thenmala kerala tourist places

Places to Visit in Thenmala | Thenmala Tourism

Thenmala is home to India’s first planned Eco tourism destination. It is situated near Punalur town in Kollam district. An Eco tourism in Thenmala offers you a nature trail where you can watch the animals walking around you.

Thenmala is also a famous shooting location. Thenmala offers so many attractions like boating on the lake, a rope bridge, trekking, mountaineering, biking and a musical fountain.

Places to Visit in Thenmala

1. shenduruny wildlife sanctuary.

Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve holds rich biodiversity. Lying on either side of the Shenduruny river this sanctuary draws thousands of visitors. The major attraction of this place is the boating in the reservoir of Shendurney Sanctuary. Boating in the reservoir and trekking are permitted in the sanctuary.

The vegetation in the Sanctuary is mainly wet evergreen forests. About eight divergent types of forests have been identified here including the Myristica Swamps and Reed Breaks. A large caves with paintings similar to the Mesolithic paintings and containing relics of the Stone Age culture is of great tourist attraction.

2. Deer Rehabilitation Centre Thenmala

This centre provide facility for rehabilitating spotted deer, sambar and barking deer. These animals are given good food and medical attention and are kept in an enclosure surrounded by a nature trail. This give the tourists the opportunity to walk around and spot these animals. You can also watch these animals from a tree house.

3. Sree Dharmasastha Kshetram

Sree Dharmasastha Kshetram is a famous Ayyappa Temple in Kulathupuzha and is one of the popular pilgrim centers in Kerala . There is a unique ritual observed in here called Meenoottu. That is feeding the fish in the nearby lake with puffed rice and peanuts. This ritual is a joy to watch. One can get a good view of this ancient temple and the ritual from the bridge over the lake.

4. Arayankavu

This is a major shrine by the side of Kollam - Shenkottai road. The temple is 35 feet below the road level. This important Ayyappa site draws thousands of devotees especially during the festival called Thirukalyanam, which is the lord’s marriage to Pushkala.

Some consider the Lord here is in his Brahmachari Avtar. It is also believed that he married Pushkala from the Sourashtra community here. Mandala Puja is also important here.

5. Palaruvi Waterfalls

Palaruvi waterfall which is just 4 km from Arayankavu is a stunningly beautiful waterfall in the Cashew Town. The word Palaruvi means ‘Stream of Milk’. The water falling from a height of 300 feet make a little pond where bathing is allowed. This is one of the popular waterfalls in Kerala .

There is some special features for this waterfall. The water in Palaruvi is said to be medicated and is preventive against many diseases.There are ruins of ancient temples in here. Water cascading down across the Rocky Mountains is an amazing sight.

6. Places of Adventure

Those who are first time trekkers can enjoy the Adventure Zone. Adventure Zone activities are nature walks, elevated walkways, recreational rock climbing, rappelling and river crossing.

Leisure Zone, a massive broad walk and a bridge that add charm to the place worth a visit. The Sculpture Garden on the theme of ‘man and nature’, A Culture Zone with computerised Musical Dancing Fountain is other spots which worth a visit.

Where To Stay and Eat in Thenmala

Thenmala have limited number of staying options. The hotel in central of Thenmala is Lake View Ayurvedic Resort and research Centre. For those who opt for less expensive option Thenmala Eco Tourism Centre is there.

Near to Aryankavu is another Resort called Apichayans Cliff Resort, but there is no restaurant in this. There are not much option to dine. KTDC Restaurant in Thenmala Ecotourism Facilitation centre is a nice place to eat.

Excited About Kerala?

Request A Call Back!

Top Destinations

Show All Places to Visit in Kerala

Sorry, we couldn't find anything that matches your search.

Destination

Famous Places to Explore in Hyderabad

A vibrant city with the imposing...

Raipur Tourist Places | Best Place to Visit

The stronghold of several erstwhile...

Declared as India's first UNESCO World...

Ananthagiri

The verdant Ananthagiri Hills is...

Located on the banks of River Godavari,...

Situated around 40 km from Raipur,...

Boasting the famous Chand Baori...

Albert Hall Museum

A magnificent building built in...

2023. The year of India’s G20...

• Destinations

Thenmala prides itself as India's first planned eco-tourism site. It has 10 eco-tourism spots that cover the great hill ranges of Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta and Kollam districts. Home to a variety of deer like spotted deer, lawn deer and sambar, it is a popular picnic spot. A walk through the forest is not only a peaceful experience but also introduces you to a huge variety of trees present in the region. The beautiful statue of a deer named Krishna makes for a nice photography spot. The park also houses a few tree top huts and a Deer Rehabilitation Centre, where various species of deer are bred. There's also a recreational area with various swings and slides for children. The word 'thenmala' translates into a honey hill and it is believed that honey collected here is of premium quality due to the region’s biological composition.  The best time to visit Thenmala is between the months of December and February.  

