Kerala’s Hidden Gems: Explore North Kerala This Summer
Newz Daddy Travel and Tourism Updates
Synopsis in Bullet Points:
- Kerala is launching an all-India campaign to boost domestic tourism during the summer holidays, targeting families and school holidaymakers.
- The campaign will highlight North Kerala, including Bekal, Wayanad, and Kozhikode, as well as lesser-known destinations with improved infrastructure.
- Heli-tourism and seaplane services will be introduced to enhance connectivity and accessibility to various destinations.
- Beaches, hill stations, houseboats, and backwaters will remain central to the tourism experience.
- The Nishagandhi Dance Festival and Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) will showcase Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
- Kerala is becoming a popular hub for destination weddings and corporate events due to its scenic landscapes and world-class facilities.
- Domestic tourist numbers have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with a significant increase in 2023 and 2024.
- B2B roadshows and participation in major trade fairs are planned to promote Kerala’s tourism offerings.
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As the summer holidays approach, Kerala is gearing up to welcome families and holidaymakers with a nationwide campaign designed to showcase the state’s diverse attractions. The campaign, spearheaded by Kerala Tourism, will focus on promoting North Kerala, including popular destinations like Bekal, Wayanad, and Kozhikode, as well as lesser-known spots that have seen significant infrastructure improvements.
One of the highlights of this campaign is the introduction of heli-tourism and seaplane services. These new initiatives aim to make travel within the state more convenient and enjoyable, allowing tourists to easily access remote and scenic locations. “These new products will not only enhance connectivity but also offer a unique experience to our visitors,” said Shri Biju K, Secretary of Tourism for the Government of Kerala.
While new initiatives are exciting, Kerala’s core attractions continue to be a major draw for tourists. The state’s beautiful beaches, serene hill stations, iconic houseboats, and tranquil backwaters offer a complete holiday experience. “Our traditional assets like houseboats and backwaters are timeless attractions that provide a unique experience to every visitor,” added Shri Biju.
Cultural Festivals Add to the Appeal
Kerala’s rich cultural heritage is another key aspect of the campaign. The Nishagandhi Dance Festival, scheduled from February 15 to 21 at the Kanakakkunnu Palace in Thiruvananthapuram, will feature renowned dancers from across India performing classical dance forms such as Mohiniyattam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, and Manipuri. “These festivals not only celebrate our culture but also attract art lovers from all over the country,” said Smt. Sikha Surendran, Director of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala.
The recently concluded Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) in Kozhikode also drew significant attention. Held from January 23 to 26, the festival brought together over 400 speakers from more than 12 countries, engaging in around 200 sessions. “KLF is a platform where readers and writers connect, fostering a love for literature and culture,” Smt. Surendran noted.
Kerala is fast becoming a preferred destination for weddings and corporate events. With its stunning landscapes, world-class facilities, and seamless blend of tradition and modernity, the state is attracting event planners, couples, and corporate clients looking for a distinctive experience. “More and more people are choosing Kerala for their special events, thanks to our unique offerings,” said Smt. Surendran.
The state has seen a remarkable increase in domestic tourist arrivals, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2022 and reaching record numbers in 2023. The trend continued in 2024, with over 1.08 crore domestic tourists visiting Kerala in the first six months. International tourist arrivals are also expected to reach pre-COVID levels this year, driven by an upswing in bookings during the winter holiday season.
To capitalize on the anticipated surge in domestic footfalls during the summer holidays, Kerala Tourism has planned a series of travel trade networking events. These include B2B roadshows in key cities like Chandigarh, Delhi, Jaipur, Chennai, and Kolkata, aimed at showcasing Kerala’s transformative initiatives and popular destinations to leading stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industry. “Our goal is to connect directly with potential visitors and offer them a glimpse of what Kerala has to offer,” said Tourism Minister Shri PA Mohamed Riyas.
Conclusion
Kerala’s summer campaign is a comprehensive effort to boost domestic tourism by highlighting the state’s diverse attractions, introducing new travel experiences, and celebrating its rich cultural heritage. With a focus on family holidaymakers and school holidays, the campaign aims to make Kerala the top choice for summer vacations. Whether it’s the serene backwaters, lush hill stations, or vibrant cultural festivals, Kerala promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
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