PROJECT REPORT

CASE STUDY OF ECO-TOURISM IN KERALA

SUBMITTED BY

KALIDAS PRASAD
Enrolment no. - 185893222

PTS-05

SUBMITTED TO

PROGRAMME COORDINATOR (TOURISM STUDIES),

SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, IGNOU

 INTRODUCTION

Eco Tourism is one of the latest additions to the tourism industry, which is fast

gaining momentum. It is a responsible tourism to the natural areas, which conserve the

ecology and promotes the welfare of the people. It entertains the visitors in a way that

it does not effect the world's natural and cultural environments. Infact it is one of the

fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry. The revenue generated from the

tourism industry encourages the state and central government to fund various

conservation programmes in a country.

This culturally responsible and high quality environment friendly tourism is capable

of satisfying the visitors in all aspects. Each one of us has a responsibility towards the

environment, what ever it is, weather a nature camping tour or the trekking trip, one

should always keep in mind not to disturb the nature. Well said “take nothing but

photographs, leave nothing but footprints”. Eco tourism ensures the survival of the

attractions of the nature and culture, without harming the resources. Eco tourism is a

sound environmental tourism, which is promoting nature travel as the hottest eco

correct activity available. It focuses tourism to the destinations where flora -fauna,

cultural and historical heritage are the prime attractions.

ECO TOURISM IN INDIA: - India, the land of varied geography offers several

tourist destinations that not just de-stress but also rejuvenate you. There are several

ways to enjoy Mother Nature in most pristine way. The few places like the Himalayan

Region, Kerala, the northeast India, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Lakshdweep

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islands are some of the places where you can enjoy the treasured wealth of the Mother

Nature.

Thenmala in Kerala is the first planned ecotourism destination in India created to cater

to the Eco-tourists and nature lovers. The India topography boasts an abundant source

of flora & fauna. India has numerous rare and endangered species in its surroundings.

The declaration of several wildlife areas and national parks has encouraged the growth

of the wildlife resource, which reduced due to the wildlife hunt by several kings in the

past. Today, India has many wildlife sanctuaries and protection laws. Currently, there

are about 80 national parks and 441 sanctuaries in India, which works for the

protection and conservation of wildlife resource in India.

There are numerous Botanical and Zoological Gardens in India, which are working

towards the enhancement of the Ecosystem. Poaching has stopped to large extent.

There are severe punishments for poachers, hunters and illegal traders of animals and

trees. Tree plantation are taking place in several places. There are several animal &

plant rights organisation, who fight for the rights of the animals and plants. Numerous

organisations and NGOs are coming forward to provide environmental education to

the common people at the grass root level.

KERALA

Wedged between the Western Ghats on the East and the Arabian Sea on the West, the

narrow strip of land known as Kerala is a destination of a lifetime.

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The timeless beauty of the palm fringed beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, the majesty

of the undulating hills of Munnar and Vagamon, the serenity of the pristine

backwaters of Kumarakom & Kuttanad and the enchanting woods and forests of

Thekkady and Silent Valley will have you bowled over.

That such a small terrain can hold diverse geographical features and cultures is a

wonder in itself.

GREEN TOURISM IN KERALA: -

Greetings from Green World Tourism!!!

Kerala - Sun blanched white seashore - Endless beaches. Incessant blue waves mostly

calm but sometimes boisterous clamoring and vanishing among white splashes. Green

groves of coconuts just stop short and border the beaches with frills.

Lurking in the backdrop a network of lagoons and backwaters. Boats and country

crafts moving along. . Quite a lot of rivers and countless rivulets flowing through hills

and paddy fields of the midland, emptying themselves into the backwaters. And the

far off dark blue mountains. This is what the eyes meet about Kerala. An excellent

color scheme and art work of Nature. An occasional boatman rowing and singing with

cargo or people. A tiller or a mower and women planting seedlings. Women at work

spinning coir. Dense plantations further eastward. Kerala is all these and more.

Better known as "Gods Own Country", Kerala Tourism offers you a host of exciting

holiday options. Spread out across the year are specially designed Kerala Tour

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Packages that highlight the State's attractions, and prove beyond doubt that the season

never ends in this breathtakingly beautiful land.

Extend your tryst with this spectacular geographical wonder called Kerela and

experience its rich cultural heritage and enterprising denizens who are epitomes of

hospitality, which adds vibrancy to its diverse and bountiful natural wealth. Visitors

are given fullest value of money and time they spend in Kerala, which offers some of

the best getaways when it comes to diversity Kerala is one of the ten 'Paradises Found'

declared by the National Geographic Traveler, for its diverse geography and

overwhelming greenery. Kerala is a land much acclaimed for the contemporary nature

of its cultural ethos, and much appreciated for the soothing, rejuvenating paradise that

it is

STUDY AREA

Present study has been carried out at case study of eco-tourism in Kerala.

The latitude and longitude of Kerala

Latitude: 10° 00' N

Longitude: 76° 25' E

OBJECTIVES OF THE SUTDY

 To know how Kerala eco-tourism conserve & preserve natural & cultural

environment.

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 To study about the various eco-parks, adventures/activities, eco-places, eco-

tours & flora & fauna etc.

 To know about pollutants activities in our environment.

 To know the various factor’s responsible for degradation of environment.

 After all that to know the risks & benefits of eco-tourism.

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 CONSERVE & PRESERVE NATURAL & CULTURAL

ENVIRONMENT

The project involves Restoration, Conservation, Adaptation and Showcasing of

cultures of Christian and other minorities in India and natural environment around

them.

