Kerala, also known as God’s Own Country, is a popular tourist destination in India. With its serene backwaters, lush green forests, and pristine beaches, Kerala has always been a favorite among travelers. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically affected the tourism industry worldwide, and Kerala is no exception.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Kerala Tourism
The pandemic has hit the tourism industry hard in Kerala. The state, which used to receive a large number of domestic and international tourists every year, saw a steep decline in tourist arrivals due to travel restrictions and safety concerns. According to reports, the state lost over 25 thousand crore rupees due to the pandemic’s impact on tourism.
The Road to Recovery
Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Kerala is slowly but steadily recovering from the crisis. The state government has taken several measures to revive the tourism industry and attract travelers once again.
One such initiative is the ‘Bio-bubble’ concept introduced by the government for domestic tourists. Under this concept, tourists can travel around Kerala without having to quarantine if they have a negative COVID-19 test report.
New Safety Measures Implemented
To ensure safety for both tourists and locals during these challenging times, Kerala has implemented several new safety measures. These measures include mandatory mask-wearing in public places, social distancing norms at tourist spots, hand sanitization stations at various locations and regular disinfection of public spaces.
What Tourists Can Expect Now?
Tourists visiting Kerala now can expect a slightly different experience than before. Several popular tourist attractions have changed their operating hours or limited their capacity to maintain social distancing norms. However, travelers can still enjoy several activities such as houseboat rides on serene backwaters or explore hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.
- Here are some of the popular tourist destinations that are open now:
In Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the tourism industry in Kerala, but the state is slowly recovering. With new safety measures in place and several tourist destinations reopening, travelers can still enjoy the beauty of God’s Own Country. However, it’s crucial to follow all safety guidelines and take necessary precautions when traveling during these uncertain times.