With the development of the Rural Circuit as part of the Malanad Malabar cruise project, tourists will be able to experience the distinct culture, heritage, cuisines and art forms of North Kerala.
A mangrove cruise from Kuppam to Pazhayangadi, Theyyam cruise from Pazhayangadi to Valapattanam and Muthappan and Malabari cuisine cruise from Valapattanam to Munambukadavu will be the highlight of the circuit being developed as part of the ₹325-crore Malanad Malabar cruise project.
The government gave the administrative sanction for the circuit on October 10 with the Union Ministry of Tourism giving the nod to infuse ₹80.37 crore under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, official sources said.
Thematic tourism
To exploit the potential of thematic tourism products, the cruises are named after themes/ local culture. The mangrove cruise is along the Kuppam river and the Theyyam cruise is along Valapattanam river. For mangrove cruise, boat terminals will be set up at Kuppam, Pattuvam, Muttil, Cherukunnu, boat jetty at Kattampalikkadavu, Muthukuda and Thavam and the Boat Race Gallery at Pazhayangadi, Madayi and Muthukuda.
A major boat terminal at Valapattnam, minor terminals at Vadikkal, Mattul North, Mattul South, and Madakkara, the boat jetty at Azhikkal and Papinissery will be constructed as part of the Theyyam cruise. On Thekkumbad Island, a mud wall museum depicting the myth and history of Muthappan, Theyyam gramam, angling yard, Artisans Aala, open-air theatre and handicraft kioks will be set up to sell locally produced handicrafts.
As part of the Muthappan and Malabari cuisine cruise, a boat terminal will be constructed near the Pappinissery temple. A hawkers court floating open market will come up at Parassinikadavu and Venice floating market at Valapattnam and Parasinikkadavu. Tourism-related services and infrastructure will be set up at Bhagat Singh, Paamburuthy, CH and Kolacheri Islands.
Wi-Fi connectivity in all destinations, CCTV cameras and other security surveillance, informatory and directional signages and floating boat jetties are to be set up. Tourism-related infrastructure like ‘erumadom’, food court, biotoilet, septic tank, solar lamps, parking yard, and reverse osmosis plant will be created along the cruise path.
Although the State sought ₹100 crore under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, only ₹80.37 crore had been sanctioned. The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has been tasked with implementation of the circuit in 36 months. Official sources said the Secretary, Tourism, would be the nodal officer for implementation and monitoring.
