A serene hill station in Kozhikode, Kerala, Kakkayam offers lush greenery, waterfalls, and trekking trails amidst the Western Ghats.
Thenmala blends nature, adventure, and culture. It features lush forests, a dam, and activities like trekking and boating.
Veli Tourist Village: The main attractions here are boating, gardens, and a floating restaurant.
Along Kerala’s intricate network of backwaters, rivers, and estuaries, mangrove forests form a fragile yet vital ecological system. These coastal wetlands, though often overlooked, play a key role in protecting shorelines, preventing soil erosion, and acting as nurseries for countless marine species. Kerala has around 1,590 hectares of mangroves, concentrated mainly in districts like Kannur, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, and Kozhikode (Kerala ENVIS Centre).
Mangroves are uniquely adapted to saline, waterlogged environments. Their tangled root systems trap sediment, stabilizing coastal soil and filtering pollutants from riverine inflows. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), mangrove ecosystems are among the most productive natural habitats, storing large amounts of carbon, thus helping mitigate climate change.
In Kerala, they are home to species like the mud crab (Scylla serrata), milkfish, and various estuarine fishes. Birds such as the Black-capped Kingfisher and the Asian Openbill Stork frequent mangrove belts, especially in zones like the Kannur Valapattanam mangrove stretch.
Some of the largest and ecologically significant mangrove belts in Kerala include:
The 2020 report by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board highlighted that Kerala has lost over 60% of its mangrove cover in the last 50 years. Urban expansion, tourism-related construction, aquaculture, and sand mining are major threats. Additionally, unregulated shrimp farming leads to salinity changes and habitat degradation.
A study published in the Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences (2019) warned that unless restoration efforts are intensified, some mangrove zones might disappear within two decades.
In recent years, conservation has gained ground through both government and grassroots action. Kerala Forest Department’s “Mangrove Afforestation Programme” focuses on restoring degraded patches using native species like Avicennia officinalis and Rhizophora mucronata. NGOs like Friends of Marine Life and local biodiversity clubs have initiated school-based mangrove nurseries and awareness programs in coastal schools.
A promising example is in Puthuvypeen, Kochi, where local women’s self-help groups have partnered with the Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority to monitor mangrove growth and prevent encroachments.
Mangroves are not just ecological resources—they hold potential for eco-education. Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) runs field visits and community engagement workshops in mangrove belts for students. In areas like Kumbalangi and Malippuram, guided canoe rides through mangrove creeks are being promoted as part of sustainable tourism packages.
Kerala’s mangrove forests are biological frontlines—quietly protecting coasts, supporting marine life, and anchoring traditional livelihoods. They require urgent attention, not only from conservationists but from tourists, educators, and local planners. As sea levels rise and extreme weather events increase, mangroves will be among Kerala’s first and best defenses—if we choose to protect them.
Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats in Kollam district, Kerala, Thenmala is not just a scenic getaway—it's a model for sustainable tourism in India. Developed as the country’s first planned eco-tourism project, Thenmala has successfully combined conservation, local livelihood support, and tourist engagement since its launch in 2001.
Thenmala lies adjacent to the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary and draws much of its ecological richness from this proximity. The region is known for its thick deciduous forests, riverine landscapes fed by the Kallada River, and a diverse range of endemic flora and fauna. The name "Thenmala" translates to "Honey Hill" in Malayalam, believed to refer to the high-quality honey produced by native bees in the forested slopes.
One of the distinctive features of Thenmala is its zoning model. The destination is divided into three key zones—Culture Zone, Adventure Zone, and Leisure Zone—each offering curated experiences that balance entertainment with education. This design not only reduces the ecological footprint but also guides tourists through an immersive and informed interaction with the environment.
1. Suspension Bridge: A 500-foot-long hanging bridge offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the Kallada River. It’s engineered to blend into the environment without disturbing local ecosystems.
2. Sculpture Garden: This open-air art space features installations on nature, conservation, and tribal life, many created by local artists using recycled materials.
3. Adventure Zone: Ideal for those looking for physical engagement with the terrain—mountain biking trails, rock climbing paths, and river-crossing activities are organized under expert supervision.
4. Musical Dancing Fountain: Powered by renewable energy, this eco-friendly entertainment option syncs light and water to music—designed for minimal water use.
