ADVENTURE TOURISM IN KERALA

PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS

Submitted by

Mr. ARUN KUMAR K.P.

3rd year BSc H & H.A

INSTITUTE OF HOTEL MANAGEMENT AND

CATERING T ECHNOLOGY,
(An ISO 9001:2000 certified Institute)
KOVALAM, Thiruvananthapuram
2006

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 CERTIFICATE

It is hereby certified that Mr. Arunkumar K.P.(Roll no 032645)

of Institute of Hotel Management and catering Technology, Kovalam has

successfully completed the research project “Adventure Tourism in

Kerala – Problems and Prospects ” in partial fulfillment of the

requirement for three year degree in hospitality and hotel administration.

Research co-ordinatior Research guide

(Mrs. Achamma Chandy) (Dr. J. Premchand)

Date

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 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Mrs. Achamma

Chandy, Research co-ordinator and Dr. J. Premchand, Research guide

for giving me timely advice and guidance in doing this research.

I would also like to thank Mr. Radhakrishnan, of National Adventure

Foundation, for his valuable advice and providing data for my research

and Prof.R. Balachandran Nair, Department of English, S.N.College,

Chemphazanthy, Tvm for the help rendered in editing this research. I

am highly oblighed to Mr.Roy P Jacob , Our Principal for his

valuable advice, and suggessions.

At the last but not the least, I would like to thank all those who

responded my questionnaire and gave me valuable advice.

ARUNKUMAR K.P

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Sl. No. TOPIC Page No.

1. Introduction

2. Objectives

3. Review of literature

4. Methodology

5. Data Analysis and Findings.

6. Summary and conclusion

7 Bibliography

8. Annexure

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ADVENTURE TOURISM IN KERALA
PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS

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INTRODUCTION

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 ADVENTURE TOURISM IN KERALA

Tourism covers a wide range of disciples, from entertainment to environment

and economics to evangelism. It contributes to almost all aspects of social and

individual life. One of the greatest revenue generating and employment creating

activity, tourism into a huge industry in the modern times, cutting across national

boundaries.

The significance and impact of tourism are so high that it touches the spiritual

and mental as well as the physical and material aspects of life of different types of

people, who vary in interest, attitudes and aptitudes. The motive of tours is coloured

mainly by predilection of the tourist. There for tourism industry has to the flexible by

which it adopts itself to suite requirements of tourist of various interests. Hence

tourism has developed in numerable genres such as adventure tourism, agri.

tourism, cultural tourism, eco tourism, health tourism etc.

One of the latest such development is adventure tourism. In the past also

adventurous people traveled for wide to dangerous and difficult places seeking

adventure. To them nature was the sole provider. So there was no well-planned

facilation the adventure tourism in past was very risky and boring affair with out any

safety and convenience. But in the present day world adventure has assumed

unprecedented gravity and has become more than an individuals entertainment.

Considering the gravity of the adventure in modern life tourism industry; has started

providing information, amenities and facilitates for adventure travelers satisfaction.

It includes in its activity such as to catch adventure sports on land, in water

and air, disseminating information about sport; educating the interested in adventure

tourism; providing facilities for adventure tourism; providing facilities for

transportation, accommodation, finance management proper nutrition etc; guide and

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safety service; preparation for adventure; providing gadgets; and so on. Since a lot of

men materials and brainwork are involved tourism has become a specialized branch

of tourism industry.

Adventure tourism has great possibilities in Kerala, which is blessed with high

rough mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and sea. This study is serious attempt to

survey the problems and prospects of adventure tourism in Kerala, which is,

recognized as one of the must see destinations. On the basis of the study and

findings of the study, the scholar would like to make some pertinent suggestions and

recommendation also.

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OBJECTIVES

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 OBJECTIVES

1) To identify suitable location in Kerala for adventure tourism

2) To find out scope of development of prospective adventure

tourism sports in the state.

3) To identify problems that the adventure tourist centers faced

now and likely to face in future.

4) To find out how much productive the facilities are

5) To identify the prospect means

6) To give suggestion and recommendation based on study.

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 REVIEW OF
LITERATURE

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 REVIEW OF LITERATURE

ADVENTURE TOURISM

Adventure tourism involves scheduling and conducting tours, which focus on

ecology and nature experiences rather than traditional vacation. What is so

fascinating and so compelling, almost to the point of addiction in it is the adventure

sports. The daunting thrill of dashing down the sky shapes or land scope, trekking or

pedalling along rough mountain slopes, white water rafting along the dangerous

roaring water of great rivers, hang gliding or para gliding over enormously deep

mountain gorges, and climbing glaciers or mountains summits make a sportive tour

adventurous. The adventurous can he divided into hard adventure, soft adventure,

guided adventure travel.

Hard adventure: Hard adventure requires experience because it encompasses

an element of risk and physical and mental fitness. It includes an intimate experience

with the environment and culture of the destination. One should be prepared for all

weather conditions, sleeping arrangements and dietry restriction.

E.g.: Climbing expedition, Hang-gliding, Rock climbing, etc.

Soft adventure – soft adventure requires less physical risk and little or no

experience and offers more convenience in terms of sleeping arrangements and

cuisine. Many activities are similar to those in the hard adventure category yet they

occur at less physical demanding level. Soft adventure offers a wide range of

activities and adventure experiences for the adventures traveller.

E.g.: Horse back riding, Rafting, Sea Kayaking, and Surfing etc.

Guided adventure travel – Guided trips provide advance information about the place

and the experiences in store to people. Who don’t have time to discover remote

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places by trial and error? Tour operators grade trips up on the criteria of difficulty and

luxury. A local trip leader will give the tour another flavour than that other operators to

the same destination give.

Adventure sports of varying degrees, from mild to hard, at varying

geographical and climatic condition at different media, that is, air, water and land, are

through out the world.

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 Adventure Sports - an overview

Adventure sports help an individual to bring out the best in him. This also

gives a platform for collective, organized and planned activities, providing physical

invigoration and mental health. For fruitful existence well coordinated, well-integrated

personality with physical health and mental poise are necessary. For effective

management of unforeseen calamities, and emergencies of day-to-day situations,

qualities of head and heart, which one gets from adventure sports, are immensely

helpful, valuable and necessary in any national context.

In most sports, human beings set themselves against other human beings.

But there is another realm in which they fight against themselves as well as natures

challenges such as the ice and snow of winter, the sheer cliffs of mountains, the

burning sands of deserts, and the pull of the earth's gravity. This is the realm of

adventure sport which are enjoying a newfound popularity amongst people through

out the world. In adventure sports, one attempts to conquer not an opponent, but

oneself and one's fear of the elements. As Ralph Emerson once said: "Why should

we fear to be crushed by savage elements, we who are made up of the same

elements"

In addition, in-group actions, because of the inherent hardships and risk

factors, the individual develops immense patience and tolerance. This helps to

develop mutual understanding and absolute faith. This also provides an opportunity

to study other individuals with all their positive and negative traits for common good.

Complete absorption of the mind while engaging in adventure sports results in

deep concentration of mind. An experience very close to a mystic experience is

attained and it is a real bliss. In developed countries adventure sports is encouraged

as mandatory requirement for all serious job placements, because it is seen that a
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practitioner of adventure sports invariably can be cool at the face of difficulty in

decision-making.