Other Attractions In Kollam

Situated in the small fishing village of Parayakadavu, the ashram of...

Ashtamudi Lake

Fringed by swaying coconut palms and lush foliage, the Ashtamudi Lake...

Palaruvi Waterfalls

One of the most glorious waterfalls of the state, the Palaruvi...

Munroe Island

Nestled in the beautiful backwaters of Kollam, Munroe Island is a...

We use cookies to ensure that you have the best experience on our website. Continued use of the website would be assumed to be an acceptance of these conditions.

Sign up to our newsletter to receive exciting content about the tourism destinations in India.

Thank you for subscribing! Explore India with us.

How it works

• 1 Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• 2 Our Tour Experts will customize the plan based upon your requirements & will email the tour quote with 2-3 different hotel options.
• 3 Select & book best deal.

+91 9350-098-600

Kerala enquiry form, why travel with us.

Best Price Guaranteed

Package Customization

24X7 Trip Assistance

Thenmala– kerala travel guide.

Thenmala takes the ultimate pride of being the first planned eco-tourism destination in India. Located around 66km from Kollam city, this spectacular tourist town boasts of 10 breath-taking eco-tourism destinations. Extending to the fascinating hill ranges of Trivandrum, Kollam and Pathanamthitta, Thenmala is no less than a fairy tale destination for the visitors to Kerala!

Extremely popular for its swaying beauty and irresistible charm, Thenmala is also a hotspot for the best quality timber in the country. Adding more to this eco-tourism destination’s appeal, one could find the supreme quality of honey in this region. In fact, the name Thenmala translates to ‘Honey Hill’ in local language.

Besides being an enchanting eco-tourism spot, Thenmala also serves as a hotspot for the thrill seekers. Dotted with fascinating peaks and mountains, luscious forest areas and scenic plains, this tourism spot makes it for amazing adventure sport destination as well. Its rugged terrains, challenging trails, narrow passages, and enthralling rock formations makes Thenmala a befitting destination to let adrenalines rush with activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, trekking, and hiking.

How to Reach Thenmala

One of the most scenic eco-tourism destinations in Kerala, Thenmala is extremely well-connected with almost all the major cities and other tourist destinations in God’s Own Country. Visitors travelling from Kollam, Trivandrum, Punalur, and other popular destinations can avail regular state-run as well as private buses to reach Thenmala by road. Local cabs and taxis are also available to reach Thenmala by road.

2 By Train:

Thenmala Railway Station on the Kollam-Schencottah train route serves as the nearest railway station to reach Thenmala. The station doesn’t have direct connectivity with any of the major train stations in Kerala. Hence, visitors can alight at the Quilon Junction, and either board the regular buses or hire private transport options to reach Thenmala by road.

Trivandrum International Airport at a distance of 56km, is the closest airport to reach Thenmala by air. This airport serves as hub for plenitude of direct and via flights from many Indian and foreign cities. However, arriving at the airport, visitors need to hire any of the road transport options to reach Thenmala by road.

Best Time to Visit Thenmala:

Summer (March – May) – Good Time:  Temperature during the summer rises up to a maximum of 39 degrees. This season can only be a good time to visit Thenmala if visitors are accustomed to higher temperature. Ignoring the high rise in the mercury level, one would surely enjoy a clear atmosphere that could serve as an ideal time for sightseeing and other such tourism options.

Monsoon (June – September) – Good Time:  Only if visitors can ignore heavy rainfalls or the water-soaked terrains, monsoon can be a good time to visit Thenmala. With the advent of the monsoon rains, this region becomes more vibrant with a fresh outlook and unique charm all around. Monsoon can also be an ideal time for the thrill seekers who crave for extreme challenges.

Places to Visit around Thenmala:

Adventure Zone:  This place can be called the ‘Mecca’ for adventure seekers visiting Thenmala. Offering some of the adrenaline pumping activities like river crossing, mountain biking, rock climbing, elevated walkways, and rappelling, this is one such place any thrill seeker would not dare to miss out!

Leisure Zone:  For the visitors who want to reconnect with Mother Nature, Leisure Zone is the place for them! A calm and serene spot in Thenmala, this is in fact the place that resonates the unique charm of being in an eco-tourism destination.

Deer Rehabilitation Centre:  This rehabilitation centre serves as a foster home to the deer. On a visit here, visitors can spot a number of deer species including spotted deer, sambar deer, and others. Deer Rehabilitation Centre also offers a short, yet exciting riverside trek.