Nazaranis are the 2000-year-old Syrian Christians of Kerala, India, constituting

0.25% population, with their own culture – architecture, art forms, crafts, dance,

music, cuisine, dress, lifestyle, and educational, social and political initiatives. We

sustain, enhance, and preserve this culture together with environment.

While conservation is necessary to preserve cultures and heritages, adaptation is

necessary for each generation to experience them. We restored and preserve a 300-

year-old wooden house, and 45-year-old mansion with furniture, art and craft.

Modern facilities are provided for comfort of present generation, conserving

heritage. Variegated vegetation is preserved for attracting fauna, birds and

butterflies. Spice and other plantations are also maintained. Ancient cuisine is

adapted to suit palate and cultural sensitivities of global travelers. A cookbook -

“Kerala Syrian Christian Favourites” was published internationally and is on

Amazon.com with these recipes and write-up on Kerala, Syrian Christian history

etc. This model of Restoration, Conservation, Adaptation and Showcasing has been

replicated by restoring a 80-year-old British built Bungalow including architecture,

art, culture, cuisine etc of colonial era.

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 ECO PARKS IN KERALA

Eco parks in India are an excellent place to be with nature. The different eco region of

India are home to different eco parks. Visit India's great game parks and offer a

thrilling encounter with wildlife in its natural states.

Eravikulam National Park

Place: Kerala, Southern India.

Major Attractions: Nilgiri Tahr, Gaurs and Tigers.

Area Covered: 97sq. km.

Ideal Time to Visit the Park: September to February are the best time to visit this

park. Nearest Attractions: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Some Major Accesses: Coimbatore, Munnar.

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Things to Know

Where is the Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary?

Eravikulam National Park is situated at Rajamallay which sets on Munar-Udumalpet

Road in the South Indian state of Kerala. The national park is situated at the higher

altitudes of Western Ghats. Geographically, it is located at 9 deg. 40 min latitude and

77 deg. 20 min longitudes.

The Climate in the Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

This region of Kerala is drenched with South West Monsoons. Although the park

receives ample rainfall throughout the year, the months of June, July and August are

the monsoon months. This is the time when this region receives maximum rainfall.

The months of April and May are hottest here. From September to December,

Eravikulam receives little rain with clear weather. Because of this, one can visit

Eravikulam best in the months between September and February.

Important Dates in the Eravikulam's History

Eravikulam-Rajamallay was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1975. This sanctuary

attained the status of a National Park within three years of its establishment in 1978.

The main purpose of establishing this park was to protect and conserve Nilgiri Tahr.

The Ecological System in the Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

The Flora in Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

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The grasslands of Eravikulam are called “climax” grasslands, by the scientists. It so

believed because of the fact that these grasslands have achieved ultimate state of

splendor. The scenic beauty has evolved to a perfect state of harmony. Within these

grasslands, there are patches sholas which means forest. One can find diverse variety

of orchids and other flowers, adorning this place. These forests are blessed with

leeches to linger the travellers. Even a maundering trip to these deep green forests can

let one explore a lot.

The Fauna in the Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

At Eravikulam you will find as many as 26 species of mammals. The most prominent

of all are Nilgiri Tahr, Elephants, Langur, Marten, Small-clawes Otter, Tigers and

Leopards. The grass lands on the hills can make you spot avid variety of wildlife here.

Some of the endangered species of animals like Varai Aadu (hill goat) can also be

spotted here. Eravikulam is endemic to Westren Ghats and is a abode for some of the

red listed threatened mammals in India.

The Avi-fauna in the Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

Eravikulam has great flowering beauty which makes it a perfect dwelling ground for

the birds. There are about 138 estimated number of birds that inhibit here. Some of the

most popular birds that can be spotted here include: Nilgiru Wood Pegion, Kerala

Laughing Thrush and White Bellied Shortwing. You can fine over a hundred species

of butterflies and 19 species of amphibians. Twenty species of orchids and nine

species of balsam can also be found here.

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Walking Tours in the Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

Walking Tour

Eravikulam can be best visited on foot as you can make stoppages at regular intervals

and explore the deep woods.

Eravikulam National Park Travel Circuit

Munnar - Eravikulam - Periyar - Kumarakom - Kochi

How to Reach the Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary?

Air: Cochin is the nearest airport which is located at a distance of 135km from here.

Private coaches and buses can be hired from Cochin to reach Eravikulam.

Rail: Munnar is the nearest railhead town from Eravikulam, located at a distance of

13km from here. You can reach Eravikulam from Munnar by hiring a coach or a cab.

Road: Private coaches and cabs are available on hire to reach Eravikulam from

different parts of Kerala.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

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Place: Kottayam, Kerala, South India.

Major Attractions: Local birds like the waterfowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, heron and the

water duck, as well as the migratory Siberian cranes. Parrots, teal, larks, flycatchers,

wood beetle, and other birds are seen here during their respective migratory seasons.

Area Covered: 101 acres.

Ideal Time to Visit the Park: Between June and August. You can watch migratory

birds in the months between November and February.

Nearest Attractions: Vembanad Lake

Some Major Accesses: Cochin.

Things to Know

Where is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary?

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located 12km from Kottayam in Kerela. Among the

finest bird sanctuaries in India, Kumarakom is situated on the banks of Vembanand

Lake. Well renowned for its avian population, Kumarakom offers a range of bird

watching spots for avid bird watchers. Sprawling over a wide expanse of 101 acres,

the enchanting wooded beauty of the sanctuary lures a large number of foreign

visitors. Most interesting is the time when Siberian Cranes visit this sanctuary.

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Climate at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary enjoys tropical climate throughout the year. There is

moderate temperature throughout the year. Cool and fresh breeze makes even warmest

months bearable. Temperature is cool between November and March and is best time

to watch migratory birds in a pleasant setting.

