Introduction

Konni is a small hilly town in the heart of Pathanamthitta which is 75 km away from Kottayam. The lush green land has been prominent since time immemorial as a haven of wild elephants and as an elephant training centre. The acres of thick forest with wild animals has now made Konni emerge as another adventurous tourist spot for safaris and trekking. The ride on the animals make the forest safari very exciting. The trek to the hill top and the view from the hill-top offers an amazing sight.

Recently one of the most innovative initiatives in ecotourism in Konni is “Elephant focus”,which turned Konni into a role model for other similar forest based ecotourism schemes focussed on verdant greenery, unique topographic and ecological features. It is a shelter and museum for elephants. Here ecotourism products are managed by Vana Samrakshana Samithi, a committee of local people.

Acres of thick forest with wild animals like bears and leopards have now made Konni emerge as another ecotourism spot. The animals make the forest safari very exciting. Another attraction is the Kattathipara in Kokkathodu, which is a few kilometres away from Konni. Kattathipara is particularly attractive with its gigantic rocks and the triple-echo phenomenon. Anakkoodu, where wild elephants are tamed, is another must-see.

Kerala’s famous Achankovil River has its origin in some of the small streams in Konni. There are two ancient forest temples — Achankovil and Aluvamkudi. Palaruvi and Thenmala waterfalls have also caught the tourist’s fancy over the years. There are facilities for rock-climbing, trekking, boating and cycling in and around these spots. Kumbhavuruthy, the beautiful waterfall amidst thick forests, is yet another place of attraction.