Valliyoorkkavu Temple:  This sacred temple is dedicated to Mother Goddess. Located only 3km from Mananthavady, devotees visit this temple in a large number to worship the goddess in three different forms: Vana Durga, Jala Durga and Bhadraklai.

Butterfly Garden:  Home to a number of butterfly species, this one is the most colourful spots to visit in Thenmala. Within this park, one can come close to these delicate flies, and also learn more about them over a guided tour.

Musical Dancing Fountain:  Come evening, this tourist attraction turns into a lively display of colours and music. It has an open-air dancing fountain that plays synced with lively music and lightings.

Children’s Park:  A fun-filled attraction dedicated to the kids, this park offer large open spaces for the kids to enjoy the day in their own ways. Dotted with an ample of fun elements like swings, zig-zag rides, slides and lot more, the junior visitors would definitely love to be here!

Nakshatravanam:  This verdant garden serves as a natural abode to 27 trees that co-relates with the 27 birth star. Going by the Indian astrology, each of these trees symbolise the 27 different constellation.

Parappar Dam:  Set amidst a scenic backdrop, Parappar Dam is a wonderful place to visit in Thenmala. The longest artificial water reservoir in Kerala, this dam site can be visited during 08:00 in the morning to 05:00 in the evening.

Aryankavu Railway Bridge:  Tucked away between the Kollam-Senkottai National Highway and Kazhuthurutti River, this historic bridge is among the oldest railways bridges in India. Measuring around 102m with a height of 5.18m, this rustic bridge has around thirteen arches and makes it for a magnificent site to visit in Thenmala.

Pandavan Para:  Also called the ‘Rock of the Pandavas’, Pandavan Para connects the visitors with the epic Mahabharata. Resting in Urukunnu, this is the rock, where the Pandava bothers took rest during their exile period.

Kulathupuzha:  Located only 12km away from Thenmala, this pictorial hamlet is mostly known for its charming appeal and the sacred Sastah Temple. One should visit Kulathupuzha during the months of April or May; during this time of the year, Vishu Mahotsavam is celebrated in the Sastha Temple.

Ayyappa Temple:  One of the most pious religious establishments in Kerala, Ayyappa Temple (also called Sree Darma Sastha Temple) is the temple of Lord Ayyappa. Located at a distance of 12km from Thenmala, this temple has the Lord in the form of a teenager named ‘Tiru’.

Things to do in Thenmala:

Rock Climbing: The rocky outgrowths found in Thenmala serves as remarkable spots for rock climbing. Though of easy grades, rock climbing in Thenmala is quite adrenaline pumping are requires basic skills.

River Crossing: River crossing is also among the exciting things to do in Thenmala. Conducted with the limits of Thenmala, this is an ideal activity for the visitors who do not wish to challenge the uneven terrains or rocky surfaces.

Boating: While boating around Thenmala, one can discover, unravel and enjoy the swaying beauty of Thenmala. A one-hour joy ride, visitors can also spot exotic wildlife species while boating around this scenic tourist Kerala destination.

Butterfly Safari: A walk through the Butterfly Park is a must while enjoying the undulated beauty of Thenmala. Ranging from small to large, local to exotic, visitors can have a glimpse of numerous butterflies within these exquisite safaris.

Sightseeing: With numerous tourist attractions, Thenmala also proves to be kaleidoscopic destination for sightseeing options. From religious sites to historical landmarks, this beautiful tourist destination have them all!

Nature Trails: Trailing the nature could be the best thing to do in Thenmala! Embark on these trails to walk through the dense thickets, explore their natural charm and get connected to Mother Nature’s untouched beauty within a wink of the eye!

Hotels around Thenmala:

Our best selling packages.

4 Night / 5 Days

5 Night / 6 Days

6 Night / 7 Days

7 Night / 8 Days

8 Night / 9 Days

WhatsApp us

Get Free Quotes Call Now

Plan Your Trip to Thenmala: Best of Thenmala Tourism

Essential Thenmala

Things to Do in Thenmala, India - Thenmala Attractions

Things to do in thenmala, tours near thenmala.

Day trip to Kanyakumari beach and Padmanabhapuram palace

Trivandrum Full Day Sightseeing Tour in a Private Car

Cooking classes @ Aryavilla heritage, Varkala

Varkala beach day trip from Trivandrum/Kovalam

"Day Trip to Varkala from Trivandrum (Guided Full Day City Tour)"

Kayaking in Mangrove Forest of Paravur Backwaters near Varkala and Kollam

Kanyakumari Day Package

A Journey To The Southern Tip Of India

Trivandrum day trip and sight seeing with lunch

Full Day Kanyakumari Day Excursion

Top attractions in thenmala.

