FAQ

Are Responsible Tourism Initiatives Popular in Kerala?

Responsible Tourism (RT) in Kerala is a commendable initiative that aims to promote sustainable and community-focused tourism in the state. The programme began in 2007 with the tagline "Better together," and has evolved over the years to include numerous destinations, offering visitors unique and immersive experiences of Kerala's rich culture and natural beauty.

State and destination-level Responsible Tourism committees were established to plan and execute RT programmes through the Tourism department. This collaborative approach ensures that the initiatives are well-coordinated and aligned with the principles of Responsible Tourism.

The initiative started with four pilot destinations – Kovalam, Kumarakom, Thekkady and Wayanad. Following the success of the pilot phase, three more destinations – Kumbalangi, Ambalavayal and Bekal – were included. Subsequently, 50 more destinations joined the RT mission.

In 2017, the RT mission, serving as the nodal agency, was launched to further strengthen the implementation of responsible tourism initiatives across the state.

The primary focus of RT is on the development of village and local communities. By involving local residents in tourism activities, the initiative aims to enhance their economic well-being.

RT seeks to contribute to poverty eradication by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. This is achieved through the promotion of responsible and ethical tourism practices.

Giving emphasis to women empowerment is a crucial aspect of RT. The initiative aims to create opportunities for women in tourism-related activities, contributing to their socio-economic empowerment.

RT aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It integrates traditional art forms, rituals and handicrafts into tourism experiences, allowing visitors to engage with and appreciate the local culture.