Kerala

The lure of emerald green backwaters, swaying palms, uninhibited foliage, rustic charm, exotic wildlife, ayurveda, and endless stretches of beaches have beckoned throngs of tourists to the southern Indian state of Kerala. Yet the state continues to be untouched by the menace of commercialisation, with tourism development blending effortlessly with the ecology to create an idyllic locale. Kerala's tourism potential lies in its rich culture and unparalleled natural bounty. With the Arabian Sea on the west, the Western Ghats towering on the east and networked by forty-four rivers, Kerala has become a world famous spot on the global tourism map.

The importance of travel and tourism to Kerala's economy cannot be discounted. With its distinctive "God's Own Country" branding, the state has promoted its tourism product with aggressive marketing and strategic planning, creating a tourism success story. Kerala has emerged as the most acclaimed tourist destinations in the recent past, its credentials coming from around the world. The National Geographic Travel has confirmed Kerala's position on the global tourism map, conferring it the status of one of the 50 must-see destinations of a lifetime. The other acclaims received by Kerala Tourism include: One of the 100 great trips for the 21st century by Travel and Leisure, One of the ten hot spots for the millennium by Emirates In-flight Magazine, and One of the six destinations of the millennium by Khaleej Times. The Government of India also awarded Kerala as the Best Performing State for three consecutive years for achieving rapid growth, development and advancement in the tourism sector.

Leading The Eco-Trail

Equitable climate, a long shoreline with myriad beaches, alluring emerald backwaters, lusciously green hill stations, sprawling plantations and much more are clearly indicative of the fact that Kerala is undoubtedly blessed in terms of its ecology. The state's eco-tourism potential is exhaustive and has been used by the government to draw tourists to the state. The Government of Kerala ensures that eco-tourism is promoted on the basis of sound principles of ecological sustainability. It has also a well-planned tourism strategy with emphasis on sustainable tourism development so as to become a model for other destination development programmes. According to the state department of tourism, eco-tourism projects the concept of sustainability in tourism. That is, the needs of today's visitor should not be met at the expenses of future generations. Eco-tourism projects that are based on internationally accepted principles, will help infuse the sustainability concept to other tourism ventures, outside the realm of eco-tourism.

Eco-Initiatives

Kerala is replete with tourism locales where the natural beauty of the destination itself is the key attraction. The state's major eco-tourism products are broadly classified as beaches, backwaters, hill stations, forests and wildlife sanctuaries. About six per cent of the total geographical area of the state is covered by the two national parks, twelve wild life sanctuaries and one biosphere coming under the category of protected areas. This is higher than the national average of five per cent. The forest cover of Kerala is largely spread over the Western Ghats which border the state. The Western Ghats represent one of the world's eighteen hot spots of bio-diversity and is considered to be a repository of endemic, rare and endangered flora and fauna.

In tune with the National Forest Policy, the Government of Kerala, has developed a vision and strategy for the management of forest resources. Kerala's wildlife sanctuaries and two national parks form the base for planning eco-tourism activities. Apart from these, the rich biological diversity coupled with the water bodies formed within the forest area due to construction of hydel projects provide scope for recreational facilities. The state also has immense scope for a variety of eco-tourism activities such as mountaineering, trekking, bird watching etc.

The Eco-Treasure Trove

Some of the eco-tourism hotspots that have captured tourism over the past few years and yet continue to be just as alluring include:

Munnar: Literally meaning `three rivers', Munnar is a glimpse into paradise. A hill station in Idukki district situated at the confluence of three small rivers, Mudrapuzha, Nallanthani and Kundala, Munnar was once the summer capital of the British Government in south India. With its undulating hills covered by carpets of green, Munnar is reminiscent of the charm of the English countryside, but retains a distinctly local flavour. The Neelakurinji (Strobilanthus) flower, which blooms once in twelve years, is seen in this part. Another unique feature is that the highest peak in south India, Anamudi (2695m) is in Munnar. The major sightseeing attractions are sprawling tea plantations, boating, tea factory visits, Devikulam, Rajamala (natural habitat of Nilgiri Tahr), Marayoor (natural growth of sandal wood trees), Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Eravikulam National Park.

