Thenmala, located in the intersection of the Kollam-Shencottah road and the Trivandrum-Shencottah Road, is India's first planned ecotourism destination. It offers 10 ecotourism spots that showcase the beautiful hill ranges of the Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, and Kollam districts. The name "Thenmala" means "Honey Hill," and it is known for its high-quality honey exports and the timber from its dense forests. The World Tourism Organization has recognized Thenmala as one of the premier eco-friendly projects in the world.

 

Thenmala is 66 km east of Kollam and offers a variety of activities for visitors, including boat rides, leisurely walks, and adventure sports like mountain biking and rock climbing. Visitors can also explore the Thenmala Dam and enjoy the view, walk along the winding pathways and boardwalks, and spend an evening at the sculpture garden. The deep woods of Thenmala also contain specially made tree huts for a unique experience.

 

Other unique experiences in Thenmala include visiting the Nakshatravanam, a nursery of trees that are considered sacred to the 27 constellations, and the nearby Deer Rehabilitation Centre, where various species of deer are bred and released into the forest. A boat ride in the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is also a must-do, with its rare flora and fauna on display. Image: Kerala Tourism