Alappuzha: Wellness tourism stakeholders in Alappuzha have high hopes as a stronger than usual monsoon is expected this year. Alleppey has beaches and remote areas and has a strong presence in the wellness tourism sector. The demand for wellness tourism increases during the Kalki Daka season. It revolves around rejuvenating therapies aimed at uplifting a person's body and mind. Foreign tourists who visit in winter are mainly for health tourism. This involves serious drug treatment with a rigorous plan that can last weeks or even months.
“Last year saw a record number of tourists visiting for various Ayurvedic treatments, which is higher than the pre-pandemic peak.This year, we are expecting a stronger than usual monsoon. We expect more people to visit as there is growing global awareness of the benefits of Ayurveda,” said Sajeev Kurup, president of the Kerala Ayurveda Promotion Association. Domestic tourists seeking wellness tourism include people from other parts of India as well as Indians (mainly Malayalees) working in the Gulf region. They come here to relax and receive rejuvenating treatments. The picturesque backwaters and enchanting houseboat rides make Alleppey an attractive destination for them.
While wellness tourism is growing in Alleppey, the district is missing out on key customers in this segment. Arab tourists who travel to receive Ayurvedic treatments are the main contributors of foreign funds to the sector. Unfortunately, very few people consider Alappuzha as a destination. He has two reasons for this. “People coming from the Middle East need an environment similar to home to feel comfortable. This includes Arabic-speaking staff, Arabic food, Arabic hospitality, etc. At Alappuzha, we offer Another reason is lack of marketing. No efforts are being made to promote Alappuzha as a viable destination among them,” Sajeev said.