The nearby Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot with over 950 species of flowering plants, 267 species of birds, and 56 species of mammals. Visitors can opt for guided treks and boat rides organized by the Forest Department, offering responsible access to this protected area.
A hallmark of the Thenmala project is its strong emphasis on local participation. Eco-guides, souvenir shops, and homestays are mostly run by residents from nearby tribal and farming communities. This not only ensures authentic experiences but also supports regional livelihoods and discourages outward migration.
The ideal time to explore Thenmala is between October and March, when the climate is cooler and most outdoor activities are open. Monsoons, while lush, may limit access to certain zones. Visitors are encouraged to book eco-trails and forest activities in advance through official portals or the Eco-Tourism Promotion Society (ETPS).
Thenmala is located about 72 km from Thiruvananthapuram and 66 km from Kollam. The nearest railway station is Punalur, just 20 km away. State-run buses, as well as eco-tourism shuttle services, are available from major cities. Private vehicles are permitted but are encouraged to use designated parking areas to reduce environmental pressure near the zones.
Thenmala stands out not just as a place of natural interest, but as a successful case study in eco-tourism planning and community involvement. For travelers looking to engage meaningfully with nature, Thenmala offers more than sightseeing—it offers context, connection, and responsibility.
Nestled at an altitude of approximately 1,020 meters in the north-eastern hills of Kasaragod district, Ranipuram is a lesser-known but strikingly serene hill station in Kerala. Often overshadowed by more commercial destinations, Ranipuram offers a quiet, unspoiled environment ideal for those seeking a close connection with nature. With its undulating grasslands, dense forests, and mist-clad peaks, this highland area is increasingly becoming a favorite among ecotourists and serious trekkers.
Ranipuram is located near the Kerala–Karnataka border, roughly 85 km from Kasaragod town. The terrain here is part of the Western Ghats and shares ecological similarities with Coorg in Karnataka. The region enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year, with the best months to visit being between October and March when the skies are clear and the hills are green.
The Ranipuram trek is known for its 4 km stretch that ascends through a mix of shola forests, grasslands, and laterite rock paths. The summit provides wide-angle views of the valleys below and, on clear days, the distant Arabian Sea. The forest trail, maintained by the Forest Department, is home to wild bison, Malabar giant squirrels, barking deer, and over 150 bird species. Leeches can be common during monsoon months, so appropriate clothing is recommended.
Ranipuram’s development as an eco-tourism spot is relatively recent. Local communities have taken up roles as guides, homestay hosts, and organic farmers. Unlike commercial hill stations, the tourism model here is consciously minimal and locally driven. There are no luxury resorts—only small lodges and forest cottages that blend into the landscape. This has helped preserve the region’s ecology while supporting village economies.
Ranipuram’s uniqueness lies in its bio-geographical location. It is one of the few places in Kerala where montane grasslands coexist with wet evergreen forests. Botanists and naturalists often visit the area to study its native plant life, including several medicinal herbs and rare orchids. Unlike the crowded trekking routes of Munnar or Wayanad, trails here remain largely untouched, offering solitude and silence.
If you're planning a longer stay, nearby attractions include:
The ideal time to visit Ranipuram is from October to early April. Monsoons (June to September) bring heavy rainfall and slippery trails. The nearest major town is Kanhangad, around 48 km away. Public transport is limited, so private taxis or personal vehicles are recommended. Comfortable trekking shoes, drinking water, and biodegradable waste bags are essential for any trip.
Ranipuram isn’t about resorts or packaged experiences—it’s about forests, fog, and foot trails. For travelers who prefer places that are still on the quieter side of tourism maps, Ranipuram offers a compelling alternative to Kerala's usual destinations. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or someone simply looking to disconnect for a while, this highland retreat is worth discovering on your own terms.
Nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats in Kerala’s Palakkad district, Kollengode is a quiet countryside town rich in heritage, natural beauty, and cultural depth. Often overlooked by mainstream tourism, Kollengode offers an immersive experience into Kerala’s rustic charm and eco-cultural treasures. Known as the "Rice Bowl of Palakkad," this village-town is framed by lush green paddy fields, meandering streams, and timeless traditions.
