A Study on the Travel and Tourist Destinations in Kerala with Special Reference to Thrissur District
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JAC : A Journal Of Composition Theory ISSN : 0731-6755 A Study on the Travel and Tourist Destinations in Kerala with special reference to Thrissur District Jency Baby Assistant Professor Department of Commerce Mercy College, Palakkad [email protected] Abstract The contribution of tourism industry in the economic development of our country has shown a significant influence in strengthening Balance of payment position, Gross Domestic Product and in the generation of employment. From the past few decades, Indian tourism industry has been growing dramatically as it attracts a huge quantum of foreign tourists which in turn helped to earn large quantum of foreign exchange. Kerala tourism is indeed a highly attractive venture for the travellers from all over the world. Backwaters of Kerala, ecotourism, varied demography, unique culture and traditions are the fascinations that make Kerala as an ideal destination for the tourists. The cultural capital of Kerala namely Thrissur is yet another spot with palaces, temples, churches, museums, beaches and the variety. There are some tourist destinations in Thrissur, which were neglected or not even in the mind set of anyone across, i.e. people are unaware of these destinations which are easily accessible. The present paper focuses on various unearthed tourist destinations in the villages of Thrissur District which are highly elegant and eco-friendly especially to residents of Thrissur and if the same gets popularity among the public, it would bring out an upsurge in the lifestyle and economic conditions of the people inherent in these areas. A lot of efforts have been taken by the Central and State Government for the growth and development of the tourism sector, but hasn’t reached to its peak until now. So certain initiatives from the part government are utmost necessary for the progress of these sites and for the betterment of the region as a whole. Key words: tourism, travel, destinations, employment Introduction Travel and tourism plays a vital role in the life of each and every individual. Every individual who are engaged in their tedious works wishes to have pleasure trips to beautiful locations. Due to this the need for travel and tourism received utmost importance which was taken into Volume XII Issue XII DECEMBER 2019 Page No: 789 JAC : A Journal Of Composition Theory ISSN : 0731-6755 as a matter of consideration. Every individual wishes to have new explorations, adventures, entertainments, and experience in varying fields. And thus, tourism has become a major hub for finding solutions for such interests. The motivations for tourism also include social, religious and business interest. It is indeed a grace to our society which helps to bring balanced and peaceful life to those who are under the pressure of their daily lives. The importance of tourism as an instrument for economic development and employment generation, mainly in remote and backward areas, has been well documented all over the world. The present study focuses on the unexplored tourists destinations situated at Thrissur district and the researchers tries to explore the future potentials and benefits of such destinations to the tourists and to the residents of the concerned area. Tourism in Kerala Kerala- “the God’s own country” is a perfect stop for nature lovers, adventure seekers, honeymooners, families and travellers. With its Greenery, blue backwater lagoons, magnificent historical monuments, tea and coffee gardens, spice plantations, lush forests and much more; Kerala has unanimously attracted thousands of tourists within and outside the state that promotes in the overall development of the state. Tourism in Kerala is flourishing in a predominant rate, as every third international travellers visiting India also makes a visit to Kerala because of its lovely features it possess. It is really one of the 10 paradises in the world with coconut and arecanut palms, paddy fields, poultry and dairy farms, the red tiles houses, the innumerable lakes and beaches, festival attractions, varying dance forms, martial arts, and wildlife sanctuaries and so on. Ayurveda, the health tourism product is another USP of Kerala Tourism due to earthly possession of abundance of herbs and medicinal plants. Government of Kerala is really playing a prominent role for the development of tourism in the state by engaging private participation. It provides various subsides and incentives for the smooth and healthy promotion of the tourism industry all over the State. Brief History of Thrissur District Thrissur, originally known as Thiru Siva Peroor, is the fourth largest city, the third largest agglomeration in Kerala with a population of 18,54,783 is the 20th largest in India. It is also the headquarters of the Thrissur District. The City is built around a 65-acre (26 ha) hillock called the Thekkinkadu Maidan which seats the Vadakkumnathan temple. Thrissur is also known as the 'Cultural Capital of Kerala' because of its cultural, spiritual and religious leanings