Anjunad Rural Heritage Tourism

Anjunad valley is located in the Northern region of Kerala in the north-eastern parts of Devikulam Taluk in Idukki district, bordering Tamil Nadu. Marayoor, Kanthaloor, Keezanthalur, Karayu, and Kottakudi together form the region of Anjunad. The area has more than 5000 years of history that is still getting unveiled. Dolmens and cyst from the megalithic age are scattered all around in the area. There are rock arts that have been dated 3000 years old and are still revealing the history of mankind. It is the only area in Kerala that has natural sandalwood forest. Marayoor reserve forest and the Chinnar Wildlife sanctuary are home to some endangered species of flora and fauna. The area, because of its unique character and closeness to other popular destinations has already recently started gaining popularity with the tourists.

ITRHD signed an MOU with the Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS), to produce an "Anjunad Rural Heritage Tourism Development Plan". The area was studied and heritage was documented for its conservation. The urgency to implement new ways of life has brought many challenges to the rural part of India, and in the process both heritage and rural identity is being adversely affected. After careful study of the rural community, heritage and tourists the ITRHD study and proposal addressed many of these issues. The plan is intended to make Anjunad a model for rural heritage tourism, and one that can be used in other rural villages of India as well.

The Anjunad study and plan was developed in consideration of the requirements of and benefits to both the local communities and potential tourists. ITRHD's major focus while making the development plan, in fact, was on the community, as we believe that heritage can survive only if the locals residents understand and support it. For the ease of implementation and division of roles the plan has been divided into three categories i.e. Infrastructure development, Facility development, Training and education.

We are currently working with KITTS and the Government of Kerala to find ways of implementing the plans.