PERUMBAVOOR: The emergence of Kochi as a major commercial hub has increased Perumbavoor’s prospects of developing its tourism potential. The municipality has identified several spots where tourism development can be promoted. Work on a project worth `1 crore lakh is underway at Iringole Kavu at Vallam. The project aims at developing the historically-significant Naganchery Mana situated adjacent to the Iringole Kavu into a tourist centre.
“The project is being implemented by the Tourism Department. The renovation of the Mana is going on but the project is planned in such a way that the unique features of the Mana will be kept intact,” the municipal chairman said. Children’s Park, shuttle and volleyball courts, food court and rest houses for tourists will be opened on the premises of the Mana, he said.
The municipality acquired the Mana and the 2.30 acres of land around it in 1980. Later, it was handed over to Kerala Lalithakala Akademi. The Akademi established a ‘Kalagramam’, proclaimed to be the first kalagramam of the state in 1990. But, the activities of the Kalagramam gradually ebbed and the municipality took over the land again.
The Naganchery Mana is situated near the Iringole kavu which is a sacred grove spread over 40 acres of land. The authorities hope that the Mana and the ancient temple inside the sacred grove will attract more tourists. The temple is managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Apart from this project, Perumbavoor sees high potential in Kallil Temple, Kodanad Elephant-training Centre and Paniyeli Poru. The fact that the tourists heading for Munnar and Thekkady and Sabarimala-bound pilgrims can pass through the town gives a lift to the tourism prospects of the place.