Kerala Travel Mart 2022: A Curtain Raiser

“Tremendous response from both Domestic and International Buyers” says K.S. Shine Chief Executive Officer Kerala Travel Mart Society

The Voice of Chandigarh :

Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) one of the largest travel marts in India is going to draw a huge response from the buyers and sellers during its conclave to be held in Kochi from 5th May to 8th May 2022. With the lifting of air travel restrictions and easing of other conditions due to the Pandemic, International buyers are rushing to attend the biggest conclave in KTM this year. As per the latest information gathered from Mr. Rajkumar K. Chief Executive Officer Kerala Travel Mart as many as 403 international buyers have registered so far for this mega event. He further expects more than 500 international buyers and over 1500 domestic buyers to register for the said conclave in the coming weeks. The International buyers who have already registered are from England, Germany, France, and Spain.

According to Rajkumar K. C.E.O., Kerala Travel Mart will be the start of the revival of tourism in Kerala post-pandemic.

Kerala is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the country. The tourists throng this in large numbers not only from various states in India but from across the world. It is a place where you can find beaches, hill stations, rivers, and backwaters all in one single state.

I will be participating in Kerala Travel Mart as hosted media on behalf of The Voice of Chandigarh and The Voice of Canada.

But my curiosity forced me to come up with a curtain-raiser for those who are planning to visit the beautiful State.

Kerala is a perfect getaway destination for friends, families, and nature lover tourists. One can explore the serenity and tranquility of nature in any part of the state.

Pre-Mart Tour

It was slightly difficult to choose one destination and leave the other. It was a testing time for me. I chose to be part of the Pre-Mart Tour for which approval was given immediately. A well-planned itinerary of the pre-mart tour (5 nights and 6 days) in different parts of the state could have been a thoughtful process. A brief account is as under:-

• M/CK -1/22 Cochin- Marari – Kumarakom- Thekkady –Munnar
• M/CK- 2/22 Cochin Munnar- Munnar tented Camp-Thekkady – Kumarakom- Cochin
• M/ Ayur/22 Cochin- Nattika- Guruvayoor- Nattika- Pallakkad- Athirampally
• M/SK/22 Kovalam- Padmanabha Palace- Kovalam Jadayu/ Munroe Island—Kovalam- Alleppey-Cochin
• M/NK-1/22 Kannur- Kasaragod- Wayanad- Calicut- Cochin

A well-crafted pre-mart tour shall surely give the impression that every part of the state of Kerala is worth visiting.

Munnar
Munnar is the most romantic destination in the State. Visitors have been attracted to this place since the British Era. Sprawling beautiful tea plantations create the most fascinating canvas of nature. Neelakurinji flowers which bloom after 12 years are always considered a natural wonder.

Kovalam
It is indeed difficult to miss the black sand of Kovalam. It is a unique beach destination where the Arabian Sea reflects unmatched beauty against the black backdrop of black sand. The sunset at this place has its own charm.

Kasaragod
The northern district of Kerala encompasses beaches, backwaters, temples, churches, and forts which are major attractions. The unique style of temples and mosques can be found in the entire area of Kasaragod.

Alleppey
This is called ‘Venice of the East’ and the major attractions are houseboats, fishermen, canals and huge lakes. Alleppey reminds one of the finest and most interesting places in Kerala. Terms like ‘Responsible Tourism’ and ‘Sustainable Tourism’ have been implemented here at the core level. Never to forget, Alleppey is famous for the annual boat race which is a widely watched sports activity. This draws a large number of tourists from various parts of India and abroad.

Cochin
The city has a history of 500 years and is popularly known as the port city of Cochin. The museums and ancient buildings prominently display the mixed culture and heritage of the Portuguese, Dutch and British eras.

Wayanad
Wayanad is a lesser explored hill station of Kerala. This place is also famous for its wildlife and weather. A well-kept secret of Kerala. The beautiful Waterfalls and historical caves of Wayanad speak volumes of tourism potential in this particular part. Gradually, watching the colorful butterflies of Wayanad is going to become another important tourism activity in this area.

Thekkady
The area is known for its preserved forest area and spice plantations. The tribal culture and heritage hold their own significance. Through ecotourism activities like treks and bamboo rafting, one can explore the serene beauty of the Lakes and forests. Thekkady has also set a perfect example for the implementation of responsible tourism in a pragmatic manner.

Athirappilly
The largest waterfalls of Kerala and one among the highest in India are seen in Athirappilly. It is popular among both local and international tourists as the huge waterfalls are a wonder in themselves. Set in the dense forests of Chalakudy, the journey to Athirappilly is as beautiful as the waterfalls. It is a highly protected area with rich flora and fauna which adds to the serenity of the area.

Kovalam
Kovalam is a unique beach destination where the Arabian Sea continues to show its beauty against the black sand of Kovalam. It is not just home to the unique black beach, but also offers beautiful sunset and one can have a peek into the daily routine of fishermen working on the shoreline.

Trivandrum
Trivandrum is the capital city of Kerala or the ‘Evergreen City of India’ as it was called by Mahatma Gandhi. It is more of a historical destination. Its ancient buildings, art galleries, palaces, and temples add the finest charm to the character of this city that cannot be missed.

Inauguration of Kerala Travel Mart

• The inauguration of KTM shall take place on 5th May, 2022.
• The business meeting will be held at Samudrika and Sagara convention center, Willington Island Kochi from 6th to 8th May, 2022.

I am really excited to be part of this most memorable event for the promotion of tourism in Kerala state.