Forest dept. set to introduce coracle rides at Panamkuzhy Ecotourism Centre

The State Forest department is set to introduce coracle rides on the Periyar at the Panamkuzhy Ecotourism Centre in Palakuzha, Ernakulam. According to officials, this will be the first time such a facility is being launched in the district. The initiative is expected to increase visitor footfall at the ecotourism centre and help generate additional revenue.

The facility will be inaugurated by Forests and Wildlife Minister A.K. Saseendran on Wednesday (February 18, 2026). A total of 10 coracles will be operated. A ride will cost ₹600 for up to four persons and will last 30 minutes. Each coracle can accommodate five persons, including a trained rower. Tickets will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, rides will not be operated during the afternoon hours.

Entry is permitted for those who are at least 100 cm tall. Thirteen rowers have been trained and inducted for the programme. At present, the centre offers river bathing facilities and tree-hut viewpoints for visitors.

“With the addition of the coracle rides, we expect an increase in tourist footfall, both domestic and foreign. The ecotourism programme will also provide a livelihood to the local community. We have observed a rise in the number of visitors to the centre over the past year. The coracle rides will be an added attraction,” said R. Delto Marokey, assistant conservator of forests, Nature Study Centre, Kalady.

The ecotourism centre receives around 1,500 visitors on weekends, while 200 to 300 visitors arrive on weekdays. “Future expansion will focus on nature education programmes, camps and related activities,” he added.