, deer and other endemic animal species like the Niligiri Tahr (found in the Malabar region).

Some of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Kerala are as follows.

• Periyar National Park
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Eravikulam National Park
• Silent Valley National Park
• Thattekad Sanctuary
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

During your holiday in Kerala, you can really look forward to visiting these wonderful eco-tourism destinations. With a local guide, you will have the opportunity of knowing and exploring the wide variety of local flora and fauna as well.

Rubber and Tea Plantations

Expansive plantations of rubber and tea have become a major draw for tourists over the last few years. These rubber plantations and tea estates were actually established by the Dutch, Portuguese and French during the Colonial Period. Owing to the state’s pleasurable climate, crops grew very well. Lodges built close to these plantations under the shade of tall trees are loved by travelers. State Tourism Department has also contributed a lot towards making tea and plantation tours in Kerala a wonderful holiday experience. From time to time, eco tourism fairs are also organized where tourists can pick up different varieties of tea and a wide range of products made from rubber.

Backwaters

The backwaters of Kerala cover around 900 km of the coastal area. Throughout the year, tourists arrive here to enjoy a houseboat ride along the emerald backwaters of the state. Hordes of tourist attractions are in store while undertaking a backwater tour in Kerala. Right from countryside lifestyle and a pristine flora and fauna to sites of cultural heritage, sailing along the eye capturing backwaters has a number of surprises in store for tourists. More and more measures are being taken by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation to preserve and further boost the ecological heritage of the state.