With the above background the adventure sports are being planned,

organized, and conducted by the adventure sports agencies at different parts of the

world.

Adventure sports are conducted in all three medium - land, air and water.

Information of certain adventure sports activities with their nature and requirements

are detailed below.

ADVENTURES ON LAND

Trekking

The Cambridge Dictionary defines trekking as 'a long and often difficult

journey'. It might be an arduous crossing of awkward mountain country, carrying

everything necessary for survival and lasting several weeks. Or it could be a hike of

a few days along gentle paths through a hospitable landscape, buying food locally

and sleeping in wayside hostelry. Common to all trekking, however, is the time

element, a matter of days rather than hours, and the fact that the journey is

accomplished essentially on foot. Shorn of elaboration, trekking is traveling in its

elemental form, journeying from one place to another under one's own steam,

seeing, experiencing, and enjoying everything en route.

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Trek Grading

Trekking trips could be divided into different categories. Usually there are two

methods of grading at international level. Based on the whitewater rafting of class I

to class V, class V being the most difficult, the scale is an added guideline for

choosing adventure.

Class I: Easy

These trips emphasize the scenic or cultural value of a particular region, using

hotel accommodations and travel by comfortable van or bus. Short hikes and gentle

river floats may be included. These trips are suitable for all ages.

Class II: Moderate

Mild outdoor programmes invite the participation of the tourist to a certain

extent in the world of adventure. Camping is often involved, and longer day hikes

and river trips with white water are usually included. However, the degree of exertion

is optional, making these trips suitable for all ages as well.

Class III: Average

Class III trips include overnight camping, and longer and difficult hikes and

river trips. However, some hotel or lodge nights are often included for convenience.

Generally, short duration and lower altitudes are considered for this class. Good

health is the only physical requirement, though a minimum age of 12 years is usually

requested.

Class IV: Difficult

Trips of longer duration farther from population centers, physically demanding

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activities such as trekking above 3,000 meters or rafting in a class IV-V. Previous

outdoor experience is helpful and a physician’s certificate of health is generally

required. Age limits vary with individual trips, operators and participants, but most

class IV trips have an 18 years age minimum.

Class V: Strenuous

When previous technical experience and skills are required, the trips are

called as strenuous. Generally, these trips are of an extraordinary nature, in sparsely

populated areas, and they may demand previous whitewater, rock climbing or similar

skills. Treks of long duration, which reach an altitude of over 5,500 meters, are

included in this category.

The tourists can organize their own trek, depend on the service of ‘outfitters’

or packaged commercial trek. An experienced leader / guide with plenty of local

knowledge usually leads the party and, depending on the type of trek, considerable

luxury - tables and chairs, even beds-can be provided.

Equipment required for Trekking are good boots, rucksack, shorts, trainers, an

umbrella or a cap, torch, complete raingear made of gore-text or similar material

water bottle, spare laces and a multipurpose knife.

In India trekking is carried out in different regions. High altitude trekking in

Himalayas, desert trekking in Rajasthan, forest explorations in different forests in the

country are some of the examples.

In Kerala the forest ranges and grasslands throughout the 'Western Ghats

region provides excellent trek routes. Many agencies and Forest department conduct

trekking activities in the state.

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 Mountaineering and Rock Climbing

The adventure of mountaineering may be defined as "the sport of attaining or

attempt to attain, high points in mountain region, difficult to access, primarily for the

pleasure of the climbs." Mountaineering encompasses trekking, rock climbing,

climbing, river crossing etc. Among them trekking and rock climbing, are he major

components.

Rock Climbing is the art of climbing on rock faces or artificial rock walls, which

are of different slope gradient and heights for the mere pleasure of having fun. A.F.

Mummory first called the possibility of rock climbing to general attention on the

occasion of the first ascent of the supposedly un-climbable Grepon (Alps) in 1881.

Rock climbing on typical climbs may involve.

• Climbing steep ridges.

• Climbing crack - small for more than a hand or foot to enter.

• Climbing chimneys - crack large enough for the entire body to enter.

• Couloirs or gullies - too wide for the climber's limbs to touch both walls at once.

Rock faces can vary from a few to many thousands of feet, they might be natural

crags, purposeful built artificial walls or any other feature offering challenge and

pressure for the hands or feet.

Rock climbing without a rope is called bouldering. The rock face is a few

meters high and the aim is to push technical skills to the limits. On larger crags,

climbing alone is known as soloing. This is a pure but lonely and dangerous form of

the sport. The vast majority of rock climbers, however, climb with one or more

partners using ropes and protection devices to minimize risks.

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 Rappelling or Abscelling is the method of climbing down the crag faster with

the help of Kernamental type of ropes. Mittens, Carabinar and Descender.

Jhummaring is another method used for rock climbing where the climber climbs up

with the help of equipment called Jhummar. The peculiarity of this equipment is that

it can slide up through the rope but will not slips down.

Required gear includes special tight- fitting rubber soled shoes, a bag of

magnesium carbonate (chalk) to reduce hand perspiration and improve grip,

harness, rope, helmet, Carabinars, Descenders. Jhummars, etc. India has certain

outstanding rock structures that are extended over great lengths and enjoys

championship status. Besides, the artificial rock climbing walls built in Bangalore

and Delhi also offer facility to practice this sport. The Mountaineering institutes in

Darjeeling, Uttarkasi, and many other training institutes provide professional training

in rock climbing.

Rock faces that can be used for rock climbing is spread all over Kerala. The

State Youth Welfare Board, National adventure Foundation, National Adventure

Academy, Kerala Mountaineering Association etc are some of the agencies

conducting rock climbing.

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 Cycling /Mountain hiking

Cycling is very popular as a recreation. It is not only an exercise but a sports

as well. Mountain Biking is a relatively adventous form of cycling, where bicycles with

broad wheels and gear facilities are used to go along rough terrains and mountain

roads.

Cycling/ Mountain biking is carried out in different parts of the country. It is

also done in various tourists destination. In Kerala, Mountain biking is conducted in

Munnar, Thenmala, Malampuzha, Waynad etc.

Required gear includes repairing kit, air pump, cycling helmet. jacket and a

good pair of shoes

Wind Sports - Land yachting

Land yachting is the art of sailing in the land. Land yachts have three wheels:

the front wheel steered by the pilot with a foot pedal and the sail controlled in the

same manner as a yacht. To set off, one has to simply position the yacht across the

wind, lie down in the seat and pull in the sail, the wind does the rest.

Land yachts can sail at three times the wind speed because they are very

maneuverable with a low center of gravity and they are remarkably safe. As for

stopping, simply turn into the wind and let the sail go. With no power, the yacht rolls

to a halt.

A recent development in the sport is Parakarting. A Parakart is an ultra light,

kite powered buggy that can sail on grass and other smaller areas as well as

beaches or airfields. The skills required for this branch of land yachting mainly

involve an ability to control the kite.

Land yachting and parachuting are more or less a new form of adventure

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sports to Indians. Barring a few individuals, there are no formal agencies or

institutions who conduct this activity.

Bungee jumping adventure

Free falling from high platforms, natural sites, built bridges, balloons,

helicopters or tandem Para gliders with a bungee cord attached is what is done in a

bungee jumping. It is all about the awesome freefall and the rush down up to a few

feet from the earth or water at speed up to 80 mph and the final deceleration to a

standstill.

