Explore Gavi : A Journey into Kerala's Hidden Eco-Tourism Gem

July 27, 2024

Gavi is a village in Keralas Pathanamthitta district, Gavi offers an unforgettable journey through thick forests, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife—a true paradise for anyone looking to escape into the wild. Just an hour's drive from Thekkady, Gavi has become a must-visit destination thanks to Kerala Forest Development Corporation’s (KFDC) sustainable tourism efforts.

A Glimpse of Gavi’s History

The story of Gavi is intertwined with responsible tourism. In the 1970s, this eco-tourism project began to protect and support nearly 700 Tamil refugees who had fled Sri Lanka. Today, over 150 families continue to live in Gavi, contributing to the area’s tourism efforts. KFDC’s initiatives, such as forest treks, boating, safari rides, and stays in forest lodges, not only offer unforgettable experiences for visitors but also sustain these families by providing employment and community support.

Gavi teems with rich flora and fauna. Botanists have identified rare "gopher trees" in Gavi, Kerala, where two specimens are believed to be the only ones in India. Known locally as nirampalli, the gopher tree is notable for its mention in the Bible as “gopher wood,” though there is no clear agreement on the specific species this term refers to in modern times.

How to Reach Gavi

Accessing Gavi requires a bit of planning due to its remote location. To experience its scenic routes through Seethathode near Erumeli, it’s essential to book a pass in advance from the forest department, as only three vehicles are allowed daily. Alternatively, visitors can reach Gavi via Vandiperiyar or through Kumily, where a KFDC office provides day packages, accommodation bookings, and entry permits to Gavi.

Exciting Activities in Gavi

Gavi offers you a plethora of activities to choose from! Let us get into some of them.

Thrilling Safari Rides!

You can book a jeep rise through the forests of Vandiperiyar and have the the sense of anticipation grow within you as you approach the gates of Gavi. You can drive through sprawling grasslands, sight cascading waterfalls, cardamom plantations, and go up to 100 kilometers into the Gavi forest; you can expect animal and bird sighting here as well, including endangered species like the lion tailed macaque; nilgiri tahrs etc.

The Safari can lead you into different adventures like, trekking, hiking, or going on a boat ride! A jeep ride will cost you Rs. 10,250 for up to 4 persons.

Incredible Trekking Experiences

At Gavi, you can have incredible trekking experiences, which are supervised by trained locals. Gavi is also a heaven for birdwatchers, there are more than 260 species of birds including hornbill, woodpecker and kingfishers, and even a tiger paw print or two! From Gavi, you can even trek to Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage centre of India. And if you are of the sort to spend a night or two, in the deep forest with your bag packs, you can do so in small portable tents where you can relish in the chilly comfort of nature. Who knows, you might even spot deers, elephants, and monkeys while you are at it.

Trekking into forests cost Rs. 50 for Indian citizens and Rs. 500 for foreigners.

Serene Boat Rides

Experience the serenity of Gavi Lake with a 45-minute boat ride, where you may spot elephants along the shoreline or catch a glimpse of Gavi’s hidden waterfall. There will be guides to help you row the boat; once you cross the lake, you can even take a dip in the ice cold water and pose for photographs.

A boat ride costs Rs 100 per person!

Tips for a Gavi Getaway

Advance Bookings: Reserve passes for forest entry and KFDC accommodations well in advance.

Plan with the Weather: Pack warm clothes for early morning and evening excursions, especially during the winter months.

Respect Wildlife: Remember that you are a visitor in a protected ecosystem. Maintain silence during safaris and treks and follow guides’ instructions closely.

Nearby Adventures: Extend your trip with visits to Vagamon or Thekkady to experience more of Kerala’s natural beauty, from tea plantations to vast meadows and scenic lakes.

Embrace the Gavi Experience

Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife photographer, or an adventurer at heart, Gavi promises an experience that is as thrilling as it is humbling. With Kerala’s lush landscapes and rich biodiversity surrounding you at every turn, a journey to Gavi is not just a holiday—it’s a heartfelt connection to the wilderness.

Gavi Resort Booking!

There are several accomodations in and around Gavi that offer comfortable rooms, cottages, dining, amenities, and nearby activities for you to come back and rewind after exciting safari rides, boating, and trekking! Make sure to book them ahead of time to ensure a seamless trip to Gavi!