The Ecological System in the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

The Flora in the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

A large number of mangrove forests cover most of the area here. Green paddy fields

and coconut grooves provide a perfect home to birds. The flora of this rugged terrain

adds colors to this picturesque bird sanctuary.

The AviFauna in the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

The sanctuary is a home to most of the avian species. Some of these permanently live

and dwell here while there are other species of birds that migrate here from far off

continents. Migratory birds which visit the sanctuary every year are Siberian Cranes,

Indian Peafowl, Egrets, Darters, Herons, Parrots, Larks, Flycatchers, Wood Beetles

and Teals. Resident bird species include Waterfowls, Cuckoos, Owls, Egrets, Herons

and the water duck.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Travel Circuit

Cochin - Munnar - Periyar - Alleppey - Kumarakom - Kochi Bangalore - Nagarhole -

BR Hills - Bandipur - Ooty - Munnar - Eravikulam - Periyar - Kumarakom - Kochi

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How to Reach Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary?

Air: The Cochin International Airport is the nearest one, which is at a distance of 70

kms from the Muhamma boat jetty.

Rail: The nearest Rail head is at Kottayam which is connected to all the major cities

of India by several express trains.

Road: Kottayam is 14 km from Kumarakom and connected to rest of the country of

India by both State Highways and National Highways. From here taxis and auto

rickshaws are available for reaching the sanctuary.

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

Place: Ernakulam, Kochi, Sothern India.

Major Attractions: Malabar Grey Hornbill, Crimson-Throated Barbet, Bee-Eater.

Area Covered: 128 sq km.

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Ideal Time to Visit the Park: September - June

Nearest Attractions: Bolgatty Island, Willington Island.

Some Major Accesses: Aluva (48km.)

Things to Know

Where is the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary?

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is located at Latitude 76deg. 40'-76 deg.45'N and Longitude

10deg. 7'-11 deg. E. The bird sanctuary is located in Kothamangalam Taluk of

Ernakulam district on the northern banks of the Periyar river. At the height of 35-

523m above the sea level, this marvelous bird sanctuary is situated at Njayqapilli

peak. 13 km north east of Kotyhamangalam, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is a home to

some of the rarest species of birds in India.

Climate in the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

Thattekkad Bird sanctuary experiences a tropical climate. The annual rainfall recorded

here is round 3000mm. The weather remains pleasant throughout the year while

monsoon hits this place in the months between May and July. It would not be

recommendable to visit this park during monsoon as most of the area here becomes

inaccessible.

Important Dates in Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary' History

Thattekkad is Kerala's first officially recognized bird sanctuary. Established in 1983,

the lush green sanctuary has more than 300 recorded species of forest and water birds.

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While many of them are resident birds, some are migratory. Important birds found

here include large falcon, gray jungle fowl, white breasted water hen, hornbill, jungle

bush-quail, etc. A study conducted by Bombay Natural History Society during 1985

identifies 253 species here.

The Ecological System in the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

The Flora in Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary Thatekkad Bird Sanctuary is located in the dense tropical

evergreen and deciduous forests and grassland patches. The picturesque landscapes

here makes it a choicest bird sanctuary for those who love being close to nature.

Thattekkad also has extensive plantations of teak, rosewood, mahagony, etc. A variety

of flowers and tress combine to form the bewitching fauna at this wildlife park.

The Fauna in the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

Thattekkad is famous for its exclusive bird life. Among the animals found here,

elephant is an occasional visitor. Leopard, bear, porcupine, python and cobra can also

be sighted here.

The Avifauna in the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

Rare birds like the Crimson-Throated Barbet, Bee-eater, Sunbird, Shrike,

Blackwinged Kite, Grey Heron and the Night Heron are also commonly sighted.

Indian roller, cuckoo, common snipe, crow pheasant, jungle nightjar, kite, grey

drongo, Malabar trogon, woodpeckeer, large pied wagtail, baya sparrow, grey jungle

fowl, Indian hill myna, robin bird, jungle babbler and darter are some of the common

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birds found here. There are a few rare birds as well which include: sunbird, shrike,

fairy blue-bird, grey-headed fishing eagle, blackwinged kite etc.

Birdwatching in Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary - Birding Trips

Thettekkad is a popular bird watching destination. Take a ride over an elephant's back

along elephant trainer to have a view of some of the rarest birds here. Jeeps are also

available on hire.

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary Wildlife Travel Circuit

Kochi - Thattekkad - Munnar - Periyar

How to Reach the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

Air: The nearest airport, is 71 kms from Thattekka.

Rail: The nearest railway station is Aluva, at a distance of 48 km. Kochi.

Road: The sanctuary is 13 kms North-East of Kothamangalam along the Pooyamkutti

road.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Place: Kumily, Kerala, in the southern part of India.

Major Attractions: Elephants, Tiger, Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur.

Area Covered: 777 sq-km.

Ideal Time to Visit the Park: From the months of October and June.

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Nearest Attractions: Alleppey, Cradomom Hills, Kumily, Boat Cruises.

Some Major Accesses: Kumily (4 km), Madurai (140 km), Cochin or Kochi (200

km), Kottayam (114 km), Ernakulam.

Things to Know

Where is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary?

The Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve is situated high in the ranges of the

Western Ghats, in south Indian state of Kerala - known as the God’s Own Country.

Periyar wildlife sanctuary in Kerala has a scenic lake at the heart of the sanctuary.

Formed with the building of a dam in 1895, this reservoir runs around the contours of

the wooded hills, providing water to the local wildlife through out the year. Though

Periyar Kerala is a Tiger Reserve, tourists visit this place to view the Indian elephants

in the act of sprinkling water and playfulness by the Periyar lake.