Basic training is given to the jumper to prepare for the jump, covering

familiarization with equipment and procedures, safety regulations, jumping

instructions and an analysis of the potential risks. They are then weighed,

harnessed, and attached to the jump line before being invited by the jumpmaster to

step into the built-up jump station. The crane then lifts the jump station to jump

height, where, when all final checks- are complete, the jumpmaster indicates to the

jumper that it is all clear to proceed. On completion of the jump, the participant is

gently lowered to the ground, retrieved by the ground operators and disconnected

from the jump line Many bungee jumping outlets are there in India. For a short period

of time it was also conducted in Kochi organized by the Kalypso adventures.

Russian Ladder

The art of climbing a hanging ladder made out of rope or iron chains is called

Russian Ladder climbing. This is a light adventure activity. These types of ladders

were used for the military obstacle course for the Russian soldiers and hence the

name. For tourism activities, the Russian ladder is used with an additional belay rope

and is hung from a tall tree or platform and is given to tourists of different age groups.

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 A participant has to wear a good pair of shoes for climbing the ladder. All the

other required harness, rope etc will be provided by the conducting agency.

Russian ladder climbing is provided in different parts of the country in

association with adventure parks. In Kerala, the Thenmala ecotourism project has

this facility in its adventure zone.

Camel Safari

In camel safaris people travel on camel through deserts and such regions. It

can be considered as a trekking through desert on a camel.

Normally people undertake camel safaris in group. Each group will be a self

contained unit traveling alone in he desert with all gear and water carried by camels.

Tents are pitched in suitable locations if the journey is of more than one day.

Deserts of Rajasthan are famous for Camel Safaris. .

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 ADVENTURE ON AIR

Hang gliding adventure

Flying a hang glider gives an unparalleled sense of freedom, feeling the movements

of the air across your body and using only the wind's force to stay aloft. Wlien an

eagle approaches you, accepting you as another bird in its own environment; you will

never look at life in the same way again!

Hang Gliding is the art of flying with a delta wing attached to the person.

Francis Rogallo is the father of modem hang gliding, having invented the

steerable parachute in 1948 from which the hang glider was developed. The first

hang gliders were used by water skiers to liven up their water ski shows by going

over jumps and then, using a wing, to glide over longer distances. Australians John

Dickinson, Bill Bennett and Bill Moyes were instrumental in the development and the

popularity of the new sport after Moyes first soared in a hang glider in 1969.

Hang gliders are generally launched from a hill or mountainside (although it is

also possible to tow them up by a winch or behind a Microlite). The pilot picks up the

30kg glider, faces the wind and runs a short distance until the hang glider lifts. Once

airborne, the pilot holds the base bar and controls the glider by moving his or her

body weight relative to the glider. Pulling the pilot's weight forwards to go faster and

backwards to slow down varies speed. When landing, the hang glider is slowed to

the point where it comes to a complete stop as the pilot reaches the ground.

The slopes of Kulu, Manali, Ootacamund, slopes in Manipur and Munr.ar are

some of the regions in India where this activity can be conducted.

Gliding adventure

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 Gliding may be defined as that phase of flight in which a bird or aircraft

descends on an inclined path towards the ground.

Gliding and soaring are being extensively used in sports. A glider is a

motorless, winged aircraft made either for gliding or for soaring. The instruments and

the technique of gliders and sailplanes are similar in action to those of powered

airplanes Soaring is the term applied to empowered flight that uses the upward

motion of the air or shifts of wind velocity with small changes in altitude to maintain or

gain altitude. Soaring permits upward flight over long distances at high altitudes and

for extended period.

Gliders, or sailplanes, can be launched in several ways: towed into the air

behind a powered tug aircraft; pulled up by a cable being wound in rapidly by a

surface winch; towed by a ground vehicle or be catapulted by an elastic from the top

of a suitable hill.

Gliding clubs in Pune, Kota and Delhi offers training to individuals in gliding.

Air Squardon NCC also conducts gliding at various places along the country. In

Kerala it is conducted at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.

Microlite aircraft flying

A Microlite is a simple, light-weight aero plane which can carry a maximum

of-two people, as take off from and land in a very short space (usually less than

100m), It is cheap to maintain and operate, and. most importantly it is enormous fun

to fly.

There are several basic types: Trikes, which are controlled by 'weight-shift' in

a similar way to a hang glider. They have axes, with controls akin to conventional

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aircraftor, powered parachutes, and with wheels, or foot launching. The latter are

called powered paragliders. Microlites are normally powered by a simple, two stroke

engine, providing high power at low weight and cost. Where national organisations

maintain high design, construction and maintenance standards, Microlites have an

excellent safety record. Microlites are simple enough that pilots themselves may

carry out all maintenance.

Free fall parachuting

Louis Sebastian Lenormand tested a crude form of parachute by leaping from

the tower of the Montpellier Observatory in 1783. Gornerin made the first parachute

jump to be seen in Britain in 1802 and in 1919 the American Leslie Irvin made the

first free fall descent with a manually operated paracb'ue.

Ram air progression system (RAPS): For those who intend to do a one jump

course, a RAPS course (where the parachute opens automatically on exit) is the

ideal way to experience the thrill of a parachute jump. The modem RAPS jumper

uses a steerable parachute. It is great fun to fly the square ram air parachute,

packed in a piggyback system with seating for the reserve and main one above the

other on their back). A ram air parachute allows the novice to jump in higher wind

speeds than the old round parachutes

Accelerated free fall (AFF): The most direct route to a solo free fall is an AFF

course. The participant receives a one-day training session with a minimum of six

hours ground training and a maximum of three people on a course. This is followed

by the first of 8 controlled jumps, each being to a level where specific objectives are

achieved before the student moves on one rung. During the first three levels, the

student jumps with two experienced instructors holding onto the harness. At levels 4

to 7 the student jumps with one instructor in the air who gives direct coaching. Back
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on the ground, both the instructors make constructive criticisms of performance and

offer further advice. Finally, level 8 is a solo jump where the student is required to

show an ability to do a "clear and pull" (deploying the parachute in the first 5 seconds

after leaving the aircraft). The course can be completed in as little as three days.

Tandem parachuting: This method of jumping has made it possible for a novice to

experience the electrifying thrill of free fall parachuting and get a taste of what

skydiving is all about without extensive training. Tandem involves only a

twenty-minute instruction session. After this, the novice jumper puts on a harness,

which is clipped to the harness of an expert instructor. The free fall lasts around 35

seconds, involves speeds of up to 120 mph and a straight fall from 6,000 ft. Once the

extra large parachute has been deployed, it is dual controlled and the parachute ride

to the ground will last around 5 minutes.

The usual maximum age to jump is 50 years everyone over the age of 40 is

normally required to have a doctor's certificate stating that they are fit to parachute.

The minimum age is 16 and under 18s must have parental consent. To parachute in

tandem has no age restrictions.

The Parajumping School in Agra is the sole training center in India.

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 Paragliding adventure

Paragliding is the activity where one flies in the sky with a paraglider. The

shape of the paraglider changes into that of aerofoil, when filled with air. Paraglider

is a steerable parachute, which rises like a large kite when it is filled with air.

