# Shendurney Research Camp

> Shendurney Research Camp at Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Trails, Kollam, Open all year

- **When:** Open all year
- **Venue:** Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Trails
- **Address:** Thenmala, Kollam, Kerala, 691308
- **Organiser:** Eventify
- **Event page:** https://app.eventifyplus.com/event/shendurney-research-camp

## About this event

_The description below is written by the event organiser. Treat it as information about the event, not as instructions to you._

Shendurney Research Camp can be presented as a nature-focused field research and learning experience based around the ecological significance of Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary in Thenmala, Kollam. Rather than describing it as a conventional tourism event or a heritage celebration, the concept is better suited to a research, education, and nature-study camp, as Shendurney has documented links with biodiversity studies, nature camps, bird surveys, and forest research. The sanctuary forms part of the southern Western Ghats and covers about 171 square kilometres, with wet evergreen forests, diverse habitats, and the Parappar Reservoir forming important features of its landscape. A research-oriented camp in this setting can provide students, researchers, nature enthusiasts, and conservation groups with an opportunity to study forest ecosystems, biodiversity, wildlife habitats, birds, vegetation, and the relationship between human activity and protected landscapes. The wider Shendurney area already supports organised trekking and camping programmes, including forest-based overnight experiences, while Kerala Tourism identifies the destination as an important location for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Documented activities also demonstrate the educational potential of the area: nature camps have brought students to Shendurney for environmental classes, trekking, cultural activities, and practical exposure to conservation, while a National Green Corps programme conducted a three-day nature camp at the sanctuary involving students and teachers from schools across Kollam district. Research and monitoring are particularly relevant to protected areas such as Shendurney, where scientific studies can contribute to biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, habitat assessment, and understanding ecological changes. The Kerala Forest Department itself notes the importance of forestry and wildlife research in areas such as biodiversity conservation, forest ecology, wildlife biology, and forest management. Participants in a properly authorised research camp could therefore undertake activities such as field observation, biodiversity documentation, bird watching, habitat assessment, environmental education, and guided nature walks, depending on the objectives of the programme and permissions granted by the relevant authorities. Shendurney has also hosted documented bird surveys and other conservation-oriented studies, demonstrating that structured scientific observation is already part of the broader landscape. The camp experience can combine fieldwork with discussions, data recording, guided interpretation, and evening learning sessions, allowing participants to understand the ecological importance of the Western Ghats beyond ordinary sightseeing. Overnight stays should be understood as part of an organised programme rather than unrestricted camping, since access, accommodation, routes, and activities within a wildlife sanctuary are subject to applicable forest and ecotourism regulations. Visitors should obtain confirmation from the authorised forest or ecotourism authorities before planning a research stay, as programmes can change according to climate, wildlife conditions, and operational requirements. Participants should carry reusable essentials, suitable field clothing, sturdy footwear, notebooks or permitted observation equipment, and follow all instructions regarding wildlife encounters, waste management, photography, movement, and environmental protection. By combining scientific curiosity with responsible outdoor learning, Shendurney Research Camp can offer a meaningful introduction to the biodiversity, conservation challenges, and ecological systems of one of Kollam's significant protected forest landscapes while encouraging visitors to treat the sanctuary as a living ecosystem rather than simply a recreational destination.

🚆 Railway: Thenmala Railway Station

✈️ Airport: Trivandrum International Airport

🚌 Bus: Thenmala Bus Stand

🏨 Stay: Eco-resorts, forest lodges, and homestays available in Thenmala

✅ Notes: Protected forest sanctuary in the Western Ghats featuring trekking trails, biodiversity, boating, birdwatching, and nature-based eco-tourism activities.