Important Date in Periyar's History

The Periyar National Park was slated under the Project Tiger in the year 1972.

The Ecological System in the Periyar National Park

The physiology of the Periyar National Park mainly comprises of the western ghat

hills in various shapes and sizes. These thickly wooded hills are dominated by water

bodies, vast grasslands and even thicker forest areas. The densely forested valleys are

abound in wild vegetation and animal life. Other than the river Periyar, the park and

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main lake located in the centre of the park are watered by two other rivers, the

Azhutha and the Mullayar.

The Flora in the Periyar National Park

Some of the deeper valleys contain tropical evergreen forest with extremely thick tree

cover that even bright sunlight finds hard to penetrate. These trees that have grown to

amazing heights of up to 130-140 feet seems to having being there forever. The few

level areas in the park contains marshy grasslands near the edges of the lake and other

water bodies. Spread out across the park are also patches of semi-evergreen forest

used as important cover by many of the animal species.

The Fauna in the Periyar National Park

Apart from Elephants, the other animals to be seen in the Periyar sanctuary Kerala are

Gaur, Wild Pigs, Sambar, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Dole or Indian Wild Dog and

very rarely, a Tiger. There are, now, an estimated 40 tigers in the Periyar national

Park. Four species of primates are found at Periyar - the rare lion-tailed macaque, the

Nilgiri Langur, Gee's Golden Langur, Common Langur And Bonnet Macaque. Periyar

also happens to be the habitat of the elusive Nilgiri Tahr, which is rarely to be seen.

The Avifauna in the Periyar Wildlife Santuary

The birdlife comprises of Darters, Cormorants, Kingfishers, the great Malabar

Hornbill and racket-tailed Drongoes.

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The Reptiles in the Periyar Wildlife Santuary

The reptilian population boasts of Monitor Lizards that can be seen basking in the sun,

on the rocks along the lakeshore. Visitors who trek into the Periyar national park

often see a Python and sometimes even a King Cobra.

Trips in the Periyar Wildlife Santuary

Boat Cruises

Boat cruises make the best option to check out the wilds of Periyar Sanctuary, as the

Periyar lake presents an excellent boating spot for tourists today. Although it is uneasy

to see many animals from the boats, still you come across a family of Elephants, Wild

Boar, and Sambar Deer by the water's edge.

Periyar National Park Travel Circuit

Cochin - Munnar - Periyar - Kumarakonam - Alleppey - Kovalam - Trivandrum

Bangalore - Nagarhole - BR Hills - Bandipur - Ooty - Munnar - Eravikulam - Periyar -

Kumarakom – Kochi.

How to Reach Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Air: Kochi (Cochin) at 200 km or Madurai in Tamil Nadu at 140 km are the nearest

airports from Periyar.

Rail: Kottayam at 114 km is the nearest railhead from Periyar.

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Road: Kumily, the nearest town from Periyar is well served by both state and private

buses from Kottayam, Ernakulam and Madurai in Tamil Nadu.

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 ADVENTURES/ACTIVITIES IN KERALA

Trekking

The activity of hiking through the mountainous regions of India is known as Trekking.

Western Ghats of high ranges, gorges

and deep-cut valleys of the tropical habitat and wildlife sanctuaries can be the ideal

place for those who are passionate about Trekking in Kerala.

Important destinations: Periyar Wildlife sanctuary, Munnar, Bhoothathan Kettu,

Agastyarkoodam, Pythal Mala, Edakkal Caves, Vagamon, Chembra Peak, Ponmudi

etc.

Eco Tours

The Western Ghats of Kerala with its tropical forest ecosystem provides a natural

advantage for development of this segment of tourism. Ecotourism project, based on

internationally accepted principles, will help introduce the sustainability concept to

other tourism ventures outside the realm of ecotourism.

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• Kerala has 12 wildlife sanctuaries and two national parks and apart from these, the

rich biological diversity can be an added advantage.

• The water bodies formed inside the forest area due to construction of dams/hydel

projects provide scope for recreational facilities.

• Stay in the jungle will be either in tents or tree house or Thatched huts or forest

guest-house.

• In the jungle, you can photograph or paint.

• Scope for a variety of ecotourism activities such as trekking, mountaineering, bird

watching etc.

For Eco-Tourism in Kerala, tourists can visit Kumarakom, Munnar, Bhoothathankettu,

Athirappally-Vazhachal Falls, Nelliampathy, Nilambur, Kuruva Islands,

Perunannamuzhy, Tirunelli and Pythalmala.

Important ecotourism destinations are

1. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

2. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

3. Eravikulam National Park

4. Periyar Tiger Reserve

5. Chendurunny Wildlife Sanctuary

6. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

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7. Parampikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

8. Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

9. Silent Valley National Park

10. Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary

11. Waynaad Wildlife Sanctuary

12. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

13. Thattekkad Wildlife Sanctuary (It is also a migratory bird Sanctuary)

14. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

Fishing

Kerala is world-famous for its beautiful beaches and serene backwaters, providing

excellent opportunities for fishing and angling. The backwaters, rivers, lagoons,

streams, lakes and canals of Kerala offer unlimited opportunities for fishing.

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Tree Climbing

Tree climbing is for people of all ages who are young at heart and ready for the

enjoyment trees can provide. Come and experience the adventure with Mantra

holidays. Different techniques are used to climb trees depending on the climbers’

individual style and preferences, as well as the type of tree and difficulty of the climb.

Water Sports

Canoeing: Canoeing is a favorite sports among the tourists of Kerala and local

inhabitants of the state. Canoeing is an excellent option to explore the backwaters

closely.

