About Thenmala
Thenmala is an untouched wilderness and not commonly visited side of Kerala, which will mesmerise you with its dense forests, cheerful leisure zones, pristine waterfalls, misty hills, exciting adventure trails and overall exciting eco-tourism experience that spreads across the scintillating hill ranges of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta. Amassing the recognition of being one of India’s first planned eco-tourism destinations, this enchanting “Honey Hill” is captivating for visitors for its premium-quality honey, rich biodiversity, timber-rich forests and a serene natural beauty.
If you are an adventure lover, you can explore the thrilling trekking routes, rock climbing, mountain biking trails and scenic forest paths, surrounded by lush greenery and scintillating landscapes. So, whether you seek relaxation, adventure, wildlife experiences, or a refreshing nature escape, you will experience the most unforgettable getaways to eco-tourism amidst scenic mountain charm and pure wilderness when in Thenmala.
Thenmala is an ideal destination if you are a thrill-seeker, as the magnificent Adventure Zone has some of the great outdoor activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, rappelling and canopy walks through the lush, green forests.
With the existing Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, you will be thrilled to spot some of the fantastic and diverse flora and fauna. You must also not miss out on the butterfly safari.
In the local language, Thenmala translates to “Honey Hill”, you must try their high-quality, forest-harvested honey.
For a scenic and relaxed leisure time, you can engage in strolling through the sculpture garden, visit the dam and capture Kallada River’s tranquil views.
This is a scenic gravity dam and located conveniently across the Kallada River, where you can engage in outdoor activities like boating, or guided treks along the reservoir, surrounded by the ecotourism zone.
The Thenmala Hanging or the Suspension Bridge is considered one of the major attraction points here, where you can enjoy a sweeping view of the river flowing below and the surrounding hills. You can also enjoy your time in the Leisure Zone walking through the scenic trails which have various sculptures and a view of the Kallada River.
This deer park is a part of Thenmala’s ecotourism and is built within the Kallada River side forest where you can catch the sight of a wide variety of deers, besides seeing an interesting Tree House and letting your kids enjoy their time in the adjacent Children’s Park.
This is a forest garden where you will be led to the sculpture garden, after a walk through the ride side walkway. It will indeed be a fascinating trip to the Sculpture Garden where you can witness the exclusive sculptures that symbolise Man’s relationship with Nature!
This site is a remarkable haven of natural beauty and biodiversity, which also forms a part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. This sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. You can enjoy nature trails, jeep safaris, bamboo rafting, camping and boating.
This Pathimoonnu Kannara Bridge is a popular architectural marvel as the “13 Arch Bridge” which is a historic British-era structure located on the Kollam-Sengottai railway. Here you can enjoy an exceptionally beautiful sight of the bridge, especially during the monsoon season.
This is one of the popular attraction points in Thenmala which you can enjoy if you are an adventure lover. It is a great place to enjoy with your friends and family the attraction points like the elevated walkway, the mountain biking or rock climbing.
This site is also popular as “the Rock of the Pandavas”, which is an ideal picnic spot, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and mythological significance. The crisp, chilly winds at the top provides a refreshing atmosphere, and from here, you can gaze towards the eastern flank.
This is an interesting garden which has 27 trees, each of which are associated with 27 birth stars. Here you can enjoy a slow walk through this garden and get more info about them. It is indeed a blessing to spot all 27 trees in this garden.
This picturesque hamlet is mostly known for its charming appeal and the sacred Sastah Temple which is located approx. 12 km away from Thenmala. You can enjoy and witness the Vishu Mahotsavam being celebrated in the Sastha Temple, if you visit this place anywhere between April and May.
Thenmala offers the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and eco tourism experiences for every kind of traveller. From thrilling outdoor activities to peaceful forest trails, this scenic destination lets you enjoy the best of Kerala’s natural beauty.
Ride through forest trails and rough paths surrounded by the natural beauty of Thenmala. Mountain biking here offers the perfect mix of adventure, greenery, and thrilling outdoor fun.
Test your strength on natural rocky surfaces surrounded by forests and hills. Rock climbing in Thenmala delivers an exciting adventure experience for beginners as well as thrill seekers.
Enjoy an action packed river crossing experience amid the refreshing beauty of nature. This activity adds excitement to your Thenmala trip without demanding intense trekking or climbing.
Cruise through calm waters and soak in the peaceful charm of Thenmala’s lush surroundings. Boating here also gives visitors a chance to spot birds and wildlife along the banks.
Explore colourful butterfly habitats filled with rare and exotic species in a serene natural setting. The butterfly safari in Thenmala delights nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Discover dams, forests, viewpoints, temples, and other attractions that highlight the beauty of Thenmala. Every sightseeing spot in this destination offers a refreshing escape into nature and culture.
Walk through dense forest paths and enjoy the untouched beauty of the Western Ghats up close. Nature trails in Thenmala bring travellers closer to rich greenery, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings.
