The Thenmala ecotourism project, a planned ecotourism development, lies in the forests at the foothills of the Western Ghats, a low mountain range that spans from Mumbai to the India's southernmost border. The ecologically-diverse mountain range features more endangered animal and plant species than any other place in the world, according to Honeyhillstours.com.
Thenmala ecotourists can arrange adventure, leisure and cultural activities through the Thenmala Ecotourism Facilitation Center. One of the top destinations within the ecotourism development, Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary, boasts over 1000 flowering plants and more than 200 different types of birds. Other activities include nature walks, boat rides, hiking and educational lectures.
Ecotourists can commune with Thenmala nature and the surrounding community by arranging accommodations with local families, a common Thenmala development practice, booking motel rooms and by renting tents to experience the great outdoors. Tourists also have the opportunity to spend their vacation dollars in the community by purchasing goods and services such as regional crafts and authentic cuisine from local business people.