Catamaran Sailing: A catamaran is small often wooden vessel with twin hulls joined

together, which usually set sail across the backwaters of Kerala. Nowadays motorized

catamarans are also in use to promote adventure tourism in Kerala.

Kayaking: A Kayak is a little one or two man boat which the rowers actuate with

twin paddled oars. Kayaking is probably the best way to explore the backwaters in

Kerala.

Para Sailing: Parasailing is a water sport commonly indulged in beaches and sea side

resorts. The sailor is strapped to a parachute which in turn is attached by a harness to a

motor boat or some such small vessel.

Scuba Diving: Scuba diving is the best way to explore the varied aqua life. The deep

Arabian Sea off Kerala shores makes scuba diving a veritable pleasure sport.

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Snorkeling: Snorkeling is a major tourist recreation at the beaches of Alappuzha,

Kovalam and Varkala. It allows the diver to view the natural underwater bounties and

the diversity of marine life.

Wind Surfing: Windsurfing is skimming the water face on a surfboard with a

revolving sail. Windsurfing is a sport that rouses much interest in the numerous

beaches that fringe coastal Kerala. Windsurfing includes surfing as well as sailing.

The breezy climate and placid seas make wind surfing in Kerala an ideal sport to

engage.

Biking

A biking tour is the one of the best ways to experience the atmosphere, the purity, and

the friendly charm of Kerala. The coffee plantations of Munnar and the spice

plantations of the Nilgiris definitely add spice and aroma to your bike tour.

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 ECO TOURS TO KERALA

Duration Coverd: 08 Nights / 09 Days

Destination : Kozhikode - Wayanad - Thrissur - Periyar - Kottayam -

Houseboat - Kovalam - Kochi

Day 01: Kozhikode

Our representative will meet you upon arrival at Kozhikode at the start of

your Eco Tours to Kerala, India. Soon after you will be check-in to a

beautiful lakeside resort. Rest of the day spend it in leisure and enjoy the

Eco-Friendly ambience. A tour can be arranged to various attractions in

Kozhikode upon request.

Day 02: Kozhikode-Wayanad

This Kerala Itinerary will take you to Wayanad on day 02. Wayanad is a

place known for its serenity. Its blossoming nature and alluring ambience is

sure to leave you enchanted. Soon after reaching there you will be taken to

sightseeing tour to the Soochippara Waterfalls yet another attractions that

lures travellers from distant places. In the evening you will get to rejoice

with the song and dance by the bonfire in the hotel surrounds, making your

Eco Tours to Kerala, India a memorable experience.

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Day 03: Wayanad

Explore the untouched beauty of Kuruwa Island situated in the forests of

Wayanad, 35 kms from the town. A guided tour to Tholpetty Sanctuary in

the evening as the place is known for its elephants and bison. Spend the

night at Wayanad.

Day 04: Wayanad-Thrissur

In the morning after breakfast you will be driven to Thrissur, where you

will get to visit the famed Kalamandalam Dance and Music Academy. A

day on your Kerala eco-tour to get up close to the cultural aspect of Kerala.

Next, after having your lunch you will check-in to a hotel for the night.

Day 05: Thrissur- Guruvayoor- Periyar

In the morning of day 05 of your Eco Tours to Kerala, India, soon after

breakfast you will leave for Periyar. During the journey you will be halting

at Guruvayoor to see the ancient rock cut temples. In Periyar you will see

the Wildlife Sanctuary and considered one of the best Eco Tourism

destination in Kerala. It will be a guided jeep tour where you will see tigers

and elephants amongst its more famous denizens. Soon after your tour to

the wildlife sanctuary you will be check-in to a resort to spend the night at

Periyar.

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Day 06: Periyar- Kottayam

On day sixth you will be taken to Kottayam. As soon as you reach there you

will check-in to a luxurious resort close to the

emerald Backwaters of Kerala. Enjoy the day

relaxing with number of healing Ayurvedic therapies

that you will enjoy in this eco-friendly resort, an

attraction of this Eco Tours to Kerala, India.

Day 07: Kottayam – Alappuzha

Cruising on a houseboat in the Backwaters is everyone’s dream who so ever

comes for the South India tour. This itinerary of Kerala tour will actually

turn this dream into reality. You will get to cruise the unique ecosystem of

the scenic Kerala backwaters on board the well-appointed houseboat and

even spend a night in it.

Day 08: Alappuzha- Kovalam

In the morning after breakfast disembark at Alappuzha and you will be

driven to Kovalam. Kovalam was a hippy idyll destination with a picture

perfect tropical beach, which has a traditional fishing village providing

fresh fish, fruits and coconut beer called toddy. Overnight stay at Kovalam.

Day 09: Kovalam- Thiruvananthapuram

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This is the last day of your tour. You will be transferred to

Thiruvananthapuram airport from where you will board a flight for home.

FLORA AND FAUNA OF KERALA

Plant Life

Kerala has been known through the ages as a veritable nursery of medicinal plants,

plants yielding a variety of landscape and availability of plenty of water for

irrigation, provided a congenial setting for the growth of a rich and diverse variety of

flora in the state. Among the major crops of Kerala are cereals and millets, pulses,

fruit plants, vegetables, condiments, spices, tuber crops, oil palm and medicinal

herbs. The highlands are eminently suited for planting tea, coffee and cardamom.

Rubber is extensively grown at the lower elevations of highland and midland. Coffee

and cardamom grow luxuriantly at altitudes from 750 to 1500 metres. Rice, the

staple food of the Kerala is grown in several varieties in the midland and lowland.

