Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 31: St Agnes College's department of zoology organized a two-day educational trip to Munnar and Kochi from January 23rd to 25th. The trip was led by faculty members, Dr Rachana L Alva, HOD, department of zoology and Dr Navya H, assistant professor, department of zoology.
Total of 33 students were a part of this trip. This journey aimed to provide practical exposure to biodiversity, ecology, and cultural heritage. Team explored Munnar’s rich wildlife and plantations and later delved into Kochi’s royal and coastal history.
Team departed from college on January 23rd and after an overnight journey, arrived in Munnar in the early morning. The cool mountain air and lush green hills welcomed them. After freshening up, they had a hearty breakfast, preparing for a day filled with exploration.
Eravikulam wildlife sanctuary, Munnar: One of the most anticipated parts of trip was visiting the Eravikulam wildlife sanctuary, a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot that plays a crucial role in the conservation of endemic species. As they entered the sanctuary, they were greeted by endless rolling meadows and dense patches of shola forests, the signature landscape of the Western Ghats, particularly the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius), which they were fortunate to spot grazing along the rocky cliffs.
As they trekked through the sanctuary, they observed several species of butterflies, birds, and medicinal plants thriving in their natural habitat. The cool, misty climate and breathtaking views of Anamudi Peak (the highest peak in South India) added to the sanctuary’s charm. The experience reinforced their understanding of ecotourism, habitat conservation, and the delicate balance of ecosystems.
Mattupetty Dam: After leaving the sanctuary, they visited Mattupetty Dam, a vital hydroelectric project nestled amidst the hills. The serene waters of the reservoir, surrounded by dense forests, provided an excellent setting to discuss the impact of hydropower projects on local biodiversity.
Spice garden: Their next stop was a spice shop, where they got an opportunity to explore the aromatic world of Kerala’s famous spices. The shop owners briefly explained the uses of these spices, highlighting their medicinal and culinary significance. Many of them bought souvenirs, enjoying the aroma of freshly packed spices.
Tea Estate visit: Their next stop was a tea estate, where they got to see the endless rows of lush green tea bushes covering the hills. The landscape was truly captivating. They took some time to walk through the neatly pruned tea plants, capturing photographs and experiencing the soothing ambiance of Munnar’s famous tea plantations.
Eco point and Campfire: The next stop was Eco point, where they enjoyed the stunning natural acoustics. The surrounding hills created an echo phenomenon, making it a fun and interactive stop. The tranquillity of the lake and the crisp mountain air made this spot perfect for relaxation. As night fell, they gathered around a campfire, sharing stories, laughter, and music. The warmth of the fire, set against the cool Munnar breeze, created an atmosphere of joy, marking the perfect end to their day.
Day 2: Cultural and historical exploration in Kochi
The next morning, they travelled to Kochi, where their first stop was the Hill Palace, Kerala’s first heritage museum and the former residence of the Maharaja of Cochin. The palace, built in 1865, stands as a testament to Kerala’s royal grandeur and artistic legacy. As they stepped into the palace grounds, they were captivated by its majestic architecture, a blend of traditional Kerala style and colonial influences.
The palace, surrounded by lush gardens, housed a treasure trove of royal artifacts, including ornate thrones, ceremonial weapons, exquisite jewellery, and age-old manuscripts. One of the most striking exhibits was the Cochin Crown, embedded with precious stones, symbolizing the power and prestige of the royal dynasty. They also saw an impressive collection of paintings depicting the members of the royal family, each reflecting the grandeur of their era. Walking through the palace corridors, they could almost feel the echoes of history stories of power, diplomacy, and culture that shaped Kerala’s past.
Marine drive and water metro experience: From the royal splendour of the Hill Palace, they transitioned to Marine Drive, Kochi’s iconic waterfront destination. Instead of the Water Metro, they embarked on a cruise ride across the serene backwaters, an experience that left them mesmerized. As the cruise glided over the tranquil waters, the rhythmic sound of water against the boat, coupled with the panoramic sunset view, made this ride a truly unforgettable experience.
Lulu Mall and return journey: Their final stop was Lulu Mall, one of India’s largest shopping complexes. They spent some time exploring the vast array of shops, food courts, and entertainment zones before gathering for dinner. As the trip concluded, they embarked on return journey to college, cherishing the unforgettable memories and invaluable learnings from our expedition.
Conclusion
The zoology educational trip to Munnar and Kochi was an enriching experience, blending wildlife conservation, environmental awareness, and cultural heritage. The visit to Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary deepened their understanding of biodiversity and conservation efforts, while the Hill Palace visit provided historical insights into Kerala’s royal past.
This journey not only broadened their academic knowledge but also fostered camaraderie and appreciation for nature. Such trips serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving both natural ecosystems and cultural heritage for future generations.