Tag Archives: Alappuzha

Kerala sees record 2.18cr domestic tourists in 2023

Kerala has set a new record in domestic tourist arrivals in 2023 with 2.18 crore tourist footfalls, a 15.92 per cent increase from the previous year, Minister for Tourism and Public Works P A Mohamed Riyas said on Monday.

In 2022, Kerala witnessed 1,88,67,414 domestic tourist footfalls.

Significantly, domestic tourist arrivals recorded an increase of 18.97 per cent compared to 2019, the minister told a press conference here.

In 2023, Ernakulam district witnessed the highest influx of domestic tourists with 44,87,930 visitors, followed by Idukki (36,33,584), Thiruvananthapuram (35,89,932), Thrissur (24,78,573), and Wayanad (17,50,267).

The state also witnessed a healthy increase in international tourist arrivals with 6,49,057 visitors in 2023, as compared to 3,45,549 tourists in 2022, indicating a remarkable growth of 87.83 per cent.

Ernakulam district was visited by 2,79,904 tourists from abroad, followed by Thiruvananthapuram (1,48,462), Idukki (1,03,644), Alappuzha (31,403), and Kottayam (28,458).

“This is a testament to Kerala Tourism’s vigorous efforts based on well-crafted policy initiatives and meticulously implemented promotional strategies within and outside the country,” Riyas said.

As for the number of visitors from abroad, the Minister pointed out that despite a significant uptick, it was still 45.45 per cent lower when compared to international tourist arrivals before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Though there has been a steady increase in the arrival of foreign tourists, which was adversely impacted by the pandemic, it will take some more time to reach the pre-pandemic level, he said.

“The conflicts in some parts of the world also affect international tourism. Despite these challenges, there has been good progress in foreign tourist footfalls in Kerala. Adventure tourism events planned for this year will help us regain much of the lost ground. We are also working on plans to attract more tourists to the Malabar region,” the Minister added.

 

(Source: PTI)

Kerala introduces heli-tourism connecting 11 destinations in the state

In a significant move to boost tourism and enhance connectivity, the state of Kerala has inaugurated a pioneering heli-tourism project. Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas officially launched the initiative, designating Kochi as its central hub.

This ambitious project aims to connect 11 key destinations across the state, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Jadayu Para, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Idukki, Munnar, Kumarakom, Kozhikode, and Kasaragod.

Minister Riyas highlighted that the heli-tourism initiative seeks to minimize time spent on travel, providing tourists with efficient and seamless access to popular destinations. In addition, Kerala Tourism plans to unveil an informative microsite dedicated to heli-tourism.

Further developments in the project include the introduction of new helipads in strategic locations. Discussions with private stakeholders have already commenced to streamline the project’s implementation.

The heli-tourism services will be categorized into three types: ‘City Rides’ for short trips within or near cities, ‘Destination-to-Destination Connect’ facilitating exploration of tourist destinations within the state, and ‘Tourism Packages’ offering curated trips linking multiple destinations.

Kerala Tourism will play a facilitating role, while private agencies will be responsible for providing services, adhering to all security specifications. Approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is mandatory for the commencement of services.

Choppers used for heli-tourism will have a seating capacity ranging from 6 to 12 passengers. Expressions of interest will be invited shortly, requiring aspiring operators to submit detailed plans for consideration, as outlined by Minister Riyas. The launch of this heli-tourism project is poised to transform the tourism landscape in Kerala, offering visitors a unique and efficient way to explore the scenic beauty of the state.”