Other Top Attractions around Thenmala

What travelers are saying

• Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
• Thenmala Dam
• Aryankavu Shastha Temple
• Chenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary
• Suspension Bridge
• Leisure Zone
• Butterfly Safari Park

Places To Visit In Thenmala

Top hotel collections.

Near Thenmala Ecotourism

• Amusement & Theme Park (2)
• Garden & Park (2)
• Wildlife Safari (1)
• Deer Park (1)

1. Butterfly Safari

0 km from city center 1 out of 7 Places To Visit in Thenmala

A garden has been specifically raised with host plants for butterflies. A guided trail in this garden lets the visitors observe butterflies closely. Each one is different from the other, there are so many species.

2. Adventure zone

1 km from city center 2 out of 7 Places To Visit in Thenmala

For the adventure enthusiasts, adventure zone is the place to look out for, from elevated walkway to river crossing and rock climbing, mountain biking and rappelling.

3. Trekking

0 km from city center 3 out of 7 Places To Visit in Thenmala

There are various kinds of treks organized by the TEPs for all kinds of trekkers. There is soft trek for 4km, another one on the riverine biking trail route, where trekkers cycle halfway and cover the rest of the distance on foot.

4. Leisure Zone

1 km from city center 4 out of 7 Places To Visit in Thenmala

Leisure zone is a good area to relax, it brings the tourists close to appreciating nature and eco tourism. It has a food court with some restaurants, a shooing court and amphitheater etc. It also has a musical fountain which is very famous among tourists.

Top Hotels In Thenmala

7.4 (27 reviews)

₽ 873 onwards

8.1 (18 reviews)

₽ 1,925 onwards

8.5 (16 reviews)

₽ 3,052 onwards

8.6 (14 reviews)

₽ 2,830 onwards

7.2 (13 reviews)

₽ 3,884 onwards

6.1 (13 reviews)

₽ 942 onwards

5. Nakshatravanam

0 km from city center 5 out of 7 Places To Visit in Thenmala

It's a garden which has 27 trees which are said to be linked with 27 birth stars. For those believing in astrology this would be a fascinating experience. There are interesting stories about their association.

6. Children park

44 km from city center 6 out of 7 Places To Visit in Thenmala

Exclusively for kids, this area has rides and swings arranged for your little ones. While you will have a fun day with your nature walks and adventure sports, there is something the kids will look forward to.

7. Deer Park

7 out of 7 Places To Visit in Thenmala

Deer Park is an eco tourism park situated in the dense woods of the Kallada river side forest in Thenmala. Sprinkled with green trees, the park has a large population of wild deer that roam around freely. Blessed with tinkering waterfalls and rope swings, the park is a perfect place to celebrate picnics and have a good time. There is also a cafe where you can tend to your hunger pangs. Among the most spotted animals are deer, sambar and chital etc.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Thenmala

Can you suggest an itinerary for thenmala, how can i commute within thenmala, what are the top sightseeing places in thenmala, browse hotel collections, by hotel type.

Resorts In Thenmala

Near Landmarks

Hotels Near Thenmala Ecotourism

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

A Complete Guide To Thenmala In Kerala

Bored of staring at the four walls of your room? Looking for some fresh air and rejuvenating tourist places? You have clicked the right tab now. To satisfy all your wanderlust, continue reading this article about Thenmala, the natural bounty. Being the first planned eco-tourism destination in India, Thenmala in Kerala is a wonderful paradise for nature lovers.

Located around 66 km from the city of Kollam, it houses almost 10 stunning eco-tourism destinations that everyone must visit at least once. With fascinating hill ranges of Trivandrum, Kollam and Pathanamthitta, Thenmala is truly a natural retreat for its visitors in all possible ways. 

Why Thenmala?

There are numerous reasons to visit Thenmala in Kerala. The swaying beauty, irresistible charm and rejuvenating environment will truly demand a visit. It is also famous for its high-quality timber in India. You will get the best tasting honey in the mountains of the city. Thenmala is the best buddy for hikers and trekkers. Taking an adventurous trek through the mountains covered with luscious forests is a dream for many.

How to reach Thenmala?

Reaching Thenmala in Kerala by road is the best choice for nature admirers. It will truly be the most scenic ride that you will ever experience in your life. Thenmala is well-connected with all the major cities in Kerala and also with other South Indian states. You can reach the place from Kollam, Trivandrum , Punalur and other famous spots as well. You can jump into a private bus or rent a taxi to reach Thenmala in Kerala.

You can also reach Thenmala in Kerala by train. Thenmala Railway Station is well connected by Kollam to Shenkottai train route which is the best possible way to reach the place. Since the station doesn’t have direct connectivity with major cities of Kerala, reaching Thenmala by rail is just a secondary option.

Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Thenmala in Kerala. Located at a distance of 56 km, this airport serves as a hub for several flights connecting different parts of the world. After reaching the airport, you can hire any road transport such as bus or taxi to reach Tenmala in Kerala.

Best time to visit Thenmala

Winter season (december to february) – best time:.

It is during the winter season, Thenmala in Kerala looks like a shiny emerald. As the morning dew shows up with welcoming ambience, lush greeneries and misty atmosphere, Thenmala shows its utmost beauty during the Winter. From the month of December to February, this graceful eco-tourism spot experiences a steep drop in temperature and an alarming increase in tourists. 

Summer season (March to May) – Good Time:

Though Thenmala in Kerala experiences a higher temperature of 39 degrees, the clear atmosphere and rich nature make the summer season a better time to visit the place. If a higher temperature is not a bothering factor for you, you can surely enjoy the visit to Thenmala.

Monsoon season (June to September) – Good Time:

If you are a rain person, you will definitely enjoy visiting Thenmala in Kerala during the monsoon season . Everything becomes more colourful and vibrant during this season. With new leaves and flowers showing up, Thenmala will welcome you with all its grace and charm. However, there are chances of some challenges while visiting important attractions.

Places to visit in Thenmala

Palaruvi falls:.

As the name says, Palaruvi means a stream of milk and this is one of the best waterfalls in Kerala . Experience this thundering waterfall that gushes from a height of 300 feet. It’s the 32nd highest waterfall in the country and is at a distance of 18 km from the town.

Adventure Zone:

If you are an adventurous person, head to this hub of adventure activities in Thenmala, Kerala that will truly give you an adrenaline rush. Enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, elevated walkways, rappelling and much more here. It is a must-visit place in Thenmala, Kerala.

Leisure Zone:

For those who want to have a lighter vacation with utmost peace and solitude, head to the Leisure Zone in Thenmala, Kerala. Reconnect with nature with the resonating charm of mother nature.

Deer Rehabilitation Centre

Meet the spotted buddies at the Deer Rehabilitation Centre in Thenmala, Kerala. The place offers a home for a number of deer such as spotted deer, sambar deer and much more. Take a short trip where you can stroll around the premises and take a riverside trek as well. 

Valliyoorkkavu Temple

Located at a distance of 3 km from Thenmala in Kerala, this sacred temple is dedicated to Mother Goddess. The temple offers pooja for the goddess in three forms namely Vana Durga, Jala Durga and Bhadrakali. 

Butterfly Garden

The Butterfly Garden is a beautiful place in Thenmala, Kerala where you can spot the most colourful species of butterflies. Come close and play with these colourful butterflies while taking a guided tour to this place.

Musical Dancing Fountain:

Spend your beautiful evenings in Thenmala at the Musical Dancing Fountains. You will get a lively display of vivid colours, music and attractive lightings. This open-air attraction is one of the must-visit attractions in Thenmala, Kerala.

Other attractions

Every nook and corner of Thenmala in Kerala has its own beauty to boast that the town is full of tourist attractions. There are also other mesmerising attractions such as Nakshatravanam, Parappar dam, Aryankavu Railway Bridge, Pandavan para, Ayyapan temple and much more.

Things to do in Thenmala

• Mountain Biking
• Rock Climbing:
• River Crossing
• Butterfly Safari
• Sightseeing
• Nature Trails

To conclude, Thenmala in Kerala is a place with all possible natural wonders and assets. There’s always something special in simple yet satisfying vacation. It’s time to find satisfaction and happiness with our own nation. Though international destinations have a lot to offer, Kerala is nothing less than other foreign tropics. In fact, you will find beauty in every corner of the state. Head to the Pickyourtrail website and start planning your vacation to Kerala right away.

Now, you can connect with us directly on Whatsapp to plan your dream vacation.

Amirthavarshini

186 posts published., related posts, is lakshadweep part of india the unspoken hidden gem of india, is lakshadweep safe a short guide for first time travelers, what is the language of lakshadweep a multilingual archipelago, what is the capital of lakshadweep island, is lakshadweep a union territory facts about the island of corals, how to reach lakshadweep from delhi: fly south and dive deep, is a passport required to enter lakshadweep, do indians need a visa for lakshadweep no visa, just a permit adventure, where is lakshadweep island located let’s understand the geography, do you know why lakshadweep is known as a coral island, agatti island, lakshadweep: everything you need to know about culture, food, activities & more., bangaram island lakshadweep: a must-visit traveler’s escapade.

Book a vacation completely online

Our community is growing fast

Sign up for exclusive PYT Club membership and access jaw-dropping deals before the rest of the world!