Kumarakom: On the banks of the Vembanad lake, Kumarakom has evolved into an important eco-tourism destination. Although hotels and resorts have sprung up in the district, the region retains its raw and virginal beauty. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an ornithologist paradise, blessed with an array of migratory birds like Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron, and teal. A cruise in the Vembanad Lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary.

Bhoothathankettu: Again, the allure of this region is its flora and fauna. The land is engulfed in rich evergreen forests and bamboo A water body formed by the construction of a barrage across the Periyar River is a prime attraction of the region. A boat-cruise from here to Thattekkady Bird Sanctuary gives tourists the chance to experience two beautiful worlds.

Peruvannamuzhy: A lake surrounded by natural forests is the major attraction here. People from nearby Kozhikkod and Kannur cities often come to Peruvannamuzhy for recreation and enjoying the great outdoors. A mini zoo and a crocodile park are other sites of local tourism.

Kuruva Islands: Kuruva islands are located in the river Kabani, along northeast border of Wayanad district. This is a must-see destination for nature lovers and those who want nothing but to interact with the natural environment. Primarily, Kuruva comprises three islands and a few submergible satellite islands. The main island contains two fresh water lakes as well. Several migratory birds have also adopted the islands as home, and this is another region of Kerala where visitors find themselves enthralled by the unique eco system and a bevy of feathered friends.

Ravipuram: If you want to let loose some pent-up energy from spending hours behind a desk, then Ravipuram presents the ideal getaway. A great place to trek, this is the highest peak in the Kasaragod district. Situated 750 m above sea level, the views during treks are magnificent and culminate in the panoramic beauty of the meadow at top. This is also a popular spot for local people during holidays.

Nelliampathy: This place is situated in Palakkad district and is a fascinating hill station at a height of 467 to 1572m above sea level. Travelling through the hairpin bends on the ghat road that passes through the breathtaking evergreen forests of the Sahya ranges, one can view about a third of Palakkad district from Seethankudu, a place of pristine beauty.

Athirapally: Vazhachal Falls: These waterfalls are a popular picnic spot and are located about 63 kms from the town of Thrissur. Drive another five km and you encounter the majestic beauty of the Vazhachal cascades, close to the evergreen forests, and a part of Chalakudi River.

Nilambur: If you thought you'd seen magnificent woodlands, think again. Till you set your eyes on the teak plantations of Nilambur, will the ecologist in you be fully satiated. Situated in Malappuram district Nilambur is replete with teak plantations. The oldest teak plantation in the world - Conolley's Plot - is situated here. About 40 kms from Nilambur is located Nedungayam, the original home of the Cholanayakans, the oldest original tribe of Kerala.

Tirunelli: Located in Wayanad district, Tirunelli combines religious significance with ecological bounty. The Papanashini River and the local temple here attract large number of tourists. The Tirunelli temple is a marvel of temple architecture. The shrine is shielded with 30 granite columns and the ground is paved with huge square pieces of granite. In the midst of the sylvan surroundings, the temple acquires an additional grandeur.

Thenmala: A Planned Eco-Destination

Kerala is also home to the first planned eco-tourism destination in India. Thenmala a small village at the foothills of the Western Ghat Mountains and predominantly a forest area has become one of the prime eco-tourism initiatives of the state. Literally translated Thenmala means `honey hills' - a testimony to the fact that the honey collected from these hills is of high quality and contains medicinal value, thanks unique floristic composition of the forests. The village is the focal point with small community-led eco-tourism developments within a radius of 50km of Thenmala. With an investment to the tune of 1.6 million US Dollars, development took place over a period of three years.

The nearby Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary is the most important eco-tourism resource of Thenmala. The Government declared Shenduruney as a Wildlife Sanctuary on 25th August 1984. The construction of the Parappar Dam across the confluence of the Shenduruney Kazhuthurutty, and Kulathupuzha rivers resulted in the creation of an artificial lake of about 26 Sq. Km - the lake traverses the middle of the sanctuary.

