A forest region at the base of the Agasthya Hills, Kappukadu is situated near Kattakkada in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. This area, rich in biodiversity and traversed by elephants for centuries, is now designated as an eco-sanctuary.  The nearby Kottur houses the country’s first elephant rehabilitation centre.

The Jumbo Trek
You start your journey at the base of the Agasthya Hills, a jungle safari promoted by the Department of Wildlife and Kottur Eco-development Committee.  Travelling through the trails which the elephants have always taken and exploring the woods sitting on an elephant is an unforgettable experience. This half-hour expedition through the Iravupara forests offers glimpses of rare butterflies. You might be able to sight Gaurs, Sambar deer, Sloth bears, Elephants and the famous Lion-tailed Macaques during this jungle safari. You will see tamed elephants, both young ones and old, which add to the entire experience.

Elephant rehabilitation centre, Kottur
Visitors can engage in activities like elephant bathing and feeding, offering an intimate encounter with elephants under the guidance of experienced mahouts. It is best to visit the centre in the morning. You will get to watch the elephants being given a bath around 8 am and the elephants being fed around 10 am. The centre houses orphaned, injured, and older elephants too.  For nature enthusiasts, researchers, and students of veterinary sciences, it provides insights into the behavior and habitat of elephants. 

Other attractions
A cottage stay in one of the six cottages in Kottur is a one of a kind experience where you can relax and immerse yourself in the forest environment. 

Visitors can go boating on pedal-boats, ‘Kuttivanchi’ (boats shaped like a bowl) or on bamboo rafts and embark on a 3-km trek to Kizhakkumalappara. The deer rehabilitation centre and the crocodile park under the Neyyar wildlife sanctuary are nearby tourist attractions.