Field Trip to Rajamala at Newman College, Thodupuzha
REPORT
Title: Field Trip to Rajamala
Date and Time: 12/11/2024
Venue: Munnar
Organizers: Department of Botany
The Botany Department, in collaboration with Bhoomithrasena Club, organized an ecotourism-focused field trip to Munnar, Kerala, led by Dr. Saju Abraham and Miss Rose Mary Jose with 50 students. The expedition examined sustainable tourism practices in fragile ecosystems, particularly in shola grasslands and tea plantation areas. Students analyzed how ecotourism initiatives balance conservation with community livelihoods by visiting eco-friendly resorts, nature interpretation centers, and tribal villages. Key activities included documenting visitor impacts on endemic flora like Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana), assessing waste management systems in tourist hotspots, and interviewing local guides about environmental education efforts. The group observed successful models of community-based tourism while identifying areas needing improved sustainability protocols. This immersive experience highlighted the critical role of responsible tourism in biodiversity conservation and provided students with practical insights into ecotourism planning and management. The visit concluded with recommendations for minimizing ecological footprints while enhancing visitor experiences in this biodiversity hotspot.
Programme Expenditure
| Sl | Particulars | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Travelling expenses | 2000 |
| Total | 2000 |
Report of the programme Download