As part of the Destination Challenge project of the Kerala Government, which proposes developing at least one tourism center in each local administrative body of the state, yet another beautiful scenic place from Kozhikode district is set to roll out the welcome mats to tourists.
The eco-tourism project at Chovvapuzha, suggested by the Maniyoor panchayat, has now received the nod of the State Government. The project will come up on a nine-and-a-half-acre property located on the banks of the picturesque Chovvapuzha River. Of the total administrative sanctioned amount of Rs 99.70 lakh, the tourism department will spend Rs 50 lakh, while the panchayat will meet the remaining expenditure of Rs 49.70 lakh.
The surroundings of Chovvapuzha are known for their scenic beauty and hence, the authorities are planning to develop the project in a sustainable fashion, without harming the environment. Bamboo Cottages and a bamboo restaurant for serving traditional local cuisine will come up as part of the project. Considering the rich fish stock in the water body, fresh fish delicacies for ticking the taste buds too can be expected here.
Tree-top houses, an adventure zone, a children’s park, and a miyawaki forest will all be set up. A boat jetty and other basic infrastructure, including toilet facilities, will also come up. Activities including nature walks, bird watching, fishing, coracle ride and pedal boating, and provision for the sale of handicrafts and Erunthu- an indigenous product, will also be arranged at the destination.
Chovvapuzha had hit the headlines last year following reports of illegal land encroachments. The location had been under the possession of a private individual, who took it on lease for cultivating short-term crops and later reclaimed about ten acres of land by mining silt from the river.
Following the controversy, the local body evicted the land and secured the areas by establishing fencing around it. Maniyoor is the lone panchayat across the Vadakara - Koyilandy Taluks to be granted approval under the Destination Challenge.