The Periyar Tiger Reserve: Another landmark destination in Kerala is the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Sprawled over an area of 777 sq km, Periyar is one of the 27 tiger reserves in India. Located at the meeting of two important rivers, the Periyar and Pamba, the Reserve is a repository of rare, endemic and endangered flora and fauna

Visitors are privy to a range of activity at the Reserve. Dawn to dusk range hiking is one such activity that visitors love, as it gives them a chance to explore the area. The rafting programme coupled with trekking gives visitors a glimpse of some of the richest forest tracts of Periyar Tiger Reserve. Starting as early as 8 o'clock in the morning visitors get into rafts made of bamboo at the end of the trek. The rafting lasts for about three hours and visitors are transformed into a spell bound audience, as they take in the panoramic views. The forests are rich in bird life and arboreal animals like giant squirrel and Nilgiri langur. Animals like elephant, gaur and sambar are often sighted during rafting expeditions. With the forest guards trained and carrying communications equipment, visitors who may not be completely at ease wandering through forests, can take part in outdoor activities with confidence.

The Backwaters

A bevy of beaches, backwater cruises and Ayurveda that stems from ecological resources are also intrinsically woven into the fabric of Kerala eco-tourism. Amongst the favourite beaches of Kerala are the Shankhumugham Beach which is located just eight km. from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam beach, Thirumullavaram beach, a secluded spot near Kollam town, Alappuzha beach with an old lighthouse, and a host of other spots where visitors can catch can take in the sun n sand.

Kerala's eco-tourism is a multifarious and diverse product. There is something for everyone. Whether it be intrepid treks through tiger reserves, relaxing on the beach, taking a backwater cruise, or relaxing at a hill station, visitors can be certain that they will be captured by the natural bounty. With the government prioritising sustainable, long-term tourism, there can be little doubt that eco-tourism is a primary reason behind Kerala being labelled one of the world's must-see destinations.

Water Sports In Kerala

Kerala has witnessed a boom in water tourism with the `India International Boat Show' to become an annual event. As part of its efforts to place water tourism in the State at a high pedestal and inspired by the tremendous success of India International Boat Show (IIBS), Kerala Tourism, the organisers of the country's maiden maritime and tourism buyer -seller meet has decided to make it an annual event. According to Alkesh Kumar Sharma, director, Kerala Tourism, far above their expectations, the three-day boat bonanza held at Kochi became an instant success, in more than one way. Besides a show that witnessed increased number of participants from the water sports, adventure tourism and maritime industry from seven continents, the IIBS has
opened up a totally new and unheard option to the tourism entrepreneur in the state.

Attracting water sports lovers and maritime and tourism entrepreneurs from India and abroad, the India International Boat Show 2003 created much interest and enthusiasm among the buyers and sellers alike. The secretary of Kerala State Tourism Department, T Balakrishnan says, "More than a display of boats and jackets and water scooters, the scope of the event became expanded with special segments for sports boating, leisure boating, defence boating, boating equipment and technology & software and other support services". This according to him is a welcome sign because India as a country has been traditionally rather shy towards adventure water sports. Raising new hopes among the buyers as well as upcoming entrepreneurs, the boat show gave a fillip to the otherwise laid back industry in the country as well. In simple terms, exhibitors at the Show drew unexpected response for their products, which the state is optimistic of converting into business in the near future.

An unprecedented turnout of buyers, ranging from Government departments from police, tourism, fisheries and sports organisations ensured a high percentage of enquiries with the exhibitors. The DGP Kerala Police, Mr. KP Hormis Tharakan; Additional DGP, Tamil Nadu Police Smt. Thilakavathi; Mr. Rajiv Yaduvamshi, Secretary Transport Goa; senior officials from the Directorates of Naval Architecture, & Marine Engineering, Naval Headquarters, New Delhi apart from other department heads and a vast number of boating enthusiasts visited the event. The Panamian Ambassador to India, Mr. Alejandro Garrido and Mr. Walter Marquez, Ambassador to India from Venezuela also visited the event.