• Signup with Email
• Facebook community
• Telegram Community

Access exciting travel deals at best prices

• New Zealand
• South East Asia
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Switzerland
• Travelogues
• Travel News
• Guest Posts
• Write for us

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top Searches

Unesco World Heritage Sites

India Railway Stations

Kailasa Temple

Leh Manali National Highway

India Hottest Destinations

Kerala: Exploring Thenmala, India's first planned ecotourism destination

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , KERALA / Created : Apr 4, 2024, 22:37 IST

You're Reading

Thenmala is recognised as India's first planned ecotourism destination, Thenmala offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and eco-friendly experiences. Thenmala is located in the Kollam district of Kera … Read more

Thenmala is recognised as India's first planned ecotourism destination, Thenmala offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and eco-friendly experiences. Thenmala is located in the Kollam district of Kerala, and translates to Honey Hill in the local language, reflecting the region's abundant natural bounty. Read less

9 offbeat hill stations perfect for April getaways

More from travel news.

Comments (0)

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration.

Visual Stories

Popular Galleries

Best Indian destinations for a family holiday this summer TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

Kailasa Temple: A monolithic marvel of Maharashtra TRAVEL TRENDS , MAHARASHTRA

Exploring the coastal charms of Chennai: A guide to the best beaches TRAVEL TRENDS , CHENNAI

Trending stories.

Discovering Kargil’s mountains, culture and attractions

10 most beautiful railway stations of India

Best Indian destinations for a family holiday this summer

Tips for planning a memorable road trip

Kemmanagundi: A backpackers' haven in Chikmagalur, Karnataka

• 1 Kerala: Exploring Thenmala, India's first planned ecotourism destination
• 2 World’s oldest ghost fair is organised in this temple of Madhya Pradesh every year; know everything
• 3 Kashmir beyond Dal Lake: Exploring Wular Lake, India’s largest freshwater lake
• 4 Sachin Tendulkar’s wildlife adventure at Jim Corbett National Park’s Dhikala Zone
• 5 Discovering Kannur: Kerala's offbeat summer getaway

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO DESTINATIONS, ITINERARIES, THINGS TO DO, RESTAURANTS, NIGHTLIFE and LOTS MORE!

FOLLOW US ON

Places to visit.

• Places to visit in Bangalore
• Places to visit in Mumbai
• Places to visit in Delhi
• Places to visit in Goa
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Shimla
• Hotels in Mumbai

Things To do

• Things to do in Goa
• Things to do in Mumbai
• Things to do in Bangalore
• Things to do in Delhi

Travel Inspiration

• Visa on arrival for Indians
• Honeymoon Places in india
• Hill Stations in India
• Weekend getaways in Mumbai
• Weather in Delhi
• Weather in Chennai
• Weather in Bangalore
• Weather in Mumbai

Best Beaches

• Goa Beaches
• Mumbai Beaches
• Pondicherry Beaches
• Kerala Beaches
• Restaurants in Bangalore
• Restaurants in Chennai
• Restaurants in Pune
• Restaurants in Jaipur
• Hill Station near Delhi
• Winter trip to Ladakh
• Places to visit in Kerala
• Winter Honeymoon Destinations
• UK visa guide for Indians
• Winter Trip to Manali
• Vaishno Devi Yatra
• Special Train Ticket Booking
• HP inter-state Bus
• Honeymoon Destinations India

Latest News

• Scientists discover enormous fossil of the world’s 'largest snake’ in Kutch, Gujarat
• Solo travel adventures: Empowering journeys for independent explorers

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

Thenmala is recognised as India's first planned ecotourism destination, Thenmala offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and eco-friendly experiences. Thenmala is located ...

Kerala Tourism

• EXPERIENCE KERALA
• WHERE TO GO
• WHERE TO STAY
• THINGS TO DO
• PLAN YOUR TRIP
• TRAVEL CARE
• E BROCHURES
• E NEWSLETTER
• MICRO SITES

• E Brochures Download Mobile App Subscribe YouTube Channel Kalaripayattu
• Yathri Nivas Booking

Popular Destinations

• Kerala Videos
• Kerala Photos

Related Destinations of Thenmala Ecotourism in Kollam

Aqua Tourism in Kollam

Alumkadavu in Kollam

Kollam District

Kottarakkara Kathakali…

Kerala Travel Mart 2024 Buyer Registration | Register Now

Kerala Tourism invites applications from lifeguards at various beaches in Kollam and Kozhikode