Thenmala offers a peaceful spiritual side along with its famous eco tourism attractions. The region features ancient temples and sacred spaces where visitors can experience Kerala’s traditions, rituals, and calm atmosphere.
One of the well known spiritual places in Thenmala, Sree Dharmasatha Kshetram welcomes devotees seeking peace, blessings, and a serene atmosphere surrounded by nature. The temple holds special importance during the Mandala season and local temple festivals.
Aryankavu Shastha Temple stands as one of the most famous Lord Ayyappa temples in Kerala and attracts pilgrims travelling between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The temple is known for its traditional architecture, spiritual significance, and vibrant annual festivals.
One of Kerala's most famous pilgrimage destinations and attracts millions of devotees every year. The temple celebrates Lord Ayyappa in his ascetic form amid the forests of the Western Ghats.
This is a sacred temple which is dedicated to Mother Goddess, which is located only 3km from Mananthavady, where devotees visit this temple in a large number to worship the goddess in three different forms: Vana Durga, Jala Durga and Bhadraklai. You can visit this temple alongside the locals.
Thenmala offers from traditional rice meals to spicy Kerala delicacies that reflect the region’s rich flavours and local cooking style. From comforting homely dishes to freshly prepared seafood, the food here adds warmth and authenticity to every trip.
Enjoy a flavourful Kerala meal packed in banana leaf rice, curries, pickles, and side dishes. The banana leaf adds a rich aroma that makes Pothi Choru a favourite among travellers in Thenmala.
Taste the rich flavours of boiled tapioca mixed with spicy chicken or beef curry in this popular kerala dish. Kappa biryani offers a filling and comforting food experience after a day of sightseeing.
Savour freshly cooked fish coated with local spices and roasted to perfection. Fish fry in Thenmala pairs perfectly with Kerala meals and brings out the authentic taste of coastal cuisine.
Soft and fluffy appams served with creamy egg or chicken curry make a perfect Kerala breakfast or dinner. This classic combination delivers mild flavours, rich texture, and homely comfort in every bite.
Being a tranquil eco-tourism destination, you won’t find any immediate area with numerous market options. So head to the few shopping points which have dedicated souvenir stores, for local shopping.
This is a bustling local market, which is located about 3.5 km away along the Kollam-Shenkottai highway, where you can find fresh produce like spices, daily essentials and can stop for some quick local snacks.
This estate is famous for high-quality, freshly plucked tea and spices, which is located about 18km into the Ambanad Hills from where you can purchase freshly picked tea and spices.
This is the best place in Thenmala for you to shop souvenirs like forest honey, unique handicrafts made by the local tribals and authentic, freshly produced spices.
Thenmala welcomes visitors throughout the year, but October to February offers the best weather for enjoying its waterfalls, forest trails, eco tourism activities, and scenic landscapes comfortably.
Winter marks the peak season in Thenmala, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 33°C. Cool weather, misty mornings, and pleasant evenings make this the best time for trekking, camping, sightseeing, and nature walks.
Summer counts as the off season in Thenmala, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 39°C. March feels comfortable for sightseeing, but April and May become hotter, especially during the afternoon hours.
Monsoon brings moderate tourist crowds to Thenmala from June to September, and the temperature usually stays between 22°C and 30°C. Heavy rainfall covers the forests and hills in lush greenery, creating beautiful views for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Thenmala enjoys good connectivity by road and rail, making it easily accessible from major cities and towns across Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport lies around 72 km from Thenmala and connects with major Indian and international cities through regular flights.
Kollam Railway station sits around 66 km away and offers convenient rail connectivity to Thenmala from different parts of Kerala and India.
Buses, taxis, and private vehicles connect Thenmala with Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, and nearby towns through scenic forest and hill roads.
Plan your Thenmala trip with a few simple travel tips for a comfortable and refreshing eco tourism experience filled with trekking, nature walks, wildlife spotting, and scenic forest views.
Carry light cotton clothes, trekking shoes, rain protection, sunscreen, and essential medicines for a comfortable trip across Thenmala’s forests and outdoor attractions.
Follow designated trekking paths, avoid isolated forest areas after dark, and always carry water and basic essentials during nature activities.
Use local taxis or private vehicles for easier travel between eco tourism zones, waterfalls, wildlife attractions, and nearby sightseeing spots.
Follow safety instructions during adventure activities and boating experiences, especially during monsoon season when trails and water levels may become challenging.
If you want an exciting and refreshing escape to Thenmala with comfortable stays, smooth travel arrangements, local guidance, and well planned sightseeing, Trip2Keralam offers everything you need for a memorable eco tourism experience.
We create Thenmala tour packages for couples, families, solo travelers, adventure lovers, and nature enthusiasts who want to explore the forests, wildlife, and scenic beauty of Kerala at their own pace.
Enjoy comfortable accommodation, peaceful nature stays, and convenient transport that make your Thenmala trip relaxing and hassle free.
