Thekkady ranked first among responsible tourism destinations in Kerala

Thekkady ranked first among responsible tourism destinations in Kerala

After a comprehensive field review and destination wise studies Thekkady emerged as the best responsible tourism destination in Kerala. When Thekkady listed first in the list, Kumarakom and Wayand secured second and third ranks respectively. It was on the basis of an intensive survey and discussions undertaken by a Kochi based think tank- Green Life India Innovations Network (GLIIN). Resilience in triple bottom line areas made Thekady top of the list. Creation of livelihood opportunities, women participation, community involvement, private participation, local self government leadership, environmental conservation, community consciousness, destination management system, packages for disadvantaged, and innovative products were the key factors considered for ranking. Contributions of Periyar Tiger Reserve, Eco Tourism Society, Resort and Hotels Association, and Sustainable Tourism Development initiatives reported as a giant leap in RT initiatives by the panel whereas water pollution and environmental effects caused lagging of Kumarkom in a certain extent though it adored with various accolades.

Courtesy - RT India