In a bid to attract more holidayers, Kerala Tourism has identified 17 more locations to be developed as tourist destinations.
The locations in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Ernakulam, and Malappuram are in addition to the 52 being developed under the 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.
Official sources said these locations were frequented by locals during weekends, and developing them would help attract foreign tourists. Besides taking care of the destinations, the inclusion of these places would benefit local communities and help the authorities address concerns and grievances such as garbage disposal and threat to ecology due to tourist influx.
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 have also made it to the list which has been approved by the Working Group on Tourism and notified by government.
