The intense heat is a hindrance, since domestic visitors are not yet warming up to Kerala

The state’s tourism economy, which has been mostly dependent on domestic travelers since the pandemic’s lessening, has suffered greatly as a result of the high heat conditions that have existed since February. Stakeholders report that since mid-March, the sector has seen a notable decline in bookings compared to prior years, which indicates a big decline in domestic visitors visiting the state.

Kerala used to be a popular tourist destination for people from all over the country because of its beautiful natural surroundings and perfect climate, but because to the high heat and frequent yellow warnings, many are now choosing to go to Kashmir or other places with lower temperatures. Industry sources claim that domestic tourism has decreased by 30–40% in all of Kerala’s main tourist attractions, including Munnar. Kerala received 2.18 crore domestic visitors in 2023, a 15.92% increase over 2022.

“The number of domestic tourists visiting the country is significantly down. The busiest time of year for domestic travel is supposedly April–May during the summer holiday. Unfortunately, even residents of the state’s driveable areas are reluctant to spend their vacations at getaways because to the intense heat, according to Manzoor A. R., corporate sales manager of Abad Group of Hotels and Resorts.

“Compared to prior years, there has been a noticeable decline in occupancy throughout our 14 facilities spread over seven locations. In the last two years, occupancy has been almost full, with little variation between weekdays and weekends. But overall reservations are down by 30–40% right now, according to Manzoor.

Increases in airfare are also having an impact on Kerala’s tourism industry.

Many believe that the fall in domestic tourism has been mostly caused by the intense summer heat and the Lok Sabha election. For the time being, Kerala’s climate is not particularly noteworthy, and reservations have decreased since mid-March. One of the major locations that ought to be in great demand is Munnar. While many are trying to get away from the heat, Kerala is no longer an option. Reservations for more hip locations, including Kashmir, have increased, according to Vinesh Vidya, head of the Tourism Professionals Club.

In addition to rising temperatures, another issue impacting the sector is the growth in airfare. “The industry has suffered from the election and the weather. People who have extra money cannot travel. Another significant obstacle to domestic travel is the increase in airfare. Gujaratis make up a large portion of our clientele. However, a lot of people had to cancel their reservations for Diwali last year due to expensive flights. For domestic travelers, it’s becoming more and more costly, said Vineeth K. Nambiar, director of Green Roots Hospitality.