The Hindu Business Line : Eco-tourism projects for Kollam district

KERALA'S eco-tourism department has prepared a concept paper outlining various tourism projects that could help the overall development of Chadayamangalam in Kollam district.

According to a senior tourism official, all the potential projects outlined in the paper attempt to leverage the region's rocky terrain and include activities such as rock climbing, trekking and camping. The paper suggested development of eco-tourism projects in the oil palm estates located in the area. Bicycle tours of the oil palm plantations and camping within the estates are some of the possible activities.

The paper, which was discussed at a recent seminar involving Mr C.V. Padmarajan, Vice-Chairman, State Planning Board and Mr Prayar Gopalakrishnan, the Chadayamangalam MLA, also suggests that people in the area be encouraged to start home-stays for tourists. Promotion of agricultural produce grown in the region, local handicrafts and cuisine are some other suggestions outlined in the paper.

Meanwhile, the State Government has sanctioned Rs 88 lakh for the development of the first phase of the Jadayu Para tourism project that is also located in Chadayamangalam. Named after a huge rock formation called Jadayu Para or Jadayu's rock, this project will be developed around a series of activities that highlight the natural features of the rock formation.

The first phase of the project, which was launched in May by the Kerala Tourism Minister Mr K.C. Venugopal, involves the construction of walkways to the top of the rock, establishment of an information centre in the project zone and provision of basic amenities such as toilets and a restaurant.

During the second and third phases of the project, the department also proposes to develop the nearby Kottukal rock temple and Vattathil Thangal as satellite tourist destinations.

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