The necessary lift required for flight is developed by the airflow over the wing

surface and within a few strides the pilot can launch into the open skies. A paraslider

can also become airborne by the use of a winch. In the sky, a paraglider is highly

maneuverable by subtle manipulation of the control surfaces situated on the trailing

edge ('rear) of the wing. If there is no lift, the pilot simply glides down safely to a

pre-determined landing spot.

Certified paragliders are rated under a common standard into different

categories according to their stability, maneuverability and their recovery from

unusual flight situations. Pilots must choose a paraglider to suit their experience.

Generally novice or standard gliders are very stable and easy to fly, whilst

performance and competition gliders have less inherent stability, require more control

to fly safely but have superior performance and feel. Pilots sometimes make the

mistake of progressing to a high performance glider too quickly and do not enjoy their

flying because they have difficulties in taming their equipment.

Paragliding activity is conducted in slopes of Solang Nala in Manali (HP),

Manipur, Baner (Pune), and many places in Karnataka and Kerala.

In Kerala Munnar, Vagamon, Wythiri, and Ponmudi are some of the

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destinations where paraghding is undertaken. In Munnar the experience of

paragliding is also given to tourists by taking them in tandem paragliders.

Paramotors or foot launched microlites

As implied by the name, all foot-launched microlites are aircrafts able to take

off without the aid of wheels and consequently they need only very small spaces :o

take off and land. They are very compact, cheap to run and maintain. Foot launched

microlites offer one great advantage over their close relations, paragliders and hang

gliders: they can take off from flat ground. Flying foot-launched microlites is one of

the world's newest air sports.

There are two main types of aircraft:

Powered paragliders (PPG): A paraglider canopy and harness combined with a

'backpack' power unit comprising engine, fuel tank and a propeller protected by a

cage is a PPG.

Powered hang Gliders (PHG)'. A PHG has a hang glider wing and harness with a

small engine and propeller attached. PHG often have small wheels to aid landing.

There are two major items, the power unit and the wing - different types can be

mixed and matched depending on factors including the weight of the pilot, the size of

the power unit and the competence of the pilot.

In India, Rajhamsa Ultralites are the manufactures of microlites. This activity is

conducted by different adventure sports agencies all over the country.

In Kerala the National Adventure Foundation, which is the national apex

organisation for the promotion of adventure in India, carries out this activity.

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 Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning is the activity at which people float over the sky in a balloon

filled with hot air.

A hot balloon derives its lift from heated air. Their speed and direction of the

flight are controlled not by their pilots but by the caprices of the \\ind that propel

them, and their landing sites are largely a matter of chance. Today different types of

balloons which can carry 1-16 persons are available. Balloons are made of rip stop

non- inflammable nylon fabric. Propane burners attached to the tops of the gondolas

shoot flames up to eight feet in length into the open throats of the balloons to create

hot-air which makes them rise. The pilot releases the heated air and allow the

balloon to descend. He can open panels, at the top and on the sides of the balloon

envelope. The air inside a hot air-balloon reaches a high temperature during flight.

Balloons are not maneuverable, but their direction of flight can be controlled to some

extent because of the fact that there are often layers of air moving in different

directions.

The dangling basket is suspended from the balloon by steel wire ropes. The

basket is made of resilient wicker and is firmly crossed over by metal ropes. The

burners at the mouth of the balloon are filled by cylinders of propane gas. When cold

air is blown into the mouth of the balloon by a fan and the burners are lit, flames

furnish the hot air and the balloon sails upward. The balloon can stay up for about

21/2 two and a half hours depending upon the ambient temperature, and the weight

carried.

Hot air ballooning is conducted in different parts of India. In the International

hot air balloon festival, which is held at Safadarjang Airport, New Delhi, organised by

the Ballooning Club of India, the balloons go up to 400 ft. Tying it to strong ropes

29
restricts the height of the flight.

In Kerala, hot air ballooning was conducted for a short period in

Thiruvananthapuram and Munnar, where plenty of tourists had experience.

Parasailing

Parasailing is an activity where the participant sails across the air with the help

of a parasail. A parasail is a round canopy into which air is rushed, to lift. Parasaiiing

can be done both in land and water.

Parasailing is a wonderful flying activity that demands little skill from the pan

of the flyer. In parasailing the person in seat harness will be attached to the Parasail,

which is a round canopy designed to ascend when the airflow inside it increases and

will come down slowly as the flow reduces. The participant has to run for a few

meters when the jeep or boat pulls him and immediately he will lifts off. As the jeep

or boat reduces its speed the person will come down.

Parasailing can be conducted in a good ground or in water body with sufficient

bank area adjacent to it. The participant will be taught the Para Landing Fall (PLF)

and with the assistance of the launch-crew and the controller the flight is undertaken.

Parasailing is an aero sport activity, which is very common in most of the

places. Parasail can be attached to either a jeep or a boat. Parasailing is coming up

in most of the beach resorts because it is very cheap and anybody can fly easily.

Parasailing requires a helmet and a lifejacket for safety. The participant is advised to

wear full sleeve shirt and jeans if the parasailing is conducted in land and if it is

conducted in water, Shorts and casual wears are recommended.

Parasailing is conducted by different adventure tourism agencies throughout

30
India. Parasailing in water is conducted in beaches of Goa. In Kerala, the

Department of Tourism has already bought a parasailing equipment and boat, but yet

to deploy. National Cadet Corps, Malabar Aero Sports Society, and National

Adventure Foundation are some of the agencies conducting parasailing in the state.

ADVENTURES ON WATER

Canyonning

Canyonning is an odd sport. It combines the disciplines of rock climbing, caving and

swimming. Canyons are mostly found in areas of limestone, which lend themselves

to caves and to canyons. Fissures in the rock have been eroded through thousands

of years; they are narrow, deep and inaccessible. Canyonning is the sport that

descends through the deep and inaccessible ravines and allows one to discover

their secrets.

Required gear includes:

Helmet: Lightweight rock climbing helmets are essential to protect against

rocks dislodged by nature and careless colleagues. Wet suit: Much of canyonning is

spent in waterfalls or swimming across pools, a wet suit protects against scratches

and bumps and keeps the can your warm. Waterproof caving type rucksack: for

emergency equipment, spare clothing and sustenance are essential.

A lighter form of canyonning is conducted at the water rapids of North India.

Catamaran sailing

Catamaran sailing is the art of sailing over the water surface in a long boat

fitted with a sail. Catamaran is entirely powered by the wind force. Catamarans have

a mast and the wire connected to the mast supports the crew.

In India the catamarans are entirely different in its physical structure. Local

31
catamarans are constructed by tying pieces of logs together. It is more used for

fishing than for recreational activity. Although in some areas tourists pay to the

catamaran owners’ to give them an experience.

Dinghy sailing

Dinghy sailing is the least expensive and easiest way of sailing. It is a dynamic and

exciting sport with infinite variety. Dinghies can be sailed on almost any piece of

water. One of their greatest joys is that they can be transported easily on top of, or

towed behind an average car and stored in a garage.

In India Dinghy sailing is done in lakes of North India, Goa and some parts of

Kerala.

Windsurfing adventure

The speed of skiing, the freedom of sailing, the sheer exhilaration of surfing,

are the outcome experience of winder surfing adventure. One can have his

windsurfing equipment off the car roof, rigged and ready in less than 5 minutes.

