The Hindu : Tamil Nadu News : For a view of unsullied nature, go to Thenmala

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Monday, Jan 14, 2008
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

For a view of unsullied nature, go to Thenmala

— Photo: A. Shaikmohideen

CoolING off: The main falls at Courtallam roaring down the hill .

Tourists coming to Tenkasi between June and September will certainly visit Courtallam, the ‘Spa of the South,’ to have refreshing bath in the world-famous waterfalls. Though waterfalls across the globe magnetise the visitors, water that cascades from the Western Ghats, known for its herbal wealth, makes the difference and encourages them to come to this spot repeatedly.

Another interesting tourist spot near Tenkasi is Thenmala Ecotourism, being run by the Kerala Government at Western Ghats. Thenmala is a small village at the foothills of Western Ghats and predominantly a forest area. The famous Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary is the most important ecotourism resource of Thenmala Ecotourism. This Wildlife Sanctuary is of about 100 sq. km. and harbours large varieties of flora and fauna. This zone accommodates various activities, which favours Eco-friendly General Tourism. An open air Musical Dancing Fountain which is considered, as “Nature’s Dance,” is another major attraction here. The leisure zone caters to the needs of tourist exploring the inherent qualities of the zone - the drastic level changes, favourable views etc. The boardwalk and the sway bridge explore potential viewpoints. The plazas, the view deck and the courts expose the tourists to a different vocabulary of landscape. The sculpture garden, water features etc. are other important attractions here. The theme of the Sculpture Garden here is MAN AND NATURE. It endeavours to depict the relationship of MAN and his culture with NATURE, in the serene backdrop of a green forest - i.e. unpolluted nature - synchronizing with the Thenmala Forests. Interesting circulation pathways around the sculptures and the integration of the natural features in the zone gives the sculpture garden it’s own exclusivity.

The boating in Shenduruney dam, the adventure zone and other areas of this tourist spot will certainly give immense satisfaction to visitors.

P. Sudhakar

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