The Routes of Wellness in Tourism in Kerala and its Impacts

Abstract

Kerala is located in the south of India and together with Goa it is seen as the best international tourist destination of India. Kerala is also identified by the National Geographic Traveler as one of the two ‘must see’ spots in India, with the Taj Mahal being the other .According to the Economic Review (Kerala Planning Board, 2008) “Kerala is today the most acclaimed tourist destination in India with its Super brand 'God's Own Country' and is continuing as one of the prime tourist destinations of South Asia. The tourism industry in Kerala not only facilitates infrastructure development but also helps in balanced and sustainable regional growth by generating income and creating employment opportunities” (Kerala planning board, 2008). The state is ranked 9th in foreign tourist arrivals and 14th in domestic tourist arrivals in India. Keeping in mind India has 24 states, it can be said Kerala has a high ranking within India on tourist arrivals.

Keywords: Helth tourism, wellness, employment opportunities