Domestic Partnership Meets 2023-24 | Register Now

International Trade Fairs and B2B Meet, Vietnam - Sep 2023 | Register Now

International Trade Fairs and Roadshows | Sep 2023 - Mar 2024

Kerala Tourism bags PATA Gold Award for its marketing campaign

Kerala Institute of Hospitality Management Rank list for the Post of Library Assistant, Assistant Professor, Lower Division Clerk

Kerala tops the list as the ‘Most Welcoming Region’ in India

• Classification Schemes
• Governmental Affairs
• Tourism Events
• Kerala at a Glance
• Travel Care
• Where to Stay
• Travel Tips

Specialities

• Kerala Food

Videos/Photos

• 360° Videos
• Royalty Free Photos

Subscribe Our Newsletter Get notified to Kerala Tourism events and activities

For business/trade/classifications and tenders please visit www.keralatourism.gov.in.

• Email: [email protected]

• Destinations

Thenmala is a small village located on the foothills of Western Ghats in Kollam district and is famous for its exemplary topography and its wild life. Thenmala is situated around 72 Kms from Thiruvanathapuram and is the first planned eco tourism destination in the state of Kerala “God’s own Country”. Trekking, Mountaineering, biking, rope-bridge, boating are some of the major adventure activities in Thenmala and it has become a popular destination due to its close connectivity with Thiruvanathapuram. Thenmala is a combination of two Malayalam words “Then” means honey and “Mala” means hill and is called Honey Hill. The honey which is collected from here is believed to have many medicinal properties. Thenmala is spread with a wide evergreen forest and its topography supports variety of flora and fauna with stunning waterfalls. Thenmala is popular amongst adventure tourists for the nature trails this place has to offer where tourists are taken for daring adventurous trips through the hills and enjoy the activities like rock climbing and trekking.

Main Attractions:-

Culture Zone, Nakshatravanam, Butterfly Safari, Suspension Bridge, Palaruvi Waterfall, Musical Dancing Fountain, Chenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary, Madathara, Thenmala Dam, Aryankavu Shastha Temple, Kulathuppuzha Shastha Temple

Getting there

By Train:   Kollam is the nearest railway station located around 65 Kms. By Flight:   Thiruvanathapuram Airport is the nearest Airport located around 80 Kms.

Send Inquiry

Need kerala Help?

We would be more than happy to help you. Our team advisor are 24/7 at your service to help you.

29/66, 2nd Floor, West Patelnagar, New Delhi-110008

THE 5 BEST Things to Do in Thenmala

Things to do in thenmala, tours near thenmala.

Day trip to Kanyakumari beach and Padmanabhapuram palace

Trivandrum Full Day Sightseeing Tour in a Private Car

Cooking classes @ Aryavilla heritage, Varkala

Varkala beach day trip from Trivandrum/Kovalam

"Day Trip to Varkala from Trivandrum (Guided Full Day City Tour)"

Kayaking in Mangrove Forest of Paravur Backwaters near Varkala and Kollam

Kanyakumari Day Package

A Journey To The Southern Tip Of India

Trivandrum day trip and sight seeing with lunch

Full Day Kanyakumari Day Excursion

Top attractions in thenmala.

Other Top Attractions around Thenmala

What travellers are saying

• Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
• Thenmala Dam
• Aryankavu Shastha Temple
• Chenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary
• Suspension Bridge
• Leisure Zone
• Butterfly Safari Park

Thenmala Ecotourism: Kerala's Spot That Should Be On The List Of Every Responsible Traveller

Thenmala Ecotourism

Thenmala's ecotourism is India's first planned eco-tourism destination. Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, in Kerala's Kollam district, Thenmala is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A government-managed facility, this unique destination offers great opportunities for adventure and leisure, along with being one with nature .

It's an ideal spot for any and every type of vacation seeker and offers lush green forests, butterfly safaris, musical dancing fountains, and adventure activities such as trekking, hiking and night camping.

Ecological tourism is the next step in responsible tourism and the Thenmala Ecotourism area focusses on preserving, protecting and even improving the environment.

PC: Thenmala Ecotourism

How To Reach Thenmala Ecotourism

The nearest airport is in Trivandrum or Thiruvananthapuram. From there you can take a taxi to Thenmala.

Distance from other major cities of Kerala –

PC: Thenmala

Activities On Offer

1. culture zone.

The culture zone at Thenmala Ecotourism focusses on showcasing the best of Kerala's cuisine, crafts and natural wealth. Here are the activities on offer –

1. Soft trekking : A short (4km long) guided tour of the nearby wildlife sanctuary that keeps you on its periphery, instead of going inside. The timings are from 6am to 4pm and costs about Rs.100 per person.

Butterfly Park

2. Butterfly safari : A guided tour of the Butterfly Park give you an opportunity of seeing many varieties of butterflies in their natural habitat. You also learn about the plants that serve as hosts for butterflies that live in this small park.

