Tourism

Kerala is an internationally recognized popular tourist destination. The year 2017 witnessed 5.15 per cent growth in foreign tourist arrival and 11.39 per cent growth in domestic tourist arrival in the State. There was a 12.56 per cent increase in total revenue from the Tourism sector. Kerala’s distinctive heritage and cultural diversity have attracted world tourists, making Tourism as their third growth sector. A travel survey conducted by BBC rated Kerala as the most preferred tourist destination by foreign travelers.

• During 2017, 14.67 million domestic tourists and 1.09 million foreign tourists arrived in Kerala. An increase in foreign tourist arrivals by 5.15%, during 2017 over 2016, the state footfall is expected to reach as high as 3 million by 2021.
• Total Revenue (direct & indirect) from Tourism during 2017 is INR 33383.68 Crores, showing an increase of 12.56% over the last year’s figure.
• The Government of Kerala is focusing on developing sustainable and eco-friendly tourist infrastructure in the State.
• For the last few years, the two Districts which recorded largest foreign tourist arrivals in the State are Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram.