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Home , Chembuthara, Manali River, Peechi Dam, Thrissur, Thrissur City Police, Tourism in Kerala

JAC : A Journal Of Composition Theory ISSN : 0731-6755

A Study on the Travel and Tourist Destinations in with special reference to District

Jency Baby Assistant Professor Department of Commerce Mercy College, [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, , 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 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

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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. is flourishing in a predominant rate, as every third international travellers visiting 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 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. , the health tourism product is another USP of Kerala Tourism due to earthly possession of abundance of herbs and medicinal plants. 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

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'Thrissur ', 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 Temple and Paramekkavu temple, and the 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

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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 , 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 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

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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. There would be guides for taking the tourists to the destinations. The guides belong to people from tribal area who have undergone with specialised training programmes in forest- tourism.

3. Olichi Waterfalls: - The Olichi waterfalls are situated in Kottupuram Village which comes under Panchayath. These waterfalls are fabulous and active only during which is indeed a spectacular view from the village Kottupuram and is one of the main sources of water for the villagers. This waterfall is situated in Kandamchira forest near to Kottappuram Panchayat adjacent to Olichi. One more waterfalls are also found at Cheruchakkil situated near to Olichi. 4. Meloor Aarattukadavu: - Beauty of River is the main attraction in the construction of Meloor Aarattukadavu. It is framed in such a manner that the beauty of can be admired by the tourist largely. This place is attractive throughout the year. Facility for bathing, fishing, admiring the cool breeze from the river etc. forms major attractions. 5. Pattathipara Waterfalls: -. Pattathipara yet again is an attraction for Waterfalls. The waterfall is three-tiered but appears in rainy seasons as a single fall. It is situated 47 km apart from NH47 near to , belonging to Paanancheri Panchayat. Vehicles can go near to this waterfall with limited restricted distance of 400 meter. This water falls emerges from the interior forest of Kannakad situated at Vellani hills and falls from a height of 120 feet to Chekkunthaya rocks. The season starts from June continuing till December. The water flows and merges in . 6. : - Peechi Dam situated 22km apart from Thrissur District was started as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages of Thrissur. At the same time, it also served the daily drinking water needs of the residents of Thrissur City. Built across Manali river, the dam covers an area of 3200 acres. Elephants are usually found wondering on the banks of Peechi- Vazhani Wildlife sanctuary. The quantum of water increases during rainy season which is really amazing for the site seekers. There are certain star hotel’s inside the dam premises were tourists can reside and admire the beauty of this water reservoir. We can also find from one end to

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another with its greenery spread over which gives a calming, cool and relaxed atmosphere to the tourists. Along with this, it provides a beautiful garden by the DTPC, exhibits the structure of Kerala Dams, Kerala engineering Museum and Botanical garden. 7. Beeyam Lake: - It is situated near Noorani Canal emerging from Chemmanur Chullikkaran hills. Various entertainments like catching fishes, rear specious of migrating and the burbles of the lake are the major attractions. If one wants more journeys through water, it can be made until it reaches the river and from there merge of river with the Arabian Sea can also be viewed. If booking is made in advance, minimum 7 people can travel with food and other amenities along with the chauffeurs of the boat. In places were bunds are not there, we can admire the lake’s beauty that is spread all around. One can also find islands like Pattiram, Aalam and Thuruvanam in this journey. Fresh fried fishes caught from these lakes are really an exotic experience to the holidaymakers. One can travel up to Beeyam Lake for 17 kms which is the first stage. Here we can find the shutter towards the river. If one needs to travel more, then they may go to the opposite side of the shutter and travel in big boats.