The name Kollengode, or "Kollen-godu" in Malayalam, translates to “the abode of the Kollen Kings.” It was once the capital of the princely state of Kollengode, ruled by the Vengunad royal family. According to renowned historian A. Sreedhara Menon, “The Vengunad kings were not only patrons of art and literature, but also pioneers of modern agricultural reform in Central Kerala.” The majestic Kollengode Palace, built in 1904 by Raja Vasudeva Raja, stands as a striking fusion of traditional Kerala and Western architectural styles. It is now part of the District Heritage Museum, showcasing rare artifacts and ancient manuscripts.
Kollengode lies close to the Nelliampathy hills and is surrounded by pristine countryside that is home to rivers like Gayathripuzha and its tributary Chulliyar. The Meenvallam Waterfalls, just an hour's drive away, provide an offbeat yet breathtaking escape. “Kollengode represents the quintessential Kerala village, untouched by the pressures of urbanization,” says ecologist Dr. Anitha Kurup, who has conducted field studies in the region. The Chittur forests and paddy ecosystems are thriving examples of bio-diverse rural landscapes.
Kollengode holds a significant place in the folk tradition of Kerala. Annual festivals such as Vela Mahotsavam at Kachamkurissi Temple draw thousands of devotees and culture enthusiasts. Traditional percussion ensembles like Panchavadyam and Chenda Melam dominate the festivities. The area is also known for preserving Desathukali, a rare folk art that dramatizes agricultural and seasonal rhythms. As noted in a Kerala Folklore Academy report, “Kollengode remains one of the few villages where Desathukali continues to survive in its original form.”
With its unspoiled natural landscape and cultural wealth, Kollengode is increasingly being recognized as a promising eco-tourism destination. Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Mission has identified Kollengode as a potential model village. Community-based initiatives like village walks, organic farming experiences, and heritage homestays are gradually transforming the local economy. According to RT Mission field coordinator Arun Menon, “Tourism here is not about consumption; it’s about participation.”
Kollengode is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest railway station is Kollengode Railway Station, just 2 km from the town center. Palakkad Junction is around 30 km away. The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, about 70 km distant. Private buses and taxis frequently ply from Palakkad and Thrissur.
Whether you are a heritage enthusiast, a nature lover, or a seeker of cultural immersion, Kollengode offers a soulful escape into the heart of Kerala. It’s not just a destination—it’s a living, breathing village that welcomes you with the fragrance of earth, history, and human warmth. As travel writer Meera Nair aptly put it, “Kollengode is where time moves slowly and meaningfully, like the rhythm of a boat rowed by tradition.”
Tucked away in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, Gavi is a pristine forest haven that continues to captivate nature lovers, conservationists, and eco-tourists from across the globe. Located within the Periyar Tiger Reserve, Gavi is not just a destination—it's a philosophy of responsible coexistence between man and nature. With mist-clad hills, dense forests, and rare wildlife, this eco-tourism hotspot is a well-guarded secret of South India’s biodiversity.
Declared part of a biodiversity hotspot by UNESCO, the forests of Gavi form part of the Western Ghats, one of the eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity in the world. According to a study published in the Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society, “Gavi is home to over 260 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, and countless endemic plants and orchids.” The forests house iconic species such as the Nilgiri Tahr, lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, and even elusive predators like the tiger and leopard.
What sets Gavi apart is its approach to tourism. Managed by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC), the Gavi Eco-Tourism Project has been internationally praised as a model for low-impact, community-participated tourism. In a report by the UNDP, Gavi is cited as “a pioneering project where local communities are involved in conservation-based tourism, ensuring both livelihood and sustainability.” Visitors can participate in trekking, birdwatching, jungle camping, and even vegetarian-only canteen services—all designed to minimize ecological disturbance.
Gavi offers some of the most soul-stirring forest treks in Kerala. The Pine Forest trail, Sabarimala viewpoint, and Meenar camp provide panoramic views of untouched valleys and lakes. Early morning jeep safaris frequently reward travelers with sightings of wild elephants, Indian gaur, and a rich tapestry of birds like hornbills, woodpeckers, and kingfishers. Canoe rides in the Gavi lake at dawn are almost meditative, with floating mist and the forest's waking call forming an unforgettable backdrop.
Gavi lies about 40 km from Thekkady and 28 km from Vandiperiyar. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (160 km), and the closest major railhead is Kottayam. Entry to Gavi is controlled and requires prior booking through KFDC. Due to its ecological sensitivity, private vehicles are not allowed beyond a certain point—jeep safaris are arranged by the forest department. Entry is generally permitted only between 6 AM and 5 PM.
