Homestay revolution: How simple living in homestays has altered the tourism map of Kerala

Kochi: All the major tourism spots in the state swarm with tourists from across the globe during the peak season of December-January. This year, visitors have also been preferring homestays over hotels and resorts. Most homestays are entirely booked for the season as the tourists have booked them, both classified or otherwise, way in advance to avoid the last-minute rush. Interestingly, new tourist spots are sprouting in the Western Ghats up to their northern ends, adding impetus to Kerala's tourism sector. 

Homestay revolution
According to unofficial data, there are more than 6000 homestays in Kerala. However, only 1800 among them possess the tourism department’s classification (silver, gold, diamond). Before the COVID-19 outbreak, there were only 320 homestays. The owners and their families wouldn’t be residing in most of these houses. So, the guest often orders food online. 

As there is proper networking between classified homestays, guests are recommended to other homestays if one is completely booked. Homestay Society (HATS) has such committees and online groups in 53 destinations. 

More destinations
Earlier, the tourism map of Kerala focused on the various destinations in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kuttanad and Munnar. However, now, this has changed with new destinations entering the tourism map. Kannur has grown into a major tourism destination with Adikadalayi and Parassinikadavu being the latest entrants. Meanwhile, the popularity of the mighty Western Ghats never wanes. Besides Munnar and Wayanad, Kanthalloor, Vattavada, Kottakamboor, Marayoor, Panchalimedu and Calvary Mount have become the favourite destinations of tourists. Meanwhile, beach destinations like Varkala and Muzhupilangad, as well as backwater – mangrove forests like the Monroe Island, are also loved by visitors. 

Domestic tourists
Most tourists who visit Kerala are Indians from other states, not foreigners. Besides, Keralites have also started travelling more, exploring various destinations across the state. After Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, most tourists come from North Indian states such as Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad. Friends or former classmates prefer visiting new destinations in groups. Besides, women, retirees and various social groups also enjoy travelling in groups. 

Disadvantages
Road journeys in Kerala may get tiring due to extensive highway construction and ongoing road maintenance on the Munnar route. Besides, dumping waste on the waysides and a lack of sufficient toilet facilities are significant drawbacks that adversely affect Kerala's tourism prospects.