Findings

 Government must take action and invite the natives of Thrissur District by organising a campaign with a popular personality so that a good quantum of people may get attracted to come for the marvellous event and in turn will get awareness of an ideal, nearby and less costly tourist spots.  Word of mouth marketing is yet another method to attain popularity in the unexplored sites and for the same the residents of the site itself can be approached which would be welcoming for them.  Advertisements of these places should be made in trade fairs and mega exhibitions were large number of people gather so that people would get awareness of the same. As an initial step the project can be displayed in Thrissur Exhibitions and conventions and then to other parts of the state.  Government must take initiatives to develop these areas by making its surroundings hostile and approachable in the first stage.  Basic necessities like café, canteens, washroom facilities must be created in advance for the tourists as they may not get irritated by wondering for such hostile

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environment and in turn may hesitate or even say adversely to their dear and near ones.  Facilities for enjoying in water, bathing, amusements in the form of gardens and parks etc. may be established so that it would help to change the shape and outlook of that specific area.  A helpdesk system need to be provided to find the routes for the tourists  First aid facilities, access to police and fire force needed to be regulated so that in case of any urgency the tourists may not get struck up on their path.  The authority must take initiatives to beautify the surroundings with gardens, find places to dispose waste etc. This in turn will provide employment opportunities to the localites.  Government can raise funds for its initial development through private sponsorships, or through collaborations with agencies, through donations from MNCs etc.  The localites must be inspired to take initiatives to bring sponsorships and hostility so that they may feel that it is their land which is beautified and made popular. This would in turn help to increase the land prices. Automatically people from outside would get attracted to have homes nearby.  As the development progresses, all facilities like banking, postal, hospital, restaurants, textile shops etc. would gradually arrive and the arena itself will be converted into a small township if progresses.

Conclusion

One of the most attractive industries in India definitely is our Tourism Segment and it contributes significantly to the foreign exchange possessed by our country. Around 4 million tourists visited India during the year 2008 and had spent an amount worth US $8.9 billion, which in turn helped our country to become one of the major tourist destinations. Employment opportunities have been sprouted out not only in the tourism sector, but also in the related sectors either directly or indirectly. This has even led to the boost of GDP, overall economic growth, improvement in the service sector and as such the growth of tourism industry globally. Almost 20 million people are now working in India’s Tourism Industry.

Even though the industry is highly flourished, there are some challenges that restrict the growth of the same in an unprecedented manner. They are especially lack of adequate infrastructure, health and safety conditions of the tourists, shortfall of adequate manpower

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and as such. 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.

“Yes, of course; Tourism Industry may be called as a sun rise industry, an employment generator, a source of foreign exchange, an aid for the overall development of local communities and to the nation as a whole”.

The present study has scrutinized the unearthed tourist destinations at Thrissur District. If the same gets popularity among the public, automatically that would bring out an upsurge in the lifestyle and economic conditions of the people inherent in these areas.

The heart of a city lies in the villages i.e., when we reach to the interiors of any creation, we can find its beauty; we find what actually it is !!!!!!! All these spots are really attractive to the tourists and also to the residents of Thrissur who wishes go for a pleasure trip for just 2 to 3 hours in the evening with their dear and near ones. Once this spot get attraction by a small group of tourists, it will gain momentum as the word of mouth travels faster than anything in this world and in turn would help to nourish the site into a global hub.

Bibliography

– A Case of Kerala,V S Santhosh, Associate Professor, P.G. Dept. of Commerce, V TM NSS College, Dhanuvachapuram  Growth and Performance of Tourism Industry in India, Vijay M. Kumbhar, Dhananjayrao Gadgil College of Commerce, Satara, India  A Comparative Study on Foreign Tourist Arrivals in India Dr. Shekhar Upadhyay, Dr. Alka Awasthi, Dr. Priyanka Rawal Assistant Professor, School of Management, Jagran Lakecity University, .  Growth and Development of Indian Tourism Industry, Dr. Mandeep Kaur, Associate Professor, Dept. of Commerce and Business Management, Guru Nanak Dev University, , Punjab and Nitasha Sharma, Senior Research Fellow, JOHAR - - Journal of Hospitality Application & Research Vol. 7 No. 2  www. Manoramaonline.com//local  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourism_in_Kerala  https://www.ukessays.com/essays/tourism/the-development-of-tourism-in-kerala- tourism- essay.php

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