Mankulam beckons those with a thirst for adventure

Kochi
The Hindu, March 12, 2015

A walk along the forest tracts and a chance to pitch a tent deep in the forest. That’s what the Mankulam Forest Division is offering those who love adventure.

From sighting wild animals to trekking along tough terrain, bird watching and visiting tribal hamlets, the ecotourism package promises a wide range of nature experiences to the visitors, said forest officials.

On the itinerary is a three-hour-long trek to Kannadipara, which offers a splendid view of Munnar and surrounding areas. The programme will be offered in six time slots starting 7 a.m. and each one lasts for three hours. Batches of six persons each would be taken for trek at a time along each trail. Trained guards will lead the programme.

Nakshtrakuth Exploration is another guided trekking programme along the river course and bamboo forests. Members of Muduvan tribes living in the fringes of forests will depict their rich culture encapsulated in the traditional dance forms. The hour-long programme will be staged at Viripara at 6 p.m. every day.

Tiger Caves programme comes with a trek and camping inside the forest in tents. The package comes with the option of a one night-two day stay or two nights-three day stay. Five trekkers will be accompanied by four guides and an armed forest official.

A tribal hamlet visit will provide insight into the life and culture of the people, said forest officials.

The faunal population of the region includes elephants, Nilgiri langurs, bonnet macaques, lion tailed macaques, leopards, tigers, jungle cats, jackals, wild dogs and sloth bears.

Presence of mongoose, Indian Gaur, sambar, barking deer, mouse deer and wild boar have also been reported from the region.

The information centres at Viripara and at Anakulam will guide the visitors to the community-based ecotourism programmes that were launched last week.

Munnar, Marayoor and Devikulam are the other important tourist destinations near Mankulam.

For more details contact the range officer, Mankulam, at 854760 1560.