Kollam: Special package all set to boost Ashtamudi tourism

KOLLAM: The district is gearing up for integral development in the tourism sector with a unique Ashtamudi tourism package. 

The new lake-centred initiatives include a wayside relaxation centre at Chavara and Sree Narayana Guru pavilion on the Kannetti backwaters attracting more tourists.

The famed tourism spot hosts the annual Sree Narayana Trophy Boat Race. Karunagappally Municipality and Kerala tourism jointly promote the Kannetty Backwater Tourism project. 

The pavilion overlooks the boat race tracks. It has an office room, toilet, boat jetty, and other tourist amenities.

Take a Break’ relaxation centre near Titanium grounds in Panmana panchayat has provisions for a houseboat, a two-seater speed boat, and a 17-seater safari boat for the visitors.

The government has allocated Rs 27 crore for Ashtamudi tourism alone. 
It has allocated Rs 5 crore for the President’s trophy, Kallada and the Kannetty boat races.

As part of responsible tourism initiatives, the projects will ensure community participation. 

A tram car service along the banks of Ashtamudi and a ring road for cyclists and pedestrians are also under consideration. The ring road envisages preventing encroachment on the shrinking lake.

An eco-friendly trip will enable tourists to enjoy the green mangrove cover along the Ashramam end of Ashtamudi.