The adventure tourism sector generated revenue of Rs 235 crore for Kerala last year, creating permanent jobs for over 3,000 people besides stimulating local business activity.
“Like leisure travel, adventure tourism has also been gaining traction in recent times,” Tourism Minister PA Mohammed Riaz said on Saturday. The growth in the sector highlights the huge potential for the state to emerge as a global adventure and ecotourism hub. The tourism department also has big plans to partner with water sports and adventure tourism promoters and local organisations to further strengthen this sector,” Riaz said.
“The state government is laying emphasis on developing world-class infrastructure. Our efforts are to make Kerala a top destination for thrill seekers and adventure lovers,” he said. Currently, adventure tourism activities are mainly concentrated in Idukki, Wayanad, Kannur, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, Kasaragod, Malappuram and Ernakulam districts. These destinations offer great opportunities to indulge in activities like water sports, trekking and paragliding.
As part of its drive to promote the sector, the department organised its first event of the year, the International Paragliding Competition 2024, from March 14 to 17 at Wagamon, Idukki. Over 100 well-known gliders from both national and international stature participated in India’s largest air sports adventure festival. Participants came from countries like France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Australia, USA, UK and Nepal. In the same month, the department also organised India’s first ever three-day International Surfing Festival at Varkala Beach.
The 7th International Mountain Cycling Championships (MTB Kerala 2024) was held in April at Priyadarshini Tea Estate in Mananthavady, Wayanad. Cyclists from 25 countries participated in cross-country competitions on mud, rock and water surfaces. The 10th edition of the Malabar River Festival, known for its excellent organisation and spectator participation, will be held from July 25 to 28.
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