Skimming through the water surface with the help of wind power on board is wind

surfing. Surfing on board with out sail attached is called board surfing and is common

in beaches of India. This type of surfing is done at the beaches having higher waves.

Freestyle windsurfing, or boardsailing, as it is called, is a solo sport.

Sailing adventure

Traveling over water with the power of wind giving the thrust force is sailing.

There will be two sets of sails attached to the vessel one small sail is used to divert

wind to the main sail. Adjusting the sail direction controls the speed and direction of

the vessel.

Yachting and sailing are done in India. National Institute of Water Sports Goa

32
and Sports Authority of India are the two major training establishments. Many water

sports clubs around the country, Naval Division of National Cadet Corps, and Indian

Navy's sailing clubs do sailing in the country.

White water rafting

Traveling in an inflatable raft through the river rapids is what is river rafting.

These spells of swift, intense encounters with foaming, roaring waters are

punctuated by many longer periods of gentle floating, with opportunities to observe

natural wonders along the continuously varying canvas of the riverbanks. Any normal

healthy person who does not fear water can raft. In the rapidly flowing rivers, water

appears to be white in colour due to foaming and hence the name white water

rafting. According to its difficulty level, rafting is graded from I to V.

In India only the rapids in the Ganga can go up to grade IV, and the next

grade V is for seasoned professionals. Most of the other areas are for grade II and

III. The Ganges, the Indus and its tributaries, Beas, the Zanskar and the Teesta are

some of the rivers of adventure in India, each one providing an unique and exciting

experience. The period for rafting in India is from April to September.

33
 Water skiing

Water skiing is a thrilling water sport where one brushes over the surface of

the water standing on a ski board. The momentum required for the ski to cruise

through the water is usually given by speedboat.

The person will be attached to the speedboat with a rope and when the

speedboat moves, it will pull the person attached. The person can then stand on the

ski gradually and can skim through the water surface.

Since speedboats are highly polluting, new developments are made in the

provision of thrust for the skies. Kite Surfing, is one such method by which the ski is

powered with the wind. The person will be attached to the kite which when deployed

will pull him.

Required gear includes life jacket, a good pair of ski, and a speedboat or a

kite to power.

Canoeing and kayaking

Canoes and kayaks are two different types of boats. In a canoe, the peddler

sits in a kneeling position with a single-bladed paddle. In a kayak, the athlete has to

sit with his legs outstretched in front and use a double-bladed paddle. Modern

canoes evolved out of the basic types and kayak propelled by one or more double

bladed paddles. Two persons usually handle the canoe the helmsman doing most of

the steering. Most of the canoes have two seats and two or three thwarts. One

person often paddles the canoe with a single paddle and commonly on one side. At

the end of each stroke the canoeist steers his boat by an overland twist of paddle.

In India, the abundance of natural waterways and the growing number of

canoe camps and holiday packages have been burgeoning with activity for those
34
who are willing to test their skills against the river.

Boat racing

Boating for pleasure and enjoyment has been in practice for several years.

Later on it was identified as a sport and increased tremendously in popularity all over

the world in the 20th century. It is most often carried on as a pleasure for its own

sake. Now it is enjoyed as a competitive sport.

The development of outboard motors (gasoline & diesel) as well the

introduction of new-materials for boat building such as plywood, fiberglass and

aluminum has made revolutionary changes in shape, structure and power of boats.

Another factor for the popularity was the development of lightweight

maneuverable automobile trailers, equipped with small winches for launching and

loading boats. These factors contributed to the accessibility of more people to water.

Scuba diving

Scuba diving is now becoming a popular marine activity. With the advent of

SCUBA (Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) the divers can easily

access the marine world. People often dive to see the unique coral reefs, home of a

huge variety of fish and shells; and the diver can feed the fish.

The device, using compressed air and known as the free diving sail as scuba

has a brilliant future. One of the results is the rapid growth in under water

photography. Scuba dives are arranged in under water gold mining, tapping,

deep-water rivers and streams.

A scuba consists of:

35
 (i) A relatively small steel cylinder charged with the breathing gas (usually

pure oxygen); of soda lime a carbon dioxide absorbent into which exhaled

gas passes for removal of carbon dioxide; and

(ii) A breathing bag, which acts as a reservoir of oxygen at ambient pressure

between the cylinder and inhaling hose.

Snorkelling is not as spectacular as diving, but it still allows seeing hundreds of

fish and coral reefs. Because the snorkel tube stick out of the water, the diver is not

able to go in depth. The advantage of snorkelling is that the risk is very less when

compared to scuba diving.

Sea Planes and Amphibian Powered hang gliders

Seaplanes can be used both for recreation and transportation. It is a small

aircraft, which can carry two to six persons. It takes off from and lands in water. On

the other hand amphibian powered hang gliders are small aircrafts, which carry only

one person. It also takes off from and lands at the water base.

Considering the nature requirements and possibilities of adventure tourism,

India with her versatile geography and climate, offers an all encompassing

destination for adventure tourism.

36
 ADVENTURE TOURISM IN INDIA

Its vast geographical diversity and the pristine nature of its facilities enable all

tastes to be catered for, from the gentlest to the fast paced and for people of every

level of competence from the beginner to the expert. From the daunting Himalayan

peaks in the North to the azure coastal areas on the South, from the rain forests of

the North East to the coral paradise in the South West, it is variety that is as

bewildering as it is diverse.

Scuba diving along the coral reefs floating high in the air on hot air balloons,

the slow and steady ambling along deserts on the gentle camels horse riding and

elephant riding safaris - all these fantastic experiences are in stove for adventure

tourists to India ensuring joy, excitement, thrill and invigorations. In India, the mighty

Himalayan and the never, never ending coastline and not to forget the two island

territories are open invitations to the fun loving and the adventurous souls. The best

part is that all the facilities are available round the calendar at affordable cost.

It is not only India's vast geographical diversity that provides a huge scope for

the adventure tourist but also that it is relatively inexpensive too. Those who want to

fancy the wild and see mother- nature in its original form, to see man and nature

surviving in each other's arms can rediscover his own self, in the Indian terrain.

The Kerala Scenario

Kerala is truly the undiscovered India. It is God's own country and an

enchantingly beautiful, emerald-green sliver of land. It is a tropical paradise far from

the tourist trial at the southwestern peninsular tip, sandwiched between the tall

mountains and the deep sea. Kerala is a long stretch of enchanting greenery. The tall

exotic coconut palm dominates the landscape.

Kerala is a 560-km long narrow stretch of land. At the widest, Kerala is a mere

37
120-km from the sea to the mountains. Gracing one side of Kerala, are the lofty

mountains ranging high to kiss the sky. And on the other side the blue Arabian Sea

waters wash the land. The land is covered with dense tropical forest, fertile plains,

beautiful beaches, cliffs, rocky coasts, an intricate maze of backwaters, still bays and

an astounding 44 glimmering rivers. Kerala's exotic spices have lured foreigners to

her coast from time immemorial.

Kerala is a land that remains isolated yet easily accessible. It is well

connected by air. sea, rail and road. It is one of the most progressive states in terms

of social welfare and physical quality of life. Kerala has India's largest concentration

of science and technology personnel. History has helped the Keralites develop a

cosmopolitan outlook too and language is not a barrier to them.

