The Best Thenmala Tourist Places: A Complete Guide

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is a gem on the southwestern coast of India, celebrated for its vibrant culture, eco-friendly tourism, and renowned Ayurvedic Practices. The state boasts an array of natural wonders including tranquil backwaters, picturesque hill stations, and pristine beaches, with Kerala Calicut Beach being a notable mention for its serene sunsets and cultural significance. Beyond the well-known destinations, Kerala is home to hidden treasures waiting to be explored, and one such gem is Thenmala.

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Thenmala is India's first planned ecotourism destination. The name Thenmala translates to "honey hills" in Malayalam, reflecting the region's rich biodiversity and abundant honey. Spread over acres of evergreen forest, there are a range of tourist places in Thenmala, attracting millions of tourists from within the country and abroad.

Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Thenmala has something special in store for you. So, if you are planning a trip to Kerala and seeking a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature, then don’t forget to add this enchanting destination to the itinerary of your Kerala tour packages.

Top 9 Thenmala Tourist Places

As a part of the planned eco-tourism project, Thenmals has been divided into 5 prime zones - Cultural zone, Adventure zone, Leisure zone, Deer Rehabilitation zone, and Boating Zone. From lush forests and cascading waterfalls to thrilling treetop walks and serene boating, there are so many tourist attractions in Thenmala that you will fall short of days.

Here are some of the best tourist spots in Thenmala that you must add to your itinerary:

• Butterfly Safari
• Adventure Zone
• Leisure Zone
• Nakshatravanam
• Children Park
• Deer Rehabilitation Centre
• Trekking
• Musical Dancing Fountain
• Sree Dharmasastha Kshetram
• Palaruvi Waterfalls

Butterfly Safari

The Butterfly Safari is a unique tourist attraction in Thenmala, allowing visitors to observe numerous species of butterflies in their natural habitat. The park features well-maintained gardens, with various trails and observation platforms from where visitors can easily admire these beautiful creatures.

With over 125 types of butterflies, a safari to this butterfly garden offers a fascinating experience, making it among the best places to visit in Thenmala for nature lovers and photographers. The park also features models of butterflies and other flying creatures like hornbills, adding to the educational aspect of the visit. Take a guided tour to understand more about these delicate creatures from experienced experts.

Entrance Fees: INR 70 for adults, INR 55 for children, and INR 135 for foreign nationals.

Adventure Zone

For adventure enthusiasts, Thenmala offers an adventure zone filled with a range of activities that will truly give you an adrenaline rush. The adventure zone is among the best places to visit in Thenmala, offering a perfect blend of adventure and natural surroundings, allowing you to push your limits while appreciating the beauty of the landscape. From rock climbing, river crossing and mountain climbing to rappelling and elevated walkways, this Thenmala tourist spot has something for everyone.

Visiting time: 9 am to 5 pm on all the days of the week

Entrance fee: INR 70 for adults, INR 55 for children, and INR 100 for foreigners

Leisure Zone

If you want a place where you can just relax, unwind, and enjoy recreational activities amidst the scenic beauty of Thenmala, then the leisure zone is an ideal tourist place in Thenmala for you. The zone features food stalls and outlets, offering local delicacies, snacks, and beverages, open spaces for tourists to indulge in recreational activities, such as jogging, picnics, cycling, and more, and an amphitheatre for cultural performances.

Overall, it's an ideal tourist spot in Thenmala to unwind, enjoy the natural surroundings, and appreciate the eco-tourism initiatives in the area.

Deer Rehabilitation Centre

The Deer Rehabilitation Centre is an eco-tourism park situated in the dense woods along the Kallada River in Thenmala. The centre is home to a large population of wild deer that roam freely in the lush green surroundings, making it among the best places to see in Thenmala for wildlife enthusiasts. You can spot various species of deer, including sambar and chital, as well as enjoy the tranquillity of the natural setting.

Nakshatravanam

Nakshatravanam is one of the most unique tourist places in Thenmala Kerala. The garden is designed and planted with trees that represent the 27 birth starts (Nakshatra) of Indian Astrology. Each tree represents a specific star, offering a fascinating experience for those interested in astrology and mythology.

The trees are accompanied by informative boards explaining their significance, and the garden itself is a serene and peaceful place to explore. Whether you believe in astrology or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, Nakshatravanam is a must-visit tourist attraction in Thenmala.

Children Park

The Children's Park in Thenmala is designed specifically for younger visitors, offering a range of rides and swings to keep them entertained. While parents and adults enjoy the various activities and attractions in Thenmala, this Park ensures that kids have a fun and engaging experience too. With its colourful equipment and safe environment, the park is a great tourist place in Thenmala Kerala for families to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.

Trekking

If you are someone who loves trekking amidst nature’s beauty, you'll be thrilled to know that Thenmala offers a range of trekking trails to suit different types of travellers. You can go on a gentle 4 km trek or explore the riverine biking trail, where you cycle halfway and trek the rest on foot.

Another option is the Nature Walk, a serene trek that allows you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Treks typically begin at 7 am and conclude by 11 am, with experienced guides leading the way. Each trek has different charges per head, so it's a good idea to research and choose the one that best suits your preferences.

Musical Dancing Fountain

An open-air musical dancing fountain, also known as Nature’s Walk, is another popular place to see in Thenmala. The fountain is a captivating attraction that combines water, light, and music to create a mesmerizing experience. This experience is enhanced by the surrounding lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for those seeking relaxation and entertainment.

Palaruvi Waterfalls

Palaruvi Waterfalls, located near Thenmala in the Kollam district of Kerala, is one of the most stunning places to see near Thenmala. Known as "Stream of Milk" in Malayalam, the waterfall cascades from a height of 91 meters (299 feet), making it one of the highest waterfalls in Kerala and the 32nd highest in India.

Surrounded by lush greenery and dense forests, the waterfall is the perfect tourist spot near Thenmala for picnics and photography. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the pools formed at the base of the falls, with separate areas designated for women and children.

Sree Dharmasastha Kshetram

Just 14km from Thenmala, there is a significant Hindu temple, Sree Dharmasstha Kshetram, dedicated to Lord Dharmasastha, a form of Lord Ayyappa. The temple attracts many devotees seeking a spiritual experience, making it among the best places to visit near Thenmala. The temple is situated in a serene and picturesque location, surrounded by lush greenery and forests.

As we conclude our exploration of the best tourist places in Thenmala, it’s evident that this nature’s paradise has so much to offer. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, a culture-filled experience, or peaceful retreats in nature, Thenmala provides an unforgettable journey. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the best of Thenmala.

For a hassle-free and memorable experience, consider booking a package with Veena World. We offer a range of packages, including a Kerala family tour package, that covers all the treasures of Kerala, including Thenmala. Let us take care of the details while you focus on creating lasting memories.