Kerala is expanding its eco-tourism offerings with workation facilities, premium pod stays and branded forest products aimed at creating new tourism experiences while supporting sustainable development.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan inaugurated the SHOLA (Seek-Hike-Observe-Lodge-Absorb) workation facilities at Gavi and Suryanelli on Tuesday. Set up at eco-tourism centres operated by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC), the facilities allow visitors to work while staying in forest settings. The initiative marks the first time the state government has introduced workation facilities in the government sector.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated five other KFDC projects at an event held at Mascot Hotel. The corporation launched ATMA, a new brand of tea and coffee produced from its plantations, with Forest and Wildlife Minister Shibu Baby John handing over the first sale to the Chief Minister.
A premium pod stay project was also launched at Vagamon. Four pods are expected to be completed by December, offering temporary accommodation for visitors at the eco-tourism destination. Satheesan highlighted Kerala's rich biodiversity and stressed the need to develop tourism without damaging the environment.
The government also introduced the Travel Today Pay Tomorrow initiative, allowing tourists to pay for trips in instalments. An eco-guide training programme was launched to improve the quality of nature interpretation and enhance visitors' understanding of forest ecosystems.
The initiatives come amid growing tourist interest in forest-border regions, which the government sees as an opportunity to strengthen local economic activity. John said the projects are intended to promote premium biodiversity-based tourism while supporting sustainable socio-economic development.
As part of the value-addition efforts, sandalwood produced from KFDC-owned trees will be marketed under the new Kalabham brand. The projects collectively seek to connect nature-based tourism with locally produced forest goods while creating additional economic value for the corporation and surrounding communities.