Besides 501 registered buyers, over 5000 visitors visited the show. Visitors from as far away as South America, Africa and Australia made the event truly memorable for the exhibitors. Some exhibitors registered about 100 serious inquiries among 500 visitors to their stalls and a preliminary evaluation suggests individual sales to have touched around Rs. 75 lakh with a total sales figure of around Rs. 70 crore. Participation of reputed companies like Polaris, Bayliner, Regal Marine, IMCO Services all from U.S.A; Gulf Craft, Exalto Emirates, and Grandweld from UAE; Zodiac Group - Australia; and CGS Engineering & Simpson Marine from Singapore gave an international charm to the Show.

Major companies from within the country include Cochin Shipyard, Alcock Ashdown - Gujarat, Aqualine Marine, Craftway Engineers and Greaves Ltd - Mumbai, Vulkan Technologies Ltd., Sunny Water Sports, Cummins & Indo Marine from Pune.

Kamyakam haven

Kerala is a great tourist attraction with its ancient colonial charm and new age proficiency, but if you want to add fuel to the flavour, then head for the outskirts of Kochi to Kamyakam Haven – a complete luxury backwater resort.

The name Kamayakam is taken from the great Indian epic – the Mahabaratha. It’s believed to be an evergreen island forest where the Pandavas lived during their exile. The myth goes that during their exile the Pandavas with their wife Draupadi came to stay at Kamyakam. As the Gods were pleased with the virtuous Pandavas, the island forest was bestowed with every luxury so that the heroes could lead a blissful life there. Even now the bounty of nature is intact there.

A 15-minute journey from Kochi’s High Court Junction will take you to Kothad – the island where Kamyakam Haven is situated. It is a complete luxury backwater resort, built in the most eco friendly manner possible without disturbing the natural habitat of the backwater flora and fauna. It is spread over four acres en route the Ernakulam-Aluva-Nedumbassery International Airport.

The boat ride to the resort is an unforgettable experience for all visiting this resort. As the boat glides alongside Suratheeram, the boat jetty of Kamyakam Haven, there begins a lifetime experience that heralds myriad pleasures. This three-star resort is equipped with world class facilities.

There are plenty of things to do for those who want to make the stay at the resort a memorable and fun-filled experience - a swim in the pool, pole line fishing in the internal lake, pedal boating, water-skiing etc. The open restaurant, built in between the internal lake and the swimming pool, is aesthetically conceived and designed. The restaurant serves Continental, Chinese, North Indian and Kerala cuisine’s. One can enjoy the fresh food prepared in the native Moolampally tandoor. Some of the other facilities available at Kamyakam Haven include – duplex cottages and rooms, multicuisine restaurant, AC and non AC conference halls, laundry, hot and cold water, travel desk, direct dial telephones, satellite television, internet, doctor on call, sightseeing trips, swimming pool, ayurvedic centre, money changing facility, boating, pedal boating, backwater cruise, pole line fishing, canoeing, water skiing etc.

Coastline Holidays

All major tour operators are competing heavily to corner a market share in handling the incoming tourist to Kerala. One such company is Coast Line Holidays P Ltd, which has already drawn out their plans for the forthcoming season and is focussing purely on the domestic inbound market. Sources indicate that they are strong in major tourist markets in India handling some of the cream tour operators movements into Kerala. William Rodrigues, managing director of the company, attributes this success to a passion for excellence, which has brought the company this far.

Services provided by Coastline Holidays are:

• Car & Coach hire.
• Hotel & Houseboat Bookings.
• Group & independent vacation programs in various budgets.
• Speciality tours like backwaters tours, ayurveda tours, trekking tours etc.
• Incentive tour handling.
• Destination management Services in South India.
• Travel & Transport desk assistance for major conferences and conventions.

Coastline Holiday is establishing itself as one of the largest tour & ground - handling operators in Kerala with special focus on domestic tourism. With the professional team of staff, own fleet, modern service delivery methods and sophisticated systems. Customer empathy is the key consideration in all the operations and every service requirement is processed and delivered swiftly which proves to be a major strength in retaining the customers & agents.

The company is confident about the future and their immediate focus is to consolidate strength by reaching out to more agents and by exploring and handling new markets in India with massive expansions.

By Susan George