Arippara Falls at Kodenchery in Kozhikode. | Photo credit: File photo
As the countdown begins for the local polls, local tourism entrepreneurs and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting the candidates’ response on a set of innovative and sustainable development strategies to promote ecotourism sites in Kozhikode district. They raised the issue at a time when ecotourism and agritourism are emerging as one of the fastest growing segments of Kerala’s tourism economy.
“Routine maintenance alone is not enough. We need an attractive action plan tailored to each local body and eco-tourism centers that can attract international tourists,” says N. Shibin, a tourism entrepreneur from Vayalad.
He says destination management committees should be strengthened with more powers and a dedicated share of revenue from each destination.
The Kozhikode-based Malabar Chamber of Commerce, which recently convened a meeting of major tourism operators, also points to the need for a structured approach to planning in the industry.
Chamber officials point out that showcasing Malabar’s attractions at international tourism fairs is essential to expand market reach. They also recommend the preparation of detailed field reports for even the smallest tourist sites to secure government assistance and ensure systematic development.
According to the coordination of investors in the tourism sector at the district level, more than 15 associations in the Malabar region are ready to cooperate with local administrators provided there is consistent administrative support.
They point out that candidates running for election have an obligation to include tourism development, especially ecotourism and sustainable livelihood initiatives, as a central campaign agenda. Although many villages around Kozhikode’s ecotourism centers now have a network of homestays and resorts, residents of rural areas say their income-generating opportunities, especially for financially disadvantaged families, remain largely untapped. They point to the potential for new ventures in traditional cuisine, handicrafts, cultural performances, farm visits and adventure tourism.
“During the last decade, eco-tourism spots like Thusharagiri, Arippara, Kakkayam, Vayalada, Janakikad and Kakkadampoyil have gained popularity among travelers. We are looking to start more businesses to promote domestic tourism with the participation of local people in these destinations,” says PV Ajinas, a tourist taxi operator.
Local residents from panchayats like Koodaranji, Kodenchery and Thiruvambady point out that they have already appealed to all candidates to prioritize projects to promote sustainable livelihoods.
Some of the leading rural tour operators also note that Kozhikode is yet to explore its potential in pilgrimage tourism, an area that can attract visitors interested in heritage, culture and spirituality.
Published – 03 Dec 2025 23:50 IST