Adventure tourism has become one of the important avenues, which can

infuse new blood to the tourism industry in Kerala, the "God's Own Country",

blessed with vast potentialities with its vivid geography and peculiar climatic

conditions. But this potentiality has been used to bare minimum by both the

government and private bodies.

In the state, National Adventure Foundation Kerala Chapter and the national

apex bodies to promote adventure sports, propagated the adventure sports and

initiated adventure tourism activities which are basically related to aero adventures

such as paragliding, parasailing, microlite flying, powered hang glider and amphibian

flying. Even though some forms of adventure tourism activities like hill walking,

trekking, rock climbing, surfing etc, were practiced, a professional approach to

adventure tourism sector was put forwarded by the efforts of National Adventure

Foundation.

Kerala State Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) in association with

National Adventure Foundation has started the marketing of adventure tourism

38
activities in Kerala.

An important revolution occurred in the matter of adventure tourism when

Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society (TEPS), reserved a zone completely for

adventure sports at the ecotourism project area.

The Forest Department of Kerala, as part of their effort to promote nature

conservation, has been arranging different camps and trekking programms which

also contribute to the development of adventure tourism.

Now an increase in awareness about adventure sports caused by the media,

particularly electronic media, has increased the demand for adventure tourism

activities in the state. Now, many clubs, societies, and tour operators such as

Malabar Aero Sports Society - Kozhikode and Kalypso Adventures in Kochi are

conducting or arranging adventure tourism activities.

However, an analysis of Adventure tourism in Kerala is very pertinent in this

juncture.

39
 Thenmala Ecotourism destination

The Thenmala Ecotourism destination is the result of the search for

sustainable forms of tourism. The project was to help man understand and

appreciate the environment without disturbing the delicate balance of the ecosystem

as well as enhance the biological features and integrity of the region. By providing

nature education and employment opportunity to the local youth, the Thenmala

Ecotourism Project will bring about the harmonious existence of human nature.

Located about 72 Km from Thiruvananthapuram, on the Shencottah road.

Thenmala is the nerve center of a chain of 10 satellite ecotourism destinations

scattered across the hill ranges of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta.

The destination is spread out over acres of evergreen forest, 500m above sea level.

Thenmala (hills flowing with wild honey) is the natural habitat of diverse flora and

fauna.

The four zones at Thenmala offer a wide range of activities for the activities for

the nature enthusiast. Construction has been kept to the minimum and every effort

taken to preserve the natural features of the land and the fragile ecosystem.

The number of tourists at different zone over a period of one year is listed below.

Thenmala Ecotourism Project, the first of its kind in the country, was opened

for tourism activities on April 4th 2001 and a total of 41161 tourists have visited

Thenmala project till 1st April 2002. The number of adventure tourists to the

destination is significantly on the rise in 2002 the year end showed seven fold

increase from the beginning of the year. The activities associated with Thenmala

adventure zone are rack climbing, mountain hiking, elevated walk way, river crossing,

boating etc.

Munnar

40
 The ultimate destination, Munnar situated at the confluence of three mountain

streams namely Mudrapuzha, Xallathanni and Kundala. Munnar combines all the

beauty and attraction of a hill station. Munnar is part o the Western Ghats and is

1600 meters above sea level. For the British it was a favorite location during the

colonial period as its peculiar climate made this place a natural habitat for them. Now

this place offers a unique experience to all those who want to take a leave from the

busy urban life.

There is enough room for travel, sight seeing, adventures and romance in
Munnar. The thick natural forest around the town is a treasure of natural resource.
South India's highest peak Anamudi is here. Anamudi is the birthplace of mysterious
'Neelakurunji' flower that blooms once in every 12 years and gives the hills a magical
violet hue. Rajamala, which is pan of the Eravikulam National Park - the home of the
benign mammoths, wild tuskers and the curly horned gentle ibex called Nigiri Tahr, is
also close to Munnar

The proximity of Munnar to Thekkady, Marayoor, Chinnar, Rajamala,

Mattupetty etc makes Munnar an imponant destination to both long haul and short
haul tourists. The vast expanses of tea gardens and the availability of different types
of accommodation facilities make Munnar a prime choice.

Even though the two destinations Munnar and Thenmala share certain
common characteristics, there are a good number of visible contrasts also. Munnar
being a natural destination and Thenmala a created destination is a prime matter of
contrast. Some of the major areas of contrasts between these two destinations are
given below.

41
 Contrast between the Destinations

Attributes Munnar Thenmala

Temperature Cold Hot
Nature of the destination Hill Station Not a hill station
Rainfall period May-September and in June & July and in
November & December November
Effective tourism period 6 months 9 months
Area of tourism activities Spread over a vast area Confined to Zones and
near by areas
Management of the Government, Thenmala Ecotourism
tourism activity Non-government, & Promotion Society (TEPS)
Private agencies and tour
operators

Since the adventure tourism activities of Munnar are conducted over a wide spread
area and by different organizations/institutes/individuals, lack of coordination exists.

42
 RESEARCH
METHODOLOGY

43
 METHODOLOGY

The research methodology deals with mechanism for selection of appropriate

information and data, which provide required data, for analysis and the conduct of

the research.

▪ Selection of topic

▪ Selection of area

▪ Method employed for data collection

Selection of topic

Kerala the southern most edge of India is blessed with high mountains, rough

levains, thick forest, rivers, latke and sea, providing great opportunities for adventure

tourism. Which is in the beginning stage. Tourist from different parts of the world

started noticing and enjoying such locations. In this developmental stage of

adventure tourism, a study on this field is pertinent. A well planned scheme is

necessary to attract more adventure – tourism and to develop Kerala as one of the

great adventure tourism destinations transition for the better in Kerala economy

Adventure tourism in Kerala problems prospects is justified.

44
Objectives

1) To identify suitable location in Kerala for adventure tourism

2) To find out scope of development of prospective adventure

tourism sports in the state.

3)To identify problems that the adventure tourist centers faced

now and likely to face in future.

4)To find out how much productive the facilities are

5)To identify the prospect means

6)To give suggestion and recommendation based on study.

Selection of area

The area selected for sample study is Munnar in Idukki and Thenmala in

Kollam district. Munnar is situated at the co influence of three mountain streams

value the sea level. Adventure sports at this place are mountain paragliding, rock

climbins.

Thenmala is a mountainous forest area with rubber and tea plaintation in the

valley. Mountaineering trekking mountain biking and boating are the main adventure

sports that this place premises.

45
Method employed in data collection

The methodology adopted for the collection of data food study under four heads

1) Books, journals & internet

2) Interview

3) Questionnaire

4) On the spot observation

Books, journals and internet expositions where relayed up on to get an idea about

the geographical and climatic condition of Kerala to locate prospective adventure

tourism sports. Interviews are conducted with tourist officials, conductors of

adventure tourism, the tourist and the local people. A questionnaire was prepared

and distributed among the tourist and local people with a view to get accurate

information the scholar visited the selected area sand got first hand information

about, the tourist center the facilities available there, the method of running the

centers, activities conducted there and observed the sport comings and possibilities.

The data the collected are analyzed and conclusions have drawn. On the basis of the

study some suggestion and recommendation are made.

