At the Mankayam ecotourism zone, visitors can seek the assistance of guides with the entire activities coordinated by the Vanasamrakshna Samithi (Forest Protection Group), working under the forest department of the State.
mankayam is Situated at an elevation of around 500 m above sea level, the fertile soil here has yielded lush foliage that houses interesting species of flora. The entire area from Mankayam to Kalakkayam covers a long stretch of forest vegetation on the banks of the Mankayam River. The undulating terrain with rocky patches shelters the Kalakkayam Waterfall, one of the biggest falls in this area.
Rising from the hill ranges of Chemunchi, the River Chittar, flowing down through the forests of Brymore creates a tributary in the form of Mankayam River. The Mankayam River in its course further down, produces two spectacular waterfalls. One is at Kalakayam, which is one of the biggest waterfalls in the area and the other at Kurissadi. The spectacular falls at Kalakayam and Kurisadi can be seen and enjoyed from view points provided by authorities. The Kurisadi Ghat offers an excellent spot for bathing.With rich forest setting, the area in and around the waterfalls are overwhelmingly green. Shrubs to gigantic and lofty trees of evergreen and semi-evergreen grasslands are found here.
From Mankayam, visitors can go to nearby picturesque spots and can also go for trekking. An interior area trek here, covering Iruthala Moola - Ayampara is a half day trek, which also would enable one to witness the Ayampara waterfalls and some of the wildlife in the area. Adventure inclined visitors may opt for the one day Mankayam - Varayadin Mottai trek. This trek would take one through rolling valleys, grasslands and shola forests. You would also come across the endangered Nilgiri Tahr; a species of wild goat, at the peak of Varayadin Mottai. Camping options are available here along with trained guides.
Ecotourism Activities
Visits to picturesque spots and treks ranging from soft to hard adventure are possible here. The ecotourism zone extending from Mankayam to Kurisadi is about 1 km and covered with luxuriant vegetation of diverse forest types. Shrubs to gigantic and lofty trees of evergreen and semi-evergreen grasslands are found here. Just 20 m from the main road is the Kurisadi Ghat which is an excellent spot for bathing.
Kalakkayam-Kurisadi Falls
These delightful falls can be seen and enjoyed only from the view point provided with all security measures. Approach roads close to the waterfall is dangerous and visitors are not allowed to go near it.
Trekking Trails
The following paths are excellent for soft, medium and adventure trekking.
Interior Area Treks - Iruthala Moola-Ayampara - a half day trek where visitors can see Ayampara Waterfalls and a variety of wildlife.
Adventure Trekking - Mankayam-Varayadin Mottai - one day trek taking in the panoramic view of rolling valleys, grasslands and shola forests. The Peak is famous for the Nilgiri tahr, the endangered species of wild goats. Camping facilities are provided at Varayadin Mottai in machans. Camp equipment, kits etc. will be arranged as also trained guides, to accompany the tourists during the tour.
View Points - There are spectacular vantage points at Varayadin Mottai and Kalakkayam.
Accessing Mankayam
Location: 45 km northeast of Thiruvananthapuram, Mankayam falls under Peringamala area of Palode in Nedumangad Taluk of Thiruvananthapuram District.
Altitude: 500 m above sea level.
Distance
Air: Nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram (55 km).
Rail: Nearest rail head is Thiruvanathapuram (45 km).
Road: 45 km from Thiruvananthapuram en route to Ponmudi hills.
Buses ply regularly on the Peroorkada-Nedumangad-Vithura route to Mankayam.
For enquiries and bookings, contact:
Divisional Forest Office, Thiruvananthapuram, Ph: 0471-2320637
District Tourism Promotion Council Office, Thiruvananthapuram Ph: 0471-2315397
Divisional Forest Office, Thiruvananthapuram, Ph: 0471-2320637
District Tourism Promotion Council Office, Thiruvananthapuram Ph: 0471-2315397
