Offering a boost to caravan tourism, hybrid caravan park opens at Malampuzha
The Hindu
Kerala's first hybrid caravan park inaugurated, offering unique experiences, amenities, and opportunities for tourism and local economy growth.
In a significant boost to Kerala Tourism’s caravan project, the KAVA Eco Camp and Caravan Park, the State’s first fully integrated hybrid caravan park, was inaugurated by Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas here on Monday.
Situated at Manthuruthy, Malampuzha, near Palakkad, the project would offer ample opportunities for start-ups in the country, Mr. Riyas told the inaugural function. The Minister added that the ultimate aim of the project was to transform Kerala into a sought-after wedding destination and provide a platform for introducing seaplanes at Malampuzha.
The park offers a distinctive experience for travellers. Upon arrival, caravans and camper vans can switch off their engines and air conditioning and other amenities will be powered by the park’s electricity supply. Sewage from the caravans will be treated at the park’s sewage treatment plant. The park will also provide facilities such as drinking water, laundry services, dormitory for drivers, restaurant, and swimming pool.
The park has space for parking six large caravans and six camper vans. Electric charging points for cars and scooters are arranged. A 24-hour coffee shop will also function and there will be 10 rooms for tourists.
Tourists can explore the picturesque surroundings of Malampuzha on bicycles and jeeps. Under an initiative of Responsible Tourism, guests can interact with local communities, share meals with them, visit nearby cottage industries, and purchase local products, thus contributing to the local economy. “Kerala’s long-anticipated Caravan Tourism project has finally come to life, and we are proud to be part of it,” said Sajeev Kurup, managing director of Ayurvedamana and owner of the KAVA Eco Camp and Caravan Park. “This initiative will not only revitalise the State’s tourism sector but also create meaningful opportunities for the local community,” he said. “This is a model project that aligns perfectly with the Tourism department’s caravan policy. Many investors are eager to invest but lack a clear model—this project sets the benchmark and is sure to attract more investors to caravan tourism,” he said.
He also emphasised the need for a network of such parks across the State to ensure the success of the project.