Kerala Tourism

Tourism planning - a flexible approach 

End state master plans with meticulous spatial planning and numerous and welldefined project proposals (the implementation or otherwise of which would largely depend on private sector initiatives) are often found to be too rigid and infeasible to implement in the long term, particularly in the context of large regions. This Perspective Plan Document therefore takes the view that planning is a continuous process that must provide for flexibility depending on changing situations, while still achieving the basic development objectives. Incremental planning can be done successively from the general to the more specific levels, during the course of implementation, based on continuous monitoring of previous development and evaluation of new trends. Accordingly, this Document sets out a framework of broad objectives and targets, outlines the approach that may be necessary to achieve the same, and also raises issues that may have to be addressed as one goes along. Kerala’s commendable achievements in tourism & plans for the future Kerala has made admirable progress in tourism development in recent years. God’s own Country has become a well recognised tourism brand and the State has achieved impressive growth in foreign tourist arrivals in particular. The State’s Tourism Vision 2025 envisages sustainable development of tourism with focus on backwaters, ayurveda and eco-tourism. Also, a fairly detailed road map has been set out by way of:

 • A large Tenth Five Year Plan outlay for tourism (over Rs.900 crores), including Rs.500 crores for general infrastructure such as connecting roads, water supply, solid waste disposal, etc., for tourist centers.

 • Formulation and implementation of numerous tourism projects – big and small, through diverse funding mechanisms. Among the largest and most prestigious project proposals are a beach destination at Bekal, a hill station development at Wagamon and integrated development of backwaters.

 • Aggressive target of attracting substantial investments in the tourism sector through the Global Investors Meet.

 • Proactive measures in tourism legislation, certification/grading of tourism products, incentive schemes for tourism projects and most importantly, effective marketing of the State as a tourism destination

Kerala 

From mist cloaked mountains to golden beaches, from quaint gushing waterfalls to breathtakingly serene backwaters, from palm fronds delicately dipping into waters to sprawling tea gardens, from man made wonders to the marvels of nature - if there's is one place that has it all, it is Kerala, God's Own Country. Just a few reasons that make Kerala tourism a buzzword for tourists..

What can one do in Kerala, you ask! Well, wander through tea gardens picking fresh tea leaves in Munnar; say hi to elephants and tigers in Thekkady; be amazed by the raised eyebrow of a Kathakali dancer in Kozhikode; soak up the sun in Kovalam; travel back in time when you wander through the streets of Kochi; cruise on the calm waters of Kumarakom; pay your respects at majestic temples in Thiruvananthpuram; leave a trail of your footsteps as you wander on the beaches of Varkala, or simply fall prey to nature's charms at Allepey. Be it healing or learning, leisure or adventure, inner peace or thrilling times, Kerala tourism circuit gives you a thousand reasons to travel. This thin strip of land that Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea cosset is a lush symphony of ever-green forests, paddy fields, coconut palms and plantations. The monsoon clouds hit Kerala first of all and, barred by the Ghats, drench the land. Gentle rivers can't keep the sea from backing up, creating a lovely world of backwaters. For centuries, the world craved Kerala's spices; Jews, Christians and Muslims flocked to her cosmopolitan ports, as did Dutch, Portuguese and British colonizers. Today, the Ayurvedic massages, houseboat cruises, heritage zones, wildlife sanctuaries and cuisine, all add up to God's own vacation!

1 Kollam Adventure Park

Kollam Adventure Park is also known as Model Adventure Park and Picnic Village. It is a hub in Kollam that is really famous for recreational activities. The adventure park is home to many attractive places like the 200- year-old government guest house, a beautiful children’s park, a great tourist boat  club and Yatri Nivas. The place has breathtaking views of backwater where you can go for luxurious boat rides. Kollam Adventure Park is a great place to visit with family and friends for a memorable trip.

2 Paravur Lake

Paravur Lake is a great place if you are looking for a fun filled day with your friends and family in kollam. The beautiful lake is located in Paravur and is a good way to relax amidst the spectacular views. So if you wish to spend one day of your life exploring things you cannot do in normal life, then visit this amazing place. From eating good food to clicking some memorable moments, Paravur Lake should be in your itinerary once you make a trip to Kollam. 

3 Thangassery Light House

Built in 1902, the Thangassery Light House stands testimony to the colonial history of Kerala. A whopping 140 feet structure, the place is surrounded by enchanting beauty and calming silence. With winding stairs within, the light house is nothing short of majestic, especially in the commanding views it offers of the beach and sea that lies ahead. Mostly secluded and quiet, the area around the lighthouse is great for a little picnic or just some time alone with only thoughts to keep you company.

4 Mahatma Gandhi Beach & Park 

Kochupilamoodu,Kochupilamoodu The Mahatma Gandhi Beach & Park is a great place to relax and have fun in Kollam. The place is surrounded by mesmerising views of the beach and the park is a perfect place for long walks. The most fascinating thing about The Mahatma Gandhi Beach & Park is the sea-food. The place attracts many visitors every day be it locals or tourists, the place is usually crowded. It is a place in Kollam that should be in your itinerary no matter what! Don’t miss this place if you are a true beach lover. A must visit place for a peaceful yet fun time.

5 Sree Krishnaswamy Temple

Kollam's crowning glory set by the sparkling waters of Ashtamudi lake and host to one of Kerala's most colorful festival, Sree Krishnaswamy temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his navaneet krishnan form (Krishna with butter). The temple is a must visit place if you are a true God lover. The temple has a charm that will mesmerise you to the core. Make a visit to this place for a unique experience. Sree Krishnaswamy temple is a mesmerising place. 

FOOD 

1 Fayalwan Hotel 

Main Road, Chamakkada, Kollam, Kerala, 691001, India +91-474-2751993 Fayalwan Hotel is known for its delicious meals at very reasonable rates, thus a hit amongst the working men of the area. During lunchtime this place is jam packed and you might have to wait in a queue. The interiors of the restaurant are simple with concrete booths and long benches. Once you are here, do try the biriyani and mutton curry which is simply awesome. The smell of the hotel will lure you to order more and more food and you will surely not regret it.

2)Hotel Guruprasad

Quilon Main Road, Kollam, Kerala, 691001, India +91-474-2741359 Situated in a neat colonial building, Hotel Guru Prasad is a simple eatery that serves delicious fare and is a hit for its yummy and cheap lunchtime meals. You will surely revisit this place once you taste the food here. It is a paradise for food lovers. Enjoy delicious lunch meals at Hotel Guruprasad, housed in a colonial building. Eat like a local and experience yourself going into a different zone when you enter this beautiful restaurant in Kollam.