The butterfly park at Thenmala is home to more than 150 species

The picturesque countryside and valleys in Thenmala beckon nature lovers to explore its serene treasures. The butterfly park arranged as part of the Thenmala eco-tourism project is a mesmerizing world of unique and rare species of butterflies. Moreover, Thenmala is the perfect place to enjoy the splendid beauty of the Western Ghats in all its glory.

The Thenmala eco-tourism project was inaugurated in 2001, by then Chief Minister EK Nayanar. Santhosh Kumar who currently heads this project says that it has generated an income of more than Rs 36 lakh in May alone. 

Rare butterflies
The butterfly park sprawls in more than four and half acres. The park, a first in India, is home to more than 150 species of butterflies. Interestingly, the butterflies are attracted into the park by arranging a natural eco system that supports them. Every type of butterfly may be drawn to a particular species of roosting plants or host plants.

Such plants have been identified and are grown here. Besides, the park offers refuge to lots of migratory butterflies that are in search of rain forests. Swallowtails, clerodendrum, mussaenda, lantana and cassia are some of butterfly species that are seen here.

Spotting rare deer
You could spot rare deer and sambhar deer at the deer rehabilitation centre in Ottakkal. The animals are kept inside specially designed cages in the forest.

Adventure zone
Adventure lovers could try their hands in mountain biking, rock climbing and river crossing. Besides, trekking through the forest paths too is part of the adventure package.

Musical fountain
The musical – dancing fountain is one of the highlights here. The shows in the evenings are similar to the famous musical fountain at the Brindavan Garden in Mysore.

Cocoon tents
The tourists could spend the night in the woods in specially constructed tents. Family sized tents are called cocoon tents. Besides, AC and non-AC dormitory facilities too are available here.

These are mostly preferred by tourists who visit as groups. Boating through the reservoir in Thenmala dam and children’s park are the other attractions.