Kerala to launch caravan tourism project in January
KOCHI: Kerala has received impressive response to the newly announced caravan tourism policy, reportedly a game changer in the industry, if the number of applicants registered online within three days of opening the registration portal is any indication.
Hundredsofapplicantsregisteredonlineevincing interest in the new initiative and 30 entrepreneurs have come forward to set up caravan parks.
The tourism department will officially launch caravan tourism by January 2022. Tourism director VR Krishna Teja said that the entrepreneurs are showing more interest due to the increasing queries and bookings of tourists.
The Tourism Department is all set to launch a web portal for prospective groups and individuals.
“Since so many people are approaching us with proposals, especially for starting caravan parks, we will be opening a portal.
“All groups and individuals who want to set up a park or own a caravan can register there,” says Tourism Director VR Krishna Teja.
The project that is being introduced in the public-private partnership model will have the participation of private investors, tour operators and the local people.
While announcing the new initiative, Minister for Tourism PA Mohammed Riyas offered subsidies for those who invest in the caravan project. Tourism department will offer subsidy for buying caravans, but no assistance will be provided for parks that are minimum-investment structures.
The caravans have been designed as both luxurious and eco-friendly.
The tour operators expect that caravan tourism which incorporates trips to forests, hill stations, seashore, boating destinations and many more will help the tourism sector, already reeling under Covid-induced restrictions for months on end.
The project allows guests to stay close to nature in maximum comfort. The department is projecting a three-fold tourism experience that involves luxury travel, pristine destinations, and a real taste of rural life.
According to Teja, most global tourists who visit Kerala want to experience the tropical greenery and they are also familiar with the caravan culture.