WILD KERALA: ELEPHANTS TO EMERALD FORESTS
A full-day journey through elephant camps, pristine jungles, and misty mountain peaks
Duration: 8 – 10 hours
Distance from Unwind Hotels: ~45 km
Best Season: October – March
At 06:30 in the morning Begin your day with a light breakfast at our multi-cuisine restaurant. Pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera. Our team will have your packed lunch ready for the journey.
Experience 1 :
Morning with the Elephants
7:30 AM – 10:30 AM | Neyyar Dam Elephant Rehabilitation Centre
Travel Time: 1 hour to Neyyar Dam Elephant Rehabilitation Centre
07:30 – 8:30 AM
Elephant Bathing Experience
Wade into the shallow waters of Neyyar River alongside these gentle giants. Help mahouts scrub and bathe the elephants as they playfully spray water. This intimate experience allows you to witness their joyful personalities up close. The morning light creates perfect photo opportunities as mist rises from the river.
08:30 – 9:15 AM
Feeding Session
Learn to prepare elephant food balls made from ragi, jaggery, and coconut. Hand-feed the elephants while your guide shares fascinating insights about their individual personalities, rescue stories, and conservation efforts. Each elephant has a unique history, often rescued from harsh working conditions.
09:15 – 10:00 AM
Educational Walk
Join naturalists for a guided tour of the rehabilitation center. Understand elephant behavior, social structures, and the challenges facing wild elephant populations in Kerala. Learn about the human-elephant conflict and ongoing conservation initiatives.
10:00 – 10:30 AM
Photography & Interaction
Capture candid moments with the elephants in their natural habitat. Stand beside them for photos (without disturbing their routine) and observe their social interactions during their free time.
Experience 2 :
Neyyar Dam Scenic Stop
10:45 AM – 11:15 AM
Quick Break (30 minutes)
Just a 5-minute drive from the elephant camp, stop at the picturesque Neyyar Dam. The reservoir, surrounded by lush hills, offers breathtaking views and a refreshing breeze. Take a short walk along the dam wall, enjoy the panoramic mountain vistas, and spot local birdlife including cormorants and kingfishers.
Optional:
Quick pedal boat ride on the reservoir (15-20 minutes, additional cost)
Experience 3 :
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary Trek
7:30 AM – 10:30 AM | Neyyar Dam Elephant Rehabilitation Centre
Travel Time: 1 hour to Neyyar Dam Elephant Rehabilitation Centre
Package Inclusions
- Private AC vehicle with experienced driver
- Elephant camp entry fees and all activities
- Forest guide fees for Peppara trek
- Packed gourmet lunch from Unwind Hotels
- Drinking water and refreshments
- Professional photography assistance (optional)
- All sanctuary permits and documentation
What to Bring
1
Comfortable trekking shoes (closed-toe)
2
Light cotton clothing (earth tones preferred)
3
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
4
Insect repellent
5
Camera with extra batteries
6
Small backpack
7