New Delhi, 18th November 2023:
The Kerala Tourism Pavilion has successfully turned the spotlight on the enchanting beauty and diverse offerings of “God’s own country” at the India-International Trade Fair. From caravan tourism to destination weddings, Kerala stands out as an affordable and multifaceted destination for global travelers.
Diverse Tourism Experiences Unveiled
The pavilion showcased Kerala’s rich landscape, backwaters, and cultural tapestry, offering tourists a comprehensive package that includes beaches, mountains, backwaters, pilgrimage sites including the Pathmanabha Swami Temple and Kodungalloor Juma Masjid, arts, festivals, waterfalls, monuments, and the renowned Ayurveda culture.
Backwaters and Houseboat Trips
The 34 picturesque backwaters of Kerala, connected to the sea through estuaries, took center stage. Visitors were enticed with the promise of unforgettable backwater cruises on boats and houseboats, providing a unique opportunity to savor Kerala’s delectable cuisine.
Medical Tourism and Ayurveda
The pavilion highlighted Kerala’s potential for medical tourism, showcasing the state’s rich Ayurveda culture. It also emphasized regional tourism, focusing on rural areas, agricultural activities, monsoon tourism, and caravan tourism.
Destination Weddings in Vogue
New York Times Magazine declared Kerala the best wedding destination of 2023, and the state’s first destination wedding center near Shankhumukham Beach, Thiruvananthapuram, was unveiled, signaling Kerala’s emergence as a sought-after wedding locale.
While exploring the Kerala Tourism Pavilion, honeymooners Raj and Manisha from Delhi said they were impressed by the romantic charm and diverse offerings of Kerala. Raj exclaimed, “This place is a dream for newlyweds like us. The backwaters and the wedding destination options are simply breathtaking.” Manisha added, “Kerala is indeed the best wedding destination of 2023, as declared by the New York Times Magazine. We’re already planning our return for our anniversary!”
International Recognition and Responsible Tourism
Forbes magazine’s recommendation of Kerala as one of the 52 must-visit places in the world in 2022 was highlighted. The Kanthallur panchayat in Idukki district also received a gold medal in responsible tourism, further boosting the state’s global appeal.
Accommodation and Hospitality Excellence
With the largest number of five-star hotels in India, Kerala boasts 46 such establishments, reflecting the state’s commitment to providing top-notch hospitality. Record increases in room bookings and a surge in domestic tourists during the first nine months of 2023 affirm Kerala’s popularity.
Soaring Tourism Numbers
Statistics revealed a record-breaking influx of domestic tourists to Kerala, with 1.59 crore arrivals in the first nine months of 2023, signifying a remarkable increase of 25.88 lakh people compared to the previous year.
Among the intrigued visitors was 30-year-old Priya Talwar, a solo traveler from Delhi. She shared her excitement, saying, “I’ve always heard about Kerala’s beauty, and now, being here, it’s even more enchanting than I imagined. The pavilion’s showcase of cultural experiences and the emphasis on responsible tourism has convinced me to extend my stay and explore more. Kerala is truly a gem!”
The Kerala Tourism Pavilion has successfully positioned the state as a global tourism hotspot, inviting visitors to explore the unparalleled beauty of God’s own land. With affordability and diverse experiences, Kerala beckons adventurers, honeymooners, and cultural enthusiasts alike to immerse themselves in its captivating allure.