Because Gavi is an ecologically fragile zone, visitors are advised to follow strict eco-guidelines: no plastic, no loud music, vegetarian-only food, and respect for wildlife corridors. Overnight stays are permitted only in designated eco-lodges or tents run by KFDC. “In Gavi, silence is not the absence of sound, but the presence of deep respect,” notes forest officer Rajeev Thomas.
Gavi is not about luxury; it is about life in its most natural form. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a wildlife photographer, or a family seeking digital detox, Gavi offers an unforgettable encounter with Earth at its most primal and poetic. It is a place where every trail, every birdcall, and every leaf has a story to tell—if only we choose to listen.
Hidden away in the upper reaches of Kerala’s Malappuram district, Kakkadampoyil is a tranquil hill station that lies on the border of Kozhikode and Malappuram, just 48 km from Calicut. Unlike more commercialized hill stations, Kakkadampoyil remains untouched by mass tourism, offering unspoiled forests, misty peaks, waterfalls, and a village lifestyle steeped in indigenous traditions. For travelers seeking raw nature and authentic experiences, Kakkadampoyil is a destination that offers both.
At an altitude of over 2,000 feet above sea level, Kakkadampoyil is part of the Western Ghats, one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. The hill station is particularly famous for the Kozhippara Waterfalls, a multi-tiered cascade surrounded by dense forests and granite rock faces. Visitors can enjoy trekking, swimming, and nature photography in this serene, less-crowded alternative to popular falls like Athirappilly. According to the Kerala Forest Department, “the Kakkadampoyil region plays a vital role in preserving the upper catchment areas of the Chaliyar River.”
The area enjoys a cool and misty climate almost year-round, especially between September and February. Thick green canopies, coffee plantations, and cardamom groves dominate the hilly landscape. Birdsong fills the air, and mornings often begin with a veil of mist floating over the valleys. As writer and travel blogger Anjali Menon notes, “Kakkadampoyil is where time slows down, and every breath feels like a forest blessing.”
Kakkadampoyil is also home to the indigenous Kurumba tribal community, known for their deep forest knowledge, herbal medicine, and sustainable living. Many of the eco-tourism programs here include interactions with tribal artisans and forest guides. These communities offer insights into a symbiotic way of life, where nature is not consumed, but respected. According to the Kerala Institute for Research, Training and Development Studies of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (KIRTADS), “Kurumba tribes maintain a unique cultural identity through oral traditions, dance, and forest rituals that have remained largely undisturbed.”
Kakkadampoyil has gained attention among Kerala’s eco-conscious travelers and backpackers. There are government-approved homestays, nature camps, and trekking routes guided by local youth trained under the Responsible Tourism Mission. Forest camping, night safaris, and village life experiences are gaining popularity here. Tourism officer Pramod Nambiar remarked, “Kakkadampoyil represents the next wave of nature-based tourism—low impact, high engagement, and locally driven.”
Kakkadampoyil is accessible by road from both Kozhikode (48 km) and Nilambur (35 km). The nearest railway station is Mukkam (22 km), while Kozhikode International Airport (Calicut Airport) is around 40 km away. Private taxis and KSRTC buses regularly connect the town to major cities like Malappuram and Kozhikode.
The best time to visit Kakkadampoyil is between September and February when the monsoon has revived the waterfalls and the weather is crisp. Carry light woolens, eco-friendly products, and trekking shoes. Plastic is banned in many eco-sensitive zones. Due to narrow hill roads, cautious driving is advised, especially during rain.
For those yearning for peace, authenticity, and nature’s raw charm, Kakkadampoyil delivers in abundance. It is a reminder that Kerala’s magic lies not only in houseboats and beaches but also in its hills where time stands still. Whether you’re an eco-tourist, culture explorer, or weekend traveler, Kakkadampoyil welcomes you with quiet mist, tribal wisdom, and waterfalls that whisper stories of the forest.
Nestled deep within the Western Ghats of Kozhikode district, Kakkayam is a pristine and lesser-explored eco-tourism destination that combines the charm of rugged hills, waterfalls, wildlife, and a serene reservoir. Located around 45 km from Kozhikode city, Kakkayam offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers, trekkers, and photography enthusiasts seeking tranquility away from tourist-heavy spots.
