TOURISM IN RURAL KERALA: AN OVERVIEW

Abstract

Tourism in rural Kerala has emerged as a significant sector, offering authentic experiences and contributing to sustainable development. This article provides an in-depth analysis of rural tourism in Kerala, exploring its historical context, current state, economic and social impacts, challenges, and future prospects. The study highlights popular rural destinations, types of tourism activities, and government initiatives promoting rural tourism. It examines the economic benefits, such as employment generation and supplementary income for local communities, as well as the social and cultural impacts, including cultural preservation and community empowerment. Environmental challenges and sustainable practices are discussed, emphasizing the need for responsible tourism. Despite infrastructure limitations and seasonal fluctuations, the future of rural tourism in Kerala holds promising potential through strategic measures like infrastructure development, capacity building, targeted marketing, and community participation. By adopting these strategies, rural tourism in Kerala can become a model for sustainable and inclusive tourism development, benefiting both local communities and visitors.