In a significant development for Kerala’s tourism sector, a new caravan park is set to open on the premises of the Bolgatty Palace Hotel and Resort in Kochi. This project, part of the ‘Keravan Tourism’ initiative, aims to diversify and enrich the travel experience in the state.
As reported by The Hindu, Kerala Tourism has allocated ₹1.50 crore for the establishment of this park, marking it as the second such facility in Kerala.
Located beside the honeymoon cottages at the Bolgatty Palace, the caravan park is designed to blend seamlessly with the serene surroundings. It promises to offer a unique combination of natural beauty and modern amenities.
The park will feature facilities such as adequate parking, recreational spaces, dormitories, kitchens, and toilets, along with electric vehicle (EV) charging units and a pool. It is equipped to host approximately 12 caravans at a time, catering to the needs of both local and international travelers.
The ‘Keravan Tourism’ project, launched in 2021, represents a strategic shift in Kerala’s approach to tourism. Despite the state’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, the tourism sector has faced challenges in expanding its offerings.
The introduction of dedicated caravan parks is a move to address this, providing tourists with a safe, reliable, and novel way to explore Kerala.
The choice of Bolgatty Palace for the caravan park is strategic, offering tourists a mix of historical and contemporary experiences. The palace, known for its architectural beauty and historical significance, adds a unique charm to the caravan park, enhancing the overall appeal of the location.
However, the journey to establish the caravan park has not been without challenges. The ‘Keravan Tourism’ project initially faced delays in setting up dedicated parks and bureaucratic hurdles, as mentioned in The Hindu’s report. These challenges have been a significant factor in the slow initial uptake of the project.
Despite these obstacles, there is a growing sense of optimism within the industry about the future of caravan tourism in Kerala. Industry stakeholders believe that this model of tourism aligns well with current travel trends, particularly among those seeking new and unique experiences.
The response from investors has been overwhelmingly positive. Following the announcement of the ‘Keravan Tourism’ project, Kerala Tourism received applications from investors interested in operating 439 caravans and 146 caravan parks. This level of interest underscores the potential of caravan tourism to become a significant aspect of Kerala’s tourism industry.