World Tourism Day

About this event

World Tourism Day is observed internationally every year on September 27, providing an occasion to highlight the contribution of tourism to communities, economies, cultural exchange and sustainable development. In Kerala, the day is used to promote responsible and inclusive approaches to tourism, with particular attention to environmental protection, local participation and the long-term sustainability of destinations. Thenmala provides a fitting setting for such themes because it is recognised by Kerala Tourism and the Kollam district administration as India’s first planned ecotourism destination. Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, the destination combines forest landscapes, biodiversity and purpose-built tourism facilities through its Culture, Adventure and Leisure zones. The Culture Zone includes attractions such as an amphitheatre, Nakshatravanam, a Butterfly Safari, Children’s Park, Musical Dancing Fountain, food outlets and a shop court, while the wider destination provides opportunities for nature appreciation and outdoor recreation. World Tourism Day programmes associated with Thenmala have included activities intended to promote tourism awareness and responsible travel. An official Thenmala Ecotourism record documents events organised for World Tourism Day on September 27, 2020, by the Ecotourism Wing of the Department of Tourism, Kerala Tourism, in association with the Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society. The programme included competitions such as a quiz and photography event, demonstrating the educational and participatory character that can form part of World Tourism Day observances at the destination. Kerala Tourism has also used the occasion to promote wider sustainable-tourism initiatives. In 2024, for example, the state launched the Destination Adoption initiative through Tourism Clubs on World Tourism Day, with an emphasis on keeping tourism destinations clean, green and hygienic. The significance of World Tourism Day at Thenmala therefore lies in connecting the global observance with the destination’s established ecotourism approach. Activities may bring together students, residents, tourism stakeholders and visitors around themes such as environmental responsibility, destination stewardship, cultural awareness and sustainable tourism. However, the exact programme, venue and activities are determined by the organisers for each edition; free guided heritage tours, exhibitions, cultural performances and other activities should not be treated as permanent components unless specifically announced for that year. Visitors can use the occasion to explore Thenmala’s designated tourism zones while gaining a broader understanding of how tourism can be developed alongside environmental and community interests

🚆 Railway: Thenmala Railway Station — approximately 1 km from Thenmala. Kottarakara Railway Station is about 41 km away and Kollam Junction about 69 km.

✈️ Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport — approximately 75 km from Thenmala.

🚌 Bus: Thenmala is connected by road through the Kollam–Shencottah and Thiruvananthapuram–Shencottah routes, with services linking the town with Punalur, Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, Shencottah and nearby areas.

🏨 Stay: Thenmala Ecotourism provides designated accommodation options, while additional hotels and other stays are available in Thenmala and nearby towns.

✅ Notes: World Tourism Day is observed annually on September 27. Thenmala has hosted World Tourism Day activities, including an officially documented 2020 programme featuring quiz and photography competitions.