Expansion plans on the anvil for Periyar Tiger Reserve
Published July 15, 2010 | 
Periyar tiger Reserve in Thekkady, Kerala is one of the best managed tiger reserves in India that needs no formal introduction as a popular tourist destination for nature enthusiasts. The rich bio diversity and wild life and the pristine beauty of the area, which spreads over an area of 777 sq km attracts scores of visitors to Thekkady. Now Periyar is all set to undergo a massive expansion which would make it a hot contender for the position of the best eco tourist spot in Kerala, a distinction held by Gavi in Munnar for long.
Under this plan, 148 Sq KM of forest land that extends up to the Kakki hydel project at the east and the Annathode colony to the North, which belongs to the Kerala forest development corporation will become part of the Periyar tiger reserve. With this the tiger reserve will have a total area of 925 sq. km , which will go a long way in the tiger conservation efforts as well. With this, Gavi and the pachakkanam areas also will become part of the reserve though the eco tourist spot of Gavi might be excluded from the reserve.
The expansion of Periyar Tiger reserve will give further impetus to the tiger conservation efforts to make it one of the most successful stories in nature conservation. As per the latest figures, only 3000 tigers are left in the wild and it is indeed a race gainst the clock. If we need to protect this magnificient beast we have to oput in our best NOW as there will never be a second chance!
Eco Project at Gavi to woo more tourists to Kerala
Published June 16, 2010 | 
The Eco Toursim Project launched at Gavi by Kerala Forest Department, is an added advantage to the Kerala‘s tourism sector. The project is sure to draw more tourists, especially from European countries. It is mainly intended at nature lovers and adventure tourists. Gavi Eco Tourism package include elephant safaris and trekking in the deep jungles of Gavi near Munnar, which is otherwise not open to the public.
Gavi, recently have had a gradual increase in the tourists inflow since ‘Alistair International’, the world acclaimed tourism major listed it among the leading eco-tourism centres and one of the must-see places in India. The Gavi Eco project highlight the involvement of the local folk in activities as guides, gardeners and cooks. This will provide a livelihood for them and as well, help to create awareness on conservation of nature. 
The nature loving visitors can enjoy trekking, wildlife watching and outdoor camping in specially built tents and go on night safaris. Whilst wildlife watching, you might luckily spot certain rare species of animals like Nilgiri Tahr and Lion-tailed Macaque, and if you are a bird watcher, the great pied Hornbill, Woodpecker, Kingfishers etc. If you are healthy and have keen interest to go on a trekking, take a short trek along the hill to the Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple. Make sure that you don’t miss Paradise Cove at Ninnumulli. The placid waters of Gavi and Kochupamba lakes can engage you in boating and canoeing. The road leading to Gavi is picture perfect with tea plantations, and En route to Gavi are the places of interest like Mundakkayam, Kuttikkanam, Peermedu and Vandiperiyar.
Gavi is surely a place that should not be missed in one’s lifetime. Gavi is pristine, and it belongs to the wild. Every visitor should keep in mind that they are responsible for their intentions and actions, which will have a bearing on the upkeep of Gavi for a long time to come.
Kerala featured in the top ten winter holiday destinations.
Published December 7, 2009 | 
As the nippy winter season in Europe is at its peak, tourists are looking for tropical and balmy destinations to enjoy a well deserved sun tan and to escape the gloom of the gray weather back home. Irish times.com has included Kerala along with the Caribbeans, Hawaii, Canary Islands, Egypt, Tunisia, Dubai, Thailand, Morocco and Dubai as the top 10 winter holiday spots this year .
With many Governments mulling over the issue of making winter holidays tax free, Kerala is likely to see a surge in winter holiday makers. From December to April is one of the best seasons to visit Kerala as the rains have just finished and the tropical sun is not at its peak. A guided tour is the best possible way to explore Kerala as most of the must see spots are tucked away in the remote hinterlands and high ranges.
Cochin is the right spot to kick off your Kerala tour as the international airport here is connected to various destinations around the world. The heritage zone of Fort kochi which is famous for the Portuguese remnants and period architectural styled edifices, Chinese fishing nets and the beaches will help you rid off the jet lag. A house boat cruise in Kumarakom, the quaint beach resorts of Aleppey and a flop along the vast coastline of Kerala with many beaches including the palm-fringed beaches of Kovalam would serve as a great starter. After the sun and the fun of the beaches it is time for you to move up into the hill stations to take a peek into the tropical forests, tea plantations, spice gardens, tiger reserves and more.
The wild life enthusiasts are ensured of an exciting fare. You can spot freely roaming wild life herds at Gavi at Munnar or indulge in birdwatching at the world famous wetland of Ramsar site, home to many rare migratory birds during winter. A burst of sunshine in the darkest days of the year in the other side of the globe might do you good!