Parunthumpara, a quaint hill station adjacent to Thekkady in Kerala, India, has recently emerged as one of the most enchanting tourist destinations in the state. Known for its panoramic landscapes, the name 'Parunthumpara' translates to 'Eagle Rock', a reference to the bird's eye view visitors can enjoy from its summit.
The history of tourism in Parunthumpara is relatively brief, with the area gaining popularity only in the last decade. Before its discovery by the outside world, this region was predominantly known to the local tribal communities and remained an untouched gem within the Western Ghats.
It wasn't until the early 2010s that Parunthumpara began to gain recognition, as adventurers and nature enthusiasts started to explore beyond the traditional tourist trails of Kerala. Word of the breathtaking views and serene ambiance of Parunthumpara spread, and the hill station swiftly became a favorite among domestic travelers seeking solace away from the bustling city life.
As tourism began to flourish, local government and tourism bodies saw the potential of Parunthumpara and started to develop basic infrastructure to make the site more accessible while attempting to maintain its pristine nature. It is now frequented by a varied profile of visitors, including trekkers, photographers, families, and couples, looking to capture its beauty and tranquility.
Parunthumpara Viewpoint: Offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, the viewpoint is the main attraction of Parunthumpara. On clear days, visitors might get glimpses of the distant plains and even the Sabarimala forests.
Suicide Point: This dramatically named precipice in Parunthumpara is a cliff that drops deep and provides some of the most exhilarating views of the deep valleys and thick forests below.
Pepper Rock: A rock formation that looks like a table, this is also a popular spot for picnics and offers excellent photo opportunities.
Ecotourism has seen a rise in Parunthumpara, as visitors are increasingly conscious of the ecological impact of tourism. There is a deliberate effort to provide tourism services that are in harmony with the local ecosystem. As part of this, community-based tourism initiatives have been introduced, where locals are involved in offering homestays, local cuisine experiences, and guided tours.
Adventure tourism is also on the rise, with opportunities for trekking, rock climbing, and off-road driving. These activities are carefully controlled to ensure that the natural environment is preserved.
Sustainable initiatives, like the reduction of plastic waste and promotion of green practices, are becoming more prevalent. Visitors are encouraged to follow a 'leave no trace' policy, ensuring that they leave the environment as untouched as they found it.
Increasing connectivity and online visibility have also been important trends. The presence of Parunthumpara on social media and travel platforms has made it more accessible to tourists from all over the world.
In conclusion, Parunthumpara is a treasure trove of natural splendor with a short but promising history of tourism. As it moves forward, the focus is on sustainable and responsible tourism practices to preserve its unique beauty for future generations to admire and enjoy.
