Thenmala Ecotourism Centre

Thenmala Ecotourism Centre is one of Kerala’s pioneering nature-tourism projects and is widely described by official tourism authorities as India’s first planned ecotourism destination. Located at Thenmala in Kollam district, the centre sits within the green Western Ghats landscape close to the Kallada River, Thenmala reservoir and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary. Its tourism facilities are arranged around nature, leisure and adventure experiences rather than a single monument or viewpoint.

Depending on the active programme and local conditions, visitors may find forest walks, elevated pathways, boating, butterfly-focused experiences, cycling and rope or climbing activities. Landscaped areas, water features and family spaces make the destination suitable for a relaxed day visit as well as for travellers seeking more active outdoor experiences. Thenmala also serves as a practical base for exploring nearby Palaruvi Waterfalls and the Shendurney forest region.

The destination’s strongest appeal is the combination of conservation-oriented tourism, Western Ghats scenery and structured outdoor recreation in southern Kerala.