Kerala is set to have around 353 caravans and 120 caravan parks as part of Keravan Kerala, the government’s caravan tourism initiative, Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas said today.
“Already potential investors have registered, evincing interest in setting up 120 caravan parks, while 353 entrepreneurs have registered for running caravans in the state,” Riyas said while inaugurating the state’s first Caravan Park at the scenic Vagamon in this hill district.
“We could encourage the segment by providing a subsidy of Rs 2 lakh to 7.5 lakh, besides the relaxations the Motor Vehicles Department gave to entrepreneurs to buy and operate caravans,” he added.
Karavan Meadows, developed by Adrak Hotels and Resorts and managed by Citrine Hospitality Ventures is part of the stakeholder and tourist friendly Caravan Tourism policy announced by the government five months back. Throwing it open to travellers marks a new chapter in Kerala Tourism’s endeavour to firmly position the state as a safe holidaying hub.
Riyas reached the newly developed caravan park situated at Nallathanni, Vagamon on a tourist caravan from the Vagamon Adventure Park.
“The new product is set to boost the state’s tourism industry. It will also bring to light several destinations that have so far remained unknown despite their potential to attract visitors,” he said.
The high-range Idukki will be the district that will benefit the most out of Caravan Tourism as it can put several unexplored places in the area on the tourist map,” Riyas added.