throughout history. One of the very famous cultural events in Thrissur includes Volume XII Issue XII DECEMBER 2019 Page No: 790 JAC : A Journal Of Composition Theory ISSN : 0731-6755 'Thrissur Pooram', which is world famous and attracts quite a number of tourists and travellers. It has a large number of well-known temples including the Vadakkumnathan temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple and Paramekkavu temple, and the Guruvayur temple as well as two famous churches, the Our Lady of Lourdes Syro-Malabar Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral and the Our Lady of Dolours Syro-Malabar Catholic Basilica, the largest Christian church in India. Beaches, backwaters, cascades, highlands, forests, dams, reservoirs, traditional life, cultural heritage etc. forms a major attraction in the minds of the public. It is a masterpiece of tangible and intangible heritage. It is also the abode of fairs and festivals, arts and crafts. Several prominent cultural centers like Kerala Kalamanadalam, Sahitya Academy, Sangeetha Nataka Academy and Lalit Kala Academy are also located here. Statement of the Problem The word “tour” itself sprouts out spirits in the minds of each and everyone. No one in this world will be there who doesn’t like to travel and perceive gorgeous places. Anyone with a heavy pressure of mind would like to relax by going to charming areas and as such tourism got utmost importance in the minds of each and every one which in turn helped to bring out a new wing in our culture as travel and tourism. The present study concentrates on the unexplored tourist destinations at Thrissur District, Kerala, its access and comfort both to the residents of Thrissur and to the public as such. Objectives of the study To analyse the Scope of tourism in rural areas of Thrissur District. Areas where tourism can be promoted. Facilities available in these areas. Accessibility of these destinations. Benefit of tourism in these areas. Scope of the study Focus of the present study is on pinpointing the unearthed tourist spots of Thrissur District to the public at large; its facilities, advantages, comforts and so on. So the present study will benefit the travellers and also the local people residing in these tourist areas as it would help Volume XII Issue XII DECEMBER 2019 Page No: 791 JAC : A Journal Of Composition Theory ISSN : 0731-6755 to bring demand for their places, chance for upliftment of their areas through the coming of shops and other accessories, increased employment opportunities etc. Methodology The main source of data collection is from secondary source like articles, newspapers and websites. Tourist Destinations in Rural Areas There are many local tourist destinations in Thrissur district. In that, the most attractive places are plotted out here. 1. Akamala Thumanam Waterfalls: -Situated in one of the remotest areas of Thrissur District; these waterfalls emerge from the interior forest of Akamala and flows to Thamanam and converts into marvellous steep waterfalls. With a height of 25 feet’s, the process travels all around to Kuzhikode canal farm to Marathukunnu; blends with Vazhani Dam, touches Wadakkanchery River, then to Kecheri River and finally gets submerged to Arabian Sea. The turbulent flows of the waterfalls are so attractive that makes one visit these arenas again and again. 2. Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary: Established in the year 1964, with an area of 85.067km2, this sanctuary is situated on the Western slopes of Nelliyampathy Hills. The highest peak in sanctuary is Punda peak (1116 m).It forms a continuous protected area of 210km2 along with the neighbouring Peechi- Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. It also lies towards the west of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is an important bird area with 192 recorded avian species. The beauty of Chimminy dam and wildlife sanctuary starts during rainy season. The varying attractions are trucking through the river side of Chimmny, minor waterfalls including Choorath, variety of butterflies, bird sanctuaries, boating etc. All these are inspiring attractions for the tourists in a calm environment which attracts people again and again. From the midst of July the season for tourist starts here. i.e., during heavy rainfall. The reservoir of Chimmney dam is yet another attraction. Under the guidance of forest department, Ecoshops functioned by the tribals are also set up here. Attractive photographs of Chimmney dam are exhibitied which is yet another spot. A mini cinema theatre holding 30 seats also functions, were wild life films are show casted. A study class for nature is arranged for the students in the Chimmney Inspection Bungalow; twice a Volume XII Issue XII DECEMBER 2019 Page No: 792 JAC : A Journal Of Composition Theory ISSN : 0731-6755 week from the month of July to January. Main attraction of Chimmney Tourism is the night stay at Anapore. In this package, the tourist can spent 24 hours’ time inside the forest. The package includes travel through reservoir i.e., 22km boat journey through reservoir along with food, night stay inside the forest named Anaporru.