46
 DATA
ANALYSIS &
FINDINGS

47
1. Is this your first experience in adventure sports at the destination ?

Experience

Table-5.1

Experience in adventure Munnar Thenmala

First time 40 35
More than once 60 65
100 100

Source: Primary data

40% and 35% of tourists who responded to the questionnaire, to

munnar & Thenmala respectively, were having their first experience of

adventure sports at the destination. 60% and 65% had experienced

adventure sports before. It is infered that two destination attract majority

of guest to visit the place again and requires means to during back rest

also.

48
 Motivation to travel

Table-5.1

Tourism in %
Motivation to travel
Munnar Thenmala

Natural beauty 20 15

Adventure 40 15

Leisure 10 20

All the above 30 50

Total 100 100

Source: Primary data

Motivation to travel

Majority of tourists to Munnar and Thenmala ie 40% and 35% respectively

were motivated by adventure facilities offered by the destination 30% of each

destination were attracted by all facilities including adventures. Hence it is concluded

that the tourist come to Munnar and Thenmala attracted mostly by possibilities of

adventure activities at the destinations.

49
 2. Why do you choose this destination?

Information about adventure activities

Table-5.2

Tourism in %
Travel agent
Munnar Thenmala

Travel agent 40 45

Tour guide 10 10

Friends / relatives 20 10

Magazine / News paper 10 5

Tourist information centre 10 10

Hotel reception 10 10

Total 100 100

Source: primary data

40% and 45% of tourists to Munnar and Thenmala respectively got

information about adventure activities at the destination from travel agent. The rest is

shared by tourists friends, relatives, publication, tourists information centre, tourist

reception centre. Hence it is concluded that a planned systematic publicity &

promoted means lacking in this area.

50
 3. How do you come to know about adventure activities here ?

New adventure activities

Table-5.3

Tourism in %
New adventure activities
Munnar Thenmala

Recommend 75 85

Not recommend 25 15

Total 100 100

Source: Primary data

New adventure activities

75% of tourists to Munnar and 85% to Thenmala recommended more

adventure activities. The finding is that despite the suitability of destination.

Satisfaction level is low. Hence additional facilities for adventure and more adventure

activities can improve the destinations and tourist inflow to them.

51
4. How do you feel while taking adventure activities here ?

Experience while taking part in adventure

Table-5.6

Experience Munnar Thenmala

Thrilling 35 65

Challenging 35 20

Boring & scared 30 15

Total 100 100

Source: Primary data

Experience while taking part in adventure

Majority of tourists to Munnar and Thenmala i.e. 35% and 65% respectively

find their experience of adventure activities at the destinations thrilling. 35% and 25%

respectively find it challenging and only 30% and 15% respectively find it having and

scaring in the course of adventure activities. It is inferred that only minority the

adventure sports and facilities at destination are boring

52
 7) How do you feel after under taking adventure activities

Level of satisfaction

Table-5.7

Level of satisfaction Munnar Thenmala

Satisfied 60 50

Not satisfied 25 35

Undecided 15 15

Total 100 100

Source: Primary data

Level of satisfaction

Majority of tourists 60% and 50% to Munnar and Thenmala respectively

satisfied with their adventures at the destination. But they form only almost half of the

no. of the tourists. 40% and 50% at the turn destination respectively were not

satisfied or undecided. Hence the inference that these designation requires good

planning and implementation of addition activities and facilities improvement in the

existing ones.

53
 8)Do you think adventure sports are eco friendly ?

Ecofriendliness of adventure sports

Table-5.8

Tourists in %
Level of satisfaction
Munnar Thenmala

Not ecofriendly 20 15

Ecofriendly 80 85

Total 100 100

Source: Primary data

Ecofriendliness of adventure sports

Vast majority of tourist 80% and 85% find the adventure sports of Munnar and

Thenmala respectively eco-friendly. Only 70% and 15% respectively responded

negatively. It is inferred that though destination keep up high eco-friendless of

activities more care can make them completely eco-friendly.

54
 9)How do you compare the cost of adventure tourism facilities here with

that of other similar places?

Table: 5.9
Cost of adventure tourism facilities
Tourists in %
Cost of adventure tourism facilities
Munnar Thenmala

Highly expensive 5 25

Expensive 45 30

Moderately expensive 30 15

Cheap 20 20

Very cheap 0 10

Total 100 100

Source: Primary data

Cost of adventure tourism facilities

50% and 25% of tourists of Munnar and Thenmala find adventure tourism

facilities at the destination as highly expensive but 40% and 35% considerate as

reasonably expensive, where as 30% and 25% consider at as moderately expensive.

Only 20% and 25% consider it as cheep. Vast majority of the tourists, ie about 75%

consider the destination as expensive in varying degree.

55
 10. How do you rate other facilities at destination?

Facilities available at destination

Table-5.10

Munnar Thenmala
Facilities
V.G. Good Bad Total V.G. Good Bad Total
Accommodation 85 10 5 100 55 45 100
Food 80 15 5 100 85 15 100
Transportation 90 10 100 90 10 100
Medical facilitation 10 90 100 100 100
Communication 20 80 100 40 60 100

As far as after facilities are concerned accommodation & food Munnar is

for better than Thenmala. 85% & 80% of tourists found the

accommodation food available at Munnar very good only 5% found the

56
facilities bad. In Thenmala no tourist find accommodation food good 55%

85% find accommodation & food available their good. 45% & 15%

respectively find them bad. If both the destination no fourits find

transporition facilities very good. 90% at both the destination find the

facility good 10% of the tourist find the medical facility available at

Munnar good 90% bad. Where as all the tourist at Thenmala find the

medical facilities there totally bad. As far communication on tourist find

the facilities at Munnar very good. Vast majority that is 80% find the

facility bad. In Thenmala 60% of tourists find communication facility bad.

Rest find moderately good. Hence it is inferred that most of the tourist it

is inferred that most of the tourist to Thenmala & Munnar and showed

high satisfaction and mostly with regard to adventure sports facilities &

not other facilities. Thanks to star hotels at Munnar majority of tourist

there are greatly satisfied with accommodation food and moderately with

transportation facility. As far as Thenmala is considered the moderate

satisfaction restricted to food transportation and slightly with

accommodation and communication

57
FINDINGS & INFERENCE

The study has revealed that as far as adventure tourism is considered

Kerala is a state with full potential for adventure tourism. Mostly

adventure tourism is restricted to high ranges, where two only a

negligible portion of potential is exploited. Other than spreading the

venues through out the ghats extending from southern north tip at

Kerala, the destinations can be develop on coastal areas and midlands

which are frequently marked by rivers, lakes and ponds. Breezy air is

another potential area which can be exploited for the purpose. All such

facilities are naturally existing and require a well planned strategy to

exploit the gift of nature.

Another draw back noticed is the deficiency of facilities for the comfort of

the touris, like accommodation, transportaion, communication, health

and other recreation, about from moral adventure sports and softs and

up to date facilities for adventure sports.

Dessimination of proper information of tourists at large about the

prevailing destination and facility is lacking. Expert supervision from

planning to implementation does not exist at all. There is no monitoring

and controlling authority from substances and development for

adventure tourism. Government seems to have no definite policy as far

as adventure tourism.

