Wildlife tourism gaining popularity in Kerala 
Kochi (PTI): Wildlife tourism is gaining popularity in Kerala and many tourists, especially foreigners, are enthusiastic about spending time in the wild -- spotting birds, endangered species and just being in the lap of nature. 

Many such wildlife enthusiasts keep coming back for the special interest tours once again. Though only five per cent of the total tourists visiting Kerala are interested in wildlife tourism, their numbers are growing, say wildlife tour operators. 

The tourists have six options to choose from -- Silent Valley National Park, Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Peechi Wildlife Sanctuary, Thattekad Wildlife Sanctuary and Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR), CEO of Wild Kerala Tour company K G Pramod said. 

He formed the company five years ago to promote and practice eco tourism as he was concerned about the impact of mass tourism on wild landscapes, particularly in Kerala. 

With the help of local communities and forest department, the company had created well-planned wilderness experiences that introduces small group of travellers to new environments and cultures with minimum negative environmental impact and maximum support to conservation efforts, he told PTI. 

People in the 35-70 age group take the tours, he said. 

The bookings are made with the help of the forest department which in turn informs the local forest office and the local eco-development communities. The tribal youth and local communities were also involved, he said. 

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