National Geographic lists Kerala - acclaimed as God's Own Country, among the top 50 destinations in the world. Building on this positive image, the Kerala Government is making an all-out effort to promote tourism through diverse products and earn revenue. Tourism in Kerala is scaling new heights with tourist inflow in 2003 marking a 26.8% increase.
Kumarakom - A Tourist Paradise?
Kumarakom lies on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kottayam district of Kerala. It owes its popularity to the backwaters and Kayal, Kuyil & Karimeen (Lake, Bird & Fish), known as the 3 Ks. It has a bird sanctuary, which is home to 91 species of local and 50 species of migratory birds. It is also the most important mangrove area of Kerala, the majority of which was part of the 'Baker Estate'.
Rev. Henry Baker, the owner of the 'Baker Estate' sold the land in 1978 to the Government of Kerala with a wish develop it for nature lovers and bird watchers. KTDC Ltd., in turn, leased it out to Taj Kerala Resorts in 1989. Since then, tourism has developed rapidly in the area. The recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Vajpayee and his popular Kumarakom Musings created much hype, putting Kumarakom in the spotlight.