‘Ecotourism’, the thought has been conceived by those who listen to the music of nature. Just depicting mankind’s commitment to travel more and be trouble less to nature. The first of its kind Ecotourism Destination in India, Thenmala Ecotourism showcases the beauty of Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary at the foothills of the Western Ghats. Located about 63 km from Kollam, Thenmala (hills that flow with honey) is the nerve centre of ten satellite ecotourism destinations scattered across the hill ranges of Thiruvanathapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts.
In the local language Malayalam ‘Then’ means honey and ‘Mala’ means hill, both combining to mean ‘Honey Hill’. Indeed, it’s such a sweet choice for tourists with a beehive of activities to pick up from! Managed by the Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society (TEPS), which is an undertaking of the Government of Kerala, Thenmala Ecotourism covers the scenic landscape in and around Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary at the foothills of the Western Ghats. At Thenmala Ecotourism, a visitor is taken care of by its well-trained staff providing guidance and information about the various attractions and facilities, enabling one to move about, explore and experience every bit of this remarkable destination. There are well-placed signboards, direction pointers, and information boards to facilitate one’s movement here. Divided into zones with particular themes, the area currently has four major zones viz., Adventure Zone, Leisure Zone, Culture Zone and Deep Woods Zone.