In a bid to attract more holidayers, Kerala Tourism has identified another 17 locations to be developed as tourist destinations.
The 17 locations in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Ernakulam, and Malappuram are in addition to the 52 being developed under Kerala Destination Scheme. The inclusion of more locations is part of Kerala Tourism’s attempts at showcasing the rustic life, rich tradition, and culture of God’s Own Country.
The government has announced that foreign tourist arrivals to the State will be doubled in the next five years. Responsible Tourism confined to major destinations is also to be extended to all destinations.
Eco concerns
Official sources said these locations are frequented by local people during weekends and developing them would help attract foreign tourists. Besides taking care of the destinations, inclusion of these places will benefit local communities and help the authorities to address concerns and grievances such as garbage disposal and threat to ecology due to influx of tourists. Chowara, south of the famed beach resort of Kovalam, is the lone location to figure from the capital district. Known for the pristine beaches and Ayurvedic centres, hundreds flock Chowara which is also close to the new Vizhinjam seaport. Thangassery from Kollam has also made it to the list which has been approved by the Working Group on Tourism and notified by government.
A People’s Own Tourism project has also been rolled out in 112 local bodies to discover and tap the tourism potential in each locality and organise tour packages focussing on local festivals, trades, arts and crafts, also linking them to the livelihood of the local community.