Tuber Crops and Pulses

Tuber crops and pulses supplement rice, which forms the principal food. In tuber

crops, the pride of place is given to tapioca. Though exotic and a native of Brazil, it

was introduced into Kerala by Visakham Tirunal Maharaja of Travancore and is

eminently suited to the soil and climatic conditions of Kerala. Hence it is grown

abundantly in the state. Besides, sweet potato, yam, arrow root, canna and coleus are

also cultivated extensively. Pulses, which are supposed to be Indian in origin are

cultivated in large scale in Kerala. The chief varieties of pulses are lab-lab-bean,

29
pigeon pea, goa bean and cluster bean. These protein-rich pulses ensure the nutrition

of the people.

Fruit Plants and Vegetables

Many varieties of fruits provide subsidiary food to the people. Kerala is famous for

its jack fruit, mango and cashew. Apart from these, fruit plants such as guava,

banana, orange, papaya, mangosteen, pomegranate, sap-ota and pineapple are

abundantly grown all over Kerala. Depending on the variations in altitude, climate

and soil, the fruit plants grown differ in their species and variety from region to

region. Cashew nut is a very important article of export from Kerala. The soil of

Kerala is ideally suited for chasew cultivation which is 1985-86 covered 136,717

hectares of land. Vegetables constitute important part of the diet of the people. Large

scale cultivation of vegetables include okra, cucurbits, tomato, egg plant, amaran-

thus and chillies. Moringa and sesbania are other important vegetables, which

constitutes regular dish in Kerala food. Coconut, gingeley, ground nut and oil palm

grown widely in the state provide for edible oil.

Sugarcane is cultivated chiefly on the banks of rivers. Hybrid varieties are usually

preferred in place of the wild variety.

Medicinal Plants

In Kerala, the Ayurvedic system of medicine has been popular from ancient days. A

large number of medicinal plants and their properties have been identified and their

use, determined. Medicinal plants that grow in Kerala include sarpagandha, vasaka,

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aristolochia, shatvari, Indian birthwort, glory lily, sweet flag, sar-aka, tinospora,

Indian sarasaparilla, neem, ummam, periwinkle, nux-vomica, ocimum etc.

Timber Trees

Kerala forests in the Western Ghats abound in timber trees such as teak, eucaliptus,

hopea, santalam, rosewood, mahogany, dysoxylon, Indian redwood tree, red cedar,

coral wood and several others. 'The timber depot at Kallayi near Calicut is one of the

largest of its kind in Asia and timber is one of the important export items of the

state."

Spices

Kerala soil and climate are ideally suited for the cultivation of spices. The major

spices of which Kerala is known all the world over, are pepper, cardamom, ginger,

turmeric and clove. Pepper grows abundantly in the low moist parts of the

countryside with concentration in the two districts of Cannanore and Kozhikode.

"The state accounts for nearby 97% of the Indian production of pepper while Madras

and Mysore share the rest." Likewise, Kerala is the most important producer of

cardamom in India, which in turn is the largest producer of cardamom in the world.

Cardomom grows only in the High Ranges under the shade of forest trees. The main

ginger growing area in India is also Kerala. "Indian turmeric is imported by as many

as sixty-four countries." In total production, however, Andhra Pradesh stands first

and Kerala, only second.

Water Plants and Weeds

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Kerala, because of its heavy water potential, has been ideally suited for the growth

of water plants and weeds. Plenty of water lily, lotus, salvinia, hydrilla, valisneria,

neptunia and alo-casia, salvinia have come to be a real threat even for cultivation.

Several weeds also grow in abundance all over the state. These have virtually added

to the burdens of agricultural work.

Ornamental Trees and Plants

Trees bringing forth exuberant foliage and attractive flowers of different colours and

shape have made Kerala a paradise of natural beauty. Among ornamental trees, the

most popular are gulmohar, tulip, coreal tree, flame of the forest and asoka, which

produce scarlet or orange flowers. Trees with yellow flowers such as golden

champa, Indian laburnaum, rusty shield bearer, umbrella tree, etc., are also very

common. In addition, there are trees with pink or related coloured flowers such price

of. India, cannon ball tree, vain tree etc. jaca-randa and queen's flower give forth

blue or related colours. Fascinating shrubs are also of several kinds and they are

usually grown in gardens. Most widely cultivated among them are bougainvillea,

hibiscus, ixora, lantana and mussaenda. Certain very attractive climbers are also

cultivated profusely in gardens. They include glory lily, morning glory, coral

32
creeper, purple begonia, alla-manda and rangoon creeper. In addition to annuals of

several variety, roses and dahlia of manifold varieties add to the beauty of gardens

and parks.

Fauna

Kerala has a variety of natural habitats. These were brought into being by the

peculiar geographical features. The total area covered by forests in Kerala is only

10,81,509 hectares i.e., about 28 per cent of the total area of the state. The Ghat

region is covered by evergreen and semi-green forests and the foothills by deciduous

forests. One of the salient features of the fauna "is its amazing similarity to that of

south-west Sri Lanka on the one hand and the Eastern Himalayas on the other."

Vertebrates

Fish

Kerala, with its long coast line and extensive inland water potential, provides

excellent fishing facility. A large number of fishes both freshwater and saline are

found in Kerala waters. Among fresh water fish, the most important are the carps,

catfishes, mahseers, perches and murrels. Fishes such as chanos, latis, etroplus and

lu-tianus caught at estuaries constitute popular fish items. The coast line abounds in

fishes like sardines, mackerel, seer fish, tuna, pomfrets, flat fish, ribbon fish and

sharks. Fish is regularly exported from Kerala. Industries based on fish such as

manufacture of shark lever oil and poulty feed are making good progress in the state.