The centerpiece of Kakkayam is the Kakkayam Dam, maintained by the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB). The reservoir is surrounded by forested slopes, grasslands, and mist-covered peaks, offering stunning reflections and calm waters ideal for picnics and landscape photography. According to a report from the Kerala Tourism Department, “Kakkayam is among the most photogenic yet under-promoted highland destinations in North Kerala.”
Kakkayam lies close to the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary and shares borders with the Wayanad forest zone. The region is a natural wildlife corridor for species like the Indian elephant, sambar deer, leopard, and Malabar civet. Over 150 species of birds have been recorded here, including Malabar grey hornbills and crested serpent eagles. Botanist Dr. Radhika Nair notes, “Kakkayam’s flora includes rare endemic plants and medicinal herbs typically found only in the upper Ghats.”
Kakkayam is a paradise for trekkers and adventure lovers. Popular trails include the Urakkuzhi Waterfalls trek and the Vellarimala range view trek, offering panoramic views of peaks and gorges. Rock climbing and forest hiking are also organized in controlled zones. The Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department recommends guided trekking to ensure safety due to frequent wildlife movement and narrow forest trails.
Kakkayam is part of Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Mission, encouraging community participation and conservation-oriented tourism. Local villagers serve as trained guides, homestay hosts, and environmental educators. Initiatives include plastic-free zones, water conservation awareness, and promoting indigenous plant species. Environmentalist T.K. Suresh observes, “Kakkayam is evolving into a textbook model of how conservation and tourism can coexist with local empowerment.”
Kakkayam is located about 45 km from Kozhikode city. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (60 km), and the closest railway station is in Kozhikode. Public buses, taxis, and private vehicles regularly operate up to the base, but entry to the forest zone is regulated by forest passes. Visitors are encouraged to travel early in the day and avoid nighttime travel due to wildlife presence.
The best season to visit Kakkayam is from October to February when the climate is cool and the reservoir is full. Avoid the monsoon months (June–August) due to landslide-prone areas. Wear comfortable trekking shoes, carry water, and avoid plastic. Entry into forest trails may require prior permission from the forest office at Kuttiyadi.
Kakkayam is not about luxury resorts or crowded viewpoints—it is about raw nature, quiet forests, and meaningful travel. Whether you're gazing into the foggy reservoir, trekking along elephant trails, or soaking under a hidden waterfall, Kakkayam offers an intimate experience with the Western Ghats that’s both humbling and refreshing. If you’re looking for a place where nature speaks in silence, Kakkayam is waiting to be discovered.
Perched around 2,000 feet above sea level in the serene hills of Kozhikode district, Vayalada has quietly emerged as one of Kerala’s most breathtaking hilltop getaways. Often called the “Mini Ooty of Malabar”, this lesser-known destination offers mesmerizing sunrise views, mist-clad cliffs, and panoramic valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see. Located just 38 km from Kozhikode city, Vayalada is ideal for day trips and short eco-tourism escapes.
The highlight of Vayalada is its natural viewpoint atop a steep cliff, offering a 360-degree view of the Peruvannamuzhi Reservoir, distant hills, and the plains below. On clear days, one can even spot the Arabian Sea shimmering on the horizon. Local photographer and travel writer Ajay Menon notes, “The sunrise here rivals those in Vagamon and Kodaikanal — it’s a secret the clouds haven’t yet whispered to everyone.” The atmosphere is especially magical during early mornings when the sun pierces through the layered fog.
The journey to the top involves a scenic drive through narrow village roads, followed by a mild trek of 1.5 km through grassy slopes and eucalyptus groves. The terrain is beginner-friendly yet invigorating. Seasonal flowers, chirping birds, and the occasional call of a Malabar whistling thrush make it a delightful experience for nature lovers. According to the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department, “Vayalada’s elevation supports highland grasslands and semi-evergreen forest patches that are ecologically sensitive and rich in birdlife.”
Vayalada is not yet commercialized, and its tourism model leans towards sustainability. The local panchayat and resident youth groups play an active role in managing the flow of tourists, maintaining cleanliness, and preventing forest fires. The site is part of Kerala’s ongoing Responsible Tourism initiative, ensuring that visitors are educated about eco-conscious travel. Small food stalls operated by local families offer traditional Malabar snacks like unniyappam and kaachiya moru, blending culture with hospitality.
