Kottayam’s Backwaters to Showcase the Spirit of Rural Life This Onam

Fast Summary

• Villages along Vembanad Lake in Kottayam are rolling out ‘village life experience’ packages under Kerala’s Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission for the upcoming festival season.
• The packages, available until the end of September, include activities like coir making, coconut climbing, leaf craft, Thiruvathirakali performances, fishing, shikara boat rides, and kayaking.
• Visitors can also enjoy a conventional Onam feast prepared by ethnic cuisine units associated with RT Mission.
• Tourism activity is surging in popular destinations such as Kumarakom and Aymanom; houseboats and smaller shikara boats are operating at full capacity.
• Hospitality bookings have significantly increased with equal participation from foreign tourists and domestic travelers from North indian states.
• High-end properties in regions like Aymanom have lined up special events to welcome visitors. They plan to offer both continental dishes and authentic kerala cuisine.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The launch of village tourism packages by RT Mission Kerala highlights an effort to promote sustainable tourism centered on rural livelihoods. By providing immersive cultural experiences tied to local crafts and traditions during the festive season-especially Onam-the initiative adds economic value for local communities while offering unique attractions for tourists.

The spike in footfall across tourist hubs like kumarakom indicates renewed momentum for Kerala’s backwater tourism sector. With international visitors comprising 50% of arrivals alongside strong domestic demand,this development could catalyze recovery in regional hospitality post-pandemic or amid slowdowns. However, ensuring eco-sustainability amidst growing tourist inflow will be crucial for long-term viability.

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