Konni is quite famous for the elephant training centre locally known as “aanakoodu”, which means “house of the elephants”. It is a popular tourist attraction in Pathanamthitta district. The massive wooden cages in the training centre can accommodate around 3 or 4 elephants. The trainers are extremely talented in dealing with the elephants. These skills are passed onto the trainers from their ancestors as part of the tradition.
The baby elephants separated from the herd or wandering around the forest are brought to the training centre and taken care of. The primary aim of the trainers is to enhance the overall body development of baby elephants. Visitors at the centre can view and understand the behaviour of elephants, their special diets, exercises etc. Baby elephants are so excited about playing with the guests. Visitors can opt for rides on the trained and tamed elephants. An excellent ride on the elephants helps the visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty and greenery.
There is an elephant museum within the compound of the training centre. It is an informative spot that provides a great knowledge about elephants. Another peculiar feature about the training centre is that the elephant dung is not thrown as waste but collected and recycled to make paper. There are numerous outlets near the elephant training centre that sells raw forest products such as honey, sandalwood etc. Visit the training centre to get to know elephants, an inevitable jewel of our Kerala culture.
Contact Details
Konni Elephant Reserve
Konni, Pathanamthitta,
Kerala, India 689691.