Our local travel expertise and friendly guidance help you explore trekking trails, wildlife areas, waterfalls, camping spots, and eco tourism attractions with ease.
We design every Thenmala experience around your travel style, from nature walks and boating to trekking, camping, birdwatching, and scenic forest exploration.
Thenmala welcomes travellers with lush forests, scenic hills, calm rivers, trekking trails, wildlife experiences, and immersive eco-tourism attractions that beautifully showcase Kerala’s untouched natural beauty and peaceful charm.
Thenmala welcomes travellers with lush forests, scenic hills, calm rivers, and immersive eco-tourism experiences that showcase Kerala’s untouched natural beauty. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, trekking, wildlife encounters, or a peaceful escape from busy city life, Thenmala offers a refreshing journey filled with greenery, tranquillity, and a deep connection with nature.
From forest trails and riverside views to wildlife experiences and serene surroundings, every moment in Thenmala brings peace, freshness, and lasting memories for travellers seeking a deeper connection with nature.
Its breathtaking landscapes, eco-tourism attractions, scenic trekking routes, and calm atmosphere create an unforgettable travel experience that continues to leave a lasting impression long after the journey comes to an end.
Trip2Keralam creates thoughtfully curated Kerala travel experiences designed around comfort, authenticity, and personalised exploration.
From eco-tourism holidays and forest escapes to trekking adventures and family nature trips, every itinerary is carefully designed to help travellers experience the peaceful beauty and refreshing landscapes of Kerala.
Explore Kerala beautifully — comfortable, authentic, and memorable.
TL;DR: Quick answers about Thenmala ecotourism, adventure activities, waterfalls, trekking, wildlife, timings, nearby attractions, boating, butterfly safari and sightseeing experiences in Kerala’s famous eco-tourism destination.
TL;DR: Thenmala is located near Punalur town in Kollam district.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Thenmala is a village located around 20 km from Punalur town in Kollam district, Kerala. It is popular as one of India’s first planned eco-tourism destinations and is known for forests, dam views, trekking and adventure activities.
TL;DR: Thenmala offers ecotourism, wildlife, adventure zones and nature attractions.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Top attractions at Thenmala include Thenmala Ecotourism, Thenmala Suspension Bridge, Deer Rehabilitation Centre, Leisure Zone, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Pandavan Para, Nakshatravanam and Kulathupuzha.
TL;DR: The ecotourism programme includes guided trekking into forest and sanctuary areas.
Snippet-Ready Answer: The ecotourism programme in Thenmala includes guided trekking experiences inside forest and sanctuary regions, ranging from short 2-hour trails to extended 2-day trekking programmes.
TL;DR: It includes leisure, adventure, butterfly safari, boating and deer park experiences.
Snippet-Ready Answer: The Eco-friendly General Tourism Programme at Thenmala includes attractions around Thenmala Dam such as Leisure Zone, Adventure Zone, Butterfly Safari, Children’s Park, Deer Rehabilitation Centre and boating in the sanctuary reservoir.
TL;DR: Yes, Palaruvi and Courtalam are both close to Thenmala.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Palaruvi Waterfalls is around 16 km from Thenmala towards the Senkottai/Courtalam route, while Courtalam is approximately 30 km from Thenmala.
TL;DR: Around 2 days are ideal to enjoy Thenmala properly.
Snippet-Ready Answer: To enjoy all major attractions in Thenmala, a minimum of 2 days or 48 hours is recommended. Travellers can also choose picnic-style park visits, one-night packages or two-night eco-tourism packages with Trip2Keralam.
TL;DR: Most nearby Thenmala attractions are within 4 km to 36 km.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Nearby attraction distances from Thenmala include:
TL;DR: The Adventure Zone offers elevated walkways, rope activities, boating and adventure games.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Thenmala Adventure Zone has a forest area with an elevated walkway and multiple adventure activities such as:
TL;DR: The Leisure Zone has forest gardens, sculpture garden, boardwalk and suspension bridge.
Snippet-Ready Answer: The Leisure Zone in Thenmala includes a forest garden with pathways, a sculpture garden with 24 sculptures based on man’s relationship with nature, a boardwalk and a scenic suspension bridge.
TL;DR: Visitors can see deer species and a children’s park.
Snippet-Ready Answer: At the Deer Rehabilitation Centre in Thenmala, visitors can spot Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer and Barking Deer. The area also includes a children’s park for families.
TL;DR: Butterfly Safari is a research-oriented butterfly and insect habitat.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Butterfly Safari in Thenmala is planted with host plants that attract butterflies, moths and dragonflies. The best chances of spotting butterflies are usually between 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
TL;DR: The musical fountain show runs from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM except Mondays.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Thenmala Musical Dancing Fountain has one daily 30-minute show from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM, except on Mondays. Visitors can enjoy an open-air nature-themed dance and fountain show.
