Kumarakom, a serene backwater haven in Kerala, India, has garnered significant recognition for its exceptional tourism initiatives and experiences. Here’s a detailed list of the awards it has won:
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World Travel Mart Responsible Tourism Award: Kumarakom received this prestigious award in London, recognizing its commitment to responsible tourism. The destination has actively promoted sustainable practices, including waste management, conservation of local ecosystems, and community engagement.
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National Tourism Award: Kumarakom has been honored with the National Tourism award for Best Responsible Tourism initiative. This recognition highlights the efforts made by the local community and authorities to create a harmonious balance between tourism and environmental preservation. The awards were received in 2008-09 and 2015-16.
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WTM Highly Commended Award: In 2017, Kumarakom was highly commended at the World Travel Mart for its responsible tourism initiatives. This acknowledgment further solidified its position as a destination committed to sustainable practices and community welfare.
Awards for Tourism Excellence
- Kerala Tourism has been awarded for its path-breaking Responsible Tourism project in Kumarakom, which successfully linked the local community with the hospitality industry and government departments, thereby creating a model for empowerment and development of the people in the area while sustaining eco-friendly tourism.
Awards for Individual Establishments
While Kumarakom itself has won several accolades for its tourism initiatives, individual resorts and hotels in the region have also received recognition:
- Kumarakom Lake Resort:
- India’s Best Hotel in the 5-star category at the National Tourism Awards.
- Best Five Star Hotel in Kerala by the Kerala State Tourism Award.
- Coconut Lagoon: Best Heritage Hotel in Kerala by the Kerala State Tourism Award.
- Vivanta by Taj Kumarakom: Award of Excellence for Best Four Star Hotel in Kerala by Kerala Tourism.
- ILLIKKALAm Lakeside Cottages Kumarakom: LLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages is a winner, for addressing the Challenge of COVID-19, in the WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards, in 2020
Despite these accolades, Kumarakom faces challenges in attracting a significant number of tourists. Efforts are ongoing to enhance waste management practices and promote Kumarakom as a Responsible Tourism destination.