Amphibians

The important amphibians seen in Kerala are frogs of different variety. Some

33
varieties of frogs constitute choicest dish in foreign countries and are in great

demand. Their legs are exported on a large scale. The frogs generally are useful in

controlling insect, pests and larvae.

Reptiles

Several reptiles are also found in the different parts of Kerala. One family consists of

turtles living in ponds, tortoises and marine turtles. Lizards constitute another

family. They include geckos living on rocks and trees, wall lizards and garden

lizards. Chamaleons are interesting creatures which change their colour according to

the background to which they move. The monitor lizard is also a well-known lizard

of Kerala.

Kerala has its share of poisonous and non-poisonous snakes both found in large

numbers. Among the former, the quite common are cobra, viper, krait and sea

snakes. Cobra is the most dreaded. The latter include rat snakes, predators of rats

and mice.' The large Python which preys on large animals lives in forests. Besides,

there are the natrix and tree snakes.

The crocodile is another animal known for its sluggish habits. It lives in the estuaries

of rivers. Fish, reptiles, birds and small mammals constitute its food.

34
Birds and Mammals

Birds

Dr. Salim Ali has identified 400 types of birds in Kerala of which 280 are permanent

residents, while 120 migrate. The Western Ghats have been the habitat of birds such

as thrushes, fairy blue birds, large wood shrikes, wood peckers and great eared night

jars. Widely seen common birds are the owls, kingfishers, sparrows, egrets, tailor

birds, kites, eagles, vultures, falcons, honey suckers, jungle fowls, gulls, pigeons,

doves, koel, myna, house crow, bulbul, robin, wag tails, etc.

Mammals

Kerala is rich in mammals also. Over 100 species including bats and rodents, have

been identified, though no serious study has been made about them.

The Ghat mountains represent the abode of several mammals, never seen in any

other part of the world. Nilgiri tahr, Nilgiri brown mangoose, pine marten, stripe

necked mongoose, European otter, spiny mouse and Malabar civet are some of them.

The civet group is supposed to be extinct today.

Several varieties of monkeys are seen in Kerala. The most common are the bonnet

macacques, which frequent even in villages. The lion tailed macacques dwell in the

thickets of sholas difficult to penetrate. In the Nilam-bur and Wynad forests, the

Hanuman langoors are profusely found. The Nilgiri langur is mainly found in

evergreen forests only.

35
Kerala is the habitat of several members of the cat family. Tiger is the prominent

representative. Tekkadi Wild Life Sanctuary is a good asylum for it. Some other

varieties of the cat family commonly seen in Kerala are the leopard cat, rusty spotted

cat, jungle cat and fishing cat. Besides, among the canids, the jackal, Indian fox and

wild dog are common.

In Kerala, a good deal of insectivores are also seen. The tree shrew, pale hedgehog,

and the Indian musk shrew are a few Kerala varieties.

Kerala has a bountiful collection of rodents also. They include varieties of squirrels,

rats and mice. Squirrels are of beautiful varieties such as the palm squirrel, Indian

giant squirrel, grizzled giant squirrel, dusty striped squirrel, large brown flying

squirrels, and smaller types found in the southern parts of Kerala. Rats and mice are

a threat to crops.

In addition to the above, there are Indian porcupines, and black naped hares. Bats are

a very common feature of Kerala.

Herbivores

Elephant is the largest herbivore seen in Kerala. This is a domesticated animal over

centuries. The tusks of elephants have a world market. In religious festivals,

elephants play a key role. Indian bison, sambhar, chital, barking deer, mouse deer

and Indian wild boar are other herbivores spotted in Kerala.

Invertebrates

A good deal of invertebrates also find a permanent habitat in Kerala. 'They range

36
from microscopic acel-lular forms to large forms with complex life histories."

Apart from marine spongy organisms, there are also fresh water animals. A good to

number of worms both free living and parasitic are found in several varieties. Many

earthworms and blood sucking leeches are available a-plenty.

Anthropods make up another groups of invertebrates. Prawn, crabs, lobsters and

shrimps are found in abundance in water conservators. Insects which find a place

among arthropods, such as honey bees, butterflies, lac insects and silk worms are a

few examples. Besides these useful ones, there are also insect which cause damage.

They include cockroaches, grasshoppers, locusts, bed bugs, mosquito, house fly etc.

Further different types of centipedes scorpions and spiders are also seen in large

numbers.

Molluscs or shelled animals are also found abundantly in Kerala. Some of them are

used as food. Oysters, clams, fresh water mussels, mytilus etc. make up this group of

invertebrates.

37
POLLUTANTS ACTIVITIES IN OUR ENVIRONMENT

Introduction to how do our activities affect the environment?

The discussion starts with - “What are those activities that affect the environment?”

The answer to this is: -

1. Depletion of ozone layer

2. Emission of green house gases

3. Urbanization etc.

Thus our many activities affect the environment in many ways. Like the main reason

of depletion of ozone layer is man. So if the ozone layer is affected then the whole

environment will be affected by it's depletion. Similarly the emission of green house

gases which is one of our activities that is affecting the environment. Due to more

release of green house gases which is challenging environment and now giving the

alarming records. So is the case of urbanization which leads to deforestation in the

need of more land and other requirements.

Activities Affect the Environment: Depletion of Ozone Layer

The anthropogenic causes of ozone depletion or depletion of ozone layer due to man

activities are the release of chlorofluorocarbon and halon gases during the

maintenance or operation of several devices using the synthetic chemicals in

refrigerators, air conditioners, spray can dispensers etc. These gases are inert and

non-toxic in the troposphere. But when they reaches the stratosphere which takes

38
about 10 years to reach by the vertical atmospheric circulation and here they have the

reaction with the ice crystal which deplete the ozone layer.

