Kerala’s Adavi eco‑tourism centre has received 24 new coracles from Hogenakkal, preparing for a surge of visitors during the Onam holiday. The boats are coated with a rain‑guard compound to extend their lifespan and fund forest‑conservation projects.

  • 24 new coracles shipped from Hogenakkal
  • Rain‑guard coating applied for durability
  • Expected rise in Onam‑season footfall

Located in Pathanamthitta, Kerala’s Adavi eco‑tourism centre is gearing up for an Onam‑season visitor surge by adding 24 brand‑new coracles – traditional round‑bottomed boats – sourced from Hogenakkal. Each vessel has been treated with a specialized rain‑guard compound, ensuring they can endure the monsoon‑prone climate and prolonged use.

Forest officials confirmed that the coracles and accompanying oars have been distributed among local boatmen, who first apply the coating to the outer surface and allow it to dry before the boats go back into service. The boats will be fully operational once the coating dries, likely after the centre reopens post‑Thiruvonam break.

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Akhil S., secretary of the Vana Samrakshana Samithi (VSS) that manages the centre, explained that while the site offers recreation, its core mission is to let visitors experience and understand the forest ecosystem. A coracle typically lasts about six months; over‑use can cause the outer layers to peel, edges to crack, and the structure to weaken.

Each coracle ride costs ₹600 and accommodates four adults plus one child. A forest department official noted that revenue from these rides feeds directly into the Forest Department’s ecosystem‑management fund, financing conservation activities and offsetting human impact on the environment.

Adavi is part of the larger Konni eco‑tourism project and is administered by the Elimullumplackal Vana Samrakshana Samithi. In addition to coracle rides, the centre features the Aranyam Café, an eco‑shop, and a soon‑to‑launch pedal‑boat service for children. All transactions are cashless, leveraging digital payment platforms for a seamless visitor experience.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that strengthening eco‑tourism infrastructure during major festivals not only boosts local economies but also channels visitor spending into sustainable forest management, creating a win‑win for communities and biodiversity.

"Sustainable tourism succeeds when visitor revenue directly supports ecosystem preservation," says environmental expert Dr. Meera Nair.
Did You Know?: The coracle dates back over 2,000 years in Indian river transport and remains a vital mode of travel in many rural regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long will the new coracles remain serviceable?
A: With proper maintenance, each can operate for roughly six months before requiring re‑coating.

Q: Are digital payments accepted for coracle rides?
A: Yes, the centre operates a fully cash‑less system for all visitor transactions.