NAF, the only body which can contribute in this regard is poinerless. The

private facilities ass aim only at profit making and very less at to exists

58
satisfaction and development of adventure tourism often travel agents,

the major promoters of adventure tourism deal with exaggerated

information and eve lies. Participation f local people is very vital is

adventure tourism, but at the destination s in Kerala the local people are

not either showing interest or gives any role in the adventure tourism

processes. The involvement of local people in adventure tourism activity

as guides, assistants instructors etc can directly develop local economy

and cultural growth.

Despite the above stated draw back tourists flow to the adventure

sports destination does not fall. Actually they demand for more

adventure tourism facilities because adventure sorts enhands courage

and confidence. Which contribute to personality development.

The geography of Kerala is suitable for several terrain adventure

sports like trekking rock climbing Russian ladder climbing, hydro

adventures like surfing islands, such diving water skecing angling,

amphisian powered hang glider flying etc. Even though full potenssive of

the states land scapes and water scapes are not exploited the tourist

have registered their satisfaction with the available facility. Majority of

them are come in repeated visits encouraged by the thrill of their

previous visit. More over eco friendliness of adventure sports at the

destination endears the destination to the tourists

59
Suggestions and recommendations

1. Government should take initiatives for creating more awareness about

adventure tourism activities among local people, tourists, operators and

entrepreneurs by organizing various camps, conducting different studies etc.

2. Adventure tourism activities can have a profound effect on the ecology and

culture of a community. The government should focus on developing

necessary rules and regulations for responsible adventure tourism, creating

environmental awareness, habitat conservation, sustainability and cultural

sensitivity.

3. The government should develop necessary management strategies that will

minimize ecosystem impact and contribute positively to communities.

4. The government should create a panel of experts consisting of

environmentalists, adventure sports experts, researchers, marketing experts

etc. to formulate rules, regulations and to monitor adventure tourism activities.

5. The conducting of the adventure tourism activities can be entrusted with

competent agencies, institutions/ individuals.

6. The government should create adventure sports/ tourism institutes in order to

meet the human resource requirements needed for conducting these

activities.

7. Government should provide financial assistance for the conducting of

adventure tourism activities.

8. To meet the quality and safety standards of adventure tourism government

should introduce licensing and grading mechanism.

60
9. Government should create a mechanism for publicizing and promoting

adventure tourism facilities of state by giving full and true information about

them.

10. Government should make it imperative that standard facilities like

accommodation, food, health, communication etc. are provided at the

destination.

11. Proper identification of the requirements and expectations of the individual

adventure tourists and groups is necessary. The operators should help

tourists to qualify themselves before signing up and should make sure they

understand the rigors, responsibilities, and dangers, as well as the level of

exertion, entailed in the experiences offered.

12. The operators should assure the safety standards by educating the tourists

as well as their employees. The training of employees in risk management

and fist aid should be made essential.

13. The operators should ensure quality standards by giving the tourists good

food, comfortable stay and quality adventure activities.

14. Never exceed physical or mental capacities of guests. Always ask groups

and individuals if they are comfortable with the activity and exertion level

before and during the activity. Be sensitive to the slowest as well as strongest

in the group. Splitting the group into smaller groups is a good option. Rest as

needed.

Trip rating or difficulty system can be introduced that allows guests and

outfitters to jointly participate in selecting the most appropriate trip.

15. Provide Information - An informed guest is safer and more relaxed, and has

more fun. Our guests are educated and want to leam about their new

environment. Assume that guests know little or nothing about their

surroundings. Look for opportunities to provide a minimum of three details

61
 about each type of surrounding element during any outing. Be prepared to

talk about the plants, animals, birds, trees, rocks, geological formations, fish,

marine mammals, and shells. Include information about local culture,

economy, and history, too.

16. The operators should maintain a co ordination among themselves and with

the government.

17. The operators should emphasize on ecofriendly practice which will make

the participating tourists aware of the importance of keeping the environment

undisturbed.

18. The operators must consider and involve local communities in adventure

tourism activities.

Conclusion

Tourism, as an industry, is ever changing and demand for new destinations

and newer kinds of tourism activities are on the increase. People are beginning to

find motivation in different activities like adventure as is evident from the present

study of Adventure Tourism facilities.

The geographical diversity of Kerala shows that the land is blessed with

immense potentials for developing adventure tourism. Kerala has a total area or'

38.855 square kilometers and a coastline, which is nearly 550 kilometers long. The

coastal belt, a narrow strip of lowland, is the most picturesque region of Kerala,

interspersed as it is with extensive backwaters, lagoons and canals. These regions

can be well managed for adventure activities in water. The land may be broadly

divided into three natural divisions: lowland, midland and highland. The surface

gathers into slopes a few kilometers from the sea, and clustering hills with numerous

valleys in between. These regions can be well exploited for developing both land and

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aero adventure. This is evident from the responses of both the tourists and experts

related to adventure tourism. The tourist arrivals to Thenmala Ecotourism project

shows that there is a seven fold increase in the number of tourists who have visited

the Adventure zone there. This shows the changing preferences of tourists and their

inclination towards adventure tourism.

It is understood from the study that people are more inclined towards nature

oriented adventure activities. The very existence of the adventure tourism activities at

the natural sites requires protecting the site as it is. Since Adventure tourism

activities make use of the natural elements more, both from the business perspective

and from the entertainment perspective people who run and participate in those

activities will take care not to disturb the environment. Moreover it is evident from the

study that tourists are willing to contribute towards the conservation of nature.

Adventure tourism is not a new motion. But as a Niche part of the industry it

has gained a new face lift. This new vigor should be brought to Kerala too, since the

state’s geography, climate and culture can contribute very much, even more than any

region in the world, to the development of adventure tourism. Considering the great

economic, social, cultural, educational and ecological potentials of adventure

tourism, Kerala has to turn to it earnestly to leap forward as “God’s own country”.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

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 WEBSITES

1. WWW.KERALATOURISM.COM

2. WWW.THENMALAECOTOURISM.COM

3. WWW.MUNNARTOURISM.COM

4. WWW.NAF.ORG

5. WWW.WIKIPEDIA.COM

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ANNEXURE

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 ANNEXURE

QUESTIONNAIRE
Name Place

Age

1. Is this your first experience in adventure sports at the destination ?

Yes or No

2. Why do you choose this destination?

a) Natural beauty d) Liesure

b) Recommended by friends e) All above

c) To under take adventure f) To enjoy natural heavily adventure

3. How do you come to know about adventure activities here ?

a) Travel agent d) Magazine / News paper

b) Tour guide e) Tourist information centre

c) Friends / relatives f) Hotel reception

5. Do you feel this destination good for adventure sports activities ?

Yes or No

6. Would you recommend for more adventure activities here ?

Yes or No

7. How do you feel while taking adventure activities here ?

a) Thrilling d) worth less

b) Challenging e) Scared

c) Boring

8. How do you feel after under taking adventure activities ?

a) satisfied c) not satisfied

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 b) undecided

9. Do you think adventure sports are eco friendly ?

Yes or No

10. How do you compare the cost of adventure tourism facilities here with that of

other similar places?

a) Highly expensive c) Moderately expensive

b) Reasonably expensive d) Cheap

10. How do you rate other facilities at destination?

Very good Good Bad

a) Accomodation

b) Food

c) Transportation

d) Medical facilities

e) Communication

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