Vayalada is about 38 km from Kozhikode city. Visitors can reach the base village via the Balussery–Perambra route or the Peruvannamuzhi side. The nearest railway station is in Kozhikode, while the Calicut International Airport is approximately 60 km away. The final stretch to the hill requires walking or taking a jeep ride from the designated parking area.
The most ideal time to visit Vayalada is from October to February when the skies are clear and temperatures are pleasant. Early morning and late afternoon visits are highly recommended for the best views and photographs. The monsoon season (June–August) adds a misty charm, but the trails may become slippery, so trekking during heavy rain is discouraged.
Carry enough drinking water, wear trekking shoes with grip, and avoid plastic waste. Mobile signal may be weak at the top, so pre-download maps or guides. Visitors should respect the ecosystem by staying on marked trails and avoiding loud noise or littering. Bonfires and camping are not permitted due to fire risks.
For travelers seeking a peaceful, offbeat, and elevated experience, Vayalada offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, solitude, and regional charm. Its cliffs don’t just offer views — they offer perspective. As one local visitor aptly put it, “You come to Vayalada to see the sunrise, but you leave having discovered something deeper in yourself.” If you're curating an eco-travel itinerary through Kerala, Vayalada deserves a top spot on your map.
Located just 8 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, Veli Tourist Village is a unique waterfront destination where Kerala's serene backwaters merge with the vast Arabian Sea. This scenic convergence point is more than a picnic spot — it’s a well-planned eco-tourism zone blending natural beauty with art, architecture, and family recreation. Ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers alike, Veli has become a signature leisure destination on the capital city’s tourist map.
Developed by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), Veli is designed to enhance the natural topography of the area while offering a blend of relaxation and exploration. The highlight is the narrow sandbar that separates the freshwater lagoon from the sea, connected by charming footbridges and landscaped gardens. Sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman’s famous concrete sculptures add an artistic flair to the open-air space, turning the site into an open-air art gallery by the water.
Veli offers a wide range of water-based activities including pedal boats, speedboats, rowboats, and even water scooters. The floating café operated by KTDC is a popular attraction, where visitors can enjoy snacks while drifting gently over the backwaters. According to Incredible India, “Veli successfully blends Kerala’s waterscape with modern recreational infrastructure, making it both scenic and family-friendly.”
The expansive park has children’s play areas, swings, and shaded seating spaces ideal for families. A small aquarium, a mini zoo, and pony rides make it engaging for young visitors. The carefully maintained gardens and the easy accessibility from the city also make it a favorite weekend getaway for locals.
The walkways, bridges, and resting pavilions in Veli are inspired by traditional Kerala design aesthetics, with sloping tiled roofs, wooden elements, and laterite structures. The open-air amphitheatre occasionally hosts folk performances and local art events, making Veli a subtle yet valuable cultural hub. Architect Shankar Balan comments, “Veli’s layout is an example of how traditional elements can be used to shape a modern public space without losing regional identity.”
Veli is only 3 km from Trivandrum International Airport and 2 km from Kochuveli Railway Station. Local buses, auto-rickshaws, and cabs provide quick access from various parts of the city. There is ample parking and minimal entry fee, making it an affordable outing option.
The ideal time to visit Veli is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. Early mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and the best lighting for photography. During monsoons, the area becomes lush but water activities may be limited due to safety regulations.
Carry hats or umbrellas to protect from the afternoon sun. Dispose of waste responsibly — Veli has multiple bins but plastic usage is discouraged. If you’re boating, follow all life jacket instructions and time limits. Early visitors enjoy a quieter, more serene experience before the crowds arrive.
With its stunning lagoon-sea confluence, thoughtful design, and family-friendly charm, Veli offers a unique blend of relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re boating under the setting sun, admiring sculptures, or simply sitting on the sandbar with the breeze on your face, Veli reminds us that nature and leisure can coexist beautifully. It’s not just a destination — it’s a pause in Kerala’s busy rhythm.
Empowering Communities through Conservation
One of Gavi’s strongest pillars is its inclusive approach to conservation. Many of the guides and staff at Gavi are members of the local tribal communities who once depended on forest produce for survival. Now trained in hospitality and wildlife education, they serve as custodians of the land. Environmentalist and Padma Shri awardee S. Sitaram says, “Gavi shows us that ecological protection and human prosperity can go hand-in-hand when guided by integrity and inclusion.”