To enhance ecotourism experience for visitors, the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) has started training eco-guides on the rich flora and fauna of the region. The training initiative kicked off at Meeshapulimala, one of the popular KFDC-managed destinations in Munnar.

KFDC Managing Director Raju K. Francis said while the agency’s destinations were unique in biodiversity, the guides often lacked the specific knowledge needed to provide quality interpretation to visitors.

“Due to the lack of knowledge about the rich biodiversity in our destinations, eco-guides are unable to share deeper insights with tourists,” Mr. Francis said. “To address this gap, the KFDC has begun this specialised training. It aligns with the vision of Forest Minister Shibu Baby John to elevate ecotourism to a premium biodiversity experience for visitors.”

Under the programme, the guides will be evaluated, categorised into platinum, gold, and silver tiers, and awarded certificates based on their destination-specific knowledge.

“The certificate will reflect an eco-guide’s depth of knowledge about a destination,” Mr. Francis added. “Starting as a pilot project in Meeshapulimala, the programme will soon be expand to other ecotourism centres of the KFDC.”

Highlighting the potential of these eco-destinations, Mr. Francis cited the Gavi centre, home to the rare gopher tree (Nageia wallichiana) that is famously referenced in the Bible. “Educating tourists on the history and significance of such rare species adds real value to their visit. There are many such botanical treasures across our centres,” he said.

Botanist Jomy Augustine is leading the training sessions. “Destinations like Meeshapulimala are home to unique biodiversity, including the famous Neelakurinji,” Dr. Augustine said.

“Each plant species has distinct flowering seasons and characteristics. Giving eco-guides this background allows tourists to see these destinations through a completely new lens.”

Akhil Das, manager at KFDC Meeshapulimala, said the programme would transform guided treks up the peak. “Previously, watchers just accompanied tourists along the trail,” Mr. Das said. “With this training, guides will actively explain the significance of the local flora and fauna. We want tourists to return with a deeper understanding of conservation.”

The agency operates ecotourism centres across Munnar, Gavi, Arippa, Nelliampathy, Wagamon, and Wayanad. Revenue from ecotourism recently surpassed income from the corporation’s plantation crops for the first time.

Published - August 12, 2026 08:49 pm IST