Kalpetta: As part of the ‘Life Experience Trails Kerala’ project implemented by the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission Society under the State Government’s 100-Day Action Programme, two new experiential trails—Thirunelli and Chekadi—have been officially launched in Wayanad. Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunath inaugurated the trails alongside the official announcement of the government’s ‘Brand Wayanad’ initiative. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister highlighted that the project aims to offer tourists an authentic, firsthand experience of Wayanad’s rural life and rich heritage while fostering a responsible tourism culture that respects local communities and the environment.
The Thirunelli trail seamlessly combines nature, culture, and tribal heritage. It features visits to the historic Thirunelli Temple, the scenic Nettera village where visitors can wade through shallow streams and stroll along lush paddy fields, and a 150-year-old thatched traditional Wayanadan home. The trail also includes a stop at the famous Unniyettan’s shop for local delicacies like Unniyappam, a walk through coffee plantations, and a return journey to Kalpetta. Meanwhile, the Chekadi trail immerses travelers in the fragrant coffee culture and vibrant agricultural heritage of the region. Visitors can witness the end-to-end coffee process—from cultivation and harvesting to drying and grinding—alongside visits to Jeerakasala and Gandhakasala rice fields, cultural performances by indigenous tribal communities, the iconic bus stop featured in the movie Balan, and an interaction with Padma Shri Cheruvayal Raman to learn about traditional seed conservation and biodiversity practices.
Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission CEO K. Rupesh Kumar noted that the ‘Life Experience Trails’ concept is designed to empower local communities by creating sustainable livelihoods and showcasing traditional art forms and vocations directly to travelers. He added that the packages integrate the immense potential of Wayanad’s countryside, including its culinary diversity, arts, and traditional industries. Bookings for these unique experience trails are now open for both tourists and tour operators on the official Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission website (www.keralatourism.org/rt).