PC: Thenmala Eco Tourism

3. Musical dancing fountain : An open air fountain that performs a synchronised ballet of water, sound and light to create a magical sight – what they call 'nature's dance'.

Pc: Thenmala Eco Tourism

4. Nakshatravana : This small garden has 27 trees associated with the 27 birth stars, according to Indian astrology. Besides this aspect, the trees also have medical, social and aesthetic value. Stroll around to see their shapes and sizes.

Adventure Zone

Adventure Zone is the perfect place for adrenaline junkies. Rock climbing, elevated walkway, zorbing, river crossing, flying fox, mountain biking and archery and short range shooting are the activities on offer. Take the elevated walkway for a journey that winds through the canopy of trees and goes over rocky terrains bringing you closer to life at different heights.

Leisure Zone

The Leisure Zone is a forest conservatory with pathways suited for appreciating the nature around you in all its glory.

1. Hanging Bridge and Sculpture Garden : A Hanging Bridge, one of its kind in South India, leads to the Sculpture Garden – a garden built on the theme of 'man and nature', where are displayed carved stone art pieces depicting the relationship between man and nature.

Thenmala Parappar Dam and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary are both part of the Leisure Zone and only a short distance away from the resort.

Thenmala Dam

2. Thenmala Parappar Dam : It is the second largest irrigation project in Kerala and has the longest reservoir in the state. You can visit the dam between 8am to 5pm. Entry charges are Rs. 5 per person.

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

3. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary : It is a 171-sqkm protected area and a home to rare birds, vipers and vivid foliage. Situated inside the sanctuary is a tropical treehouse, from where you can see the wildlife around.

Deer Rehabilitation Centre

4. Deer Rehabilitation Centre : It is a small centre established to cover the deer that stray out of the jungles into the urban areas. The centre accommodates three species of deer – Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer and Barking Deers.

Tariff for Attractions

Nearby Attractions

Palaruvi waterfalls.

1. Palaruvi Waterfalls: Palaruvi means a stream of milk and this waterfall is Kerala's most pleasant waterfall falling down from a height of 300ft. Located at a distance of only 16km, Palaruvi Waterfalls is a great place to spend an afternoon.

Pathimoonnu Kannara Bridge

2. Pathimoonnu Kannara Palam: It is a 13 arc bridge built by the British using only rocks, jaggery and limestone. It is a very special bridge and a must see attraction for all Thenmala Ecotourism visitors.

Ambanad Hills

3. Ambanad Hills: This is one of the few tea plantations in the Kollam district of Kerala. It is an old estate that was established by the British. The entire area has many trees and plants and the air smells of spices. There is a factory that was set up by the British, but is still in use. The machinery inside the factory is also of the British era. Currently, the factory and estate belong to Travancore Rubber and Tea Company and various stages of tea production can be seen in the factory. This tea estate is only 32km from Thenmala Ecotourism.

PC: Deepak Ashok for Thenmala Eco Tourism

Accommodation At Thenmala

They have 5 different types of accommodation.

1. The Bee Hive is a big dormitory with shared washrooms. The price is Rs. 140 a night for Indians and Rs. 300 for foreigners.

2. The Honey Comb is a cluster of budget homes. For Indian visitors, the prices are Rs. 700 for Non-AC rooms and Rs. 980 for AC cottages on weekdays. Rs. 1000 for Non-AC and Rs. 1400 for AC cottages on holidays and weekends. For international visitors, the prices are Rs. 1600 and Rs. 2000 for Non-AC and AC cottages.

3. Koodu are canopy huts on four poles with attached washrooms and balconies. Charges are Rs. 1400 on weekdays, Rs. 2000 on holidays and weekends and Rs. 2400 for international visitors.

4. The Cocoon or as they locally call it 'jungle camping' is a Swiss cottage tent with an attached bathroom and closets in the tent. They have double and triple occupancy options. Prices are Rs. 1400 on weekdays, Rs. 2000 on holidays and weekends and Rs. 2400 for international visitors.

5. The Nest is a group of Swiss cottage tents that are pitched near the riverfront. All facilities are the same as the Cocoon but the view of the river is what makes these tents more attractive. The prices are Rs. 1820 on weekdays, Rs. 2600 on weekends and holidays and Rs. 3000 for international visitors.

Have you visited Thenmala Ecotourism yet? Or have you spent some time at any other Eco Tourism Resort in the world? Share your story here . And if you have any questions about where to travel next, ask our community of travellers today.

Frequent searches leading to this page:-.

thekkady ,  thenmala ecotourism holidays, thenmala ecotourism package, thenmala ecotourism vocation