Activities Affect the Environment: Emission of Green House Gases

The most significant green house gas is carbon-dioxide which is released in the

atmosphere by burning of fossil fuels for different purposes in various ways like -

Electric power stations based on fossil fuel mainly coal and mineral oil emit huge

amount of carbon-dioxide. Numerous industries using immense quantity of coal,

mineral oil, and natural gases and spew huge amount of carbon-dioxide. The other

main sector is transport sector which released huge amount of carbon-dioxide and

the is the deforestation and burning of fire woods.

Activities Affect the Environment: Urbanization

Formation of concrete jungles by engulfing the countryside land which was richly

vegetated. This concretionary structures greatly modifies the pre-existing climatic

conditions of the country side. Thus city generates its own distinctive climate.

39
 RISKS AND BENEFITS OF ECO TOURISM

Eco Tourism is one of the latest additions to the tourism industry, which is fast

gaining momentum. It is a responsible tourism to the natural areas, which conserve the

ecology and promotes the welfare of the people. It entertains the visitors in a way that

it does not effect the world's natural and cultural environments. Infect it is one of the

most fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry. The revenue generated from the

tourism industry encourages the state and central government to fund various

conservation programmes in a country.

This culturally responsible and high quality environment friendly tourism is capable

of satisfying the visitors in all aspects. Each one of us has a responsibility towards the

environment, what ever it is, weather a nature camping tour or the trekking trip, one

should always keep in mind not to disturb the nature. Well said, “take nothing but

photographs, leave nothing but footprints”. Eco tourism ensures the survival of the

attractions of the nature and culture, without harming the resources. Eco tourism is a

sound environmental tourism, which is promoting nature travel as the hottest eco

40
correct activity available. It focuses tourism to the destinations where flora -fauna,

cultural and historical heritage are the prime attractions.

Is the Eco Tourism Beneficial? Undoubtedly, Yes! As the eco tourism is a nature-

based tourism, which preserves the nature and the cultural values of the locals.

 Eco Tourism minimizes the negative impacts on the local people and the

natural environment.

 Eco Tourism minimizes the negative impacts on the local people and the

natural environment.

 Eco tourism directs economic and other benefits to the local people by

providing them employment.

 It promotes conservation of natural assets and enhances the cultural integrity of

the local people.

 Eco tourism has become the major source of income and is attracting lot of

travel agencies than ever before.

 It promotes the preservation of wildlife and the natural habitats.

 Providing positive attitude and experience among the travelers.

 Eco tourism supports the international labor agreements.

 Ensures that the natural resources are conserved and managed properly so that

they could be saved for the future generations.

41
On the other hand if eco tourism is not monitored properly it can be as damaging

as the mass tourism :

 It is the major threat to the rich biodiversity and natural habitats of the wilds in

the jungles.

 Eco tourism tends to conserve the environment at the expanse of the

development prospects for the third world communities.

 Located in the eco systems, eco tourism projects itself are the biggest obstacle

in the way of the development of the environment.

 Competition for eco tourism income between the various groups leads to social

disharmony.

 Increased use of resources by the human population, even in the smallest sense

cause problem to the environment.

 Another major threat to the environment are the production waste and effluent

pollution as well as increasing human activities like logging, and agricultural

clearance.

42
 CONCLUSION

Employing 260 million people and generating 10.7% of world’s GDP, Tourism is the

largest as well as the fastest industry of the world. Bigger planning and management is

in dire need to control the tourism industry, and more important, to protect and

conserve the biodiversity of tourist places. Dealing predominantly with such serious

issues, eco- tourism comes in great handy, as it is all about conserving the resources,

valuing the local culture and tradition and, contributing largely in economy.

“Ecotourism basically deals with nature based tourism, and is aimed “to conserve the

environment and improves the well-being of local people”.

Ecotourism is entirely a new approach in tourism. Ecotourism is a preserving travel to

natural areas to appreciate the cultural and natural history of the environment, taking

care not to disturb the integrity of the ecosystem, while creating economic

opportunities that make conservation and protection of natural resources advantageous

to the local people.

In short, ecotourism can be categorised as a tourism programme that is - "Nature

based, Ecologically sustainable, Where education and interpretation is a major

constituent and Where local people are benefited."

All this together can be called ecotourism. If a travel does not satisfy any one of these

constituents, then it is not called a real ecotourism venture.

43
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

 www.keralatourism.org

 ecotourismkeralam.org

 www.ecoindia.com

 www.keralatravels.com

 www.fascinatingkerala.com

 Rajeevan, B (1999). "Cultural Formation of Kerala". Essays on the Cultural

Formation of Kerala. http://www.keralahistory.ac.in/publication_n.htm. Retrieved 12

January 2006.

 Ramakrishnan, V (2001-12-10). "Communal tension high in Kerala". BBC

News.http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/1702270.stm. Retrieved 28 January

2006.

 Sadasivan, S. N. (2000). A social history of India (illustrated ed.). APH

Publishing.ISBN 9788176481700. http://books.google.com/?id=Be3PCvzf-

BYC&printsec=frontcover. Retrieved 2009-06-16.

 Sunny, C (2004). "Domestic Violence Against Women in Ernakulam District".

Centre for Development Studies.

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 Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION 2

CONSERVE & PRESERVE NATURAL & CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT 6

ECO PARKS IN KERALA 7

ADVENTURES/ACTIVITIES IN KERALA 21

ECO TOURS TO KERALA 26

FLORA AND FAUNA OF KERALA 29

POLLUTANTS ACTIVITIES IN OUR ENVIRONMENT 38

RISKS AND BENEFITS OF ECO TOURISM 40

CONCLUSION 43

BIBLIOGRAPHY 44

45