Kovalam wakes up to the call of Responsible Tourism
Published May 16, 2008 | 
Thiruvananthapuram: The fabled beach resort of Kovalam is all set to join the celebrity bandwagon of a few elite destinations in Kerala that have already introduced Responsible Tourism. Kumarakom was the pioneer in taking up this ground breaking decision followed by Thekkady and Wayanad, which have already launched this system on a trial basis.
The committee set up is trying to develop the all important link between the tourism industry and local entrepreneurship. A survey was conducted to monitor the consumption patterns of over 100 hotels that are located near the beach resort and a part of their requirements will be sourced from the local community. Home grown products such as vegetables and diary products shall be delivered to the hotels and Kudumbasree units would be playing a larger than life role in this initiative.
An agreement has already been inked to supply the local farm produce to some of the hotels in Kovalam to meet their needs. Apart from these, self help groups would also supply eco-friendly baskets and paper bags, thereby reducing the distressing impacts on the environment and social set up. It is aimed at improving the living standards of the host communities.
It also focuses on improving working conditions apart from involving the local populace in the decision-making process that affects their lives. The best part is that this initiative would involve the local community including the tour operators and nearby educational institutions in the promotion of eco friendly tourism.
All roads of adrenalin freaks lead to Chembra Peak
Published April 30, 2008 | 
Kalpetta: Chembra Peak, one of the highest peaks in Wayanad district is teeming with enthusiastic trekkers from all over Kerala and neighboring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. It is estimated that more than 150 travelers reach here daily to savour the brilliant natural spectacles and exciting outdoor activities.
Located at 2100 meters above the sea level, it falls within the Meppadi Forest Range and the visitors need to obtain a prior permission from the Forest Range Office at Meppadi for the trek, which does not involve any fees.
A 20-minutes drive along the lush green tea estates would take the visitors to the three-storied forest watch tower, where the motorable road ends. From this spot a long and arduous trek would take you to the peak. At the top there is a heart shaped, crystal clear lake enriched by its natural springs, which is believed to have never gone dry even in peak summer season.. During the past, British planters had set up a golf course, a small rest house and a stable for their horses. Even today, the remains of the road that led to the rest house could be seen.
The peak offers breathtaking views of the snow clad Nilgiri ranges and the verdant teak forests of Nilambur, which in itself is an enchanting experience. The tourism department has ear marked Rs.30 lakh for promoting eco tourism projects in the district. As part of this, new trekking paths and other basic amenities such as nature friendly huts are planned, to cater to the growing number of tourists.
An orphanage for elephants.
Published April 4, 2008 | 
Thiruvananthapuram: The proposal to set up an elephant rehabilitation centre at Kottur near Agastyavanam at Thiruvananthapuram has been well lauded by all animal lovers. These majestic and lovable giants would have a chain-free life at the orphanage, according to forest officials.
The orphanage with a budget outlay of Rs.5-crore is envisaged as a retirement home for the aged and incapacitated elephants.
The centre would be able to house a minimum of 30 animals at a time and each enclosure would have an area of at least one acre. The decision was taken after a comprehensive case study on the behavioral patterns of two six-year-old calves which were housed at the enclosure. This is the first endeavor ever in the State where the animals can roam around freely just like in their natural habitat.
This centre would be a haven for sick and old animals which would be a looked after by a committed team of experts. Wild elephant calves that cannot be turned back to their natural habitat would also be housed here.
While some elephant shelters in the State such as Muthanga in Wayanad and Kodanad in Ernakulam District focus on the tourism aspects, the Kottur sanctuary would emphasize exclusively on the animal welfare. The centre will be functioning as a semi autonomous society and will receive contributions from animal lovers. It is indeed an elephantine thought for the welfare these magnificent animals, which is one of the most stunning and unique hallmarks of the State of Kerala.
Impressive eco-tourism destination in Kerala
Published April 3, 2008 | 
Apr, 3: Kerala with its diverse topography boasts tremendous scope for nature friendly tourism. Kerala flaunts several impressive landmarks including the Silent Valley, Munnar and Wayanad. As an initiative to promote eco-tourism in the state the Plantation Corporation of Kerala has put forth a new project named Nature Village to promote nature friendly tourism projects all over the state.
The enchanting eco-tourism spot that is located on the banks of Chalakudy River, nearThrissur, will definitely woo those adventure buffs. The Plantation Corporation expects the impressive Vadaamuri Lagoon that is created by the famous king Tipu Sultan as a defence against the enemies will be a centre of attraction. The water passage to this site is flanked by dense forest; it will offer an inimitable experience to both local and international tourists to an equal extent.
Owing to its location near the well known Athirapally water falls the visit to Vadaamuri Lagoon will offer the tourists a wonderful experience. The water falls is just 600 meters away from Vadaamuri lagoon. There are adequate numbers of ferry services available in the area to fulfil the requirement of the visitors. Earlier the District Tourism Promotion Council has allotted 55 lakhs for the beautification work of the Thumpoormuzhi dam and the surrounding areas; they also named it as Nature Village.
The second phase of the project includes constructing cottages and hanging bridges for the convenience of the tourists. The work has already begun as the state government is providing whole hearted support for the completion of this prestigious project. After completion this project will sure add a new gem in the cap of God’s own country.
Edakkal caves undergo clean up operation
Published April 3, 2008 | 
Kalpetta: The fabled Edakkal caves in Wayanad were reopened for tourists after remaining closed since March 25 for a clean–up operation undertaken by the Archeology department.
Scores of new wall engravings were unraveled on the cave walls when semi metal residues and grime of over 90 cm thickness were removed. Excavations around the cave have also unearthed some pieces of pottery and a dainty stone chisel apart from some Brahmi script engravings, which are being analyzed in detail to trace its age and relevance.
A fund of Rs.50 lakhs from the Heritage Preservation Fund was proposed by the 12th Finance Commission for the maintenance and renovation of these pre- historic caves.