Gavi Eco-Tourism
Gavi is a world-renowned eco-tourism destination located deep within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It gained international fame after being listed by "Alistair International" as one of the leading eco-tourism centers in India. The journey from Thekkady to Gavi is an adventure in itself, involving a 2- hour jeep ride through dense tropical forests, sprawling tea gardens, and misty valleys. Along the way, visitors often spot wildlife like elephants, Nilgiri Langurs, and Malabar Giant Squirrels. Gavi is famous for its "Gopher Trees," a rare species of tree found nowhere else in the region. The area is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 260 species of birds including the Great Indian Hornbill and woodpeckers. The core of the experience is the Gavi Lake, where visitors can enjoy row-boating in the emerald green waters surrounded by towering hills. The Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) manages the site, offering activities like trekking to the "Sabari Viewpoint," from where the distant temple of Sabarimala can be seen. For those seeking an immersive experience, Gavi offers camping and forest stays in the "Green Mansion" lodge. The silence of the forest is only broken by the calls of wild animals and the sound of waterfalls. It is a strictly controlled plastic-free zone, ensuring that the environment remains untainted. The presence of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees who work as guides adds a unique cultural dimension to the visit. Gavi is not just a sightseeing spot; it is a lesson in conservation and sustainable living in harmony with nature.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
6 - 8 Hours (Full Day)Place Type:
Wildlife / AdventureEntry Fees:
Entry Fee: Rs. 60 per person.
Vehicle Entry: Rs. 100 per jeep.
Full Day Package: Starts from Rs. 1500 - 2500 per head including lunch and boating. ...Entry Fee: Rs. 60 per person.
Vehicle Entry: Rs. 100 per jeep.
Full Day Package: Starts from Rs. 1500 - 2500 per head including lunch and boating.Special Events:
Annual Bird Count: Held in February, attracting ornithologists from across the country.
Wildlife Week: Special awareness programs in October organized by the forest department. ...Annual Bird Count: Held in February, attracting ornithologists from across the country.
Wildlife Week: Special awareness programs in October organized by the forest department.Best Photo Spots:
The Gavi Lake: The reflection of the hills in the still water is a masterpiece.
Valley Viewpoint: A high ridge offering a 360-degree view of the Idukki and Pathanamthitta hills.
The Misty Road: Photos of the...The Gavi Lake: The reflection of the hills in the still water is a masterpiece.
Valley Viewpoint: A high ridge offering a 360-degree view of the Idukki and Pathanamthitta hills.
The Misty Road: Photos of the jeep driving through the fog are iconic.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Jeep Safari: The primary way to explore the 28 KM stretch of forest road.
Boating: Rowing across the Gavi Lake to see the waterfall on the far side.
Forest Trekking: Guided walks into the deep jungle with "Elephant Chasers" for safety.
Birdwatching: Spending hours at the watchtowers to spot rare avian species.
Camping: Staying in tents near the lake for a true wilderness experience.
Visit to Cardamom Factory: Seeing how the forest-grown cardamom is processed.
Paradise Cove Visit: A scenic boat ride to a secluded flower-filled valley.
Night Safari: Strictly controlled night drives to see nocturnal wildlife like flying squirrels. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Pristine Nature: Famous for being one of the few places in India that remains untouched by mass commercialization.
Wildlife Sightings: A top spot to see wild elephants and the endangered Lion-tailed Macaque in their natural habitat.
...Pristine Nature: Famous for being one of the few places in India that remains untouched by mass commercialization.
Wildlife Sightings: A top spot to see wild elephants and the endangered Lion-tailed Macaque in their natural habitat.
Cinematic Beauty: Became a household name in Kerala after the movie "Ordinary" was filmed here. -
Architecture:
Green Mansion Lodge: Built by KFDC, this eco-lodge uses sustainable materials like local stone and wood, designed to blend into the forest. It has 10 rooms.
Tree Houses: Elevated structures built 20 feet above ground using bamboo and sturd...Green Mansion Lodge: Built by KFDC, this eco-lodge uses sustainable materials like local stone and wood, designed to blend into the forest. It has 10 rooms.
Tree Houses: Elevated structures built 20 feet above ground using bamboo and sturdy wood, following traditional "Erumadam" designs.
Checkpost Barriers: Traditional stone and iron gates at Vallakkadavu for forest entry control. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Kochi Airport (170 KMS).
By Train: Kottayam Station (120 KMS).
By Road: 28 KMS from Thekkady via Vandiperiyar and Vallakkadavu.
By Local Transport: Only forest-appro... -
Near Tourist Places:
Periyar Tiger Reserve (Inside), Vandiperiyar (28 KMS), Pampa Dam (10 KMS), Pullumedu (15 KMS), Mount Estate (20 KMS), Grampi (25 KMS), Parunthumpara (35 KMS), Kuttikkanam (40 KMS), Panchalimedu (45 KMS), Kumily (30 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Leech socks are mandatory for trekking; keep a safe distance from elephants.
Packing: Carry warm clothes as temperatures drop significantly even in summer.
Accommodation: "Green Mansion" (K...
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