The ancient landscapes of Tamil Nadu, long revered for their spiritual significance, are now attracting a new generation of pilgrims—adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. The state government's innovative Trek Tamil Nadu initiative is successfully transforming sacred sites into sustainable eco-tourism destinations while preserving their ecological and cultural heritage.
From Spiritual Pilgrimage to Adventure Tourism
Take the legendary Shenbagadevi falls, believed to be the spot where sage Agastya placed his yoga danda millennia ago. For generations, these mystical landscapes have drawn spiritual devotees. Now, they're captivating trekkers seeking both adventure and connection with ancient traditions.
The recently included Kullar Caves trail in Tiruvannamalai exemplifies this blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This challenging route takes adventurers through forested slopes, across streams, and up steep climbs leading to ancient dolmens—prehistoric stone structures that whisper tales of civilizations past.
Remarkable First-Year Achievements
Launched on November 1, 2024, as a flagship initiative under the Tamil Nadu Wilderness Experiences Corporation (TNWEC), Trek Tamil Nadu has achieved impressive results in its inaugural year. The program has introduced 40 trekking routes across the state's diverse forest and wildlife landscapes.
The numbers speak volumes: more than 15,000 trekkers have experienced these trails, including 5,000 women adventurers. This surge in eco-tourism has generated substantial economic benefits, with total revenue reaching ₹1.83 crore. Most importantly, ₹1.23 crore has been directly shared with local communities through guide wages and eco-development committees.
Community Empowerment and Wildlife Encounters
At the heart of this initiative lies community involvement. Approximately 130 guides, predominantly from tribal and forest-fringe villages, have received professional training. These local experts bring invaluable knowledge of the terrain, wildlife, and cultural significance of each location.
"Trekkers are consistently amazed by Tamil Nadu's incredible wildlife diversity," shares Kumaresan, a local guide. "At Shenbagathoppu in Virudhunagar and Chinnar in Udumalpet, visitors can spot the rare grizzled giant squirrel. The Cauvery river at Biligundulu-Rasimanal reveals freshwater crocodiles and Malabar grey hornbills. We've even introduced special hibiscus-based drinks made right in the forest for trekkers at Kalikesam in Kanyakumari."
Chandrakanth R, an official from Trek Tamil Nadu, adds fascinating insights about the cultural dimensions. "Beyond wildlife sightings, folklore and mythology serve as added attractions. Our guides come from tribes who have inhabited these lands for generations. Their customs are fascinating—many consider the hills their ancestors and won't even point in their direction while guiding visitors. Every trail turn has a story waiting to be told."
Sustainable Practices and Future Expansion
The program maintains strict environmental protocols. Guides carry trash bags and follow streamlined disposal processes. No plastics are permitted, with food served exclusively in steel containers. The initiative adheres to all regulations under TN forest and wildlife trekking rules, using only designated paths cleared by local forest officials.
Supriya Sahu, additional chief secretary for environment, climate change and forests, emphasizes the sustainable approach. "Placing responsibility in the hands of well-informed local communities is crucial for sustainable ecotourism. We're training local youth as guides while implementing stricter regulations. Unauthorized entry into forest areas will be considered trespass."
Building on this success, expansion plans include adding 10 new routes in Chengalpet, Salem, Kanyakumari and Coimbatore. The next phase focuses on developing campsites, with the upcoming Sethumadai location designed to offer immersive experiences near tribal hamlets.
"Imagine staying in a tribal hamlet inside the forest, sleeping under starlit skies, and embarking on dawn jeep safaris," envisions Vismiju Viswanathan, managing director of TNWEC. From Sethumadai, trekkers can access nine trails ranging from 4km to 16km, with difficulty levels from easy to challenging.
The initiative has also partnered with Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation to integrate treks into four tour packages, offering visitors comprehensive three-day or four-day travel and trek experiences at locations like Longwood Shola in the Nilgiris and Kutladampatti Falls near Madurai.
While some treks face temporary suspension due to landslide risks and heavy rains, officials assure these disruptions are short-term. For adventurers like Balasubramaniam P, the magic continues: "Topslip in the Anamalai hills remains enchanting, with every stretch revealing new stories. From tiger pugmarks to hornbill calls, and Indian gaurs at Shenbagathoppu to mythical whispers from stones at Gudiyam caves—there's endless exploration within our state."
